Aceh Governor seeks Hashim Djojohadikusumo’s aid to develop Arun KEK

Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf (also known as Mualem) asked Presidential Special Envoy for Energy and Climate Change Hashim Djojohadikusumo to support the development of the Arun Special Economic Zone (KEK) in Lhokseumawe. The meeting in Setiabudi, South Jakarta focused on strengthening investment and downstream oil‑gas processing (hilirisasi) using gas from the Andaman Block, part of which is operated by UAE‑based Mubadala Energy. The governor stressed respect for central government decisions while urging that the project delivers maximum benefits for Aceh’s people, including job creation, growth of gas‑based industries, and enhanced economic competitiveness. Both sides agreed to cooperate to create a conducive investment climate and to accelerate permits and licensing for the project.