Dari Pertamax ke Pertalite: Pengorbanan Waktu Demi Menekan Biaya Hidup

#tribuntimur #tribunviral #forcedtomove #pertalite #confessions #drivers #gasstation #talasalapang Download the TribunX news app on the Play Store or App Store for a new experience TRIBUN-TIMUR.COM, MAKASSAR - A different atmosphere was seen at the 74.902.95 Talsalapang gas station on Jalan Sultan Alauddin, Makassar City, Wednesday (June 10, 2026). During the day, the queue of vehicles at the Pertamax filling area appeared relatively quiet compared to the lane for subsidized fuel, Pertalite. Observations at the location around 2:00 PM WITA (Central Indonesian Time), only a few two- and four-wheeled vehicles were seen queuing to fill up with Pertamax. This situation contrasted with the queue of vehicles at the Pertalite dispenser, which appeared busy and constantly moving. A number of private cars, light commercial vehicles, and motorcycles filled the subsidized fuel filling lane. Some vehicles were even seen snaking their way close to the gas station entrance. Meanwhile, in the Pertamax lane, vehicles filling up can go directly to the dispenser without having to wait long. There are no long lines like those at the Pertalite dispensers. The fuel price information board displayed at the gas station shows Pertamax at Rp 16,650 per liter. Pertalite, meanwhile, is sold for Rp 10,000 per liter. The significant price difference is suspected to be one factor influencing consumer choice. The majority of drivers appear to prefer queuing in the Pertalite lane even though they have to wait longer. One driver, Ghazali, did the same. Ghazali admitted that he was forced to switch to Pertalite despite having to join the queue. "Previously, I used Pertamax, but I saw the news this morning that the price had gone up," Ghazali complained. He admitted that his decision to switch to subsidized fuel was not based on desire, but rather to adjust to his financial situation amidst the ever-increasing cost of living. According to him, he had chosen Pertamax because it was considered more suitable for his vehicle. However, after the price increase, he began to consider daily operating costs. "If I continue using Pertamax, my monthly gas costs will definitely increase," he said. Ghazali said he doesn't mind waiting in line longer as long as it saves money. He also believes the long queues for Pertalite are normal, as many people share the same considerations. (*) Reporter: Siti Aminah Narrator: Rasni Gani Supporting: Indah Amaliah (UNM Intern) Editor: Sanovra J.R/ Indah Amaliah (UNM Intern)