Ministry Of Energy And Mineral Resources Completes Seismic-Aru Exploration Data

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) reported that data on the results of Eastern Indonesia's exploration obtained from a 2D seismic survey in the 1.000-kilometer off-shore Seram (km) area had been successfully completed earlier in July 2024.

The seismic survey conducted by Petronas was represented by PC North Madura II Ltd. (PCNM2) is part of the transfer of the exact commitment value of USD 6.8 million from the former Surumana Working Area which is the obligation of Petronas Carigali (Surumana) Ltd. (PCSL).

The survey has implemented the latest technology and uses a 12 km cable length which is the longest span compared to previous seismic acquisitions in the region.

Director of Hulu Oil and Gas Bumi Ariana Soemanto said the seismic survey was a form of support to see the potential for oil and gas in the Seram-Aru area.

"This Seram-Aru area is included in the five focus areas for accelerating exploration activities of the Eastern Indonesia Region and is expected to add geological and geophysical data, as well as providing a better seismic picture in the region," said Ariana in Jakarta, Thursday, August 15.

Ariana said the government had approved the return of the Surumana Working Area with the note that the Contractor was obliged to complete the remaining value of the Certain Commitment that had not yet been implemented. The contractor has submitted an exploration activity plan to fulfill the transfer of commitment and was approved by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources on March 30, 2023.

"The Directorate General of Oil and Gas of the Earth supports the Contractors of the Surumana and SKK Migas Working Areas to complete the transfer of the remaining values of Commitment. It must be the former Surumana Working Area through exploration activities in the Open Region in accordance with the portion of each Participation Interest holder," Ariana added.

Ariana also hopes that Petronas can continue to support the increase in national oil and gas production and reserves. Especially to get significant discoveries through the acquisition of the new data which can then support the 1 million barrel program.

"The Directorate General of Oil and Gas together with SKK Migas will continue to support Petronas' efforts to evaluate the Seram-Aru area into a new working area, as Petronas' commitment to continue operating in Indonesia," concluded Ariana.