Fuel Prices Remain Unchanged, DKI GMPK: A Precise Step to Mitigate External Impacts
The Chairman of the DKI Jakarta Regional Leadership Council of the National Student and Youth Movement (GMPK), Asip Irama, regards the government’s decision not to increase the price of fuel oil (BBM) as an appropriate and measured step. This action is considered crucial amid the fluctuating trend of rising global oil prices.
Asip explained that in recent times, global oil prices have shown a tendency to increase, even briefly surpassing 100 US dollars per barrel. This situation has forced many countries to adjust their domestic fuel prices to mitigate fiscal pressures.
According to Asip, Indonesia’s approach is relatively unique compared to the responses of other countries, most of which have chosen to raise prices significantly.
“Globally, the common response is to increase prices. Some have even raised them significantly, such as Cambodia by nearly 68 percent and Vietnam by around 50 percent. Other countries, including the United States and Australia, have also made adjustments during the same period,” said Asip on Thursday (2/4).
In this context, he views the Indonesian government’s decision to maintain price stability as an extraordinary measure amid massive global pressures. The official affirmation from Deputy Speaker of the DPR Sufmi Dasco Ahmad and State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi is seen as concrete evidence of the government’s swift action in safeguarding public purchasing power.
“This is not a decision without context. While many countries are raising prices due to global pressures, the government is choosing to hold steady. This means the burden is not immediately shifted to the public,” he clarified.
Maintaining Inflation and Purchasing Power
Asip assesses that this policy is not merely populist but a shrewd strategy to dampen external impacts so they do not fully burden the people. The policy of holding fuel prices is deemed to directly influence the control of national inflation.
Because every fuel price increase is almost certainly followed by a surge in transportation and distribution costs, leading to higher prices for basic necessities in the market.
While offering appreciation, DKI GMPK still reminds that this policy carries consequences for the state’s fiscal space. Transparency and accuracy in calculations are key to ensuring the policy remains sustainable.
“Holding prices certainly comes at a cost. Here, the government must maintain a balance between short-term stability and fiscal sustainability,” Asip stressed.
On the other hand, he also commended Pertamina’s performance in ensuring the distribution and availability of fuel stocks remain secure amid existing market dynamics. The government’s quick response in addressing fuel price increase issues is also considered important for keeping social conditions conducive. “For now, the government’s steps are on the right track. The challenge is to maintain consistency moving forward,” he concluded.