JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia has called on ExxonMobil Cepu Ltd to boost its oil production capacity to 150,000 barrels of oil per day (BOPD) by 2026.

“Currently, Indonesia’s national oil production stands at approximately 577,000 BOPD, with the Cepu Block contributing around 144,000 BOPD, making it one of the largest contributors nationally,” Bahlil highlighted that increasing production is crucial for addressing the existing oil deficit.

To meet this goal, ExxonMobil has been requested to raise its production target from 125,000 BOPD to 150,000 BOPD within the next two years. This increase is expected to significantly impact state revenues and foreign reserves.

Bahlil stated that both the current government and the incoming administration under President-elect Prabowo Subianto fully support this production enhancement, emphasizing its importance for national income and reducing imports.

Responding to this request, EMCL President Director Carole Gall affirmed their commitment to increasing production at the Cepu Block. She noted that the first oil production from the Banyu Urip infill clastic drilling, which began in 2024, has already yielded 13,300 BOPD.

Carole emphasized that this program is vital not only for ExxonMobil and its partners but also for Indonesia, contributing to national production targets and strengthening the country’s energy security.

As Indonesia strives for energy independence, the collaboration with experienced companies like ExxonMobil is deemed essential for boosting oil production, ultimately benefiting the nation’s economy.

Continued efforts in enhancing oil lifting are a priority for the government as it seeks to bolster state revenues and reduce reliance on oil imports, setting a positive outlook for Indonesia’s energy sector. (Uki Ruknuddin)