DPR Member: Pertamax Price in Indonesia Relatively Lower Than Other Countries
Jakarta – The Chairman of Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the Golkar Party faction, Bambang Patijaya, has stated that the adjustment to Pertamax fuel prices by the government and PT Pertamina (Persero) is part of the non-subsidised fuel pricing mechanism, which follows global oil price developments and energy procurement costs. According to Bambang, changes in global energy prices affect non-subsidised fuel prices in various countries, including Indonesia. Therefore, the Pertamax price adjustment cannot be separated from the current dynamics in the global energy sector. “Pertamax is a non-subsidised fuel whose pricing refers to market mechanisms and economic value. However, in its implementation, the government still considers the national economic condition and people’s purchasing power, so the adjustment is carried out gradually and in a measured manner,” said Bambang in a statement on Friday, 12 June 2026. He explained that the government does not implement price changes fully in a short period. The approach taken so far aims to maintain economic stability while providing room for the public to adapt to changes in energy market conditions. Bambang also highlighted that the price of Pertamax in Indonesia is still relatively competitive compared to several countries in the Southeast Asian region. According to him, the price of fuel with equivalent specifications in Thailand, Singapore, and the Philippines is currently higher than the price in Indonesia. “This shows that the government continues to strive to maintain a balance between the application of market mechanisms and energy price affordability. Therefore, despite the adjustment, the price of Pertamax in Indonesia is still relatively lower than in several other countries in the region,” he said. Nevertheless, Bambang acknowledged that he understands the various public complaints arising from the increase in non-subsidised fuel prices. According to him, the government has demonstrated its commitment by maintaining the prices of Pertalite, subsidised diesel (Solar), and 3 kg LPG until the end of 2026, so that the public’s basic energy needs remain protected. “Going forward, this momentum should also be used to encourage more efficient energy use, including reducing unnecessary fuel consumption, utilising more flexible work patterns such as WFH or WFA where possible, and accelerating the energy transition towards wider use of electric vehicles and more energy-efficient technologies. In this way, dependence on fuel can gradually decrease and the public will have more economical energy choices,” Bambang asserted.