Minister Purbaya Responds to Calls to Switch to Pertalite: Not Everyone Should Switch

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has spoken out regarding the growing trend on social media where netizens are encouraging a shift from Pertamax fuel to the lower-priced Pertalite. This movement was triggered by the price of Pertamax rising to Rp 16,000 per litre.

Purbaya admitted that his office has not specifically calculated the risks associated with consumers migrating from Pertamax to Pertalite, which is notably cheaper.

“We haven’t calculated it, but here is the thing. There will certainly be a certain percentage that switches. However, not everyone should switch. Why? Because those who buy Pertamax know that their vehicles are suited for Pertamax,” he stated at the DPR RI complex on Thursday (11/09/2026).

He also suggested that journalists enquiring about this transition should direct their questions to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM).

“We have not calculated it. Perhaps you should ask Mr Bahil, who understands that matter,” he added.

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) admitted it has been wary of the potential shift in consumers from non-subsidised fuel, Pertamax (RON 92), to the subsidised Pertalite following the price increase on 10 June 2026.

ESDM Ministry Spokesperson Dwi Anggia acknowledged that the government recognises that rising non-subsidised fuel prices could drive some members of the public to switch to cheaper products like Pertalite. However, she noted that this risk is being mitigated.

“It is an undeniable fact that there is a high possibility of a shift. We have already discussed this with the Pertamina Patra Niaga Bureau,” Anggia said when met at the Ministry of ESDM in Jakarta on Thursday (11/06/2026).

According to Anggia, to anticipate a surge in the consumption of subsidised fuel, the Ministry of ESDM will strengthen supervision over the distribution and supply of subsidised fuel. One of the instruments currently being utilised is the QR Code system for purchasing subsidised fuel.

“Anticipation and mitigation are certainly being carried out. For instance, access to subsidised fuel currently uses QR codes, although there are still bad actors attempting to circumvent this. However, the government and the Minister of ESDM have instructed Pertamina and relevant parties to increase oversight on the ground,” she emphasised.