Fuel Prices in Lembata Hit Rp 50,000 per 1.5-Litre Bottle Amid Supply Issues
Residents of Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), have voiced complaints over an unreasonable increase in retail fuel prices, which have surged to Rp 50,000 per 1.5-litre bottle. One local, identified as Y, confirmed that half a bottle costs Rp 20,000, while a full bottle is priced at Rp 50,000. Another resident from Ile Ape District, identified as B, reported that retail fuel prices have reached Rp 35,000 per 1.5-litre bottle.
The fuel issue in Lembata is not limited to high retail prices. The situation is exacerbated by long queues at various public filling stations (SPBU) across the region. PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Jawa Timur, Bali, dan Nusa Tenggara (Jatimbalinus) acknowledged the increased queues at several SPBUs in Lembata. Area Manager Communication, Relations & CSR Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Jatimbalinus, Ahad Rahedi, stated that the conditions are influenced by rising fuel demand for motor vehicles, an increase in the issuance of recommendation letters for fishermen, and purchasing activities by retailers that affect overall fuel consumption in the area.
Ahad explained that Pertamina Patra Niaga has implemented various anticipatory measures to maintain smooth fuel distribution and ensure it remains on target. These include intensive coordination with the Lembata Regency Government, law enforcement agencies, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen distribution oversight, including the issuance of recommendation letters for fishermen. He added that the company continues to coordinate with all parties to ensure optimal and compliant fuel distribution, while also reinforcing supervision of subsidised fuel distribution so that benefits are received by entitled communities. Additionally, Pertamina Patra Niaga and BPH Migas are conducting ongoing monitoring and evaluation of quota realisation and subsidised fuel distribution in Lembata as part of sustained efforts to maintain energy supply reliability and anticipate rising community needs.