Jokowi Responds to Restrictions on Subsidized Fuel Purchase

Jakarta, VIVA – The Indonesian government is disseminating public information about the planned policy to limit subsidized fuel purchasing, according to President Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

"I think we are still in the process of disseminating (the information). We will see how it goes," the president remarked during a working visit in Yogyakarta on Wednesday (Aug 28).

However, President Jokowi emphasized that the government has not made any final decision regarding the restriction on the purchase of subsidized fuel.

"There has been no decision. There has been no (cabinet) meeting (regarding this issue)," the head of state revealed.

He further highlighted the reasons for the restriction on the purchase of subsidized fuel, which were to reduce air pollution, especially in Jakarta, as well as to ensure the efficiency of the 2025 State Budget.

Moreover, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that restrictions on the purchase of subsidized fuel would only be implemented after the ministerial regulation is issued.

The plan to restrict the purchase of subsidized fuel is expected to be implemented on October 1, 2024.

To this end, Bahlil stated that the government is holding discussions with related stakeholders and disseminating information to the public.

"There is time for dissemination. That is what I am currently discussing," he remarked.