Discussing Andaman Gas Block Management at the DPD RI Committee II, Senator Azhari Cage Encourages Strengthening Aceh's Role

09 June 2026 oleh admin

Jakarta, dpd.go.id – Member of the DPD RI from Aceh, Azhari Cage, S.IP., delivered a number of inputs regarding the natural gas management plan in the Andaman Block in the DPD RI Committee II Meeting with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Tuesday (9/6/2026).

In a meeting attended by the Director General of Oil and Gas at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Laode Sulaeman, Azhari emphasized the importance of ensuring that the management of natural resources in Aceh can provide optimal benefits for the local community and is in line with the spirit of Aceh's special status as regulated in laws and regulations.

Azhari expressed his hope that the government would consider the aspirations of the Aceh Government, which had been officially conveyed to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, particularly regarding gas development from the Andaman Block working area.

According to him, utilizing the facilities available in the Arun Special Economic Zone (KEK) could be a strategic option to support onshore gas processing while simultaneously encouraging economic growth and job creation in Aceh.

"Aceh has extensive experience in the national oil and gas industry. Therefore, we hope that developing Andaman's gas potential will provide greater added value for the local community and economy," Azhari said at the meeting.

He also emphasized the importance of utilizing past experiences as lessons learned in designing future natural resource management policies. He argued that regional involvement in the decision-making process would strengthen ownership and support the success of national strategic projects.

In addition, Azhari encouraged more intensive communication and coordination between the Central Government, the Aceh Government, BPMA, and related stakeholders to align perceptions regarding the Andaman Block development plan, including discussions on the development planning document or Plan of Development (PoD).

"The most important thing is how Aceh's natural resources can provide the greatest possible benefits to the community, while also supporting national energy security," he said.

Responding to this, the Director General of Oil and Gas at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Laode Sulaeman, expressed his appreciation for Senator Azhari Cage's input. He emphasized that the government continues to open dialogue with all parties to ensure optimal and equitable management of energy resources.

Laode also emphasized that Aceh has a strategic position in the national energy sector, including the existence of the Aceh Oil and Gas Management Agency (BPMA) as an institution that has a special role in oil and gas governance in the region.

According to him, the government is committed to ensuring that the development of gas in the Andaman Block not only supports national energy needs but also provides real benefits for the people of Aceh.

"The government will continue to coordinate with the Aceh Government and the BPMA to find the best formula so that the development of this oil and gas potential can provide optimal benefits for the region and the nation," Laode said.

The meeting took place in a constructive atmosphere and served as an important forum for gathering regional aspirations regarding strategic natural resource management. Several members of Committee II of the House of the Regional Representatives of the Republic of Indonesia (DPD RI) also highlighted the importance of strengthening the role of regions in supporting sustainable and equitable energy sector development.