Indonesia’s President Prabowo inaugurates five new dams to boost rice output and energy savings

On 10 July 2026 President Prabowo Subianto ceremonially opened five new dams in Lombok (NTB), Aceh, Central Java and Bali. The projects, part of the national strategic plan, represent a state investment of about Rp9.79 trillion.

The President said the dams will increase rice production by up to one million tons and provide irrigation, flood control, micro‑hydro and solar power, with the Meninting dam alone capable of delivering 0.15 m³/s of water for roughly 100 000 people.

Prabowo linked the inauguration to the mandatory B50 biodiesel blend, claiming the policy will halt diesel imports and save the country around Rp170 trillion in foreign‑exchange outlays. He added that the dams are a long‑term investment for food‑security and regional prosperity.

In his speech he also delivered a stern warning against corruption, emphasizing the need for honesty over politeness when speaking to the media and urging officials to act in the public’s interest.