Indonesia: Today’s Top Headlines — March 28, 2026

Headline

FIFA Series 2026: Dean James Out, Dony Tri Pamungkas Steps Up?

• What’s happening: With defender Dean James sidelined for the FIFA Series 2026, soccer analysts are weighing in on the squad's gaps. Commentator Ronny Pangemanan has pointed to Dony Tri Pamungkas as a potential replacement for coach John Herdman to consider.
• Why it matters: The FIFA Series is a vital testing ground for the national team as they prepare for upcoming international tournaments. Managing depth and rotations will be crucial for Herdman’s tactical vision.

1 sources

beritanasional.com

beritanasional.com

Iran Rejects U.S. Peace Proposal

• What’s happening: The Iranian government has officially turned down a peace proposal put forward by the U.S. intended to de-escalate ongoing tensions.
• Why it matters: This rejection locks the two nations in a diplomatic stalemate, increasing the risk of regional instability. This could have a ripple effect on the global economy, particularly regarding energy prices.

NTB Tax Revenue Hits 8.69% in Early 2026

• What’s happening: As of February 2026, tax revenue in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) reached only 8.69% of the annual target, primarily driven by income tax (PPh) and VAT (PPN). On a brighter note, tax return filings (SPT) have seen an uptick.
• Why it matters: While the collection rate highlights fiscal challenges at the local level, the positive trend in SPT filings offers hope for better performance in the coming quarters.

Business & Finance

Antam Gold Prices Rise to IDR 2,950,000/gram

Antam gold at Pegadaian saw a price hike on Thursday, March 26, reaching IDR 2,950,000 per gram. The 0.5-gram bars are priced at IDR 1,527,000, while the buyback price is set at IDR 1,334,000 per gram.

Transport Ministry Reviews Airfare Price Caps

The Ministry of Transportation is reviewing proposals to adjust the price ceiling for airline tickets. They emphasized that multiple factors must be considered before any official changes are made—a move that will affect millions of domestic travelers.

Four Rote Ndao Companies Blacklisted from 2026 Tenders

Four companies in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara, have been barred from participating in 2026 government procurement tenders. This move is part of an effort to crack down on integrity issues within local government contracting.

International

The U.S.–Iran Diplomatic Impasse

With Iran rejecting the latest U.S. proposal, prospects for de-escalating the conflict in the Middle East have dimmed. This puts added pressure on global energy markets, which remain volatile.

Understanding the "War Economy" Impact on Indonesia

Recent analyses are diving into how the Iran-Israel conflict is shaking up the global economy. For Indonesia, the focus is on navigating geo-economic shifts, securing strategic resources, and pushing for national economic independence amid ongoing uncertainty.

Watch List

• FIFA Series 2026 & National Team — Keep an eye on squad rotations and match outcomes, especially with key players currently sidelined.
• Airline Price Ceilings — We’re waiting for an official response from the Ministry of Transportation; the final decision will impact domestic travel costs significantly.
• Iran–U.S. Diplomacy — Any further developments or escalations will directly influence global oil prices and regional stability, both of which are high-priority concerns for Indonesia.