Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices Rise, Residents Resign to Swelling Petrol Budgets

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The rise in the price of non-subsidised fuel (BBM) is beginning to be felt in the pockets of users. Several drivers have to reach deeper into their wallets to meet their daily fuel needs, especially those who use vehicles routinely. Yusuf (33), one of the users of Pertamax Turbo, said that his usual monthly expenditure on BBM is already in the range of Rp 1 million to Rp 2 million. He admitted to being surprised by the quite high surge in non-subsidised BBM prices. “But on the other hand, I’ve been using Turbo from the start, so ready or not, I’m prepared for the ups and downs of prices,” said Yusuf. Nevertheless, Yusuf still chooses to stick with Pertamax Turbo. He considers fuel efficiency and engine performance as the main reasons not to switch to other types of BBM. In terms of calculation, the use of Pertamax Turbo is considered more economical in the long term compared to other types of BBM. Ihsan (28) feels the same, also admitting to being shocked upon learning of the price increase. He even regretted not filling up fuel before the price officially rose. “Honestly, when I found out the price had gone up, it immediately crossed my mind. I should have filled up full last night because the increase is quite substantial. So I was quite shocked,” he said. According to him, this price increase also has a direct impact on monthly expenditure, which has risen quite significantly. “The impact on expenditure is clearly felt. Now it can add hundreds of thousands. So it will definitely be more noticeable than before,” he said.