Prisma Ardianto, Ardina Rizka, Karanganyar – Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia on Thursday urged the public to use fuel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) more responsibly as part of efforts to mitigate the impact of the global energy crisis.

Speaking during a visit to Colomadu in Central Java, Bahlil said the government needs support from all stakeholders to cope with rising crude oil prices triggered by supply disruptions linked to the conflict in Iran.

He warned against panic buying of fuel and LPG, urging consumers to purchase only according to their needs.

"If daily consumption is around 30 to 40 liters of fuel, there is no need for panic buying," Bahlil said.

He added that energy-saving behavior – whether in household gas use or vehicle fuel consumption – plays a critical role in maintaining adequate fuel and LPG supplies.

Bahlil also cautioned businesses against exploiting the situation by hoarding fuel or LPG for profit.

"If we care about our country and our people, we must not engage in improper practices such as stockpiling goods," he said.

He stressed that the government is working to ensure Indonesia's energy supplies remain secure despite global challenges in crude oil availability, and reiterated that there are no immediate plans to raise subsidized fuel prices.

Subsidized gasoline is currently priced at Rp 10,000 ($0.59) per liter, while subsidized diesel is set at Rp 6,800 per liter.

Bahlil said Indonesia's fuel reserves, based on Pertamina's storage capacity, are sufficient to meet demand for the next three weeks. The country still imports around 50% of its gasoline needs and 70% of LPG consumption, while diesel demand is fully met from domestic production and reserves.

He added that efforts to diversify import sources for oil and LPG are expected to help Indonesia avoid a severe energy crisis.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/business/bahlil-warns-against-panic-buying-as-energy-pressures-moun