Stories of Oil and Gas Workers Celebrating Eid at Sea to Safeguard Energy

JAKARTA - As millions of Indonesians gather with their families to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, some workers in the energy sector are experiencing the holiday differently, stationed in the middle of the sea, far from their loved ones.

They are Pertamina officers who continue to serve on offshore facilities, ensuring that oil and natural gas (migas) production runs smoothly to maintain the national energy supply.

One of them is Andi Nandayani, a Plant Operator at Zulu Flow Station, Regional 2 Zone 5 of Pertamina Hulu Energi Offshore North West Java (PHE ONWJ). This year marks her first experience celebrating Eid at her workplace since joining in 2025.

For the woman affectionately called Nanda, celebrating Eid at sea is no easy matter.

“My husband fully supports my decision to stay on duty. But my child is still young, so I have to explain it slowly why Mum can’t come home for Eid. That’s what drains my emotions the most,” said Nanda.

As the only female worker at the facility, Nanda holds the responsibility as a Plant Operator, tasked with ensuring all production equipment operates safely and stably in accordance with procedures so that migas production remains optimal.

Although challenging, she admits to feeling proud to be part of the effort to maintain national energy resilience.

A similar story comes from Fanji Rochmat, Senior Supervisor at Foxtrot Plant in PHE ONWJ.

This year’s Eid marks the ninth time he has spent it at the offshore location.

“The feelings are mixed. Of course, there’s sadness because I can’t celebrate Eid with the extended family. But there’s also pride in contributing to national energy resilience,” said Fanji.

In his role, Fanji is responsible for ensuring the production flow from well platforms is properly processed at the flow station and forwarded to the gathering station, including maintaining the gas lift supply as well as coordinating maintenance and repairs of production facilities.

Amid the limitations, the workers still strive to create a warm Eid atmosphere.

Rully Bagja Anugrah, a Production Operator at the Offshore Southeast Sumatera North Business Unit (OSES NBU), revealed that camaraderie with colleagues serves as a balm.

He and his colleagues performed Eid prayers together on the platform, exchanged greetings, and enjoyed breakfast together.