Seeking Ways to Protect Subsidies, Bahlil Assures No Fuel Price Hike Yet
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia, stated that the government is continuously seeking ways to ensure that energy sector policies, both for Petroleum Fuel (BBM) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), do not burden the public.
Alongside the Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, Bahlil said they are searching for the best solutions amid the global energy crisis impacted by geopolitical turmoil in the Middle East.
As of today, Bahlil assured that fuel prices have not been raised. “Alhamdulillah, up to now there has been no increase. We have not raised the prices,” Bahlil said during a visit to a petrol station in Bolon, Colomadu Subdistrict, Karanganyar Regency, Central Java, on Thursday (26/3/2026).
“Specifically for subsidies, up to last night the President’s directive was to find ways so that we do not burden the people. So for subsidies, I and the Finance Minister are continuously seeking the best solutions even in this crisis, but we still pay attention to the people’s conditions,” Bahlil added.
On the other hand, Bahlil urged the public to continue using energy prudently.
“However, I need the support of the Indonesian people; this is everyone’s problem, so let’s use energy wisely. I don’t need to advise against it. For example, when cooking with LPG, don’t be wasteful once it’s cooked. We ask for the people’s help to use energy prudently. If we do it together, insya Allah, the energy situation will get better,” he explained.
“Our oil reserves are still at the national standard level, both for diesel and petrol,” he said.
He elaborated that the oil reserves in tanks are at a minimum of 21 days and will continue to be replenished daily. Meanwhile, oil supplies from the Middle East will be replaced from other countries.
“I convey that we must use energy wisely. Please, petrol stations are not for industry. For example, one day 30-40 litres is enough; no need for panic buying, use just enough. Don’t queue at petrol stations with truck vehicles not to queue but to resell. We must all be prudent in facing the global situation,” he said.
“I ask my brothers and sisters, the hoarders, see this Mother Earth needs you to be prudent; don’t do things that are unnecessary, don’t do them,” he urged those involved in fuel hoarding.
“The government cannot work alone; all parties must be involved. Let’s safeguard our country; we can bring in oil as we have done in the last few months for this situation. If the people are not prudent, it means they don’t want to support,” he emphasised.