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Indonesia Invites Russian Investors to Bid on Over 100 Energy Blocks

The Indonesian government is actively seeking Russian investment in its energy sector, offering more than 100 oil and gas blocks during the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.

By Dian Paramitha5 September 20262 min read
Indonesia Invites Russian Investors to Bid on Over 100 Energy Blocks

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is inviting Russian investors to bid on more than 100 oil and gas blocks, a move that was presented during the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) held in Vladivostok, Russia. This initiative aims to strengthen energy cooperation between Indonesia and Russia.

Ahmad Erani Yustika, the Secretary General of ESDM, confirmed that the ministry has opened tenders for these energy blocks, indicating that they welcome participation in the bidding process from interested parties.

“The cooperation with Russia must strengthen national energy resilience through increased productivity in oil and gas as well as in developing future energy technologies.”Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia

During the EEF, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the need for energy resilience and the diversification of energy sources. He noted that the partnership should extend beyond mere commodity exchanges, emphasizing Indonesia's large domestic market as a gateway to the ASEAN region. The President stated that the cooperation with Russia should strengthen national energy resilience through increased productivity in oil and gas as well as in developing future energy technologies.

In addition to oil and gas, discussions at the forum also touched on potential nuclear energy collaborations, although specific details were not provided. Erani indicated that further information would be available from the Minister of ESDM, Bahlil Lahadalia, who is expected to elaborate on these discussions.

“They welcome participation in the bidding process from interested parties.”Ahmad Erani Yustika, Secretary General of ESDM

As Indonesia continues to seek foreign investment, the government has previously engaged with other nations, including China, for various energy projects. InsideASEAN has reported that Indonesia is also pursuing a significant solar power initiative aimed at achieving 100 gigawatts by 2029, reflecting its commitment to transitioning towards renewable energy sources.

The EEF serves as a platform for fostering international economic cooperation, and Indonesia's participation as a guest of honor this year underscores its intent to deepen ties with Russia. Bahlil Lahadalia reiterated the importance of tangible outcomes from these discussions, stating that agreements should translate into concrete benefits for both the national industry and the broader community.