3kg LPG Scarce in Mataram, Suspected to Be Used for MBG Kitchen

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in 3kg cylinders is once again scarce in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). Regrettably, this shortage is suspected to be caused by its use in the kitchens of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme or the Nutrition Service Fulfilment Unit (SPPG).

A team from the Mataram Trade Office (Disdag) has been deployed to check these allegations. They were ordered to the field by Assistant I of the Mataram Regional Secretariat (Setda), Lalu Martawang.

“I request a more detailed check to ensure it is used for the intended purpose. It should not be taken by those who are not entitled,” said Martawang at his office on Tuesday (12/5/2026).

“There is an indication from information received from outside Mataram that the (gas cylinders) are being used to meet the needs of MBG kitchens. I request that the field team conduct checks to confirm this,” Martawang added.

Martawang emphasised that 3kg LPG must be prioritised for the local community, especially poor groups. This government-subsidised gas must not be enjoyed by parties with higher economic capacity, including the MBG programme.

“MBG is already in a position with higher economic capacity. So it must not use 3kg LPG,” Martawang stressed.

Martawang affirmed that the Mataram City Government (Pemkot) will impose strict sanctions if findings are discovered in the field, and will not hesitate to take firm action. Nevertheless, no violations in the use of subsidised gas for the MBG programme have been found in Mataram yet.

“There will definitely be sanctions. And that will be a special note for the task force to take firm steps going forward,” Martawang stated.

Meanwhile, the Head of the Essential Goods and Services Division (Bapokting) of Mataram Disdag, Sri Wahyunida, explained that there is an imbalance in distribution. Gas cylinder stocks are available at depots, but the gas is difficult to find at the retailer level.

“Our monitoring shows there is an access imbalance. Gas is available at depots, but sometimes it is difficult at the retailer or household level,” said Nida.