Pertamina Clarifies Restrictions on Pertalite for Certain Motorcycles Are SPBU Policy

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has emphasised that restrictions on the purchase of subsidised Pertalite fuel for Suzuki Thunder motorcycles at several public filling stations (SPBU) are not a nationwide company policy. Corporate Secretary of Pertamina Patra Niaga, Roberth M.V. Dumatubun, stated that the policy was an initiative of individual SPBU managers as an anticipatory measure to prevent the misuse of subsidised fuel. “This policy is a proactive measure taken by the SPBU. These arrangements are the respective policies of the SPBU,” he told CNBC Indonesia on Monday (20/7/2026). He nonetheless stressed that Pertamina remains committed to supporting the targeted distribution of subsidised fuel. Consequently, the public using two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles is urged to purchase subsidised fuel reasonably and according to normal needs. He dismissed the notion that the restriction targeted a specific motorcycle brand. According to him, vehicles used for normal daily activities can still refuel at SPBU without hindrance. “Regarding specific brands, this is not a limitation or special condition. In fact, a statement from the Chairman of the motorcycle club indicated they faced no obstacles in refuelling at SPBU because the vehicles are indeed used for normal daily activities,” he said. However, he acknowledged that in the field, certain individuals were found to be exploiting specific motorcycle types by modifying fuel tanks to exceed factory specifications or by refuelling repeatedly. “This is what prompted the policy to emerge with a positive spirit for equitable supply, and there is no intention to discredit a particular brand,” Roberth stated.