Task Force Discovers Livestock and Restaurant Businesses Using Subsidised LPG in East Lombok
The Task Force for Monitoring 3 kg LPG discovered violations in the use of subsidised gas in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). The small green cylinders were widely used from poultry farming businesses to cafes and restaurants.
East Lombok’s Secretary, Muhammad Juaini Taofik, explained that the violations were found during a surprise inspection (sidak). According to him, the team discovered dozens of 3 kg LPG cylinders at a poultry farm in Wanasaba Subdistrict.
“Today, the LPG Monitoring Task Force conducted a surprise inspection at business locations not permitted to use 3 kg LPG. It turned out that a poultry farm was found using subsidised gas with 40 to 60 cylinders every 10 days,” said Juaini on Saturday (11/4/2026).
Juaini stated that officials immediately stopped the use of 3 kg LPG at the site. The Task Force also directed the business owner to switch to non-subsidised gas.
“We stopped the use of 3 kg LPG for that business activity, then assisted in facilitating the exchange to Pertamina through the Trade Office,” said Juaini.
Similar issues were found by the Task Force during inspections at several cafes and restaurants in East Lombok. Juaini threatened to close operations of businesses using subsidised LPG for commercial purposes.
“In line with the Regent’s instructions, if they are uncooperative, we will be forced to seal the premises to ensure that LPG distribution is on target and to curb shortages in the community,” Juaini emphasised.
Juaini then outlined points from Circular Letter No. B-2461/MG.05/DJM/2022 from the Director General of Oil and Gas. One of them strictly prohibits business activities from using 3 kg LPG. The ban applies to restaurants, hotels, farms, and welding services.
“We also urge our fellow civil servants (ASN) who are still using 3 kg LPG to jointly switch to non-subsidised LPG,” he concluded.
Previously, residents of East Lombok queued for hours to obtain 3 kg LPG. The shortage of subsidised gas in the area caused crowds at various depots from morning to evening.
East Lombok Regent Haerul Warisin, alias Iron, said the recent shortage of 3 kg LPG was due to excessive public panic from media reports. According to him, this led residents to hoard the cylinders.
“Our community is panicking and feeling worried because of media reports about wars and such. So I suspect there is overbuying and hoarding of this LPG,” said Iron on Tuesday (7/4).
Iron assured that an additional 24,440 cylinders of 3 kg LPG from Pertamina have begun distribution to mitigate the shortage. The East Lombok Regency Government has also formed a Task Force to monitor and take action against stubborn LPG depots and retailers.