Minister observes biodiesel program development in South Papua

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin paid a working visit to Boven Digoel District in South Papua to observe the development site of a palm oil-based biodiesel program.

In a statement received by ANTARA in Jakarta on Sunday, the minister said the visit confirmed the government's commitment to gradually building national energy independence while strengthening the country's security and economic sovereignty.

He further explained that the program forms part of the government's strategy to bolster energy security and reduce reliance on imported fuels, especially diesel.

Additionally, he noted that achieving national energy independence is one of President Prabowo Subianto's programs in energy security.

"This step is expected to reduce our dependence on energy supplies from abroad," he stated.

Sjamsoeddin also emphasized that the aerial inspection of the planned palm oil plantation development area not only demonstrates the Defense Ministry's commitment to maintaining stability in eastern Indonesia but also shows the government's serious focus on strategic development in Papua.

During the visit, he was accompanied by several ministers from the Red and White Cabinet, including Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman, Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni, and Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo.