Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Fuel Stocks Secure Ahead of Eid, Calls Against "Panic Buying" Intensify

| | Source: KOMPAS Translated from Indonesian | Energy
Fuel Stocks Secure Ahead of Eid, Calls Against "Panic Buying" Intensify
Image: KOMPAS

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com — Ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026, the government has ensured that the national energy supply is in a safe and controlled condition. The availability of fuel oil (BBM), LPG, and electricity is deemed sufficient to support the surge in public demand during the mudik and Eid periods.

This situation is key to maintaining the smooth flow of economic activities and public mobility, while also alleviating concerns amid global pressures on energy prices.

“We appreciate the government’s efforts through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and energy state-owned enterprises in maintaining the availability and smooth supply of BBM, LPG, and electricity up to the holiday,” said Chairman of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives Bambang Patijaya in Jakarta, in a press statement on Wednesday (18/3/2026).

According to Bambang, up to H-3 Eid al-Fitr, BBM and LPG stocks remain stable, distribution is running smoothly, and the national electricity system is prepared to handle the consumption spike. This is considered vital to support the smooth flow of mudik and public comfort.

He added that energy consumption increases during Eid also occur in the electricity sector, both for households and public services. Therefore, the readiness of power plants, transmission networks, and electricity distribution becomes a crucial aspect.

“I want to say that until the end of the holiday, fuel subsidies remain under government control,” said Bahlil at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources in Jakarta on Tuesday (17/3/2026).

Global crude oil prices have surpassed 100 US dollars per barrel, above the 2026 state budget assumption of 70 US dollars per barrel. However, the government has assured that subsidised BBM prices such as Pertalite and Biosolar will not increase until Eid.

“The government has great concern for the people’s condition. We also do not want all the burden to be passed on to the people,” said Bahlil.

He emphasised that the availability of BBM, LPG, and electricity is still above the national minimum stock limit, thus remaining safe.

A similar appeal was conveyed by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, who asked the public not to engage in excessive purchasing.

“Although we are all currently facing a global situation that impacts oil prices, the government assures that for BBM and LPG positions, they are currently sufficient. So, there is no need for panic buying,” said Sigit at the National Monument area in Jakarta on Thursday (12/3/2026).

Deputy Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Yuliot Tanjung stated that energy distribution reviews are being conducted to ensure services remain optimal during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

“This is part of how we provide the best services to the public, especially in terms of energy provision,” said Yuliot in a written statement on Wednesday (18/3/2026).

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