By: Aulia Rachman )*
Amidst increasingly complex global geopolitical dynamics, energy independence or self-sufficiency is no longer merely an economic or environmental issue, but has become an integral part of a country’s national defense. Indonesia, as an archipelagic nation rich in natural resources, has a significant opportunity to achieve energy self-sufficiency. However, truly making it a pillar of national defense requires commitment and integrated, accelerated steps across various sectors.
National defense is not only defined as military strength or weapons capability, but also encompasses resilience in vital sectors that support the nation’s life. Energy is one such sector. Indonesia’s dependence on energy imports, particularly fossil fuels like crude oil, remains quite high. This dependence opens up vulnerabilities, especially during times of global crises such as geopolitical conflicts, economic embargoes, or fluctuations in global energy prices. In this context, energy self-sufficiency serves as a highly strategic defense shield.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is very optimistic that the energy self-sufficiency target can be achieved quickly. On several occasions, he has stated that Indonesia possesses vast energy resources, particularly renewable energy, and that with proper development across all regions, including villages and remote islands, energy self-sufficiency can be achieved on a large scale.
Accelerating energy self-sufficiency is inseparable from optimizing domestic energy resources. Indonesia has enormous energy potential, both from fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, and from renewable energy sources like solar, wind, bioenergy, hydro, and geothermal. Unfortunately, much of this energy potential has not been fully utilized due to various challenges, ranging from limited infrastructure and technological limitations to regulatory barriers.
Expanding solar power plants in remote areas, building wind power plants (PLTB), utilizing geothermal energy, which is widespread in Indonesia’s Ring of Fire region, and developing bioenergy based on local resources such as palm oil, agricultural waste, and microalgae, are concrete steps toward energy independence. By developing local energy, not only will domestic needs be met but also resilience to external shocks is created.
Furthermore, energy self-sufficiency also creates a ripple effect on national defense. When energy sources are independently and stably available, the operation of defense systems, military logistics, and resource mobilization can proceed smoothly. For example, the presence of sufficient domestic oil refineries will guarantee fuel supplies for military needs, tactical vehicles, and energy-dependent weapons systems. Reliable electricity availability is also crucial for cyber defense, military communications, and technology-based border monitoring.
Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan (Zulhas) stated that the government is accelerating the development of a food self-sufficiency area, or food estate, in Wanam, Merauke, South Papua. The Wanam food estate is targeted to support food, energy, and water independence. In addition to providing staple foods like rice, the area will also be planted with raw materials for ethanol and biodiesel, such as sugar cane, cassava, and palm oil. Wanam is projected to become a national food reserve center, with 1 million hectares of rice fields.
Furthermore, accelerating energy self-sufficiency will also strengthen Indonesia’s position in regional and global geopolitics. An energy-independent country has greater bargaining power in international negotiations. When Indonesia is no longer dependent on energy imports, the risk of political pressure from energy-supplying countries will be drastically reduced. Indonesia can more freely pursue its independent and active foreign policy without fear of intervention through energy channels.
However, efforts to accelerate energy self-sufficiency must involve all elements of the nation. The government, private sector, academia, and civil society must work together to build collective awareness of the importance of energy independence as part of national defense. Public education on energy efficiency, conservation, and the use of environmentally friendly energy is also part of a long-term strategy that cannot be ignored. Furthermore, the development of domestic industries supporting the energy sector, such as solar panel factories, wind turbines, and energy storage systems, needs to be increased to avoid dependence on foreign technology.
Investment in energy technology research and development is also key to achieving self-sufficiency. Universities, research institutions, andITian and innovation centers must be given space and support to produce breakthrough energy technologies that suit Indonesia’s geographic and social characteristics. By developing its own technology, Indonesia will become not only a user but also a producer of energy solutions, ultimately strengthening overall independence.
Amidst the uncertain global situation, it is time for Indonesia to accelerate its steps towards energy self-sufficiency as part of its national defense strategy. Energy is not just about electricity or running vehicles, but also about national sovereignty and resilience in facing all threats, both internal and external. By achieving energy self-sufficiency, Indonesia will not only protect itself from dependence but also establish itself as a sovereign nation that is resilient, independent, and competitive on the global stage.
)* Public Policy Observer
