Meeting with ESDM: These Are the Rigorous Testing Stages BOBIBOS Must Undergo
Supporters of BOBIBOS, a straw-based biofuel, have once again met with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM). The two parties held a closed technical meeting at the ESDM Office in Jakarta on Thursday (23/4/2026). The meeting discussed the testing stages that must be completed before the product enters the commercialisation phase.
BOBIBOS founder M Iklas Thamrin explained that the testing process is structured in stages, starting with laboratory tests conducted by the Centre for Oil and Gas Testing (Lemigas). This initial stage determines the basic characteristics of the fuel before proceeding to further testing.
“In the initial stage, the testing will cover various important aspects, such as physical and chemical properties, stability, compatibility with engines, ease of flow, ignition quality, and corrosiveness levels,” said Iklas in Jakarta, quoted on Friday (24/4/2026).
The testing does not stop at basic characteristics. Lemigas also evaluates the fuel’s performance through exhaust gas emission tests, engine durability, combustion deposit formation, and the condition of engine components after use.
At that stage, Lemigas takes samples from storage tanks at several points with strict procedures. The samples are placed in certified containers, complete with labelling and inspection reports to ensure the validity of the test results.
“From here, it will be determined which category of fuel BOBIBOS falls into, existing or a new type, so that the parameters can be established,” said Iklas.
After passing the laboratory and bench tests, BOBIBOS will proceed to road testing (road test). This stage simulates real vehicle usage, covering travel aspects, maintenance, and readiness for commercialisation testing and product socialisation.
The entire series of tests forms the basis for research dissemination and product downstreaming. The results also serve as technical references for the government in formulating energy policies.
BOBIBOS mentor, who is also a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives Mulyadi, stated that the development of this fuel is directed towards meeting society’s energy needs. The product is targeted to emerge as an affordable, high-quality, and environmentally friendly alternative.