en.malanginspirasi.com – President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the mandatory B50 Biodiesel program at Rest Area KM 57 on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road, Karawang, West Java, on Thursday, July 9th.
The launch marks Indonesia as the first country in the world to implement a 50 percent biodiesel blend in diesel fuel.
In his speech, Prabowo emphasized that the B50 program is a concrete step toward national energy independence.
“With B50, we will no longer depend on diesel imports. This will save massive amounts of foreign exchange and strengthen our energy resilience,” he stated.
In addition to foreign exchange savings from the energy sector, the President also highlighted the enormous potential of the natural resources sector.
He stated that a scientific expedition team involving the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), several universities, and supported by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) had recently discovered vast reserves of gold and various minerals in the Papuan Mountains.
The President also expressed optimism for Indonesia’s future.
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He mentioned that these achievements should go hand in hand with a commitment from all elements of the nation to safeguard the nation by eradicating corruption, smuggling, narcotics, and online gambling, which have been detrimental to the state and society.
Addressing an audience of scientists, academics, and Pertamina officials, the President encouraged continued innovation in biodiesel development.
He expressed his hope that the implementation of B50 would not be the end, but rather a stepping stone towards developing biodiesel with a higher plant-based energy content.
“Thank you, scientists from universities. Continue this research. Thank you, Pertamina and all your staff. Keep going, don’t stop at B50. If possible, B60,” the President said.
The success of the B50 program, he continued, lays the foundation for Indonesia’s major steps in accelerating the transition to clean energy.
The government continues to encourage the development of new and renewable energy to strengthen national energy security and increase Indonesia’s competitiveness globally.
“What will happen when world leaders recognize us? We’re known for building 100 gigawatts of solar power, 100 gigawatts. This year, PLN will start with 17 gigawatts. 100 gigawatts in two years,” he said.
What is B50?
B50 is a diesel fuel blend consisting of 50 percent biodiesel (derived from palm oil or other vegetable oils) and 50 percent conventional diesel.
The program is an upgrade from the previous B40 mandate and has been rolled out nationally since July 1, 2026, with gradual distribution to gas stations (SPBUs) across the country.
The government projects that this policy will save tens to hundreds of trillions of rupiah in foreign exchange annually, boost the downstream palm oil industry, and reduce carbon emissions.
