Indonesia has long implemented fuel subsidies to make oil prices more affordable for the public, especially low-income households. However, these subsidies have also influenced consumer behavior in unexpected ways. When fuel prices remain artificially low, people are more likely to rely on private vehicles instead of using public transportation. This has led to increased traffic congestion and higher levels of urban air pollution. In addition, the perception that fuel is “cheap” can reduce the urgency to adopt more sustainable alternatives such as electric vehicles or carpooling. Economists argue that while subsidies offer short-term relief, they also create long-term dependency anddistortmarket signals. The government has occasionally tried to reform subsidy policies, but public resistance often slows the process. As fuel consumption continues to rise, the debate over whether to maintain, reduce, or remove subsidies remains a central issue in Indonesia’s energy and environmental policy.The word “distort” in the sentence “they also create long-term dependency and distort market signals” is closest in meaning to...