Pertamina Showcases Sustainable Aviation Fuel from Used Cooking Oil at IdeaFest 2026

At the recent IdeaFest 2026 held at the Jakarta Convention Center, PT Pertamina (Persero) showcased its Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which is partially made from used cooking oil (UCO). This initiative aims to highlight the potential of everyday household waste in contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

Visitors to Pertamina's booth were invited to learn about the journey of used cooking oil, from collection to its transformation into SAF. Corporate Secretary Arya Dwi Paramita emphasized that the development of SAF represents a concrete step for Pertamina in its energy transition strategy and in strengthening national energy independence. Arya stated that the oil is produced for aircraft fuel and assured that it is safe as research has been initiated since 2015, with strict testing conducted from 2021 to 2025.

“The oil is produced for aircraft fuel and assured that it is safe as research has been initiated since 2015, with strict testing conducted from 2021 to 2025.”Arya Dwi Paramita, Corporate Secretary, Pertamina

SAF has already been utilized in flights by Pelita Air Service, a subsidiary of Pertamina, on the Jakarta-Bali route. This development illustrates how low-carbon energy innovations can emerge from resources closely tied to daily life.

SAF Project Commercial Manager Ibrahim Akbar noted the significant interest from the predominantly young audience at IdeaFest. He mentioned that he had the opportunity to present Pertamina's program that transforms used cooking oil into renewable fuel and observed tremendous enthusiasm, with all questions focused on UCO. He highlighted that engaging with younger generations allows Pertamina to introduce energy transition concepts in a relatable manner.

Furthermore, Ibrahim underscored the importance of community participation in this initiative. He expressed hope that more layers of society would become aware of the program, which encourages the collection of used cooking oil as a raw material. He added that as more people learn about the existing program to buy used cooking oil, the greater the volume that can be collected.

“He added that as more people learn about the existing program to buy used cooking oil, the greater the volume that can be collected.”Ibrahim Akbar, SAF Project Commercial Manager, Pertamina Patra Niaga

However, Ibrahim also pointed out the challenges in developing the SAF ecosystem, which requires collaboration across various sectors. These challenges include price disparities, mechanisms for collecting used cooking oil, and regulatory support. He emphasized that community involvement is crucial for building a stronger supply chain for UCO.

As Indonesia prepares for a mandatory 1% SAF usage by 2027, as reported by InsideASEAN, initiatives like Pertamina's are essential in paving the way for sustainable aviation practices in the country.

In contrast, Malaysian media has reported significant disruptions in air travel due to the recent eruptions of Mount Anak Krakatau. The volcanic activity has led to the closure of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and several others, affecting around 170,000 passengers and resulting in the cancellation of hundreds of flights, including those operated by major airlines like Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia. Malaysian outlets highlighted the operational impacts, with Malaysia Airlines cancelling 12 flights between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, citing passenger and crew safety as a priority. This situation underscores the challenges faced by airlines in the region amidst natural disasters, contrasting sharply with Pertamina's focus on sustainable fuel solutions.

Indonesian coverage stressed the urgency of the SAF initiative as a step towards energy independence, while Malaysian outlets framed the airport closures and flight cancellations as a pressing concern for travelers and airlines alike. This divergence highlights the differing national interests at play: Indonesia's push for sustainable energy innovation versus Malaysia's immediate focus on the safety and operational challenges posed by volcanic activity.