Post-Eid Surge Tests Infrastructure
The annual mudik return following Eid al-Fitr has once again placed immense pressure on Indonesia’s transport network. 29 March saw peak movement, with an estimated 250,000 vehicles re-entering Jakarta in a single day.
According to Jasa Maraga president director Rivan A. Purwantono, traffic volumes surged significantly over the weekend, with 2.3 million vehicles – around 69 per cent of travellers – already recorded returning by 27 March. Authorities had to implement one-way traffic systems to ease congestion, underscoring the sheer scale of the world’s largest annual migration.
Acid Attack on Kontras Activist Sparks Alarm
A violent acid attack on Andrie Yunus, deputy coordinator of Komisi untuk Orang Hilang dan Korban Tindak Kekerasan (Kontras) – the Commission for the Disappeared and Victims of Violence – on 12 March has raised serious concerns over activist safety. The incident, which occurred in Central Jakarta, left Yunus with burns covering nearly a quarter of his body, with recovery expected to take years.
Four suspects – all members of the Indonesian military’s intelligence unit – are currently under investigation by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) . The case has already triggered institutional repercussions, including the reported resignation of a senior intelligence official, placing renewed scrutiny on accountability within state institutions.
Work-From-Home Policy Considered Amid Energy Pressures
Indonesia is exploring a selective work-from-home policy in response to rising global energy prices linked to the ongoing US–Israel–Iran tensions. The proposal aims to reduce national fuel consumption without disrupting essential services.
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian confirmed that cross-ministerial discussions are underway, with pilot simulations already conducted by the Ministry of Social Affairs. While public services and key economic sectors will remain operational, the move reflects a broader effort to balance energy efficiency with economic continuity.
Passing of Business Titan Michael Bambang Hartono
Indonesia mourned the loss of one of its most influential business figures, Michael Bambang Hartono, co-owner of Djarum Group. Djarum is a major Indonesian conglomerate headquartered in Kudus, Central Java, established in 1951. Originally a leading clove cigarette (kretek) manufacturer, it has diversified into banking (BCA), digital tech (Blibli and Mola), property (Grand Indonesia), and food. The legendary business icon passed away on 19 March at the age of 86.
A central figure in Indonesia’s corporate landscape, Hartono helped build Djarum into one of the country’s most powerful conglomerates alongside his brother, Robert Budi Hartono. His legacy spans decades of industrial growth, philanthropy, and economic influence, marking the end of an era for Indonesian business leadership.
High-Profile Murder Case Shocks Jakarta
The death of Dwintha Anggary, granddaughter of beloved Betawi cultural icon Mpok Nori, has captured national attention. She was found dead in her East Jakarta home, with police later identifying her ex-husband as the primary suspect.
The suspect was apprehended following a brief escape attempt and is currently under investigation by the Polda Metro Jaya. The case has sparked widespread public reaction, highlighting ongoing concerns around domestic violence and personal safety
