Pertamina Increases Fuel Stock in West Kalimantan by Up to 140%, Residents Urged Not to Buy Excessively

JAKARTA - PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Kalimantan has increased the supply of fuel oil (BBM) in West Kalimantan by up to 140 per cent from normal conditions. This measure is aimed at addressing queues and maintaining energy availability for the local population. The step is being taken alongside efforts to accelerate distribution in the field, particularly in the city of Pontianak and Kubu Raya Regency, which have experienced a spike in BBM demand in recent times. “We emphasise that BBM supplies in West Kalimantan continue to be increased and distributed to the maximum extent. With various acceleration efforts underway, the current situation is gradually becoming conducive,” he stated in a written release on Monday (23/3/2026). Nevertheless, Edi reminded that the large quantities of BBM distributed could quickly run out if there is abnormal consumption patterns among the public. “If it runs out again in a short time and queues form, this would indicate abnormal consumption patterns that we need to address together,” he said. On the other hand, optimisation of petrol station (SPBU) services is also being carried out by activating additional nozzles and accelerating the implementation of the QR Code system to make BBM purchases more targeted. Pertamina has also affirmed that it will evaluate SPBUs that have not been operating for some time. The company has urged SPBUs to remain operational and is conducting stricter supervision to ensure that services to the public are not disrupted. Edi stated that overall, the company ensures that BBM stock availability in West Kalimantan is in a safe condition. However, queues are still concentrated at certain SPBUs due to consumption dynamics that are not entirely normal, causing the large quantities of BBM distributed to deplete quickly. Pertamina has urged the public not to make excessive purchases. According to him, Pertamina, together with local government and law enforcement authorities, continues to strengthen coordination, including public outreach and crackdowns on hoarding practices and speculative activities that could disrupt distribution. “Any indications of deviations will be firmly addressed in accordance with applicable regulations to ensure that BBM can be accessed fairly by the public,” he concluded.