INPEX strengthens coordination with local governments on Abadi LNG project

INPEX Masela, Ltd., the operator of the Abadi gas field in the Masela Working Area in Maluku, has strengthened coordination with the Maluku provincial government and the Tanimbar Islands regency as it advances development of the Abadi LNG project, a designated national strategic project.

The company said it conducted courtesy visits to the Maluku provincial government in Ambon on Dec. 8 and to the Tanimbar Islands regency administration in Saumlaki on Dec. 9 to provide updates on project progress and reinforce cooperation with local authorities.

INPEX Masela President Director Kenji Hasegawa and his management team were received by Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa and Tanimbar Islands Regent Ricky Jauwerissa during the visits.

Hasegawa said the meetings were aimed at updating local governments on development activities planned for 2025 and 2026, while expressing appreciation for continued support from regional authorities.

“We would like to thank the Maluku provincial government and the Tanimbar Islands regency administration for their support. During these meetings, we presented updates on development activities for 2025 and our plans for 2026,” Hasegawa said.

INPEX is currently working on the front-end engineering design (FEED) phase of the project, a critical stage required to advance toward a final investment decision (FID).

Hasegawa said the Abadi project is expected to play an important role in supporting Indonesia’s energy security by contributing to higher oil and gas output, while also delivering economic and social benefits at the regional level.

The revised development plan for the Abadi project, approved by the government in 2023, includes the integration of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology to support the production of lower-carbon liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa emphasized the importance of transparent and continuous communication between the regional government and INPEX to ensure smooth project implementation.

“The provincial government is fully committed to supporting the Abadi Gas Project as a national strategic project with a vital role in Indonesia’s energy future,” Lewerissa said.

Tanimbar Islands Regent Ricky Jauwerissa said close coordination, streamlined permitting and community involvement would be essential to ensure the project proceeds smoothly and delivers maximum benefits to local residents.

The Abadi LNG project involves the construction of two onshore LNG liquefaction trains with a total production capacity of 9.5 million metric tons per year, pipeline gas supply of 150 million standard cubic feet per day for domestic use, and condensate production of about 35,000 barrels per day.

INPEX operates the Abadi gas field with a 65% participating interest, alongside partners Pertamina Hulu Energi Masela, which holds 20%, and Petronas Masela Sdn. Bhd., with 15%.

Editing by Reiner Simanjuntak