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🇮🇩 Indonesia /Elections & Politics

Indonesia minister jokes about reviewing company plans if B50 biodiesel isn't used

From Republika · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, threatened to review the work and budget plans of companies, especially in mining, that do not use B50 biodiesel.
  • The threat, made in jest, aims to encourage businesses to support the mandatory B50 biodiesel program, which mixes 50 percent biodiesel with solar fuel.
  • The program reduces reliance on fuel imports, adds value to national resources, and strengthens Indonesia's energy and economic security, with sanctions for non-compliance.

Indonesian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia humorously threatened to review the work and budget plans of companies, particularly in the mining sector, that fail to adopt the B50 biodiesel mandate. The minister made the remarks during the launch of the mandatory B50 biodiesel program in Karawang, West Java, emphasizing its importance for national energy security and economic resilience.

I've said it, if you don't use B50, I will review your RKAB. So there are no excuses.

— Bahlil LahadaliaMinister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia's humorous threat to companies not using B50 biodiesel.

The program requires a 50 percent blend of biodiesel in all solar fuel. This initiative is part of the government's strategy to decrease dependence on fuel imports, enhance the value of national natural resources, and bolster Indonesia's energy and economic stability. The government has also established administrative sanctions, including written warnings, temporary suspension of activities, and revocation of business permits, for businesses that do not comply with the mandate.

Initially, some businesses were hesitant to use B50, citing higher costs. However, after government engagement, particularly with mining companies, many have committed to supporting the B50 implementation. Bahlil highlighted that using domestic energy products is crucial for strengthening national energy sovereignty. He noted that the demand for crude palm oil (CPO) is expected to rise, providing a stable market for palm oil farmers.

So this must be used, domestic products. Don't always use foreign ones. So they have committed, Mr. President.

— Bahlil LahadaliaMinister Bahlil Lahadalia explaining the importance of using domestic products and confirming business commitment to the B50 program.

"B50 is not just a blend of fossil and vegetable fuels. B50 is a blend of courage to make decisions, a commitment to the people, and the belief that Indonesia can stand on its own resources," Bahlil stated. The government has prepared for the B50 implementation through technical testing, ensuring feedstock supply, biodiesel production capacity, and blending and distribution infrastructure.

B50 is not just a blend of fossil and vegetable fuels. B50 is a blend of courage to make decisions, a commitment to the people, and the belief that Indonesia can stand on its own resources.

— Bahlil LahadaliaMinister Bahlil Lahadalia describing the significance of the B50 program.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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