Indonesian minister says country could stop exporting energy to others that 'disrespect it'

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Downstreaming and Energy Transition Bahlil Lahadalia has threatened to stop energy exports to countries that "disrespect" it.

Speaking at the official launch of a natural gas infrastructure on Oct. 22, Bahlil said he "will conduct an evaluation" into energy export contracts Indonesia currently has with other countries, according to Antara.

He also urged countries that have issues with Indonesia to discuss them amicably and resolve the problem on the principle of mutual respect.

Bahlil, who is also Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, was quoted as saying, "Don’t come begging when you need something, but when there is another issue that can actually be discussed, behave like a relative who has no manners. This is what we do not want."

Conversely, he said that he is willing to draw up contracts with countries that have respectful and mutually beneficial relationships with Indonesia, even if there is currently no existing one.

However, he did not name any specific country.

He emphasised Indonesia's adherence to its national sovereignty, which he described as a long struggle.

Indonesia in 'survival mode'

Earlier on Oct. 21, Bahlil mentioned considering not extending gas exports to neighbouring countries as Indonesia is supposedly in "survival mode".

"So, if other countries have different perspectives for us, they should be careful. I may also consider not extending my gas exports to neighbouring countries," he said in Jakarta, according to Kompas.

"Because we have to survive, we must first meet our domestic needs."

He added that other ministries will also implement measures aligned with this goal, echoing Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's earlier calls for his country to safeguard its natural resources and prioritise national interests.

"Now it is politics based on strength. Those who are strong will survive, and we can see what happens in the Middle East and elsewhere; those who are weak will perish," Prabowo said on Oct. 21.

According to The Straits Times, Indonesia exported natural gases to several countries in 2025.

Japan received about 3.8 million tonnes, followed by China with about 3.79 million tonnes, while Singapore received the third most natural gas with 3.22 million tonnes.

Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong also cited Indonesia as one of Singapore's main sources of natural gas, with existing contracts set to expire by the end of 2028.