Jakarta – Indonesian authorities are closely monitoring the passage of two Pertamina tankers, the Pertamina Pride and the Gamsunoro, through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy supplies. Recent diplomatic efforts have yielded a positive response from Iranian authorities, signaling a potential pathway for the vessels to transit the strait safely, a development crucial for maintaining Indonesia’s energy security.
The situation arose amid heightened tensions in the region, prompting a swift response from the Indonesian government. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, working in coordination with the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran, initiated communication with Iranian counterparts to ensure the safe passage of the tankers. This diplomatic push underscores Indonesia’s commitment to safeguarding its economic interests and the well-being of its maritime personnel operating in potentially volatile waters.
According to Vahd Nabyl A. Mulachela, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Iran has provided a positive response, indicating willingness to allow the vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. “Currently, these aspects are being followed up by relevant parties on technical and operational levels,” Mulachela stated in an official release on Sunday, March 29, 2026. This represents a significant step towards de-escalation and a return to normal shipping operations for the Indonesian tankers.
The Indonesian government’s proactive approach extends beyond diplomatic channels. Dwi Anggia, spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), emphasized the close coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure national energy supply resilience. “The Ministry of ESDM continues to communicate and coordinate intensively with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the process of Indonesian ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz can run safely and smoothly,” Anggia affirmed. “In this process, not only the cargo is important, but the safety of the crew is the government’s top priority.”
Diversifying Energy Sources to Mitigate Risk
As a precautionary measure, Indonesia is actively diversifying its sources of crude oil and fuel imports, reducing its reliance on the Middle East. This strategy, directly instructed by President Prabowo Subianto to Minister of ESDM Bahlil Lahadalia, aims to bolster the nation’s energy independence and mitigate potential disruptions to supply chains. In 2025, Pertamina imported 135.33 million barrels of crude oil, with approximately 19% – or 25.36 million barrels – originating from Saudi Arabia. The U.S. Energy Information Administration provides further data on global oil import patterns.
The government is actively securing alternative supplies from Africa, Latin America, the United States, and Malaysia. Long-standing cooperative agreements with Singapore and Malaysia also provide a stable source of fuel products. This diversification strategy is designed to ensure a consistent energy supply for Indonesia, even in the face of geopolitical instability.
Pertamina Prepares for Transit
Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) is finalizing all administrative and operational preparations to facilitate the safe passage of the Pertamina Pride and the Gamsunoro through the Strait of Hormuz. Muhammad Baron, Vice President of Corporate Communication at Pertamina, expressed gratitude for the government’s full support. “Our priority remains the safety of all crew members, as well as the security of the ships and their cargo,” Baron stated. “We ask for prayers and support from all Indonesian people so that this process can run smoothly.”
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is one of the world’s most strategically important oil chokepoints. Approximately 20% of global oil consumption passes through the strait daily, making its security paramount for the global economy. The Council on Foreign Relations provides ongoing analysis of security concerns in the Persian Gulf.
Ensuring Crew Safety and Cargo Security
The Indonesian government’s response has been characterized by a dual focus: securing the safe transit of the vessels and prioritizing the well-being of the Indonesian crew onboard. This commitment reflects a broader policy of protecting Indonesian citizens and economic assets operating in international waters. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to maintain open communication channels with all relevant parties to monitor the situation and address any emerging challenges.
The situation highlights the complex interplay between energy security, diplomatic relations, and maritime safety. Indonesia’s proactive engagement with Iran, coupled with its diversification strategy, demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding its national interests in a volatile geopolitical landscape. The successful transit of the Pertamina Pride and the Gamsunoro will serve as a testament to the effectiveness of these efforts.
The government is expected to provide further updates on the progress of the tankers’ passage through the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days. Pertamina will continue to coordinate closely with Indonesian authorities to ensure a safe and secure journey for its vessels and crew. Readers seeking more information on Indonesia’s energy policies can visit the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources website.
The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of international cooperation in maintaining stability and ensuring the free flow of energy resources. Indonesia remains committed to working with its partners to address the challenges facing the global energy market and promote a secure and sustainable energy future.
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