PAN Says JK's Suggestion to Raise Fuel Prices Does Not Align with Latest Data

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Chairman of the National Mandate Party (PAN) Central Board, Bima Arya Sugiharto, stated that the suggestion by the 10th and 12th Vice President of Indonesia, Jusuf Kalla (JK), for the government to raise fuel prices to save the budget does not align with the latest data.

“Mr JK’s statement that the government should remove fuel subsidies is too hasty and does not match the latest data,” Bima told Kompas.com on Saturday (11/4/2026).

Bima explained that not only is fuel availability currently sufficient, but Indonesia’s dependence on raw fuel imports through the Strait of Hormuz remains moderate at 20%.

“The government is currently taking steps to divert those sources through other routes,” Bima said.

Bima assessed that JK’s proposal to remove subsidies would only burden the people and create other domino effects that would trouble the public.

In addition to Bima, Deputy General Chairman of the PAN Central Board, Saleh Partaonan Daulay, also commented on JK’s criticism.

He hoped that JK could provide his views directly to Prabowo, rather than through social media or the mass media.

According to Saleh, it is not appropriate for someone of JK’s stature to deliver criticism through the mass media.

“Let such open criticisms be made by ordinary citizens. Moreover, everyone knows that Mr JK is very devoted to and willing to sacrifice for Indonesia,” he said.

Previously, JK stated that energy subsidies, particularly for fuel (BBM), would cause the state budget deficit to swell further and accumulate debt.