Unexpected Surge: Sugarcane-Based Fuel Consumption Nearly Doubles During Eid Exodus

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - PT Pertamina (Persero) recorded a surge in non-subsidised fuel oil (BBM) consumption during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr outbound and return travel period.

The highest sales increase was noted for Pertamax Green, with consumption skyrocketing by nearly 100% compared to the normal daily average in January. As is known, Pertamax Green (RON 95) is a blend of Pertamax petrol (RON 92) with sugarcane-based bioethanol (molasses) at 5% (E5).

Pertamina’s Vice President of Corporate Communication, Muhammad Baron, explained that the rise in consumption across various Pertamax Series variants indicates a shift in public trends. According to him, the public now prefers higher-quality fuels to support long-distance travel.

“Eid travel is synonymous with long distances and dynamic traffic conditions. Therefore, many people choose the Pertamax Series to maintain optimal vehicle performance during the journey,” he stated in a written release on Wednesday (25/3/2026).

The company recorded that on 20 March 2026, or H-1 before Eid, which was one of the peaks of the outbound travel, consumption of Pertamax Green (RON 95) surged by up to 94.7% compared to the normal period.

Meanwhile, Pertamax (RON 92) consumption rose by 11.8%, and Pertamax Turbo (RON 98) increased by up to 34.5%.

“We are striving to ensure that people’s journeys during this Eid moment run smoothly until the return flow ends,” Baron said.

To anticipate the high mobility of the public during the Idulfitri holiday period, the company has increased supplies well in advance.

The company also prepared various extra services along the travel routes and tourist areas, from 24-hour alert petrol stations to fuel delivery motorbikes.

Although supplies are assured to be safe, management still warns the public to be wise in consuming energy amid global uncertainties.

“In line with the Middle East conflict affecting the global energy situation, Pertamina urges the public to jointly maintain the BBM and LPG supplies provided by Pertamina. Active public participation in conserving energy, such as buying according to needs and practising energy efficiency, will help ensure energy availability in Indonesia,” he emphasised.