Pertamina Takes Decisive Action Against Subsidised Fuel Distribution Violations in West Sumatra
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga continues to strengthen the supervision of subsidised fuel distribution through the ‘Subsidi Tepat’ (Right Subsidy) programme. This effort is being undertaken to ensure that distribution complies with regulations, reaches the correct targets, and supports high-quality energy services for the public.
In the Pesisir Selatan Regency, West Sumatra, Pertamina’s inspections at petrol stations (SPBU) uncovered several discrepancies, including fuel being dispensed to vehicles not eligible for subsidies, the use of QR codes that do not match the vehicle, and repeated transactions using the same QR code.
Following these findings, Pertamina Patra Niaga, through its North Sumatra and West Sumatra Regional office, has conducted coaching and imposed sanctions on petrol station managers in accordance with the inspection results and applicable regulations. This step is part of an effort to ensure that distribution outlets operate according to regulations and protect the rights of citizens entitled to subsidised fuel.
Vice President of Corporate Communication at PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, Kitty Andhora, stated that supervision is conducted continuously to ensure that the distribution of subsidised fuel is accurately targeted.
“Every finding is followed up through inspections, coaching, or sanctions in accordance with the regulations. We want to ensure there are no improper practices that ultimately reduce the rights of the community entitled to receive subsidised fuel,” said Kitty.
From January to August 2024, a total of 31 petrol stations in West Sumatra have received coaching or sanctions due to various discrepancies in fuel distribution.
In addition to enforcement, Pertamina is strengthening petrol station governance as part of its continuous improvement measures. In 2024, two petrol stations in West Sumatra have entered into Joint Operation (KSO) agreements with Pertamina Retail, while one other station is still in the process. One of the active KSO agreements was a direct follow-up to inspection results. In total, six petrol stations in West Sumatra have undergone KSO.
“Enforcement is not the end of the process. We are also conducting evaluations and strengthening governance so that operational standards, compliance, and the quality of petrol station services continue to improve. Thus, targeted distribution can go hand in hand with good service to consumers,” explained Kitty.
Pertamina ensures that every enforcement action is measured and takes into account the continuity of service and public needs. Supervision in West Sumatra is also being strengthened through coordination with the West Sumatra Regional Police and the West Sumatra Provincial Government.
Pertamina urges all petrol station managers to operate professionally and in accordance with regulations. The public is also encouraged to use fuel wisely and for its intended purpose, and to report any indications of subsidised fuel misuse through the Pertamina Contact Centre 135.
“Pertamina is committed to ensuring that the distribution of subsidised fuel is targeted correctly, protecting the rights of the community, and ensuring that service to consumers continues to run well. We will continue to strengthen supervision and take action according to regulations if violations are found,” concluded Kitty.