“Renewable energy is not as straightforward as it may seem. Many countries that tried to implement renewable energy have had to fall back on fossil fuels. This is an opportunity for us to maximize our domestic oil and gas potential. There is no other option but to attract investors,” he concluded.

Previously, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia reaffirmed the government’s commitment to realizing President Prabowo’s vision of energy self-sufficiency, particularly through strengthening the upstream oil and gas sector.

Indonesia’s energy resources are still underutilized, and Bahlil stressed that achieving energy independence requires breakthrough efforts and hard work, particularly in boosting oil and gas production. He emphasized that SKK Migas, the government’s upstream oil and gas implementation body, must be proactive, responsive, and adaptable to the challenges of the industry.

“I expect the upstream oil and gas industry to play a critical role in supporting Indonesia’s energy resilience,” Bahlil said.

To facilitate this, he urged SKK Migas to streamline systems that currently hinder progress, ensuring that Indonesia’s energy independence goals can be realized. Additionally, Bahlil highlighted the importance of optimizing the performance of exploration wells through technological interventions and increased investment.

In a move to boost domestic production, Bahlil also plans to re-develop idle or abandoned wells to contribute to meeting the country’s energy demand.

“To achieve energy self-sufficiency, we must optimize both new and existing wells—whether they are still under exploration or have already been explored,” he said. (Uki Ruknuddin)

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