Interior Minister Bars Regional Heads from Travelling Abroad Ahead of Eid

Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has prohibited regional heads from travelling abroad during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period in 2026. The prohibition is outlined in Circular Letter Number 000.2.3/1171/SJ concerning the postponement of international travel during the Eid al-Fitr celebration in 1447 Hijri.

According to the circular, all governors, regents, and mayors are required to postpone or cancel their international travel during the Eid period, specifically from 14 to 28 March 2026.

“Regional heads and deputy regional heads must remain in their respective jurisdictions, except for activities that are extremely essential and are implemented on presidential directive or for medical purposes,” Karnavian stated in a written statement on Monday, 9 March 2026.

Additionally, Karnavian has requested regional heads to anticipate potential increases in security and safety risks during the Eid holiday by strengthening coordination through the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda). Regional heads are also asked to enhance preparedness in supporting the smooth flow of homecoming traffic during Eid.

“This step is important to ensure local government remains responsive to various dynamics that often occur during extended holiday periods,” Karnavian said.

According to data released by the Ministry of Transportation, public movement during this year’s Eid period is estimated to reach 143.915 million people. This figure represents a 1.7 per cent decrease compared to the previous year, which reached 146 million people.