SINGARAJA, BALINEWS – Bali Deputy Speaker of the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), Ida Bagus Komang Kresna Budi, has praised Bali Governor Wayan Koster and Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia for their efforts to address the recent fuel supply crisis in Bali.
Kresna Budi said coordination between the provincial and central governments had been crucial in responding to fuel shortages that affected residents and caused long queues at several gas stations across the island.
“I take my hat off to Governor Koster and Minister Bahlil for their smart and effective efforts in addressing Bali’s fuel supply problems. Governor Koster has continuously visited gas stations, taken a proactive approach, and listened to feedback and criticism. His swift response deserves a thumbs-up and should help resolve the problem as soon as possible,” Kresna Budi said in a telephone interview on Monday (October 19, 2026).
He stressed that fuel supply disruptions were not merely a matter of availability at gas stations. Reliable fuel distribution also plays a vital role in supporting economic activity, transportation, goods distribution, and the sustainability of small and medium-sized businesses.
According to Kresna Budi, when fuel supplies are disrupted, the public bears the greatest burden. Long queues can waste valuable time, delay work, and increase operating costs, particularly for people who depend on transportation and trade for their livelihoods.
He emphasized that resolving the fuel crisis must remain a shared priority. He also expressed hope that the government's coordinated efforts would provide greater certainty for residents regarding fuel availability.
Kresna Budi said strong cooperation between central and regional governments was essential to resolving public service issues. He urged the authorities and relevant stakeholders to maintain this coordination to ensure that potential supply disruptions could be anticipated and addressed before they escalated.
He also called for measures to go beyond a temporary recovery in supply, stressing the need to ensure that fuel distribution remains stable, reliable, and sufficient to meet demand throughout Bali, including Buleleng Regency.
“What matters most now is ensuring that fuel supplies remain secure. People should not have to face long queues or difficulties obtaining fuel again. We hope the coordination that has been established will provide a lasting solution,” he said.
In addition to praising the government’s response, Kresna Budi thanked the people of Bali for helping maintain public order and security during the fuel supply crisis.
He also commended donors who worked together to distribute free food and drinks to motorists waiting in long queues at gas stations.
“I salute the solidarity shown by the people, who helped maintain stability even though they had to stay up late and queue for hours while waiting for fuel deliveries to arrive at gas stations. I especially appreciate the donors who came together to provide free food and drinks to consumers waiting in line,” he said.
Kresna Budi expressed hope that the spirit of cooperation demonstrated by the government and the public would continue, helping ensure a more reliable fuel supply and preventing similar disruptions in the future.
