What Indonesia’s warnings of energy cuts mean for Asean

Indonesia’s warnings of curbing energy exports to countries it deems disrespectful amid regional tensions have put Singapore and other Southeast Asian buyers on notice, exposing the risks of relying on a neighbour increasingly protective of its resources.

But analysts see little chance of Jakarta following through on the threat, given its own economic interests and the mutual benefits of regional energy cooperation, including the long-planned Asean Power Grid.

On Thursday, Coordinating Minister for Downstreaming and Energy Transition Bahlil Lahadalia said he would not hesitate to consider halting exports to countries that did not respect Indonesia.

“Don’t come asking for help only when you’re in need, but when other issues that can actually be discussed arrive, act like you have no sense of propriety, like someone who doesn’t know how to conduct yourself properly,” said Bahlil at the launch of a gas facility, as reported by local media.