Senator Mirah Pushes for Improved Control of 3-Kg LPG Distribution in Pekat, Dompu

11 June 2026 oleh admin

Dompu, dpd.go.id – Senator Mirah Midadan Fahmid, a member of the House of Regional Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia (DPD RI) from West Nusa Tenggara Province, has expressed deep concern over the shortage and soaring prices of subsidized 3-kilogram LPG cylinders currently affecting residents in Pekat District, Dompu Regency, as of June 10, 2026. The situation has imposed an additional economic burden on local communities, particularly low-income households that are the primary beneficiaries of the government's energy subsidy program.

“This issue cannot be regarded as an ordinary problem. The shortage of subsidized LPG concerns a basic necessity and directly affects households, micro-enterprises, and other sectors of the people’s economy,” she said.

According to information circulating within the community, 3-kilogram LPG cylinders, which should be sold in accordance with official pricing regulations and local agreements, are currently being sold by retailers for as much as Rp50,000 per cylinder. This figure far exceeds the agreed price of Rp22,000 per cylinder at the regency level and a maximum of Rp25,000 per cylinder in Pekat District.

Compared to the official Highest Retail Price (HET) of Rp19,500 per cylinder in Pekat, the current retail price represents an increase of approximately 156 percent.

“I am deeply concerned about the difficulties faced by the people of Pekat District. The 3-kilogram LPG subsidy program was established to support low-income communities, not to be exploited by individuals seeking personal gain through irregular distribution practices. When prices rise to more than double the prescribed rate, it is the people who suffer the most,” Senator Mirah emphasized.

At the national level, the distribution of subsidized 3-kilogram LPG reached 2.8583 billion kilograms as of May 31, 2026, representing a 2.7 percent increase compared to the same period last year. This substantial government support through subsidies indicates that the primary challenge at the regional level is not the availability of funding, but rather the effectiveness of distribution, price monitoring, and the protection of intended beneficiaries.

According to Senator Mirah, reports of alleged violations of distribution standard operating procedures (SOPs) by certain collectors or intermediaries must be taken seriously by local authorities and relevant agencies. If investigations confirm practices such as distribution outside designated areas, stockpiling, or sales above official or agreed prices, firm action must be taken against those responsible without exception.

She also stressed the importance of the Dompu Regency Industry and Trade Office, together with other supervisory authorities, conducting a comprehensive audit of the distribution chain, from agents and distribution bases to retailers. Such measures are necessary to ensure that subsidized LPG supplies reach the communities entitled to receive them

“Oversight must be strengthened and carried out on a continuous basis. Local governments should establish accessible public complaint channels and conduct regular surprise inspections. Subsidies funded by public money must not end up benefiting irresponsible parties,” Senator Mirah stated.

Furthermore, Senator Mirah expressed support for law enforcement measures against any parties proven to have abused the distribution of subsidized LPG. She noted that provisions stipulated in Law No. 8 of 1999 on Consumer Protection, as well as other regulations governing the distribution of subsidized goods, must be enforced consistently to create a deterrent effect.

The senator also encouraged communities to actively monitor the distribution of 3-kilogram LPG in their respective areas and to promptly report any indications of violations. Public participation, she said, is essential to promoting a transparent and accountable distribution system.

“The state must be present to protect its citizens. I hope that local governments, law enforcement agencies, distributors, and all relevant stakeholders will act swiftly to resolve this issue. The people of Pekat have the right to access subsidized LPG at affordable prices, with adequate supply and fair distribution in accordance with government policy,” Senator Mirah concluded.