Erick Thohir Opens His Voice About Pertamina Not Raising Non-Subsidized Fuel Prices

JAKARTA - Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) Erick Thohir opened his voice regarding the decision of PT Pertamina (Persero) which withheld the price of non-subsidized fuel oil (BBM) for two consecutive months since last February.

According to Erick, this is due to the current uncertain world problems that the state is taking.

Moreover, he said, there was a significant increase in rice prices in the market.

"Of course we have to be concerned about the condition of the people. What I got a report from Bulog, now the price of rice in wholesale markets has started to stabilize, but the other markets are being bullied by Bulog and Badanas," Erick told the media, Monday, March 4.

For this reason, he said, the state is taking steps to hold prices so that it does not increase the burden on the community.

While holding back fuel prices and stabilizing rice prices, Erick said, the government continues to be determined to maintain inflation and economic growth.

"We are trying to keep people from getting carried away, being affected, this is what we are trying to balance. And we are sure, of course, we will keep inflation and maintain economic growth," explained Erick.

Previously, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto who said the government would not increase electricity and fuel oil (BBM) rates for subsidies and non-subsidized until June 2024.

"Earlier it was decided in the plenary cabinet session, there was no increase in electricity, no increase in fuel to juni, be it subsidies and non-subsidized," he told the media crew, Monday, February 26.

For this reason, as of March 1, 2024, Pertamina again detained non-subsidized fuel prices, which are usually adjusted every month.

"For the time being, the price of non-subsidized fuel today is March 1, 2024, there is no change, so it is still the same as the previous price or price in February," said Irto in a statement received by VOI, Friday, March 1.