Shell Returns to Indonesia, Offshore Oil and Gas Becomes Investment Magnet

A positive signal has emerged from Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas investment stage. Global energy company Shell has expressed serious interest in returning to invest in the national upstream oil and gas sector, particularly to develop offshore potential or offshore working areas.

The news was conveyed by SKK Migas chief Djoko Siswanto to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources on Thursday, 20 August 2026. Djoko reported that he represented the Minister in receiving Shell’s head office management, who conveyed serious interest in returning to invest in Indonesia.

“PT Shell’s head office management stated its very serious interest in returning to invest in Indonesia’s upstream oil and gas sector, particularly in offshore,” Djoko Siswanto reported.

The meeting signalled that Indonesia is once again attracting the attention of world-class oil and gas companies. Shell’s focus on offshore activities also demonstrates the continued appeal of oil and gas potential in Indonesian waters.

During the meeting, Shell’s management also conveyed their respectful regards to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources. They expressed hope that the Minister would always be granted health, success, and protection from Allah SWT.

Djoko conveyed the Minister’s regards back to Shell’s management.

According to Djoko, Shell expressed appreciation for the government’s communication and support. They also specifically requested government support to ensure the investment plan can proceed smoothly.

“They said thank you and requested support from us,” Djoko said in his report.

The return of Shell’s serious interest provides fresh momentum for the government’s efforts to encourage upstream oil and gas investment. Amid the need to increase national production while pursuing new reserves, investment from global oil and gas companies is an important factor in strengthening exploration and field development activities.

Moreover, Indonesia’s offshore areas still hold significant potential that requires technology, capital, and experience from global-scale oil and gas companies.

Djoko’s report also shows that communication between the government and prospective investors continues to be built to create a more attractive upstream oil and gas investment climate.

SKK Migas and Shell have now opened a new chapter in exploring upstream oil and gas investment in Indonesia—with the open sea as one of the most attractive arenas.