Government Mobilizes Retail Traders in Selling 3KG LPG Gas
Author: Gisela Lahadalia (Socio-Economic Observer)
3kg LPG gas is an important commodity for the Indonesian people. In the midst of the government’s efforts to improve the 3kg LPG distribution system, President Prabowo Subianto provided important directions that take into account the interests of various parties, especially small retailers and the community as consumers.
The distribution of 3kg LPG is an Indonesian government program that aims to provide affordable energy for low-income people. The main goal is to reduce the burden of government subsidies while providing a cleaner and more efficient fuel alternative for the community.
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia stated that retail traders can sell 3kg LPG gas or commonly known as melon gas. Meanwhile, retail traders will change their name to sub-bases.
This policy provides a breath of fresh air for 3kg LPG retailers. They are still allowed to sell during the registration process to become sub-base agents which is carried out in stages. This step reflects a policy that understands the reality on the ground, where thousands of small retailers have become an important link in the distribution of 3kg LPG to the community.
The government continues to ensure that the supply of 3 kg LPG gas remains in accordance with the quota that has been set. The distribution arrangement aims to ensure that subsidies are right on target, not to reduce supplies for those who are entitled.
The purpose of re-operating 3 kg LPG gas retailers is to normalize the distribution channels of the subsidized gas. By adjusting to existing technological developments, sub-bases will be equipped with a Pertamina application called MerchantApps Pangkalan Pertamina. Through this application, retailers can record who bought, how much, and the selling price.
Looking at the problems in the distribution of 3 kg LPG, in its implementation, the distribution of 3 kg LPG faces various challenges and problems. First, the problem of misappropriation of subsidies where 3 kg LPG which should be intended for the poor is actually enjoyed by the upper middle class or business actors. This happens because of weak supervision and a distribution system that is not yet optimal.
Second, there is a practice of adulterating or transferring the contents of 3 kg LPG cylinders to larger non-subsidized cylinders. This practice not only harms the country financially, but also endangers safety because it is carried out without adequate safety standards.
Third, the problem of scarcity that often occurs in various regions. This is caused by various factors such as late supply, hoarding by certain individuals, or uneven distribution.
Various problems in the distribution channel, including misuse and embezzlement, have prompted the government to make systemic improvements.
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia emphasized that this transformation includes around 370,000 retailers who have been registered. This is one of the government’s efforts to stabilize energy prices and stocks, in this case 3 kg LPG gas.
Meanwhile, for retailers who have not registered, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will actively work with Pertamina to provide them with an application system. In addition, it also helps the process to become a sub-base. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources will also proactively register them as formal parts so that they can become MSMEs.
This program also includes coaching and supervision of retail traders. The government through related agencies provides training on safe handling of LPG, sales administration, and understanding of applicable regulations. Supervision is carried out periodically to ensure compliance with the established rules.
Gerindra Party Daily Chair Sufmi Dasco Ahmad said that President Prabowo wants retailers to continue to be able to sell 3 kg LPG gas, during the partial registration process to become a sub-base agent. In addition, the President also asked the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to maintain the price of 3 kg LPG gas so that it remains stable and the price of LPG that will be sold to the public is not too expensive.
The President’s direction to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to maintain the stability of the price of 3 kg LPG shows concern for the public’s purchasing power. Stable and affordable prices are key to ensuring public access to energy for daily needs.
With a planned and measured approach, this policy has the potential to create a more structured 3 kg LPG distribution system without sacrificing the community as users.
This government approach is very strategic for several reasons. First, it prevents shocks in the existing distribution system. Second, it provides adaptation time for retailers to meet formal requirements. Third, it ensures the continuity of the supply of 3 kg LPG to the community without obstacles.
