THE Indonesian government is currently designing and implementing a new scheme for fuel oil (BBM) subsidies to ensure that this assistance is more targeted and reduces waste that has occurred so far.
In this new scheme, fuel subsidies will no longer be given evenly, but will be more focused on certain groups of people and sectors that really need them.
The new fuel subsidy scheme aims to ease the burden on low-income communities and optimize the use of subsidy funds for productive sectors.
This step was taken because previously it was felt that fuel subsidies were not on target and there was potential for abuse by groups who did not need the assistance.
Therefore, the government through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) and the Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) is introducing a more measurable mechanism.
The following are several categories of fuel subsidy recipients based on the new scheme that will be implemented:
1. Poor and Vulnerable Communities
The government will prioritize providing fuel subsidies to the people registered in Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS). This group consists of poor families who have low incomes and are vulnerable to poverty. Distribution of subsidies to them is expected to help them reduce their burden of expenses, especially in transportation and household energy costs.
2. Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Group
MSMEs are a sector that is very vulnerable to fluctuations in energy prices, especially fuel. Therefore, this business group will receive more attention in the new subsidy scheme. The government hopes that by providing subsidies to MSMEs, small businesses can maintain the continuity of their businesses without having to be burdened with high energy costs.
3. Public Transportation
Public transportation such as buses, public transportation and motorbike taxis are often people’s mainstay in daily mobility. With more focused fuel subsidies, it is hoped that public transportation costs will be more affordable. This will certainly have a positive impact on people who depend on public transportation for their activities.
4. Farmers and Fishermen
Farmer and fisherman groups who need fuel for agricultural and fisheries operations will also be the main recipients of this subsidy. Many farmers use fuel to operate agricultural machinery, while fishermen need fuel for boats and fishing gear. With subsidies, it is hoped that agricultural and fishery products will be more affordable and improve the welfare of farmers and fishermen.
5. Specific Industries
Certain industrial sectors, such as those involved in food security, production of basic commodities, and other sectors that support people’s basic needs, will also receive fuel subsidies. The government considers these sectors to be very important for the continuity of the national economy, so that the subsidies provided can increase competitiveness and reduce production costs.
Use of Technology for Distribution of Subsidies
The government also plans to use technology to optimize the distribution of fuel subsidies. One of the proposed mechanisms is to use special applications and cards that make it easier to monitor subsidy recipients.
Through this system, the government can more easily verify who is entitled to receive subsidies and avoid potential abuse that has often occurred in the past.
In addition, quota restrictions for each type of fuel will also be implemented to ensure that only those who are entitled to subsidies receive them. In this way, it is hoped that there will be no more misuse or waste of subsidies that are not well targeted.
The implementation of the new fuel subsidy scheme certainly faces challenges, especially in terms of verifying accurate recipient data and transparency in distribution.
However, if implemented well, this scheme is expected to increase the efficiency of using the subsidy budget and provide greater benefits for people in need.
The government hopes that with well-targeted subsidies, sectors that depend on fuel can continue to run at more affordable costs, while poor people will no longer be burdened by ever-increasing fuel prices. (Z-10)
Source:
- Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM). (2024). New Fuel Subsidy Scheme and Its Distribution. Jakarta: Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.
- Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos). (2024). Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS). Jakarta: Ministry of Social Affairs.
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What technology-based solutions is the Indonesian government considering to ensure the accurate and efficient distribution of fuel subsidies under the new scheme?
## Interview: Indonesia’s New Fuel Subsidy Scheme
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re discussing Indonesia’s new fuel subsidy scheme, aiming to target aid more effectively and minimize waste. Joining us is Dr. Dewi Lestari, a leading economist specializing in energy policy. Welcome, Dr. Lestari.
**Dr. Lestari:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** Could you give our viewers a brief overview of this new scheme and why it’s being implemented?
**Dr. Lestari:** Certainly. For years, Indonesia’s fuel subsidies have been universally applied, leading to concerns about inefficiency and potential misuse [mediaindonesia.com]. Recognizing this, the government is transitioning to a more targeted approach, prioritizing groups genuinely reliant on fuel subsidies.
**Host:** Who are some of the groups that stand to benefit most from this new system?
**Dr. Lestari:** The scheme prioritizes vulnerable populations [mediaindonesia.com]. These include low-income families registered in the Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS), micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), essential public transportation providers, farmers, fishermen, and specific industries crucial for national food security and basic necessities.
**Host:** That’s a broad range of beneficiaries. How will the government ensure the fairness and effectiveness of this system?
**Dr. Lestari:** The government is planning to leverage technology for efficient subsidy distribution [mediaindonesia.com]. While specifics haven’t been publicly disclosed, one can anticipate the use of digital platforms and data analytics to identify eligible recipients accurately and prevent leakage.
**Host:** Such a significant shift in policy undoubtedly raises concerns. Are there any anticipated challenges in implementing this new scheme?
**Dr. Lestari:** Change inherently brings challenges. Ensuring smooth transition, accurately identifying eligible recipients, and preventing potential misuse will require robust systems and ongoing monitoring. Additionally, effective communication with the public is crucial to address concerns and ensure understanding.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Lestari, for shedding light on this important issue. Hopefully, this new scheme will effectively support those who truly need it while promoting responsible use of public resources.
**Dr. Lestari:** You’re welcome. It’s a crucial step towards a fairer and more sustainable energy landscape in Indonesia.
