B50 Set for Implementation in July 2026, Bahlil: If We Don't Diversify, Who Shall We Rely On?

The government has confirmed that the implementation of 50 per cent biodiesel blend fuel (B50) will commence on 1 July 2026, after a series of trials conducted in recent months. This policy forms part of efforts to strengthen national energy resilience through the diversification of energy sources. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that trials of B50 usage have been underway for nearly six months across various sectors, from heavy equipment to transportation. “B50 has been trialled for almost six months on various equipment such as heavy machinery, ships, trains, trucks, and it’s still ongoing,” Bahlil said at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources on Monday (6/4/2026). “Up to today, the trials have gone well, alhamdulillah. And implementation of B50 will begin on 1 July,” he added. According to Bahlil, this step is part of the government’s strategy from the outset to seek alternative energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, particularly imports. “This is why the government has been seeking alternative energy from the beginning,” he explained. Bahlil also alluded to the initial public response to the development of B50 and bioethanol, which had faced scepticism. However, he believes the current global situation underscores the importance of energy diversification. “Back then, you all laughed at me when I proposed B50 and ethanol. Imagine now, if we hadn’t diversified, who would we rely on?” he asserted. He called on all parties, including the media, to support government policies aimed at protecting national interests. “So, if I may, friends in the media should also support what the government is doing in the context of the good of the people, the nation, and the state,” Bahlil said.