SBY Issues Sudden Emergency Warning After Pertamax Price Hike, Urges Prabowo to Protect the People

Indonesia’s sixth president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) has delivered a message to President Prabowo Subianto’s administration regarding the national economic situation following the increase in the price of the non-subsidised fuel Pertamax. In a post on his X social media account on Thursday, SBY stressed the importance of protecting communities that could feel the direct impact of rising energy costs. He stated that the government must ensure the most vulnerable groups continue to receive attention and protection when economic pressures mount. “What is no less important is protecting our people who are heavily affected by the economic situation, including the impact of the fuel price hike,” SBY wrote. Beyond social protection, SBY also urged the government to continue pursuing national economic recovery and strengthening measures. He argued that economic stability must remain the top priority amid current challenges. The former Democratic Party chairman said management of the State Budget (APBN) needs to be further reinforced, including controlling government debt to keep it within safe limits. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining people’s purchasing power by anticipating spikes in the prices of goods and services that could worsen daily burdens. SBY further stressed the need to restore the confidence of business actors and investors in the Indonesian economy. He suggested that clearer and more effective government communication would help reduce uncertainty in both society and the markets, thereby halting various speculations. Drawing on his experience leading the country for two terms, SBY acknowledged the pressures the government faces in managing the economy and noted that corrective policies do not yield instant results. He therefore underscored the need for stronger public support to ensure government programmes run more effectively, adding that unity, dialogue, rational thinking, sound policies and serious real-world actions are crucial.