Media

PALU – Amid mounting global economic pressures driven by international conflicts, the distribution of subsidized fuel in Indonesia particularly in Central Sulawesim has come under renewed scrutiny. The Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO) Central Sulawesi has warned that the current situation could exacerbate vulnerabilities in fuel distribution, making it prone to misuse.

Chairman of DPP APINDO Central Sulawesi, Wijaya Chandra, emphasized the need for strict oversight to ensure that subsidized fuel is distributed accurately and not exploited by irresponsible parties.

“Subsidized fuel distribution must be well-targeted and not misused by oil and gas mafia networks,” he stated.

According to Wijaya, weak supervision has created opportunities for irregularities that not only harm the state but also widen economic disparities within society.

APINDO Central Sulawesi also highlighted ongoing uncertainty surrounding government policies on fuel pricing and supply. This uncertainty, it warned, could disrupt economic stability, particularly for businesses that are highly dependent on reliable energy access.

Wijaya explained that any increase in fuel prices would directly raise production and distribution costs, ultimately leading to higher prices for goods and services.

“If fuel prices rise, the cost of all goods and services will inevitably increase. This will slow down economic growth,” he said.

The pressure is further intensified as businesses continue to grapple with surging global energy prices. In some sectors, production costs have risen by as much as 10 to 40 percent within a short period.

APINDO Central Sulawesi cautioned that without concrete government measures to stabilize the energy sector, the impact could spread more broadly and hinder regional economic growth.

The association therefore urged the government to provide clear and consistent policies on fuel pricing while ensuring sufficient and equitable supply in the market. It also called for energy policies to be formulated in a transparent, measurable, and inclusive manner.

“Energy stability is key. If this is not maintained, the impact will not only affect businesses but will be directly felt by the wider public,” Wijaya concluded.

As the situation continues to evolve, the public is now awaiting decisive government action to regulate subsidized fuel distribution and close longstanding loopholes exploited by oil and gas mafia practices in the national energy sector.

Source: radarpalu.jawapos.com