No Need to Panic! Pertamina Urges Citizens Not to Hoard Fuel Ahead of Eid

Global energy markets have experienced increased volatility due to conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran in the Middle East. This geopolitical tension not only poses security concerns worldwide but has also had tangible impacts on oil supplies, fuel prices, and consumer behaviour in numerous countries, including Indonesia.

However, Indonesian government authorities and Pertamina have affirmed that national fuel stocks remain secure, even amid the most pressing circumstances. These statements are intended to prevent public panic that could exacerbate conditions at petrol stations.

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has reiterated its appeal to the public to refrain from purchasing fuel excessively or engaging in panic buying. The statement was conveyed directly by the company’s chief executive during a visit to a petrol station at the Cikampek rest area in West Java.

Mars Ega Legowo Putra, Chief Executive of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, stated that national fuel supplies have been prepared well in advance and remain in a secure condition. He argued that excessive purchases by the public would instead produce unnecessary negative effects, particularly during the period approaching Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

“Regarding panic buying, we urge the public not to engage in panic buying. Panic buying would only produce unfavourable effects,” said Mars Ega Legowo Putra.

Panic buying is considered capable of triggering long queues at petrol stations and disrupting fuel distribution, despite fuel stocks in several regions already being confirmed as adequate.

For instance, in several areas of East Java, local authorities have confirmed that fuel supplies remain sufficient, and the public is urged to purchase fuel only according to their needs. This measure is intended to prevent public anxiety whilst maintaining stable distribution of energy supplies at the local level.

This appeal emerges amid public concerns regarding global energy supply issues, including the impact of international conflicts that briefly triggered worries about fuel availability.

However, both the central government and Pertamina have emphasised that energy supplies are distributed in a planned and controlled manner, allowing the public to follow the recommendation to purchase fuel normally without concerns.