Enhancing Energy Resilience: Addressing Dependence on Fuel Imports

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Indonesia’s dependence on imported fuel oil (BBM) remains a major challenge in the energy sector. Amid global geopolitical dynamics and potential disruptions to crude oil supplies, this situation raises serious questions about how prepared Indonesia is to face an energy crisis if the supply chain is interrupted. According to energy conversion expert and lecturer in engineering at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Tri Yuswidjajanto Zaenuri, this dependence stems from limitations in domestic production capacity, both upstream and downstream. “Our refineries are set up to process oil from the Middle East, so if the supply of crude oil decreases, production will certainly drop. With capacity already lower than demand, reduced production means the solution is imports. Meanwhile, we have to compete with other countries to obtain BBM,” Tri told Kompas.com on Saturday (4/4/2026). He explained that the specific design of refineries for certain types of oil limits Indonesia’s flexibility in processing various types of crude oil. On the other hand, the current national refinery capacity is indeed not yet able to meet the rising BBM consumption needs. As a result, imports become a short-term solution that continues to be relied upon to maintain domestic energy availability. However, this dependence carries serious consequences, especially during global upheavals. In crisis situations, Indonesia must compete with other countries for BBM supplies, which could trigger price spikes and risks of distribution delays. Furthermore, this condition also reveals structural vulnerabilities in the national energy system. When one point in the supply chain is disrupted, the impact can immediately be felt at the consumer level, from price increases to potential shortages. Without comprehensive improvements, the risk of global energy crises will continue to loom over Indonesia. In the long term, efforts in energy transition and the development of alternative energy are seen as key to strengthening national energy resilience, while also reducing the pressure on BBM import needs that have long been the main weak point.