The government is closely monitoring the development of the Tuna Block oil and gas project amid uncertainties following a shift in its operating partnership, affirming that the production schedule remains aligned with the approved Plan of Development (PoD).
The upstream oil and gas regulatory task force (SKK Migas) emphasized that despite geopolitical constraints, such as the European Union embargo, the project is expected to remain on track under the sole leadership of Russian Oil and Gas Company Zarubezhneft, the designated operator following Harbour Energy’s exit.
“The core focus remains ensuring the project is on stream as per its PoD timeline,” SKK Migas spokesman, Hudi S. Suryodipuro told repoters during Media Gathering held by SKK Migas in Jakarta, on Friday, July 25, 2025.
“If there are any issues, we expect the company to report them promptly,” he added.
Zarubezhneft, a Russian-linked energy firm, is currently navigating the transition after its previous joint venture partner, Harbour Energy, withdrew due to complications with cross-border financial transactions impacted by EU sanctions.
“The issue wasn’t with ZN per se, but rather with Harbour, as transactions like cash calls were rendered unfeasible. That’s what stalled the process,” Hudi cited.
The official noted that the transition process particularly Harbour's formal exit and the identification of a potential replacement partner is ongoing.
SKK Migas confirmed that any business-to-business (B2B) arrangements are permitted under Indonesia’s upstream investment rules, as long as companies report changes and requests through formal channels.
“Every production sharing contractor (PSC) has the right to open a data room or invite investors, subject to SKK Migas approval. Our principle is clear as long as the commitments in the approved PoD are upheld, we are flexible. No revisions to the existing PoD have been submitted thus far,” he added.
While names of potential replacement partners remain under wraps, the agency stressed that it continues to support investment into projects like Tuna Block.
“We acknowledge that we still require strong investment support to accelerate development and boost production. We welcome any investor, as long as they can contribute to project acceleration and output enhancement,” Hudi cited.
SKK Migas declined to comment on specific investor negotiations, saying further updates would be shared once formal submissions are received.
“Let’s just wait for the official statement from the head of SKK Migas,” Hudi concluded.
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