Energy Security a Key Element in Boosting Economic Growth, Says Coordinating Minister AHY

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has stated that energy security is one of the key elements for boosting economic growth.

“Indonesia must have the determination to achieve energy independence. Energy security is important, a main element, because as we strive to continually increase economic and industrial growth and improve public welfare, we need an energy supply that is sufficient, affordable and uninterrupted,” AHY said at a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday.

However, he continued, this has a consequence: the greater the energy required, the greater the CO2 emissions and carbon emissions produced.

“This is certainly bad for the Earth and the living environment, for health, and it often leads to crises not only environmental but also health-related. That is why Indonesia’s spirit is also to carry out a new renewable energy transition,” he said.

Therefore, AHY said, the aim is to use energy more efficiently, while moving towards vehicle electrification.

According to him, this requires policy, support from all parties and public education. Incentives must be provided, and ultimately Indonesia also wants to develop electric vehicles, including electric trucks and electric buses, domestically.

“This is one of the solutions we are currently overseeing. But in the end, we want to ensure that development must not stop, and we want to make sure that what we do today is also responsible towards the future of our children and grandchildren,” AHY said.