Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia’s Minister of State-Owned Enterprises, Erick Thohir, announced the appointment of Simon Mantiri as the new CEO of PT Pertamina, the country’s state-owned oil and gas corporation, replacing Nicke Widyawati, who had led the company for six years.
Erick Thohir praised Widyawati for her dedication and noted that her time at Pertamina had set a high standard for performance.
“Nicke’s contributions over the past six years have been extraordinary. She’s left a strong foundation,” Thohir remarked, adding that Mantiri’s younger perspective would open doors for broader and more effective innovation at the company. “Simon is a young leader with a fresh perspective, and we’re confident he can implement meaningful changes for Pertamina’s future.”
The CEO change is part of Thohir’s broader push to modernize and optimize Indonesia’s energy sector, focusing on operational efficiency and addressing subsidy distribution challenges.
Simon Mantiri Profile, The New President Director of Pertamina
Thohir recently announced an overhaul in Pertamina’s oversight structure, appointing former law enforcement officials Mochamad Iriawan, widely known as “Iwan Bule,” and Condro Kirono to Pertamina’s board as commissioners. Both Iriawan and Kirono are tasked with monitoring the distribution of energy subsidies, ensuring funds are directed appropriately and effectively.
“Improving oversight is essential to minimizing inefficiencies in subsidy distribution,” Thohir emphasized.
He clarified that these inefficiencies are not due to corruption but stem from data inconsistencies that prevent subsidies from reaching targeted communities. The new oversight is expected to optimize the use of public funds in Indonesia’s energy sector, improving both accountability and service delivery.
Pertamina’s leadership transition comes as the company navigates a complex energy landscape, balancing national resource management and international sustainability goals.
This renewed focus on efficient operations and tighter oversight under Mantiri and the new board members highlights the Indonesian government’s commitment to ensuring accessible, reliable energy for its people.
(Becky)
