Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to clean energy transition and the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, despite the United States’ recent withdrawal from the global pact. One concrete step was through the development of hydrogen as a clean energy source.
Speaking at the Global Hydrogen Ecosystem 2025 Summit & Exhibition held at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JCC) on Tuesday, Indonesian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia, emphasized that Indonesia will not backtrack on its climate commitments.
“While many countries are beginning to hesitate and show inconsistency, I want to state clearly that Indonesia remains fully committed to this path—though we will proceed with caution and deep consideration,” Bahlil said.
The U.S. officially exited the Paris Agreement on January 20, 2025, the same day Donald Trump was inaugurated for a second term as President.
Bahlil noted that several nations, once vocal proponents of renewable energy and carbon reduction targets, are now wavering in their dedication. Despite these shifts, Indonesia continues to pursue its goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2060.
“Indonesia will always be part of those carrying out that commitment, but we will do so with careful and thoughtful consideration,” Bahlil said.
Indonesia’s energy transition strategy is anchored in the vision of energy self-sufficiency, a central pillar of President Prabowo Subianto’s national development agenda. This vision includes not only reducing dependence on fossil fuels but also expanding the use of green and renewable energy for the welfare of the people.
One of Indonesia’s key initiatives in this effort is the development of hydrogen as a renewable energy source. Bahlil said the country is well-positioned in this sector due to its abundant natural resources.
“Not many countries in the world are as blessed as Indonesia,” he said. “We have gas, coal, and water. Hydrogen is a green energy source, and its production requires renewable inputs, and we have them all.”
Hydrogen energy, Bahlil added, will be a critical part of Indonesia’s broader strategy toward energy self-sufficiency and a cleaner future. He sees it as a promising alternative to fossil fuels, helping the nation meet its 2060 net-zero emissions target.
As global momentum around clean energy shifts, Indonesia aims to stay the course using hydrogen and other renewable sources not just to meet international commitments, but also to chart a more sustainable and prosperous path for the people.
(Raidi/Agung)
