Subsidized Fuel Availability Must Be Maintained Amid Global Energy Shocks

Global energy market volatility, driven by geopolitical tensions, should not compromise public access to subsidized fuel in Indonesia, according to Wayan Ardi Adnyana, chairman of the Central Leadership of the Indonesian Hindu Dharma Student Association (PP KMHDI).

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We ask Pertamina to maintain the availability of Pertalite and Biosolar stocks throughout Indonesia. Let the price adjustment of non-subsidized fuel not be followed by a scarcity of fuel that is the need of the wider community. Energy supply stability must be a priority.

Adnyana stated that while price adjustments for non-subsidized fuels are a consequence of the volatile global market, particularly due to Middle East tensions impacting crude oil prices, the availability of subsidized Pertalite and Biosolar must be maintained. These fuels remain essential for the majority of the population, especially lower-income groups who rely on stable energy prices.

"We ask Pertamina to maintain the availability of Pertalite and Biosolar stocks throughout Indonesia. Let the price adjustment of non-subsidized fuel not be followed by a scarcity of fuel that is the need of the wider community. Energy supply stability must be a priority," Adnyana said.

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In the current uncertain global geopolitical situation, the government and Pertamina face a major challenge in maintaining national energy stability. The public needs to see this issue in its entirety and not get trapped in narratives that oversimplify the problem.

He also cautioned the public against being provoked by information that could cause panic or worsen the situation. While constructive criticism and public oversight of energy policies are important, they must be based on verifiable data and facts, he added. The association believes this situation underscores the need for Indonesia to bolster its national energy resilience through diversification, increased domestic production, and the development of new and renewable energy sources to reduce vulnerability to global energy shocks.

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Public criticism and oversight are certainly important, but they must be carried out constructively, based on data and facts, and still prioritize national interests.