Pertamax Price Hike: Pertamina Urged to Secure Pertalite and Biosolar Supply
The General Chairman of the Central Board of the Indonesian Hindu Dharma Student Association (PP KMHDI), Wayan Ardi Adnyana, has stated that the adjustment of non-subsidised fuel prices such as Pertamax is an unavoidable consequence of ongoing global geopolitical dynamics. Tensions in the Middle East and disruptions to global energy distribution routes have placed pressure on international crude oil prices, subsequently affecting various countries, including Indonesia.
According to Ardi, the public needs to understand that the Pertamax price increase is not solely caused by domestic factors, but is a consequence of turbulent global energy market conditions. Therefore, all elements of the nation must address this situation wisely and proportionally.
“In an uncertain global geopolitical situation, the government and Pertamina face significant challenges in maintaining national energy stability. The public must view this issue holistically and not be trapped by narratives that oversimplify the matter,” Ardi said in a statement on Friday (12/6).
Ardi urged PT Pertamina and the government to ensure the availability of subsidised fuels, particularly Pertalite and Biosolar, remains secure and easily accessible to the public. He noted that these two fuel types are essential for the lower-middle class, farmers, fishermen, MSME operators, and other productive sectors.
“We ask Pertamina to maintain the stock availability of Pertalite and Biosolar across all regions of Indonesia. The adjustment of non-subsidised fuel prices must not be followed by shortages of fuels that are vital to the wider community. Stability of energy supply must be the priority,” he stated.
Ardi also called on the public not to be easily provoked by information that could trigger panic or aggravate the situation. He believes the current global conditions are susceptible to exploitation by certain parties seeking to build negative sentiment that could disrupt national stability.
“We must not be easily provoked by narratives that attempt to divide society or diminish public trust in state institutions. Public criticism and oversight are certainly important, but they must be conducted constructively, based on data and facts, while prioritising the national interest,” Ardi said.
KMHDI considers this moment a reminder for the Indonesian nation to further strengthen national energy resilience through diversification of energy sources, bolstering domestic energy production, and developing renewable energy so that Indonesia is less vulnerable to geopolitical turmoil and global energy price fluctuations in the future.
“A spirit of mutual cooperation between the government, state-owned enterprises, and the community is essential to maintain national stability amidst increasingly complex global challenges. With unity and collective awareness, Indonesia will be able to navigate this situation successfully,” Ardi concluded.