12kg Gas Price Increase, Residents Complain About Impact on Daily Expenses

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The increase in the price of non-subsidised LPG gas has drawn complaints from several members of the public. This price surge is occurring alongside rises in fuel prices and various food commodities, further straining residents’ economic conditions. One such case is that of Michael (24), a resident of Kalideres, West Jakarta. Michael says he has been using non-subsidised LPG for about a year. Previously, he used the 3kg subsidised gas but switched due to frequent difficulties in obtaining the increasingly scarce melon gas. Nevertheless, he claims to have anticipated this price increase, given the unresolved geopolitical conflict between Iran and the United States. “Actually, it was expected, because it quite follows the price of airline tickets which depend on avtur. Then the new prices for Pertamax Dex and Pertamax Turbo have risen a lot, so the gas will surely follow,” said Michael. Moreover, this price surge is happening alongside increases in fuel and staple goods prices. According to him, energy price hikes are usually followed by rises in other necessities, making the burden of expenses even heavier. Michael is now considering switching back to subsidised gas as a cheaper alternative. However, he admits to being hindered by its frequent unavailability. Similar complaints were voiced by Pudji (50), who has been using non-subsidised LPG for more than 30 years.