Batam Fuel Stocks Secure, Residents Urged to Stay Calm Despite Some Empty Petrol Stations

An issue of fuel shortages briefly alarmed Batam residents in recent days. Several locals reported long queues at various petrol stations, particularly for Pertamax. However, Pertamina has confirmed that fuel stocks in Batam are secure and distribution continues normally, rendering public concerns unfounded.

According to Pertamina, some stations appearing empty is not due to depleted stocks but rather uneven distribution and panic buying. Panic buying occurs when consumers purchase more fuel than their usual needs out of fear of shortages.

“We assure that fuel supplies in Batam are adequate for daily community needs. Some stations may appear empty temporarily, but deliveries from the depot continue on schedule,” stated a Pertamina Batam official on Friday (27/3).

Several car drivers in Batam shared their experiences refuelling at stations. Riki Ram, 38, from Tiban, said he queued for nearly 30 minutes because Pertamax was out. “Initially, I was worried, but after learning stocks were still available, I felt calm again,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, Luki, 45, an online taxi driver, explained that long queues led many to buy more fuel than usual. “Fuel stocks are actually still there; it’s just the distribution that’s uneven,” he clarified.

Yolanda, 29, a private sector employee, added that she usually uses Pertalite, which is easily available at the station near her home. “Public concerns are more driven by quickly spreading news than the actual on-ground conditions,” she said.

Agus, 34, a private driver, expressed that rumours of shortages initially scared him. “But after seeing the depot stocks myself, we realised the long queues were more due to panic buying,” he stated.

As of this report, there has been no official statement from Zaki Mubaroq, Communication & Relations (Comrel) of Pertamina Marketing Operation Region I, regarding the Batam fuel shortage issue. Nevertheless, Pertamina emphasises that the public should not hoard fuel, as stocks remain safe.

Authorities urge residents to stay calm and purchase fuel wisely to avoid repeated long queues and panic. Other fuel types like Pertalite are still available at stations, allowing the public to meet daily fuel needs without disruption.

With stable distribution and sufficient stocks, the fuel situation in Batam is currently under control. Pertamina continues to monitor field conditions to ensure all stations can serve consumers properly.