Plan to Require Vehicle Registration to Purchase Subsidised Fuel Cancelled, Pertamina Apologises
The plan to purchase subsidised fuel by presenting a vehicle registration certificate (STNK) has sparked controversy. PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that this mechanism is not a nationwide policy.
As reported by detikFinance, Pertamina explained that the rule was a proposed monitoring measure intended to be implemented only locally within the South Sumatra region. However, after receiving various responses from the public, the plan has ultimately been cancelled.
Kitty Andhora, VP of Corporate Communication at Pertamina Patra Niaga, stated that the company is paying close attention to public feedback regarding information originating from South Sumatra that spread widely, becoming a national discussion and causing public discomfort.
“We understand the public’s response and concern regarding the circulating information. Therefore, we have requested Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional South Sumatra to cancel the implementation of this mechanism. We also express our apologies for the inconvenience caused by the developing information which led to a misunderstanding with national impact,” Kitty said in a statement on Friday (4/9/2026).
Pertamina Patra Niaga emphasised that any policy regarding fuel distribution that directly affects the public will first be coordinated with regulators. This coordination involves BPH Migas, local governments, and other relevant parties.
To ensure that the distribution of subsidised fuel is targeted correctly, Pertamina Patra Niaga continues to strengthen supervision and guidance for distribution agencies. From January to 3 September 2026, Pertamina Patra Niaga has provided guidance to over 900 petrol stations across its operational areas.
If violations are proven, Pertamina Patra Niaga will impose sanctions according to the severity of the offence, ranging from written warnings and suspensions to the termination of business relationships. The company also continues to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to encourage action against the misuse of subsidised fuel.
In addition to field supervision, Pertamina Patra Niaga is strengthening monitoring through the use of the ‘Subsidi Tepat’ QR Code on the MyPertamina application to support the distribution of subsidised fuel to eligible citizens.