Kutai Kartanegara – PT Pertamina Hulu Mahakam (PHM) marked a significant milestone with the 50th anniversary of the Handil Central Processing Area (HCA) Field in Muara Jawa District, Kutai Kartanegara, East Kalimantan. The achievement reflected the Company’s success in managing an oil and gas field that has endured technical, economic, and social challenges through the effective use of competent human resources, innovation, and technology, as well as strong relationships with stakeholders.

Since the beginning of production in 1975, the HCA Field has been one of the strategic oil and gas assets in the Mahakam Working Area, which has been managed by PHM since 2018. The first drilling at the HCA Field was carried out at the H-1 Well on February 15, 1974.

PHM General Manager Setyo Sapto Edi stated that for an oil and gas field, reaching 50 years should not necessarily be seen as an aging phase. On the contrary, this half-century milestone marks a golden era where operational resilience, the adoption of advanced technology, and stakeholder support serve as the foundation for sustaining production and contributing to the nation. “The continued operation of the HCA Field for 50 years is the result of consistent adoption of modern technology, a strong commitment to sustainable operations, and solid synergy with the government, communities, and all stakeholders. Without their support, this long journey would not have been possible,” said Setyo.

He also added that the Company believes the application of innovation and technology plays a vital role in maintaining recovery and production levels in oil and gas fields. The HCA Field has proven that good and efficient management, combined with the implementation of advanced technologies, can extend the productive life of a field, continuing to provide value and benefits for the nation and future generations.

Throughout its journey, the HCA Field has faced various challenges, including fluctuating oil prices and reserves, as well as increasing demands for sustainable environmental management. However, through the optimization and application of innovation, digital operations, and adaptive field management practices, the HCA Field has remained a vital national energy asset, continuing to make a tangible contribution to national energy resilience.

Setyo also reminded all workers always to prioritize safety, which remains one of the Company’s core values. “Safety is a top priority for the Company. We believe that strong safety performance supports the success and sustainability of our oil and gas operations and business,” he added.

Another key factor behind the success of the HCA Field has been the full support from the government and local communities, who have helped maintain stable operations by fostering a conducive social environment. This harmony with local communities has enabled the Company to operate smoothly while contributing to the local economy and social well-being. Such synergy forms a crucial foundation for sustaining mature oil and gas fields, enabling them to remain productive and contribute meaningfully to national energy security. “We believe that collaboration and synergy with all stakeholders, including the government, shareholders, business partners, and communities around our operational areas, will support the sustainability of the Company’s oil and gas production, which is vital for ensuring national energy supply and security,” Setyo concluded.

PT Pertamina Hulu Mahakam (PHM) is a subsidiary of PT Pertamina Hulu Indonesia (PHI) in Zona 8. It manages upstream oil and gas operations and businesses in accordance with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in the Mahakam Working Area in East Kalimantan. As a Production Sharing Contract Contractor for the Indonesian government, represented by SKK Migas, PHM, along with its subsidiaries and affiliates, PHI also implements innovative Corporate Social Responsibility programs in the areas of Economics, Education, Health, Environment, Infrastructure, and Disaster Response to support sustainable community empowerment and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). PHI is headquartered in Jakarta. For further information about PHM and PHI, please visit https://phi.pertamina.com.