Balikpapan’s National Strategic Project (PSN RDMP) Expands Employment Opportunities in the Energy and Supporting Industry Sectors
Balikpapan – The government inaugurated the Balikpapan Refinery Development Master Plan (RDMP) National Strategic Project (PSN) as part of strengthening the national energy industry and expanding employment opportunities. The inauguration was conducted by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Balikpapan City, East Kalimantan.
The Balikpapan RDMP is a refinery modernization project underway since 2019 with an investment of approximately IDR 123 trillion. The project includes the construction of a new processing unit, the revitalization of existing facilities, and the strengthening of supporting infrastructure, including large-capacity crude oil tanks and a Single Point Mooring (SPM) facility.
The scale of the project encourages the involvement of a large workforce, both during the construction phase and when entering the operational phase.
In his remarks, President Prabowo stated that strengthening the energy sector is directly linked to national independence and sustainable development.
“Energy is the primary foundation of national sovereignty. With the Balikpapan RDMP, Indonesia is increasingly standing on its own two feet, capable of meeting national energy needs independently and sustainably,” said President Prabowo.
In addition to increasing domestic oil processing capacity, the Balikpapan RDMP also has a direct economic impact, particularly through job creation and supporting industrial activities.
During construction, the project employed tens of thousands of workers from various fields, including construction and engineering, and support services. During the operational phase, this modern refinery also requires skilled workers to support the production process and maintain the high-tech facility.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that the operation of the Balikpapan RDMP will expand the economic impact of the energy sector, including on job opportunities.
“This marks a milestone in achieving national energy independence. We have achieved diesel fuel self-sufficiency, and the government will continue to work to expand its impact, including creating jobs in the energy industry and its supporting sectors,” said Airlangga.
The Balikpapan RDMP is also in line with the oil and gas industry downstreaming agenda, which aims to increase domestic added value.
Increasing refinery capacity and implementing modern technology are driving the growing need for labor in the industrial, logistics, services, and national energy supply chain sectors.
From an environmental perspective, the Balikpapan refinery is capable of producing Euro V standard fuel oil (BBM) which is more environmentally friendly.
This project also supports the government’s target of Net Zero Emissions 2060 through increased energy efficiency and the use of cleaner technologies.
The government believes that this National Strategic Project (PSN) will not only strengthen national energy security but also significantly contribute to expanding employment opportunities and stimulating the regional economy, particularly in East Kalimantan.
