Indonesia Fuel Supply Remains Stable, Sufficient Despite Global Disruptions

JAKARTA, March 26 (Bernama) -- Indonesia’s fuel supply remains stable and sufficient amid global energy market disruptions, with national reserves continuing to meet the 21 to 28-day minimum standard.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the reserve level does not mean supplies would run out within that timeframe, as stocks are continuously replenished through distribution and domestic refining processes.

He said the government is optimising refinery operations across the country to ensure a steady supply of fuel.

“Even though the situation has affected almost the entire world, we are grateful to Allah that today fuel in our beloved country, whether petrol, diesel, or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), is well supplied,” he said in Central Java according to ANTARA News Agency, on Thursday.

Bahlil added that crude oil supply for domestic refineries remains secure, as Indonesia has diversified import sources following disruptions in key global transit routes.

“We know that 20 per cent of our crude oil is sourced from the Strait of Hormuz. Now, we have switched to other sources and, InsyaAllah, the supply has begun to improve,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bahlil said he and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa are working to ensure that prices of subsidised fuel, such as Pertalite and diesel, do not increase amid the crisis.

“I, together with the Finance Minister, are continuously seeking the best solutions. Even amid a crisis, we remain attentive to the condition of the people,” he said.

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed both ministers to find solutions that would not burden the public as global energy markets face strain from the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

So far, there are no plans to raise subsidised fuel prices, while overall energy supplies, including petrol, diesel and LPG, remain stable, he added.

-- BERNAMA