Question 9

Explanation

Let's analyze the statements above using mathematical logic by defining the following variables:

• $P$: Increase in fuel (BBM) prices.
• $Q$: Increase in public transportation fares.
• $R$: Increase in the prices of basic needs.

From the text, we derive two main premises:

1. "Every increase in fuel prices is surely followed by an increase in public transportation fares" can be written as $P \rightarrow Q$.
2. "An increase in public transportation fares is always followed by an increase in the prices of basic needs" can be written as $Q \rightarrow R$.

The most appropriate statement can be found using the Modus Tollens principle or Contrapositive equivalence on the first premise. An implication $P \rightarrow Q$ has the same truth value as its contrapositive, $\sim Q \rightarrow \sim P$.

This means that if there is no increase in public transportation fares ($\sim Q$), then it is certain that no increase in fuel prices occurred ($\sim P$). This aligns with the option stating that the absence of an increase in public transportation fares indicates no increase in fuel prices.

Thus, the correct statement is if there is no increase in public transportation fares, then there is no increase in fuel (BBM) prices.