APINDO Sumbawa Regrets Spike in “Gas Melon” Prices
Wednesday, 14 January 2026
Sumbawa Besar – The Head of the Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO) of Sumbawa Regency, Zukarnain, ST, has spoken out to express deep concern over the soaring price of subsidized 3-kilogram LPG cylinders, commonly known as Gas Melon, which he says has risen far beyond reasonable limits.
Amid ongoing economic pressure on the public, the increase in subsidized gas prices has further aggravated the burden on low-income communities. APINDO views this situation as a serious issue that cannot be treated as routine.
The 3-kg LPG cylinder is a basic necessity for poor households, micro and small enterprises (MSMEs), small traders, and food stalls. When prices surge to as high as IDR 40,000 to IDR 50,000 per cylinder in several areas, it reflects a clear case of economic injustice.
“People are already struggling, purchasing power is declining, yet the price of Gas Melon is soaring uncontrollably. This is deeply regrettable. Subsidized gas should serve as a safety net for low-income communities, not become an additional burden,” said the APINDO Chair.
APINDO believes that the sharp price increase and shortages are likely not caused solely by quota limitations, but rather by irregularities in distribution. If agents and distribution points were operating in accordance with regulations, prices would not spiral out of control as they have now.
Therefore, APINDO urges the Sumbawa Regency Government to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of LPG agents and distribution points without hesitation. Should violations be found ranging from price manipulation and hoarding to diversion of subsidized gas to ineligible parties business licenses must be revoked, either temporarily or permanently.
“The government has the authority. Do not allow a handful of irresponsible actors to manipulate the people’s rights. If misconduct is proven, revoke their licenses,” he stressed.
Furthermore, APINDO warned that if the situation continues unchecked, the impact will extend beyond poor households to the broader local economy. MSMEs that rely on affordable gas face the risk of closure, while the cost of living for the community will become increasingly unmanageable.
APINDO also called for tighter supervision and greater transparency in the distribution data of 3-kg LPG cylinders, so that the public can actively monitor the flow of subsidized gas.
“Gas Melon belongs to the people. The public’s rights must not be stolen by unscrupulous individuals seeking profit at the expense of community suffering,” he concluded.
Source: tribuntipikor.com
