Indonesia accelerates Oil and Gas Bill and exploration drilling

Indonesia is accelerating the legislative process for the Oil and Gas Bill (RUU Migas). The Minister of State Secretary has requested the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources to complete the Problem Inventory List (DIM) by October 12, 2026. This timeline is intended to ensure the document is submitted to the President and subsequently to the House of Representatives (DPR RI) within the required 60-day window.

In parallel with legislative developments, PT Saka Energi Indonesia (SAKA), a subsidiary of Pertamina's Gas Subholding, has commenced drilling the Saka Manpatu-1 (SM-1) exploration well. Located in the Pekawai Working Area in East Kalimantan, the drilling operation began on September 22, 2026. The project utilizes Jack-Up Rig Soehanah and employs Casing While Drilling (CWD) technology to enhance operational efficiency and safety while testing for new hydrocarbon potential.