PEP Commences Offshore Field Development in Morowali Utara
In a bid to enhance production reserves, Pertamina EP Donggi Matindok Field, a part of the Zona 13 Regional Indonesia Timur Subholding Upstream Pertamina, has embarked on an exploration campaign to seek oil and natural gas reserves. The drilling of the West Beluga (WBG)-001 exploration well began on December 26, 2024, in the districts of Mamosalato and Bungku Utara, located in North Morowali, Central Sulawesi, with an anticipated completion by the end of March 2025. As of January 2, 2025, the WBG-001 drilling has reached a depth of 459 mMD out of the final target depth of 2541 mMD/2500 mSSTVD.
Drilling Campaign in Sulawesi Tengah and Papua
This initiative is part of the broader Drilling Campaign Regional Indonesia Timur conducted across Sulawesi Tengah and Papua throughout 2024-2025. Prior explorations in Sulawesi Tengah took place at five well sites, namely East Wolai (EWO)-001, West Wolai (WWO)-001, Julang Emas (JLE), and Yaki Emas in Banggai Regency, as well as Tedong (TDG)-001 in North Morowali Regency.
New Challenges and Opportunities
Reflecting on the year 2024, Muhamad Arifin, the Director of Regional Indonesia Timur, expressed the significance of the WBG-001 drilling as a commitment to sustaining operations and oil and gas production. This offshore exploration well marks a new challenge for Pertamina EP Donggi Matindok Field. Dedi Yusmen, the Vice President of Exploration for Regional Indonesia Timur, highlighted the pivotal role of the WBG-001 well in kickstarting a series of offshore exploration wells in Sulawesi, aimed at proving additional oil and gas reserves.
Future Prospects and Community Engagement
The Regional Indonesia Timur area is deemed crucial for Indonesia’s oil and gas reserves, given its untapped potential, particularly in offshore regions. Following the completion of the WBG-001 well, the drilling is set to continue with the ROA ROA (ROA)-001 well, located in close proximity to the WBG-001 site, scheduled for April 2025. Rig mobilization has been ongoing from mid-November to December, accompanied by community engagement sessions with local fishermen to ensure awareness and cooperation during the drilling activities.
As Pertamina EP ventures into new frontiers of offshore exploration, the commitment to sustainability and community involvement remains paramount. The intricate balance between technological advancement and environmental stewardship underscores the company’s dedication to responsible resource management. By fostering partnerships with local communities and embracing innovative practices, Pertamina EP aims to not only drive economic growth but also uphold environmental preservation for future generations.
