MT Kristin, a tanker transporting fuel oil, caught fire off the coast of Lombok. An ID card of a police officer was found on the ship.

The government begins to channel direct cash aid and wage subsidy to low-income groups affected by inflation due to the increase in fuel prices. There are still some who qualify but are not yet included in these aid programs.

What does Indonesian Employers Association Chair Hariyadi Sukamdani say about the effects of the fuel price hikes on service and commodity prices as well as minimum wages?

The government is retaining subsidies for Pertalite gasoline. This puts huge pressure on Pertamina and the state budget.

Industry actors gasp for air in face of the surge in world crude oil and fuel prices. The burden increases due to scarcity.

The government issues new policies on the price and distribution of fuel oil. But Pertamina’s finances are already bruised and battered.

Once upon a time on 2015, President Joko Widodo stopped fuel subsidies. Instead of spending money that favors private car owners, the government would rather used it for more urgent needs. Many people gave two thumbs up and applauded this policy.

World oil prices are still out of control. Government’s reluctance to increase fuel prices could have fatal consequences.

Private sector gas station owners increase their fuel pricing. Sales continue to decline because the price of Pertamina’s products are forced to remain low.