Bambang Patijaya: Government's Policy Not to Raise Subsidised Fuel Prices Deserves Support

Jakarta – The Chairman of Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the Golkar Party faction, Bambang Patijaya, has voiced support for the government’s policy through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) to ensure that subsidised fuel (BBM) prices will not increase until the end of 2026.

According to Bambang, this policy represents a strategic step that demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting public purchasing power while controlling inflation amid ongoing global fluctuations.

“We view the government’s decision not to raise subsidised BBM prices as the right move. Energy price stability is a crucial factor in maintaining national economic resilience,” Bambang stated in his remarks on Friday, 17 April 2026.

He explained that the decision is grounded in strong technocratic reasoning, including the current controlled state of global oil prices. Based on government data, the average Indonesia Crude Price (ICP) up to early April 2026 is around USD 77 per barrel, which remains within the safe limits of the state budget assumptions.

Furthermore, Bambang stressed that the availability of national energy stocks above the minimum threshold is a key factor in maintaining domestic energy supply stability.

“With the ICP still under control and energy stocks secure, the policy to keep BBM prices stable is rational and measured,” he clarified.

On the other hand, Bambang assessed the government’s efforts to expand energy supply sources through diversification, including exploring cooperation with various countries such as Russia, as part of a medium-term strategy to strengthen national energy resilience.

Moreover, Bambang affirmed that strengthening energy resilience must be accompanied by accelerating energy infrastructure development, including increasing refinery capacity and storage facilities, to reduce long-term dependence on imports. He also reiterated that Commission XII of the House of Representatives will continue to support and oversee government policies to ensure they prioritise national interests, maintain price stability, and promote national energy independence.

Previously reported, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia, confirmed that the government will not raise subsidised fuel (BBM) prices until the end of 2026.