Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has relaxed barcode requirements for BBM purchases in flood-affected areas of North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh. The policy aims to speed up energy access amid distribution disruptions. Additionally, BBM and LPG distribution is shifted to sea and air routes, with SPBU instructed to operate 24 hours.
On December 3, 2025, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced a relaxation of barcode rules for fuel oil (BBM) purchases at SPBU as an emergency measure following flash floods in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh. The policy was implemented after Bahlil inspected conditions at the Pinangsori evacuation post in Central Tapanuli. "This morning we have issued a relaxation of the rules so that people buying BBM at SPBU do not need to use barcodes. It's free now, both in North Sumatra, West Sumatra, and Aceh," Bahlil said in Pinangsori.
BBM and LPG stocks are reported safe, but land distribution is hindered by damaged roads and bridges. The Ministry of ESDM, in collaboration with PT Pertamina, is redirecting supplies via sea and air modes, including rafts and planes, such as in Bireuen, Aceh. "The mobilization is for areas that can be reached because roads are cut, bridges are cut, this is the problem we face together," Bahlil stated.
Bahlil also instructed Pertamina to operate SPBU 24 hours starting December 4, 2025, to maximize services. "Starting tomorrow, all gas stations here will be open 24 hours," he said. Pertamina Patra Niaga President Director Mars Ega Legowo Putra targets full operation of 90 SPBU in the Medan area, with added generators and two supply ships that have docked. The policy is temporary and urged not to be misused, only for urgent needs like logistics and disaster response.
Electricity recovery is also monitored, with PLN reporting 85 of 103 feeders restored, and 2,365 of 4,537 distribution substations operational, recovering supply to 216.64 MW for 415,097 customers.