Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian government launched the Energy Sentinel 2026 program on Friday to tighten oversight of subsidized and assigned fuel distribution, deploying local young people to monitor 3,679 gas stations nationwide.
Deputy Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Yuliot launched the program in Jakarta on Friday (Oct. 23) during the peak celebration of the 81st Mining and Energy Day.
The ministry also presented the 2026 Subroto Energy Awards at the event to industry players, local governments and figures who contributed to the energy and mining sectors, according to a statement received here Sunday.
Under the program, officers will be directly involved in monitoring energy distribution, strengthening oversight data and preventing leakage and misuse of subsidized and assigned fuels.
The government hopes the initiative will yield competent, dedicated energy monitors with high integrity to ensure energy supplies reach the public equitably and effectively.
"This assignment is a strategic vehicle to cultivate young talent through direct field experience and better technical competencies in the energy sector, ultimately optimizing transparent, targeted and sustainable subsidy management," Yuliot said.
To carry out the oversight, officers will mainly be deployed in their home provinces or nearby areas.
"This local empowerment approach is designed to leverage regional geographical knowledge, streamline logistical efficiency, foster community acceptance, and ensure on-the-ground resilience and readiness," the deputy minister said.
The program, a joint initiative of BPH Migas, the Downstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Agency, and the Akamigas Energy and Mineral Polytechnic (PEM), is open to young graduates from Oct. 24 to Nov. 1.
Yuliot said the Subroto Energy Awards are more than an annual tradition, honoring the dedication of Prof. Subroto, who laid the foundation for Indonesia's energy and mining sectors.
He stressed that managing energy resources is not only about pursuing economic value and production targets but also carries a heavy responsibility to safeguard national sovereignty and public welfare.
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Translator: Kelik Dewanto, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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