Defence Ministry Implements Fuel Efficiency Measures, Insists It Is Not Due to Emergency Conditions
The Ministry of Defence (Kemhan) has assured that its internal fuel efficiency policies are anticipatory steps, not responses to an emergency, amid rising global geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East that could impact energy stability.
Head of the Defence Information Bureau (Karo Infohan) at the Ministry’s Secretariat General, Rico Ricardo Sirait, emphasised that the measures represent prudent management of strategic resources.
“This policy is being implemented now as an anticipatory and cautious step, not because of an emergency,” Rico said in Jakarta on Wednesday (25/3).
According to him, the fuel efficiency decision is linked to global developments, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, which may affect fuel distribution to various countries, including Indonesia.
“Global dynamics in Europe and the Middle East could potentially influence fuel deliveries to several countries, including Indonesia,” he stated.
In response, Kemhan is applying several efficiency policies, including more effective resource use and the implementation of one day of work from home (WFH) for certain functions.
“However, regarding defence fuel supplies, the principle is to ensure that support for strategic operational needs remains maintained,” Rico explained.
He added that the duration of the policy implementation remains flexible and will be adjusted based on future developments.
“As for the implementation period, it will be adjusted according to evaluations of the situation and future needs,” he added.
Previously, Kemhan along with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) had prepared several efficiency measures as part of efforts to address potential impacts of global geopolitics on national energy resilience. The policy aligns with directives from Prabowo Subianto, who emphasises the importance of proactive and national efficiency steps.
“The prepared measures include more effective and priority-based resource use, including in the operations of main weapon systems (alutsista) and official mobility,” Rico said.
Some of the implemented policies include adjusting workdays from five to four days for certain functions, restricting the use of official vehicles, and prioritising the operations of main weapon systems (alutsista) based on needs.
Rico stressed that these efficiency steps are manifestations of readiness, as well as discipline in managing strategic resources. He also assured that the current national energy reserves are still safe.
“Through these steps, Kemhan and TNI invite all elements to jointly strengthen national resilience by prioritising efficiency, responsibility, and the spirit of national defence,” he concluded.