Bobby Nasution Calls for No Repeat of Sumatra Power Outage
Governor of North Sumatra, Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution, has called for the recent widespread power outage on Sumatra island on Friday, 22 May 2026, to serve as a crucial learning point for PLN. The prolonged blackout caused numerous issues for the public.
He made the remarks during a meeting with PLN North Sumatra Regional Distribution Unit (UID) General Manager Mundakhir Salman at his office on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. The discussion focused on the cause of the power disruption triggered by a high-voltage cable break in Jambi.
“I reviewed what happened and its causes. We had requested all governments to prepare generators as a precaution, but it was sudden, so not all could be covered,” Bobby said.
Bobby stressed that the annual blackouts in Sumatra must be taken seriously, especially as the government continues to push for electricity use across various sectors.
“Today, the government is pushing for everything to be electric—from stoves and cars to public buses. That’s why we need assurance of electricity supply. There should be no more annual blackouts, as they last too long and affect a wide area,” he said.
Bobby also highlighted the importance of backup power systems, particularly for vital services like hospitals and healthcare facilities with high power demands. This is a concern given that the Energy and Mineral Resources Minister previously stated that power supply in North Sumatra (Sumbagut) is in surplus.
Additionally, Bobby emphasised the need to strengthen power supply in the Nias Islands through power plant construction to optimally meet community needs.
In response, PLN North Sumatra UID General Manager Mundakhir Salman apologised for the blackout caused by the Jambi electrical system disruption affecting the entire Sumbagut network.
PLN also assured it would enhance electricity supply readiness, including for the AFF U-19 tournament in North Sumatra, especially at stadiums and supporting facilities.
“Only Tapanuli Tengah Regency needs repairs in disaster-affected areas. For the AFF tournament, we will prepare better,” he concluded.