Ombudsman Indonesia calls for subsidized fuel distribution reform

The Indonesian Ombudsman (ORI) has called for a comprehensive evaluation of the management, supply, and distribution of subsidized fuel (BBM). This request follows supply disruptions that caused long queues in Bali.

Ombudsman member Abdul Ghoffar stated that emergency measures, such as increasing supply after a shortage occurs, are insufficient. He emphasized that anticipation must begin during the planning stage through accurate demand calculations, strengthening operational reserves, ensuring delivery schedules, and implementing risk mitigation systems to maintain service continuity during distribution hurdles.

In response to the Bali situation, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, local governments, and Pertamina Patra Niaga implemented emergency measures. These included using tanker ships, deploying 108 fuel tank trucks with 465 personnel, and extending fuel terminal operations to 24 hours. Additionally, 66 gas stations in Denpasar and Badung were placed on 24-hour standby.

Monitoring from October 16–18, 2026, indicated that queues in Denpasar were gradually normalizing, with wait times between 15 and 30 minutes, while distribution recovery in surrounding areas continues gradually.