By: Aulia Sofyan Harahap
The surge in public mobility leading up to Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr has once again become a government concern in maintaining the national energy supply. This time, the government emphasized that it does not want to be merely reactive, but rather takes early anticipatory measures by strengthening the distribution of fuel oil (BBM) and LPG. This measure is taken to ensure that the public’s energy needs are met, especially when consumption increases sharply during the long holiday and the homecoming season.
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia emphasized that the government has calculated the potential increase in fuel consumption during the fasting month and Eid al-Fitr. According to him, energy supply must not be disrupted because it affects economic activity, transportation, and household needs. He ensured that national fuel and LPG stocks are safe and above the minimum limit set by the government.
Bahlil Lahadalia explained that the minimum national fuel stock limit is set at 18 days. Currently, national fuel reserves are around 21 days. With this position, he believes the public need not worry about potential shortages or supply disruptions during peak consumption periods. This affirmation is crucial because Eid al-Fitr is always synonymous with increased homecoming activities, tourist travel, and fuel consumption in various regions.
In addition to ensuring the security of national stocks, Bahlil Lahadalia also highlighted the role of domestic oil refineries, which are the backbone of the energy supply. He stated that the Balikpapan refinery has been operating optimally to supply various types of fuel. The government considers increasing domestic production capacity a crucial step in reducing dependence on imports. However, he acknowledged that certain types of fuel with specific specifications must still be met through imports, particularly high-quality diesel fuel such as C51 and several other needs. The Balikpapan refinery is considered capable of supporting C48 demand, but certain categories still require foreign supplies.
This open stance is considered important because it demonstrates that the government is not only building a narrative of optimism but also conveying the real situation of the national energy sector. In this context, imports are not merely a sign of crisis, but rather part of a strategy to meet needs in accordance with fuel quality standards. The government emphasizes that imports are carried out in a measured manner and do not compromise national energy security.
The government is not only focusing on subsidized fuel; it is also ensuring that stocks of non-subsidized gasoline, such as RON 92, RON 95, and RON 98, are secure. Bahlil Lahadalia stated that the non-subsidized gasoline stock is around 18 days’ supply, so there is no indication of a shortage. This statement also emphasizes that the government is not only maintaining supplies for subsidized fuel users but is also paying attention to the energy needs of the industrial sector and high-spec vehicles.
The government’s focus is further heightened by the very close proximity of Christmas 2025 to Eid 2026. This situation creates the potential for a surge in energy consumption within a short timeframe. Director General of Oil and Gas Laode Sulaeman emphasized that the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is closely monitoring fuel and LPG stocks to address this situation. He stated that the government is cautious regarding the Christmas and Eid period due to the close proximity and the risk of a surge in demand.
Laode Sulaeman also stated that attention to fuel stocks is not only an administrative matter but also a direct concern of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources. He stated that Bahlil Lahadalia routinely checks stock availability to ensure it remains above 20 days. He believes this monitoring pattern demonstrates the government’s seriousness, as consumption spikes typically begin to appear around December, especially leading up to Christmas and the end-of-year holidays. He believes the increase in consumption during this period should not be underestimated, as it typically increases significantly, particularly on major tourist and transportation routes.
Meanwhile, Pertamina Patra Niaga, as the distribution operator, is also taking various strategic steps to maintain a stable energy supply. Pertamina Patra Niaga President Director Mars Ega Legowo Putra explained that Pertamina is increasing stocks by increasing production through refineries and conducting additional imports.
These steps are taken to ensure smooth distribution and avoid waiting for critical conditions. Laode Sulaeman ensured that the additional imports do not exceed the import quota set by the government. Mars Ega Legowo Putra added that the national fuel stock is currently at 20.2 days and will continue to increase. He targets stock resilience to increase above 21 days, even maintaining it at a level of 10.5 days.The supply is expected to last 22 to 23 days.
In addition to Pertalite, Pertamina is also preparing stocks for certain fuels, such as Pertamax Turbo. Mars Ega Legowo Putra explained that in addition to additional imports, there is also additional production from the Cilacap and Balongan refineries. With this strategy, increased supply will not depend solely on imports but will also be strengthened through the optimization of domestic refineries.
Ultimately, fuel and LPG supply readiness ahead of Eid al-Fitr is not just a matter of reserve figures, but also a manifestation of the state’s presence in ensuring the people’s basic needs. The government, along with Pertamina Patra Niaga, is working to ensure that energy distribution does not become a weak point amidst high public mobility. The public is also expected to remain calm, use fuel wisely, and not be provoked by issues of scarcity, as energy stability will be easier to maintain if all parties play a role in maintaining orderly consumption.
Public Policy Observer – Bentang Nusantara Public Policy Study Institute
