Utilisation of subsidised fuel for trains provides comfort to the public
The provision of subsidised fuel to PT KAI aims to help improve the comfort of public services for both passengers and goods, according to the Head of the Downstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Body (BPH Migas), Wahyudi Anas. In a statement received in Jakarta on Wednesday, he explained that subsidised fuel plays a strategic role in maintaining the smooth operation of transportation, including rail services, especially during the Ramadan and Eid return flow period in 2026 (RAFI). He noted that the efficient utilisation of subsidised fuel in public transportation is expected to provide comfort to the public, and therefore BPH Migas continues to evaluate its use to ensure it is targeted and of the appropriate volume.
Regarding the provision of subsidised fuel, state funds are entrusted to PT KAI. He hopes that the allocation of subsidised fuel will help improve PT KAI’s performance, meaning enhancing public services, especially to the public, which will ultimately support economic growth, Wahyudi stated during a monitoring visit to PT KAI’s Regional Operations (Daop) II in Bandung, West Java, on Tuesday (24/3).
During the 2026 RAFI period, there has been a trend of increased usage of subsidised fuel for passenger trains since H-10 before Eid. “This mandate from the state must be safeguarded. If there is anything that needs attention, let us work together to make continuous improvements,” he explained.
Meanwhile, for the number of passengers, from H-10 before Eid to H+2 after Eid in 2026, approximately 3.1 million passengers travelled by train. In addition, 62 extra trains were deployed to support the increased frequency of train services during the Eid transportation period.
“Appreciation to PT KAI, which has prepared public transportation as much as possible for the public travelling from 10 days before the end of Ramadan to Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah,” Wahyudi added.
The increase in the number of passengers has been well anticipated. The adequate availability of subsidised fuel for PT KAI certainly contributes to public comfort during the Eid period. These trains are economy-class rail services with government-subsidised ticket prices (Public Service Obligation/PSO) to provide comfortable and affordable public transportation for the public.
“We conducted a review of public rail services in the PT KAI Daop II Bandung area with affordable ticket prices of Rp5,000, where these PSO trains use subsidised diesel fuel. This greatly helps the public who want to travel between cities or districts,” Wahyudi said.
While at Bandung Station and en route to Kiaracondong Station, Wahyudi was seen talking to several train passengers and received information that the passengers felt comfortable and satisfied with the train services.
The direct benefits of the fuel subsidy and ticket prices were expressed by one passenger named Wini (30). This housewife from Bandung City said she felt comfortable travelling by train because it is practical and affordable.
“Thank you for facilitating my journey; the price is very affordable, making it more economical and shortening travel time compared to taking city transport with multiple changes,” Wini said.
BPH Migas Committee Member Arief Wardono stated that during the 2026 RAFI period, PT KAI and Pertamina Patra Niaga have collaborated well, resulting in optimal services to the public.
Meanwhile, PT KAI’s Director of Human Resources and Organisation, Atih Nurhayati, explained that the presence of BPH Migas represents synergy in supporting the smooth operation of public transportation during this very important period, namely the 2026 Eid transportation.
The availability of fuel is a very strategic aspect for PT KAI in maintaining service reliability, travel safety, and operational continuity.
“PT KAI is ready to serve the public, especially for the 2026 Eid transportation, both local and long-distance. We collaborate with BPH Migas, which always supports us with fuel to continue serving the public,” she said.
“Appreciation to PT KAI for supporting the utilisation of subsidised fuel. This shows that the government is present to serve the public,” Wahyudi concluded.