MP Highlights Impact of Non-Subsidised Fuel Price Hike Amid Difficult Access to Subsidies

JAKARTA - The increase in non-subsidised fuel prices is seen as having a broad impact extending to lower-income communities, alongside the difficulty in accessing subsidised fuel in various regions.

This situation has prompted criticism from Mufti Anam, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives Commission VI, who views the policy as insensitive to field conditions.

“The government seems to turn a blind eye to the reality on the ground that not all people can access subsidised fuel,” Mufti stated in his remarks, quoted on Sunday (19/4/2026).

This condition forces the public to switch to non-subsidised fuel, whose prices have now experienced a significant increase.

“In such conditions, they are forced to buy non-subsidised fuel. And today, the price of non-subsidised fuel is being raised recklessly,” he continued.

Mufti assessed that this issue is no longer merely about distinguishing between subsidised and non-subsidised fuel, but concerns aspects of justice for the people.

“This is no longer about subsidised or non-subsidised. This is about justice for the people and the government’s sensitivity amid unstable economic conditions,” he stressed.

“When those who are entitled cannot obtain subsidies, and then the price of the alternative is raised, the burden directly shifts to the shoulders of the people,” he said.

Additionally, Mufti questioned the decision to raise prices amid improving global conditions and energy distribution that is said to be increasingly open.

“What is surprising is that when the global situation is starting to ease, the price is raised instead,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of ensuring that entitled individuals can access subsidised fuel.

“Ensure that those who are entitled can truly obtain subsidised fuel so they do not need to buy expensive non-subsidised fuel,” Mufti stated.

“If the world oil price starts to fall, then immediately lower the price. Do not wait for public pressure to act,” Mufti concluded.