Bahlil and Purbaya Discuss Plan to Restrict Subsidised Pertalite Fuel Usage

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia are designing restrictions on the use of subsidised fuel such as RON 90 or Pertalite for certain groups. This is part of the government’s effort to deliver subsidies on target.

Purbaya explained that restrictions on Pertalite subsidies are likely to be implemented for groups in deciles 9 and 10. “We discussed the possible implementation of Pertalite subsidy restrictions for the top tier, perhaps deciles 9 and 10, so that a few months later we can reduce them gradually,” Purbaya said when met at the Ministry of Finance office on Tuesday (11/8/2026).

“We are studying the system. I have also had a chance to look at Pertamina’s system, which is already quite good and ready to be implemented,” Purbaya added.

Unfortunately, Purbaya has not yet detailed when the restrictions on Pertalite users in certain deciles will take effect. What is clear is that the government is currently preparing the system.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia added that the plan to restrict Pertalite use for certain deciles is part of the government’s effort to deliver subsidised fuel on target.

“As we know, some subsidies have not been on target. Why should the rich be subsidised, for example with Pertalite? Deciles 9 and 10 still receive subsidies. This is what we are starting to discuss, the system and everything, so that the hundreds of trillions of rupiah in subsidies are truly given to our brothers and sisters who are entitled to receive them,”

“And this is in line with what the President has directed. That is why we are holding a coordination meeting of ministers,” Bahlil said at the same location on Tuesday (11/8/2026).