Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices Rise, Legislator Highlights Lack of Public Outreach

JAKARTA - The sudden increase in non-subsidised fuel prices by PT Pertamina (Persero) has drawn criticism from a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI). Mufti Anam, a member of Commission VI of the DPR RI, assessed that the policy burdens the public, as it was implemented without outreach and amid prior government narratives that sought to reassure the public regarding fuel prices. “The fuel price increase was carried out without prior notice, and the amount is quite significant. This policy is very burdensome to the public,” Mufti stated in his remarks, quoted on Sunday (19/4/2026). He also highlighted the discrepancy between the government’s previous statements and the current policy taken. “The public was previously reassured with a narrative that fuel prices would not rise. However, there was suddenly a price surge without preparation and communication,” he said. According to Mufti, this increase in non-subsidised fuel prices aligns with long-standing concerns about the potential for price adjustments through other schemes, even though subsidised fuel prices remain stable. It is known that PT Pertamina (Persero) raised the prices of several non-subsidised fuels as of 18 April 2026, including Pertamax Turbo, Dexlite, and Pertamina Dex. The increase was announced without prior notification to the public. Dexlite rose from Rp14,200 per litre to Rp23,600 per litre, while Pertamina Dex increased from Rp14,500 per litre to Rp23,900 per litre. Meanwhile, subsidised fuel prices did not change.