Interior Minister Bans Regional Heads from Foreign Travel, Demands Best Services During Idul Fitri 1447H
The Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has emphasised that all regional heads must remain on standby in their respective areas to ensure optimal public services during the Idul Fitri 1447 Hijriah (H) / 2026 Gregorian calendar celebrations.
This aligns with the issuance of an Interior Ministry Circular (SE) Number 000.2.3/1171/SJ on 8 March 2026 concerning the postponement of foreign travel during the Idul Fitri 1447H holidays.
The policy also responds to the phenomenon of several regional heads planning umrah (pilgrimage) journeys near Idul Fitri, which risks their absence from their regions during this important period.
“When the public is at peak activity levels and taking holidays, we should not be on holiday,” he stated in a written statement to Kompas.com.
He made the remarks during a Coordination Meeting on Inflation Control and Regional Government Preparedness for Idul Fitri 1447H/2026 celebrations, held in hybrid format from the Riau Islands Governor’s Office Auditorium in Tanjungpinang on Monday (9 March 2026).
“At peak activity times, we must assure the public that they can carry out Eid celebrations, mudik travel, and return journeys with controlled prices, well-maintained and properly managed tourist attractions,” he said.
Tito stated that public mobility during mudik and return periods requires serious attention, given that Indonesia is home to the world’s largest Muslim population.
He explained that the Lebaran mudik tradition each year causes a surge in large-scale population movement.
On the other hand, Tito highlighted environmental security factors that require regional government attention, particularly because many homes are left vacant by their owners during mudik.
Therefore, he said, environmental security arrangements and the establishment of alert posts along mudik and return routes are necessary.
“Some may leave their vehicles with neighbours or community leaders (RT). Alert posts should also be established along mudik-return routes,” he said.
Tito emphasised the importance of regional government preparedness in ensuring security and public comfort during the Lebaran period.
Service to the public is provided through, among other measures, ensuring transport safety, anticipating potential crowding at tourist attractions, and guaranteeing the availability and price stability of basic necessities leading up to Eid.