Oil and Gas Exploration & Production Program Increases Domestic Supply, Achieving Energy Self-Sufficiency
By: Meisya Julian Syafitri )*
The government continues to strengthen its national energy strategy by increasing oil and gas exploration and production in various regions. This effort is a crucial part of the broader agenda toward energy self-sufficiency and domestic supply independence. In a global context marked by fluctuating energy prices and geopolitical uncertainty, Indonesia is demonstrating concrete steps by sustainably increasing upstream oil and gas production capacity. Several recent achievements in this sector point in a positive direction, illustrating that the national commitment to energy independence is not merely talk, but the result of concrete work on the ground.
One example of success comes from PT APG Westkampar Indonesia (APGWI), which recorded the highest oil production surge since the company officially became operator of the West Kampar Block in January 2023. By the end of October 2025, production reached 1,011 barrels per day (BOPD), a sharp increase from 150–200 BOPD at the start of well reactivation. This surge demonstrates the effectiveness of the production increase strategy through a new well drilling program and maintenance of production facilities. PT APGWI General Manager, Mohammad Yasin, emphasized that this achievement is the result of the hard work of the field team and the support of stakeholders. He stated that the geographical challenges in the Pendalian Field, a relatively remote area, can be overcome through innovation and operational efficiency.
PT APGWI’s success also serves as clear evidence that Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas sector is capable of transforming to become more adaptive and sustainable. PT APGWI Director, Adi Prasetyana, expressed optimism about the prospects for future production increases, along with the massive drilling program through 2026. This aligns with the direction of the national energy policy, which emphasizes the importance of intensive exploration and optimal management of existing wells. This strategy not only increases production volume but also strengthens national energy security by ensuring a stable supply of crude oil for domestic needs amidst growing demand.
Support and synergy from the government, particularly through the Special Task Force for Upstream Oil and Gas Business Activities (SKK Migas), also plays a significant role in maintaining this momentum. The Head of the Program and Communications Division of the Special Task Force for Upstream Oil and Gas Business Activities (SKK Migas), Heru Setyadi, stated that the increase in production in the West Kampar Block is concrete evidence of the contribution of Production Sharing Contractors (KKKS) to achieving national targets. SKK Migas will continue to encourage exploration and production activities to be efficient, safe, and provide economic impact to communities surrounding the operational areas. This perspective demonstrates that the success of the oil and gas industry is measured not only by technical aspects, but also by its contribution to regional prosperity and national energy security.
In addition to Riau, similar achievements have been achieved in Aceh, which demonstrated impressive performance throughout 2025. According to data from the Aceh Oil and Gas Management Agency (BPMA), 55 oil and gas wells were still actively producing at the end of the third quarter, with 54 of them under BPMA management. Oil production averaged 1,898 barrels per day, or 114 percent of the 2025 Work Plan & Budget (WP&B) target. Gas production was also recorded at 81.80 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD), exceeding the target by 104 percent. BPMA’s Deputy for Business Support, Edy Kurniawan, explained that Aceh’s oil and gas operations are spread across three main working areas: Medco E&P Malaka, Triangle Pase Inc., and Working Area B, managed by Pema Global Energi.
This positive performance not only confirms BPMA’s managerial and technical capabilities but also demonstrates the significant potential of Aceh’s oil and gas sector as a pillar of national energy. Although production has exceeded targets, BPMA continues to encourage the discovery of new reserves through strategic exploration programs. One important project currently underway is the 120-square-kilometer Cunda-Jeuku 3D seismic survey in Working Area B. This program is targeted for completion in 2026, followed by exploration of Bireuen-Sigli, conducted by Aceh Energy. According to Edy, this exploratory effort is expected to unlock new potential reserves, strengthening energy security and boosting regional economic growth.
The outstanding performance of these various oil and gas operating areas illustrates the new direction of national energy policy under the Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabuming Raka administration. The government has positioned energy security as one of the strategic pillars of national development, as outlined in the Asta Cita (Association of Energy Goals). Through pro-productivity policies and strengthening upstream oil and gas investment, Indonesia seeks to reduce dependence on oil imports and ensure an adequate energy supply.in industry and society.
Oil and gas exploration and production not only serve as economic drivers but also as a strategic foundation for the nation’s energy sovereignty. By increasing domestic production, the oil and gas balance deficit can be reduced and national foreign exchange reserves more stable. Furthermore, this sector plays a crucial role in creating jobs, driving regional economies, and strengthening technology transfer.
In the long term, the success of oil and gas exploration and production programs will be the starting point for achieving national energy self-sufficiency. The government, along with industry players, needs to maintain this momentum by expanding investment, accelerating the adoption of efficient technologies, and strengthening environmental governance to ensure sustainable production. With a spirit of collaboration between the government, business entities, and the community, the ambitious goal of energy independence will no longer be just a dream, but a definite path toward a future Indonesia that is sovereign and self-sufficient in meeting its energy needs.
)* The author is an Energy Policy Observer
