Conflict Escalates as Putri Zulkifli Hasan Backs Government in Strengthening the Energy Sector

Jakarta — Chair of the PAN faction in the DPR and Deputy Chairman of the Commission XII, Putri Zulkifli Hasan, said the government has moved quickly and decisively to anticipate the impact of the escalation in the Iran–United States and Israel conflict, including potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil trade. She added that the government’s move to ensure national energy reserves remains secure signals a positive sign for the stability of the national economy.

Putri said that Airlangga Hartarto’s statement as Co-ordinator Minister for Economic Affairs on the secure fuel (BBM) supply shows that the government already has a mature mitigation scenario. Indonesia has also diversified energy import sources and strategic cooperation, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Pertamina and US energy companies such as Chevron and ExxonMobil, ensuring alternative supply routes remain open if there are disruptions in global distribution.

Nevertheless, Putri emphasised that the main challenge is not merely the availability of supply, but the potential for a rise in world oil prices, which have now reached around US$80 per barrel. This price increase risks placing greater pressure on the state budget, especially on subsidies and energy compensation, and could affect the purchasing power of the people if not managed carefully.

‘The PAN faction fully supports the anticipatory steps taken by the government to maintain energy and fiscal stability,’ she said in a written statement on Wednesday (4 March 2026).

Putri stressed the importance of balancing safeguarding the health of the APBN with protecting the public, especially vulnerable groups. She said every policy should be based on prudence, data accuracy, and a focus on the ordinary people. Putri affirmed that the DPR’s supervisory function will operate constructively and collaboratively.

‘Commission XII will continue to coordinate with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) and Pertamina to ensure national BBM stocks are secure, supply chains are under control, and procurement strategies are effectively implemented in facing global dynamics,’ she added.

Putri also viewed this situation as an important moment to accelerate strengthening Indonesia’s energy resilience through higher oil and gas lifting, optimising domestic resources, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy. Dependence on global geopolitical fluctuations must be gradually reduced through more self-reliant and sustainable energy policy.

‘The government has shown readiness. Our joint task is to ensure stability remains and the people are not burdened. PAN stands with the government to keep national energy secure while ensuring protection of the people’s purchasing power,’ she concluded.