Interior Minister Instructs Regional Leaders to Remain on Alert in Their Territories During Eid al-Fitr

Jakarta — Indonesia’s Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed all regional heads and deputy regional heads to remain on alert and remain in their respective territories during the one-week period before and one week after Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah (Islamic calendar).

The instruction was conveyed through a Circular Letter (SE) from the Interior Minister No. 000.2.3/1171/SJ dated 8 March 2026 regarding the postponement of foreign travel during the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah holiday period. The circular was addressed to all governors as well as regents and mayors. In the circular, regional heads and deputy regional heads are asked to postpone foreign travel from 14 to 28 March 2026.

“Exceptions are made only for activities of an absolutely essential nature where implementation is under presidential direction or for medical treatment purposes,” said Tito in his statement in Jakarta on Monday.

The Interior Minister explained that the policy was implemented to ensure regional governments remain focused on carrying out a number of strategic agenda items before and during the Eid holiday period.

Several strategic measures have been requested of regional heads, including first, anticipating potential increases in security and safety risks during the Eid al-Fitr holiday and strengthening coordination with the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda).

Secondly, enhancing preparedness in supporting the smooth flow of Eid holiday travel. Thirdly, monitoring and controlling regional inflation. Fourthly, ensuring readiness for the holding of Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah celebrations.

The Interior Minister emphasised that the policy aims to ensure regional heads remain in their respective territories so they can respond rapidly to various public needs during the Eid holiday period.

“Regarding recommendations for official foreign travel (PDLN) or permits to travel abroad for important reasons that have already been issued for the aforementioned departure dates, such should be cancelled or postponed, with agendas rescheduled accordingly,” he stated.

The circular was also distributed to the President of the Republic of Indonesia, the Minister for Coordination of Politics, Law and Security, the State Secretary, the Foreign Minister, and the Minister of Immigration and Rehabilitation.