Indonesia’s state-owned energy company, Pertamina, is working to maintain a 21-day supply of fuel as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East raise concerns about global energy security. The company affirmed that this level of reserve is standard practice within Indonesia’s national energy logistics system, designed to ensure consistent distribution to the public. Pertamina Patra Niaga Corporate Secretary, Roberth MV Dumatubun, stated the supply is dynamic and regularly replenished through domestic refinery production and planned imports.
The reassurance comes as reports surface of increased demand in certain regions, including Aceh, where residents have been observed queuing at gas stations and purchasing fuel in jerrycans. This surge in demand appears to be driven by anxieties surrounding potential disruptions to fuel supplies, though Pertamina officials are urging calm. Maintaining stable fuel distribution across the archipelago is a key priority, particularly as Indonesia prepares for the annual Eid homecoming period, a time of significant travel and increased energy consumption.
Indonesia’s Fuel Reserves and Storage Capacity
While a 21-day reserve is considered normal operation, Indonesia’s overall fuel storage capacity has been a point of discussion. Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia explained that the country’s current storage capacity typically allows for a maximum of 25 days of supply. He clarified that this is not a reflection of a lack of preparedness, but rather a limitation of existing infrastructure. “Don’t misinterpret this – we have long had a storage capacity in Indonesia of no more than 21-25 days, so the national standard is a minimum of 20-21 days, a maximum of 25 days,” Bahlil said, as reported by Jakarta Globe.
To address this limitation, President Prabowo Subianto has directed the construction of additional storage facilities, with a goal of increasing the national reserve to 90 days – aligning with the global minimum consensus standard. This expansion is intended to bolster Indonesia’s energy resilience and mitigate the impact of potential future disruptions.
Mitigation Strategies and Global Monitoring
Pertamina is actively monitoring the evolving geopolitical situation in the Middle East and implementing mitigation strategies to safeguard the nation’s energy supply. These measures include diversifying sources of crude oil and fuel products, strengthening logistics and distribution networks, optimizing domestic refinery operations and enhancing coordination with the government and other stakeholders. The company is also prepared to adjust its sourcing strategies as needed to ensure a consistent flow of fuel to consumers.
The company is also taking steps to ensure fuel remains available throughout the country. According to Tempo.co, Pertamina is preparing 7,885 gas stations for the 2026 Eid homecoming, anticipating increased demand during the holiday travel period.
Recent reports indicate increased activity at fuel stations in Aceh province, with long queues forming as residents fill jerrycans with gasoline. Videos circulating on social media show crowded SPBU (gas stations) and Pertashops in Aceh Tengah and Banda Aceh, causing minor traffic congestion. This localized surge in demand underscores the public’s sensitivity to global events and the potential for panic buying.
Call for Calm and Responsible Consumption
Pertamina is urging the public to remain calm and avoid panic buying, emphasizing that such behavior can disrupt the normal distribution process and create unnecessary shortages. “We invite the public to remain calm and leverage energy wisely. Purchasing fuel according to needs will help maintain distribution stability so that all members of society can have equal access to energy,” Roberth stated. The company is committed to ensuring a stable and reliable fuel supply for all Indonesians.
Looking ahead, the successful implementation of the planned storage facility expansion will be crucial in bolstering Indonesia’s energy security and reducing its vulnerability to external shocks. Continued monitoring of the global geopolitical landscape and proactive mitigation strategies will also be essential in navigating potential challenges to the nation’s fuel supply.
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