<![CDATA[The controversy surrounding the national fuel oil (BBM) reserve stock in 2026 has raised public concerns and has the potential to lead to a crisis of trust in the government. This situation demands an effective crisis communication strategy to maintain information stability and reduce public panic. This study aims to analyze the issue management and crisis communication strategies of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) in responding to the 2026 fuel oil reserve stock polemic through its official communication channels. The study used a qualitative approach with a qualitative content analysis method. Data were obtained through documentation studies and supported by non-participant observation of the issue's development in the public sphere. Data analysis was carried out through the stages of data reduction, categorization, interpretation, and drawing conclusions using the Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT) framework. The results show that the Ministry of ESDM implemented a combination of diminish, corrective action, and bolstering strategies to explain the external factors causing the issue, convey mitigation measures, and strengthen public trust in national energy availability. This study concludes that the use of multi-channel communication through websites and social media plays a crucial role in issue management and maintaining the institution's reputation. Further research is recommended to involve more government communication content or conduct comparisons between agencies in managing public issues.]]>
