President Prabowo Subianto has directed Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to secure alternative crude oil supplies from a variety of countries, as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East raise concerns about energy security.
The move comes as Iran has not yet granted Indonesia access to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments.
“Based on that, the President last night instructed me and the team to immediately seek our oil supplies from almost all countries. And to optimize all the energy resources we have,” Bahlil said during a surprise inspection of a gas station in Colomadu, Central Java, according to a statement from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
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Bahlil initially affirmed that the government will continue efforts to maintain supply, energy reserves and price stability amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which is impacting nearly all nations. The situation underscores Indonesia’s reliance on global energy markets.
He added that the duration of the current conflict remains uncertain.
Bahlil also assured the public that the availability of fuel, including gasoline, diesel, and LPG, remains secure.
“On several occasions, even in conditions that are impacting almost the entire world, we are grateful to God for the President’s direction and the support of the people. Today, fuel in our beloved country – gasoline, diesel, and LPG – is well supplied,” he stated.
Bahlil appealed for public support in using energy responsibly.
“I ask for the support of all Indonesian people. This is not just a government issue, but an issue for all of us. I urge everyone to use energy wisely. I advise against wasteful practices,” he said.
(hrp/hns)
