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Indonesian govt safeguards continuity of fuel subsidies

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that the Indonesian government will continue to safeguard fuel subsidies to protect the public from rising costs, even as global oil prices remain volatile due to geopolitical dynamics.He said here on Tuesday that the national energy supply, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), gasoline, and diesel, is being closely managed to prevent shortages.Lahadalia affirmed that fuel subsidies will remain under control through the Eid al-Fitr holiday period and are expected to continue thereafter.“Regarding prices, the state will continue to provide subsidies. The exact amount will depend on political developments,” he asserted.He also mentioned that global oil prices currently stand at around US$100 per barrel.“If prices stay at US$100, God willing, it remains within the state budget range,” he said.Furthermore, he ensured that the national energy supply, including fuel, LPG, and coal for power plants, is secure until the 2026 Eid al-Fitr season. He also emphasized that national energy stocks currently meet the required minimum standards.”Additional LPG supplies will arrive by the end of this month, ensuring that public demand ahead of Eid al-Fitr is met without any issues. Meanwhile, coal supplies for PLN (state-run electricity company) are at an average of 14–15 days, which meets the national minimum standard,” he said.When asked about energy availability after the holiday, Minister Lahadalia stated that the government will conduct an evaluation after March.”We have prepared a strategy for the period after March. Our main priority is ensuring that stocks remain available to prevent any shortages in Indonesia,” he asserted.The minister also noted that Indonesia has received a “breath of fresh air” due to the opening and closing policy at the Strait of Hormuz.The policy allows ships from countries other than Israel and the United States to resume communications, which is deemed a positive development for energy supply stability.