Theressia Silalahi, Dayat, Jakarta – The government has confirmed there will be no immediate fuel price hike, moving to calm panic buying after viral rumors of steep increases triggered long queues at gas stations across the capital.

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said the government, in coordination with the Energy Ministry and Pertamina, has decided to keep both subsidized and non-subsidized fuel prices unchanged despite rising global oil prices.

"Following coordination between the government, the Energy Ministry, and Pertamina, and based on the president's directive, Pertamina has confirmed that there will be no price adjustments for both subsidized and non-subsidized fuels at this time," Prasetyo said in an official statement on Tuesday.

He also assured the public that fuel supplies remain secure and urged people not to panic amid circulating misinformation.

"We hope this clarification provides accurate information to the public. There is no need for panic or concern, as we guarantee that fuel supply is sufficient," he added.

The statement came after rumors spread on social media claiming fuel prices would surge starting April 1, 2026. The claims suggested Pertamax would jump to Rp 17,850 per liter from Rp 12,300, alongside sharp increases in other fuel types including Pertamax Green 95, Pertamax Turbo, Pertamina Dex, and Dexlite.

The speculation sparked a rush at several gas stations, including in Cikini, Central Jakarta, where vehicles queued for more than 500 meters on Tuesday morning, spilling onto nearby roads.

Motorists said they were trying to avoid potential higher costs by filling up early.

"I saw information on social media about a possible fuel price hike, so I decided to fill up my tank to avoid higher expenses later," said Sapto, a private car driver.

Ride-hailing drivers also voiced concern that any increase in fuel prices would squeeze their earnings, as fares have yet to adjust.

"If fuel prices rise while tariffs stay the same, our daily income will drop because operational costs increase," said Budi, an online motorcycle taxi driver.

Beyond the rumors, some residents linked the speculation to escalating geopolitical tensions around the Strait of Hormuz involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, which could drive global oil prices higher.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/business/no-fuel-price-hike-govt-says-after-viral-rumors-trigger-long-queue