Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise has warned travellers that exceeding the limits on importing controlled goods such as alcohol, tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes will result in immediate confiscation and destruction. The regulations, outlined in Finance Minister Regulations PMK 203/2017 as amended by PMK 34/2025, allow adults to bring up to 1 litre of ethyl alcohol-containing beverages, 200 cigarettes, or equivalent tobacco, with stricter limits for crew members, aiming to control consumption and circulation while ensuring personal use boundaries. Officials urge the public to familiarise themselves with these rules to avoid issues upon re-entry, emphasising legal certainty and public protection.

Numerous waqf lands in Indonesia remain uncertified, posing risks of disputes and hindering their utilisation for public benefit such as mosques, schools, and pesantrens. Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency, Nusron Wahid, has committed to accelerating certification to strengthen legal status and facilitate productive development. This initiative aims to enhance data accuracy, oversight, and national waqf management policies for long-term societal advantages.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred the case files involving suspended Ponorogo Regent Sugiri Sancoko, Ponorogo District Secretary Agus Pramono, RSUD Dr. Harjono Director Yunus Mahatma, and contractor Sucipto to the Ponorogo District Court, following their arrest in a bribery sting operation. The allegations centre on bribes totalling over Rp 1.5 billion paid to Sugiri to secure Yunus's position and influence project awards in the district, highlighting ongoing corruption issues in local government. The suspects are currently detained, with the court yet to schedule hearings, underscoring the KPK's commitment to combating graft in Indonesia's public sector.

Army Chief of Staff General TNI Maruli Simanjuntak has praised the Yayasan Kartika Eka Paksi (YKEP) for its innovations in improving soldiers' welfare, emphasising the need for continuous enhancement through professional and transparent management. Speaking at the 2026 YKEP Technical Coordination Meeting in Jakarta, he urged the foundation to evaluate and optimise its programs using technology to boost soldiers' morale and professionalism. YKEP Chairman Maj Gen TNI (Ret) Muhammad Reza Utama highlighted recent innovations, including educational developments at Universitas Jenderal Ahmad Yani, to address national and global dynamics.

Cambodia's parliament has enacted its first dedicated cybercrime law to combat scam centres accused of defrauding international victims of billions, imposing prison terms of up to 10 years and fines up to US$250,000 for offences including online fraud and money laundering. Justice Minister Keut Rith emphasised that the legislation aims to permanently eradicate these illicit operations, which have damaged Cambodia's economy, tourism, and investment prospects. The move follows global pressure, including British sanctions and extraditions to China of key figures involved in scam and laundering activities, marking a significant escalation in Cambodia's crackdown on Southeast Asia's growing network of cyber fraud hubs.

Experts have warned that the emerging Super El Niño phenomenon could trigger prolonged drought and heighten the risk of severe forest and land fires reminiscent of the devastating 1997-1998 events, which burned over 10 million hectares and claimed 500 lives. IPB's Bambang Hero Saharjo emphasised the need for comprehensive mitigation measures, enhanced surveillance in vulnerable regions like Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Nusa Tenggara, and proactive steps such as the Riau Police's Green Policing initiative to plant trees and curb greenhouse gas emissions. Collaborative efforts involving police, military, local government, and communities are crucial to strategically detect and extinguish fire hotspots before they spread further.

Indonesian House of Representatives member Siti Mukaromah has highlighted the crucial role of synergy between Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) cadres and the government in supporting development and public services. Speaking at a post-Eid gathering in Banyumas, she emphasised that such collaboration, involving executive and legislative elements, positions NU as a key partner in national progress and community welfare. This unity is seen as essential for fostering brotherhood, introspection, and tangible contributions amid the nation's dynamics.

Sber has unveiled a significant update to its AI assistant, GigaChat, now powered by the advanced GigaChat Ultra model, which introduces long-term memory for personalised interactions, doubles response speeds, and enables independent internet searches. This upgrade transforms GigaChat into a multi-agent assistant capable of running code directly in the interface and providing self-aware responses based on current documentation, opening opportunities for developers to build AI-driven products. As one of the largest models fully developed and trained in Russia, it aims to replace conventional mobile apps with neural network-based interfaces, enhancing seamless digital navigation.

The Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) post-Sumatra disaster is expediting the construction of permanent housing (huntap) and temporary housing (huntara) in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to ensure decent living conditions for disaster survivors. Progress includes 230 completed huntap units out of 35,368 planned, with 1,240 under construction, and 17,084 huntara units finished, reaching 89% of the target. Additionally, full disbursement of Housing Waiting Funds (DTH) totalling Rp1.8 million per family has been achieved for 14,021 recipients, underscoring the government's commitment to rapid post-disaster recovery.

The Indonesian rupiah briefly weakened to Rp17,002 per US dollar on 1 April 2026, raising concerns among business leaders about rising production costs and reduced consumer purchasing power. While exporters may benefit from increased competitiveness, most businesses reliant on imports face higher expenses in sectors like manufacturing, automotive, and energy. Business figures urge the government to stabilise the exchange rate through coordinated fiscal and monetary policies to mitigate broader economic impacts such as inflation and dampened investment.

Jakarta lawmaker Lukmanul Hakim has called for a ban on Israeli passport holders entering Indonesia in response to an Israeli artillery strike on a UNIFIL base in southern Lebanon on March 29, which killed three Indonesian peacekeepers and injured five others. He urged President Prabowo Subianto to take firm action, emphasising Indonesia's sovereignty and opposition to the violation of international law. While appreciating the government's measures, including posthumous promotions and compensation of Rp1.8 billion for the victims' families, Hakim insisted on a stronger national stance against Israel.

The Sumedang Regency Government in West Java has partnered with Malaysia's Ministry of Education and the Malaysia Association of Lesson Study (MYALS) to improve education quality through the lesson study approach. This collaboration facilitates the exchange of knowledge and best practices between Indonesian and Malaysian educators, aiming for sustainable improvements in teaching methods. Officials emphasise the need for ongoing innovation and cross-border cooperation to address contemporary educational challenges.

Eddy Soeparno, Deputy Chairman of the MPR from the PAN faction, called on universities to back President Prabowo Subianto's initiatives to accelerate Indonesia's transition to renewable energy amid global geopolitical tensions. Speaking at Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara in Medan, he emphasised the need for skilled human resources to fill green jobs in the renewable energy sector and for academic research to inform government policies. This push aims to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, boost domestic industry, and create significant employment opportunities for Indonesians.

A sexual assault case involving a 43-year-old uncle, MH, and his 15-year-old niece, NPA, in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, has been forwarded to the South Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office after investigators deemed the case file complete. The incident, which occurred on 5 August 2024 and repeated later, left the victim with injuries including a laceration on her forehead, bruises on her hand, and pain in her head, face, and abdomen; police secured a confession from the perpetrator dated 25 August 2025. Under Indonesian child protection laws, the perpetrator faces 5 to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to Rp5 billion, highlighting the enforcement of regulations against child sexual abuse.

Workers have started organising the chaotic internet cables on the MT Haryono pedestrian bridge in East Jakarta, following public complaints about the safety hazards they posed. The effort involves installing protective metal plates to conceal and secure the cables, reducing the clutter previously tied to the bridge's railings. Local residents have expressed relief at the prompt action, noting similar improvements on nearby sidewalks, which enhance pedestrian safety along this busy thoroughfare.

The Indonesia Palm Oil Strategic Studies (IPOSS) forecasts a continued rise in global crude palm oil (CPO) prices through mid-2026, driven by escalating geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel, alongside surging global energy prices. This increase enhances the competitiveness of biodiesel as a substitute for fossil fuels, positioning CPO as a strategic asset in the energy sector rather than just a food and industrial commodity. Domestically, Indonesian CPO prices are expected to follow suit, rising from Rp 15,065 per kilogram in March to Rp 18,776 per kilogram in April, influenced by international trends and local policies such as reference prices and export duties.

The European Union is bracing for a potential energy crisis triggered by the US and Israel strikes on Iran in February 2026, which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disrupted global energy supplies. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen indicated that rationing fuel could be considered in a worst-case scenario to mitigate prolonged shocks, though no changes to import rules or legislative instruments are planned yet. The conflict has also spurred discussions in Indonesia on reactivating electric vehicle incentives and accelerating the shift to electric-based energy to bolster fiscal resilience amid rising global oil prices.

The Parepare Police are investigating an alleged corruption case involving housing allowances for DPRD members in Parepare, which reportedly caused a state loss of Rp 2.2 billion over the period from 2021 to 2025. The case has escalated to the investigation stage after initial probes in May 2025 revealed allowances exceeding legal limits set by the Home Minister's Regulation, with DPRD city members receiving up to Rp 8 million monthly instead of the entitled Rp 4 million for small-type housing. Coordination with the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) confirmed the preliminary loss figure, highlighting potential misuse of public funds in local governance.

The ongoing Middle East conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran has driven up global fuel prices, prompting major Japanese airlines Japan Airlines (JAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) to double their fuel surcharges starting June 2026. For long-haul flights to Europe, America, and Oceania, surcharges are expected to reach 55,000 yen at ANA and 50,000 yen at JAL, based on Singapore kerosene prices and yen-dollar exchange rates. This trend extends internationally, with airlines like Cathay Pacific and Korean Air also significantly increasing fees, potentially leading to gradual ticket price hikes across the industry and affecting global travel affordability.

The Satgas Operasi Damai Cartenz (ODC) 2026 has apprehended Pulan Wonda alias Kamenak, a member of the armed criminal group (KKB) suspected of participating in the 2012 shooting attack on the entourage of then-Papua Police Chief General (Ret.) Tito Karnavian. The arrest took place in Mulia District, Central Papua, after the suspect attempted to flee and was subdued with measured force, resulting in the seizure of a motorcycle, three mobile phones, and other items. This operation underscores Indonesia's commitment to law enforcement and public safety in Papua, amid ongoing efforts to dismantle violent networks responsible for numerous attacks on civilians and security forces since 2010.

Indonesian asset management firm Universal Peak has completed its first institutional investment into a China-listed company by acquiring shares in Tongda Cable Co., Ltd via a block trade on 1 April, marking a significant milestone in bilateral financial cooperation. This move reflects growing confidence in China's capital markets and the increasing openness of its financial sector to foreign investors, potentially encouraging more Indonesian institutions to explore opportunities there. Amid the Belt and Road Initiative, the investment is expected to deepen economic ties between Indonesia and China, enhancing cross-border capital flows and resource allocation.

China's government debt reached US$18.7 trillion in 2025, surpassing the European Union's total of US$17.6 trillion for the first time, marking a significant shift in the global debt landscape. This rapid growth, expanding at around 17% annually since 2008, contrasts sharply with the EU's more restrained 3% yearly increase, driven by China's aggressive credit expansion, infrastructure spending, and state-supported economic growth. Meanwhile, the US leads with US$38.3 trillion in debt, highlighting divergent fiscal paths among major economies post-2008 financial crisis.

Escalating tensions in the Middle East are pressuring global financial markets, including Indonesia, where the rupiah has weakened to breach the Rp 17,000 level against the US dollar amid surging oil prices and heightened volatility. This situation raises concerns over rising energy costs, reduced purchasing power, and potential increases in the state's subsidy burden. The full implications for Indonesia and precautions against further escalation are explored in CNBC Indonesia's Big Stories programme.

The global energy crisis, exacerbated by escalating conflicts in the Middle East, is straining economies worldwide, with countries like Pakistan, Egypt, and the Philippines implementing drastic measures to curb energy consumption. In Indonesia, a weak public transport system leaves the nation vulnerable, particularly as policies to limit official vehicles and promote public transport clash with inadequate infrastructure outside Jakarta. Experts call for reallocating local budgets from bureaucratic excesses to essential mobility services and revising regulations to replace official cars with transport allowances, promoting energy efficiency and cost savings.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) warns that the Middle East conflict has triggered a jet fuel and diesel crisis in Asia, with shortages expected to reach Europe in April or early May 2026. Executive Director Fatih Birol highlighted that the April oil shortfall will be twice that of March, leading to inflation and slowed economic growth, particularly in developing nations facing foreign exchange constraints. Lufthansa's CEO also cautioned about jet fuel scarcity outside Europe due to supply disruptions from the Iran-related escalations, including a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, asserted that Iran has never initiated armed conflicts in recent centuries, contrasting this with Israel's history of starting numerous wars since its founding. He accused the Zionist regime of repressing followers of Islam, Christianity, and non-Zionist Jews, while highlighting Iran's tolerance towards its Jewish minority, including parliamentary representation. Boroujerdi urged Muslims to firmly support Iran against escalations involving the US and Israel, questioning future generations' judgment on alignments in the conflict.

Deputy Minister of Manpower Afriansyah Noor has announced plans to dispatch an investigation team to PT Hillcon Jaya Shakti in North Morowali following reports that hundreds of workers have not received their salaries since February and their Eid al-Fitr THR for 2026. The ministry will first verify the information through its internal team before proceeding. The government is urging the company to promptly settle all outstanding obligations, including wages, THR, and BPJS Manpower contributions, to uphold responsibilities towards the workers.

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is intensifying cross-ministerial coordination at central and regional levels to monitor airports and prevent illegal Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from departing. Officials highlight the financial risks, with potential losses in the hundreds of billions of rupiah, and warn of penalties like fines and travel bans for visa misuse. This systematic approach aims to ensure the 2026 Hajj proceeds orderly and safely, closing loopholes through joint task forces.

Human rights activist Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of KontraS, expressed gratitude for public support following a sulphuric acid attack allegedly perpetrated by a TNI member in central Jakarta, vowing to remain resilient amid ongoing threats. He urged forgiveness for the perpetrators on humanitarian grounds but emphasised the need for full accountability, including intellectual actors, while recovering in intensive care at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital. The incident highlights escalating violence against activists in Indonesia, underscoring the importance of transparent investigations to uphold justice and human rights.

The Nabire MBG Task Force in Central Papua is ramping up oversight of waste management at Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) to prevent environmental pollution, enforcing compliance with environmental permits and standards under Law No. 18 of 2008. Inspections have uncovered violations such as substandard wastewater treatment installations (IPAL) and improper disposal of oil and grease, prompting the temporary closure of five SPPG facilities by the National Nutrition Agency since 31 March 2026. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to sustainable practices in the Free Nutritious Meals Programme, ensuring public health and environmental protection.

Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (Pertamina NRE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) to enhance collaboration on bioethanol development in Indonesia through joint studies, knowledge exchange, and capacity building. This partnership focuses on strengthening the national bioethanol ecosystem, including supply chain and infrastructure improvements, technical training, and adoption of global best practices to support the potential implementation of E10 blended fuel. The initiative underscores Indonesia's commitment to energy security and sustainability by leveraging international expertise in biofuel production and market development.

The European Union is evaluating all possible measures to counter the energy crisis triggered by escalating conflict in the Middle East, including potential fuel rationing and further releases from emergency oil reserves. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen stated that while worst-case scenarios are being prepared, the bloc has not yet reached the point of rationing vital products like jet fuel or diesel. The conflict, involving attacks between the US, Israel, and Iran, has led to a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting oil and LNG shipments and driving up global energy prices.

Activists in Jakarta are pressing residents and high-rise buildings to cease using groundwater, citing its massive exploitation as the primary cause of alarming land subsidence that threatens to submerge the city. Community leaders highlight the contamination of nearly 95 percent of Jakarta's groundwater, rendering it unfit for consumption, and call for strict government enforcement of regulations, including audits and penalties for violators. Meanwhile, PAM Jaya aims to provide 100 percent access to clean piped water across the capital by 2029, a move seen as crucial for environmental sustainability and achieving global Sustainable Development Goals.

In Dusun Pante Geulima, residents and local government officials are demonstrating strong community spirit through collaborative efforts to clean up and rehabilitate areas affected by a recent disaster in Pidie Jaya Regency. Supported by the Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) and donations from expatriate community members, these initiatives not only speed up environmental recovery but also provide essential daily wages to affected families. This collective approach highlights the vital role of gotong royong in restoring normalcy and underscores the Indonesian government's commitment to disaster response and social welfare.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has assured that Keraton Kasepuhan in Cirebon, West Java, will soon be designated as a national cultural heritage site following an inspection that revealed its relatively well-maintained condition, though some repairs and revitalisation are needed. The palace, dating back to the 15th century and spanning 25 hectares, houses numerous structures reflecting Cirebon's rich history, with the government planning to enhance its buildings, museum displays, and storytelling to preserve its high cultural value. This initiative extends to assessing revitalisation for other local palaces like Kanoman and Kacirebonan, aiming to bolster Cirebon's status as a key cultural centre in West Java and Indonesia.

China's Cyberspace Administration has proposed draft regulations to oversee digital humans, mandating clear labelling of virtual content and prohibiting services that could mislead or addict children under 18, including virtual intimate relationships. The rules also ban the unauthorised use of personal information for creating digital humans and content that threatens national security or promotes discrimination, while encouraging providers to intervene in cases of user self-harm. This initiative reflects Beijing's strategy to balance aggressive AI adoption with stringent governance to align with socialist values and ensure cyberspace security and public interests.

Residents of the Angke affordable rental flats in West Jakarta are protesting the month-long accumulation of rubbish in their surroundings, which emits a foul odour, harbours maggots, and attracts rats, severely impacting their living conditions. A local resident challenged Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung to experience the dire situation firsthand, highlighting the irony of government promotions for rusunawa housing while basic waste management fails. The issue stems from inconsistent rubbish collection, particularly in rear areas and narrow alleys, exacerbating health risks for low-income families and forcing children to play away from home.

Human remains have been discovered on the Thai-flagged cargo ship Mayuree Naree, which was struck by Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz last month amid escalating tensions following US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The incident, which led to the presumed deaths of three Thai crew members trapped in the damaged engine compartment, underscores the severe risks to global shipping routes critical for oil supplies. Thailand's foreign ministry expressed sorrow over the findings, highlighting the human cost of the geopolitical conflict in this vital trade artery.

Japanese investment in Indonesia has reached USD17.1 billion from 2021 to 2025, growing at an average of 13.2% annually and creating 278,887 jobs, primarily in manufacturing on Java island. President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Japan in late March 2026 secured an additional USD23.63 billion in investment commitments, focusing on energy, industry, and digital economy sectors, boosting confidence in Indonesia's economic policies under his leadership. Combined with USD10.26 billion from South Korea, these agreements totaling USD33.89 billion underscore global investor trust and aim to drive national economic transformation through industrial downstreaming and energy resilience.

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol (JTT) and the police have officially ended the contraflow traffic management on the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road on Good Friday afternoon, as vehicle flow has normalised during the holiday period. The measure, implemented from KM 47 to KM 66 since 09:18 WIB, was discontinued at 13:27 WIB following intensive monitoring that showed smooth traffic distribution. JTT urges drivers to prioritise safety, comply with traffic rules, and ensure vehicles and e-money balances are adequate for the journey.

The Depok City Government in West Java has implemented a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Friday, aligning with the central government's directive to conserve energy amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. Mayor Supian Suri confirmed the shift from Mondays to Fridays, excluding structural officials to ensure uninterrupted public services, following consultations with the provincial government. This measure responds to global geopolitical tensions, particularly the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and is guided by a circular from the Minister of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform effective from 1 April 2026.

The Indonesian government has warned prospective Hajj pilgrims against using illegal routes to Saudi Arabia, highlighting severe risks including failed pilgrimages and heavy sanctions from Saudi authorities such as fines and long-term entry bans. This alert emerged during a meeting between the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections to bolster oversight ahead of the 2026 Hajj season. Illegal pilgrims also face significant financial losses, with costs around Rp 100 million per person and no guarantees of departure or protection, potentially leading to billions in total if many succeed.

A poignant ceremony was held at Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport to honour the remains of three Indonesian peacekeepers—Captain Infantry Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Sergeant Major Muhammad Nur, and Private Farizal Rhomadhon—who lost their lives while serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). UNIFIL's Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Diodato Abagnara, praised their bravery and commitment to peace, vowing that their sacrifices would not be forgotten and urging continued dedication to the mission. The incident involving Private Rhomadhon occurred amid escalating clashes between Israeli forces and armed groups in southern Lebanon, highlighting the risks faced by international peacekeepers in the region.

The PRR Task Force is expediting the construction of permanent housing (huntap) and temporary housing (huntara) for survivors of hydrometeorological disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, aiming to transition them from emergency tents to suitable accommodations. As of 3 April 2026, 230 huntap units have been completed out of 35,368 planned, with significant progress on huntara reaching 89% completion, alongside full disbursement of Rp1.8 million waiting housing funds to over 14,000 recipients. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to rapid rehabilitation, though success hinges on accurate local data and survivor preferences for in-situ rebuilding or communal relocation.

The frequent summoning of Indonesian law enforcement officials (APH) by the DPR's Commission III is viewed as a critical alarm signal indicating systemic issues in the enforcement of justice, particularly within the prosecutor's office and police. Experts highlight cases like the wrongful corruption charges against videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu in North Sumatra and the disproportionate death penalty demand for minor crew member Fandi in a major drug smuggling incident, both of which were ultimately mitigated due to parliamentary scrutiny and public attention. This oversight mechanism serves as a necessary check to prevent overreach by judicial authorities, urging greater accountability and careful handling of cases to ensure fairness.

The Thousand Islands Election Commission (KPU) has finalised the ongoing update of voter data for the 2026 elections through an open plenary meeting, recording a total of 21,296 eligible voters across its northern and southern sub-districts. This process involved limited verification activities on Tidung and Kelapa islands, coordination with stakeholders including the military and police, and provisions for public input to ensure accuracy and inclusivity for citizens aged 17 or married. Bawaslu, the supervisory body, commended the transparent and dynamic nature of the updates, emphasising the importance of public participation amid resource constraints to uphold electoral integrity in this remote Jakarta province area.

Severe flooding in Grobogan Regency, Central Java, has affected 3,176 families across 16 villages in five districts due to heavy rainfall and overflow from the Tuntang and Serang Rivers. The disaster caused light damage to 11 homes and disrupted local activities, including education and transportation, prompting the local Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) to coordinate relief efforts such as providing sandbags and tarps while urging residents to remain vigilant. This incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of Indonesian communities to climate-related disasters and the critical need for timely government assistance to support recovery.

The Indonesian government is enhancing economic ties with China through the Indonesia-China Investment Forum held in Beijing, aimed at attracting investments and expanding market access, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Minister of SMEs Maman Abdurrahman highlighted the forum's strategic importance in integrating Indonesian businesses into the global value chain amid digital transformation. The event concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding and bilateral meetings to foster structured investment and trade collaborations.

The Indonesian government has implemented a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) every Friday in response to the impacts of the Middle East conflict, aiming to reduce fuel consumption. Public policy expert Prof Andy Fefta Wijaya from Universitas Brawijaya supports the measure, highlighting its potential to save national energy, enhance work flexibility, promote digitalisation, and alleviate traffic congestion and air pollution. He suggests expanding WFH to two days for functional ASN roles, excluding those in public services requiring physical presence due to limited digital infrastructure.

In response to escalating conflicts in the Middle East disrupting energy supplies, Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has established a Crisis Ministers' Committee to update contingency plans and develop new strategies for national coordination. Chaired by Minister Coordinator for National Security K Shanmugam with Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong as advisor, the committee addresses potential long-term limitations in key energy routes like the Strait of Hormuz, which could lead to global energy shortages, higher prices, and economic pressures. This move underscores the vulnerability of import-dependent nations to geopolitical tensions affecting oil and LNG shipments from Gulf countries.