Government on Pertamax Price Hike: No Other Choice

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has responded to the impact of the Pertamax price increase on the middle class. ESDM Ministry Spokesperson Dwi Anggia expressed hope that the middle class would understand the government’s decision.

“The current situation is global, world oil prices are fluctuating. Like it or not, there is no other choice; an adjustment must be made,” Anggia stated at the ESDM Ministry Media Room in Jakarta on Thursday.

Anggia conveyed that the decision to raise fuel prices was not only made by Pertamina but also by other private business entities such as VIVO, BP, and AKR. She said all business entities must adjust their selling prices to offset the impact of rising global oil prices.

“The bottom line is that we must all face the global conditions that are causing fluctuations in world oil prices together,” Anggia continued.

Anggia hopes the public, including the middle class, will be wise in their fuel consumption. She reminded that Pertalite is a subsidised fuel intended for those entitled to it.

“This is to keep the national energy stock more sustainable and ensure our energy reserves are maintained,” she said.

Anggia stated that the government is committed to protecting vulnerable groups by not changing the price of subsidised fuel. She hopes this policy can maintain the public’s purchasing power.

“If I may borrow the term, the President is issuing a policy that is pro-wong cilik. Subsidised fuel is protected from increases,” she added.

Anggia hopes the public, especially the middle class, understands the difficult decisions the government must make. She said the government cannot work alone in facing this situation of global economic uncertainty.

“We have no choice but to work together. The government needs public support and must join hands with the people. We survived during the Covid period by accepting the conditions together,” Anggia said.