Government Prioritises People's Interests Amid Global Energy Turbulence

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that President Prabowo Subianto places the interests of the people as the primary consideration in every policy, even amid global energy turbulence. “The President always ensures that the people’s interests are prioritised, especially for our less fortunate brothers and sisters who must receive greater attention in policy-making to ensure everything runs smoothly,” Bahlil said during a press conference on the government’s policies in response to the global geopolitical situation, monitored online from Jakarta on Tuesday. Amid global geopolitical challenges and dynamics, the government continues to strive to keep the national energy sector running well and remains committed to the people. Reserves of Fuel Oil (BBM) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) are maintained above the national standards. Furthermore, the implementation of the mandatory 50 per cent Biodiesel (B50) programme this year, a mixture of 50 per cent palm oil-based biodiesel and 50 per cent diesel, is estimated to create a surplus of domestic diesel stock. “Several other countries have implemented various policies for efficiency in their nations; we are grateful to Allah SWT for the guidance and direction from the President—our BBM reserves are all above the national minimum standards,” Bahlil said. On the other hand, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will also accelerate policy studies to adapt to rapid changes in global energy prices, particularly in the oil and natural gas (migas) sector. Bahlil revealed that discussions are ongoing regarding adjustments to non-subsidised fuel oil (BBM) prices with Pertamina and private fuel station operators. “For non-subsidised BBM, up to today, we with the Pertamina team and other private fuel stations are still discussing until the matter is finalised,” Bahlil said.