DPR Calls B50 Launch a Strategic Step Towards Energy Independence
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) Sari Yuliati said the launch of 50 per cent biodiesel (B50) is a strategic step towards strengthening national energy independence.
In a statement issued in Jakarta on Friday, Sari said the policy marks an important milestone in reinforcing energy resilience whilst promoting an economic transformation based on domestic resources.
“We extend our highest appreciation to President Prabowo Subianto and his entire team. This demonstrates a national development direction that is increasingly oriented towards independence, sustainability and the national interest,” she said.
According to Sari, the use of biodiesel demonstrates Indonesia’s ability to optimise its palm oil potential as one of its leading resources to meet national energy needs whilst strengthening Indonesia’s position amid geopolitical dynamics and uncertainty in the global energy market.
The Coordinator for Economic and Financial Affairs at the DPR RI said the policy also has the potential to save the country’s foreign exchange by reducing diesel imports, thereby strengthening the trade balance and national economic stability.
“In a global situation full of uncertainty, energy resilience is one of the main foundations of state sovereignty. Therefore, biodiesel development must be viewed as a long-term strategic investment for Indonesia’s future,” she said.
Sari urged that the implementation of B50 be carried out gradually and measurably, supported by the readiness of distribution infrastructure, improved product quality, stronger research and technological innovation, and synergy between the government, state-owned enterprises, industry players, academics and society.
She said the DPR stands ready to provide support through its legislative, budgetary and oversight functions to ensure that the government’s various strategic programmes in the energy sector run optimally and deliver tangible benefits to the public.
“Energy independence is part of the great aspiration towards a sovereign, advanced and competitive Indonesia. The implementation of Biodiesel B50 is a concrete step towards realising that vision,” she said.
Earlier, President Prabowo Subianto launched the Mandatory B50 Programme in Karawang Regency, West Java, on Thursday (9/7), in an effort to strengthen energy independence and reduce dependence on imported fuel.