Thelandofpapua.com – Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Papua Maluku guarantees that the availability of fuel (BBM) in West Papua will remain secure, especially to support the implementation of the 2024 simultaneous local elections (Pilkada).

Edi Mangun, Area Manager of Communication, Relations & CSR at Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Papua Maluku, stated that the company has been entrusted with ensuring the readiness of fuel stocks in the region to support increased mobilization leading up to and during the upcoming Pilkada.

“As the election approaches, there will certainly be increased mobilization of people and goods, including the distribution of logistics, which requires transportation that depends on fuel. We assure that both stock and facilities are secure to ensure smooth distribution,” he explained, while urging the public not to engage in panic buying.

Meanwhile, Suriadi, Fuel Manager at the Manokwari Terminal, mentioned that there are five regions receiving fuel supplies from the Manokwari Terminal: Manokwari Regency, South Manokwari, Wondama, Arfak Mountains, and Bintuni Bay.

“Basically, we are always prepared in terms of stock, infrastructure, and human resources involved in distribution,” he said.

Suriadi also mentioned that to maintain stock availability, the distribution activities cannot be halted for more than two days.

“If we take a break, there will be a shortage of stock at distribution agencies like APMS, gas stations, and Perta Shops. We also hope there will be no disruptions that prevent us from distributing fuel,” he added.

He further assured that the fuel stock availability is always sufficient for up to 10 days. Additionally, every three days, fuel supply ships dock at Pertamina’s terminal.

“So, there’s no need to worry about fuel shortages, especially leading up to the Pilkada,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Budi Setiawan, Aviation Fuel Terminal Manager at Rendani, also guaranteed the availability of aviation fuel (avtur) and ensured that the distribution of avtur products remains in accordance with specifications.

“We are also ready to support the event. There may be an increase in air traffic, and we have taken that into account, confirming that the stock is secure,” he added.