Outrage! Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices Rise, Here's the Netizens' Response!

The rise in non-subsidised fuel (BBM) prices has once again sparked uproar among the public. Since mid-April 2026, several high-quality BBM types have experienced a significant price surge. PT Pertamina (Persero) officially raised prices for three non-subsidised BBM types significantly as of 18 April 2026. Pertamax Turbo’s price increased from Rp 13,100 per litre to Rp 19,400 per litre, Dexlite from Rp 14,200 per litre to Rp 23,600 per litre, and Pertamina Dex from Rp 14,500 per litre to Rp 23,900. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasised that the increase is not unfounded. He explained that non-subsidised BBM prices follow global oil price movements. According to him, the government has full authority only over subsidised BBM. Meanwhile, non-subsidised products are adjusted to global market mechanisms as regulated since 2022. “For BBM, the government regulates subsidised BBM, while non-subsidised follows market prices. So, Turbo is for the affluent. Don’t let the rise in RON 98 BBM prices suddenly lead to demands for subsidies. That would take away the rights of our needy brothers. Aren’t we ashamed?” Bahlil stated. It did not take long for the news to go viral. Many netizens complained about the increasing vehicle operating costs, while others tried to understand the reasons behind the price adjustment. “Non-subsidised BBM prices go up and down every month; it’s normal, why is it being made an issue now,” one netizen wrote in a comment on social media discussing this. “More needed… it’s time to lend a hand, the capable helping those in need. Hopefully Indonesia will be better in the future,” another netizen added. Although the government has provided explanations, public responses remain divided. Some understand that global market mechanisms are hard to avoid, but many hope for solutions so that the impact does not spill over to other essential goods prices.