Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — President Prabowo Subianto has issued an immediate directive allowing retailers to resume the sale of 3kg LPG, commonly known as “gas melon,” following a nationwide shortage sparked by a controversial distribution policy. The shortage, which began after the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) restricted LPG distribution exclusively to official agents, has caused widespread public concern.
Restoring Retail Sales to Address Crisis
This policy shift was announced by Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, who confirmed direct communication with President Prabowo on February 3, 2025. “After discussing the situation with the President, he instructed the ESDM to allow existing retailers to resume their LPG sales immediately,” Dasco stated during a press conference at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta on February 4.
The President’s order aims to alleviate the mounting difficulties faced by households, especially in urban areas where small retailers play a crucial role in 3kg LPG distribution. The sudden prohibition had led to long queues, inflated prices, and even tragic incidents, including the reported death of a woman due to exhaustion while waiting to purchase LPG in Tangerang Selatan.
Retailers to Become Official Sub-Agents
In addition to reinstating retail sales, the government plans to formalize retailers’ roles within the official distribution network. Retailers will now operate as “sub-agents” under authorized LPG distributors, a move designed to regulate prices and ensure fair distribution.
“Retailers designated as sub-agents will adhere to pricing guidelines to prevent price gouging. While this framework is being gradually implemented, retailers are permitted to continue operations to meet immediate public demand,” Dasco explained.
This regulatory adjustment seeks to balance market accessibility with tighter oversight, ensuring subsidies reach their intended beneficiaries without creating supply bottlenecks.
Clarification on Policy Origins
Dasco emphasized that the initial restriction on 3kg LPG sales by retailers was not a directive from President Prabowo. “This was not a presidential policy. The restriction came from administrative measures within the ESDM, not an executive order from the President,” he clarified.
This distinction aims to distance the Prabowo administration from the unpopular measure, highlighting the President’s responsiveness to public grievances. The reversal of the policy demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing critical supply chain issues swiftly and effectively.
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Broader Implications and Government Response
The LPG shortage has highlighted vulnerabilities in Indonesia’s energy distribution system, particularly concerning subsidized goods. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has pledged to enhance monitoring and streamline distribution to prevent future disruptions.
Pertamina, Indonesia’s state-owned energy company, has also been instructed to improve logistical coordination and ensure that supply meets demand across all regions. Public communication channels, including the Pertamina Call Center (135), have been reinforced to address consumer complaints and provide real-time updates on LPG availability.
The government’s proactive response underscores the critical role of energy security in maintaining social stability. By reactivating retail sales and integrating them into a regulated framework, the administration aims to restore public confidence while safeguarding equitable access to essential resources.
Conclusion
President Prabowo Subianto’s swift intervention to resolve the LPG shortage reflects a governance style focused on practical solutions and public welfare. As the government works to fine-tune distribution policies, the priority remains clear: ensuring that essential commodities like LPG are accessible, affordable, and distributed fairly across Indonesia.
(Becky)
