Gas Price Hike Prompts Residents to Get Creative: From Saving Usage to Switching Cylinders

JAKARTA - The increase in the price of non-subsidised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) 12-kilogramme cylinders is prompting residents to seek ways to curb their spending, from conserving usage to considering switches to other cylinders amid rising living costs.

The LPG 12kg price hike from around Rp 192,000 to Rp 228,000 is occurring alongside surges in fuel oil (BBM) and staple goods prices. This situation is intensifying pressure on household expenditures.

Michael (24), a resident of Kalideres in West Jakarta, says he only recently learned of the increase and is already feeling its impact on his monthly financial planning.

“Usually, when gas prices rise, everything else follows. I’m afraid it’s not just this Rp 36,000, but then food prices, transport fares, everything will go up,” said Michael on Sunday (19/4/2026).

According to him, energy price increases are almost always followed by rises in other market prices.

“If BBM goes up, delivery costs usually rise, and then goods prices follow. Now gas is rising too, so I’m even more worried about the future,” he stated.

“Now it’s not just gas; everything is going up. It really hits hard; expenditures are ballooning. I’m afraid kitchen staples will rise again soon,” said Pudji.

He noted that this price increase is not merely about cooking needs but also a signal of broader economic pressures.

“If it’s like this, we have to economise. Maybe look for alternatives or reduce usage, because if it keeps rising like this, it’s tough,” he added.

Some residents are even starting to consider switching to other options, such as the subsidised 3kg LPG or 5.5kg packaging.

However, each choice comes with challenges, from availability to the initial costs of purchasing new cylinders.

Michael, for instance, is reconsidering the 3kg LPG that he had previously abandoned.

“Because I already have a subsidised cylinder, so for now, I’ll switch to the subsidised one. But subsidised ones are often out of stock, so I have no choice but to stick with the 12kg. Switching to 5.5kg would require buying a new cylinder, which is quite expensive, so when I calculate it, the 12kg is still more efficient,” he said.

Fia (34), a resident of South Jakarta, expressed a similar sentiment, directly feeling the impact of the increase on her kitchen expenditures.