Global Crisis: Prabowo Maintains Subsidised Fuel for the Poor

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that the government is striving to keep subsidised fuel oil (BBM) affordable for the public, particularly for vulnerable groups. “My economic ministers have reported that we will maintain subsidised BBM for the poor and low-income people. We will preserve it for 80% of our population,” Prabowo stated during the Briefing at the Working Meeting of the Government Members of the Red and White Cabinet, in Jakarta on Wednesday. For affluent groups, Prabowo said they can buy non-subsidised BBM. “Rich people, if they want to use expensive petrol, they must pay the market price,” he remarked. Prabowo assured that the energy supply for the public remains secure amid the heated situation in the Middle East conflict, which impacts the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. In addition to seeking alternative supply sources, Indonesia is also utilising its domestic natural wealth to ensure energy resilience. The Head of State noted that Indonesia is blessed with fertile land and abundant natural resources. From beneath the ground, Indonesia has coal that can be processed into an alternative energy source to replace oil and gas. Plants such as palm oil, corn, and cassava can also serve as alternative energy sources. “Our reserves are very large. Even our coal reserves are plentiful, and from coal we can produce diesel. We can produce petrol from coal, cassava, corn,” he said. Although remaining calm, the government is continuously working hard to ensure the public’s energy needs. “Mr Bahlil (Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources) says it’s safe. Calm and safe does not mean we are relaxed and carefree. No. We are working, we are alert,” he added.