Two major Japanese companies—Japan Petroleum Exploration (Japex) and Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (Jogmec)—have expressed interest in exploring upstream oil and gas investment opportunities in Aceh, according to the Aceh Oil and Gas Management Agency (BPMA). BPMA Chief Nasri Djalal said this reflects a positive signal for the region’s energy investment climate. The interest arose after BPMA presented Aceh’s hydrocarbon potential—particularly in the North Sumatra Basin—during the Indonesia Petroleum Association (IPA) Convex 2025 held in Tokyo, Japan. Following this engagement, BPMA has been in close communication with Japex and Jogmec to provide necessary information and facilitate the early assessment process.
As an initial step, both Japex and Jogmec have submitted a proposal for a Joint Study Area (JSA) to Indonesia’s Directorate General of Oil and Gas (Ditjen Migas) to conduct a joint study in the North Sumatra Basin. The study aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the geological structure and potential oil and gas reserves, serving as a foundation for future collaboration. Nasri emphasized BPMA’s commitment to ensuring transparency and professionalism in facilitating investment, while continuing to promote Aceh’s energy potential both nationally and internationally. He added that with strong support from the central and local governments, as well as industry players, these efforts could significantly enhance Indonesia’s oil and gas production and reserves from the Aceh region.
