JAKARTA, Tevri-tv.com, – The Chairman of JPKP (Jaringan Pendamping Kebijakan Pembangunan/Development Policy Assistance Network), Maret Samuel Sueken, extended his congratulations and highest appreciation to Darmawan Prasodjo on his reappointment as President Director of PT PLN (Persero), as well as to Yusuf Didi Setiarto on his appointment as Vice President Director of PLN.
According to Maret Samuel Sueken, the renewed trust placed in both leaders reflects recognition of their performance, experience, and ability to manage Indonesia’s state-owned electricity company amid various challenges over the past several years.
“I would like to express my sincere congratulations and highest appreciation to Mr. Darmawan Prasodjo for once again being entrusted to lead PLN as President Director, and to Mr. Yusuf Didi Setiarto as Vice President Director. They have worked together for many years and possess a deep understanding of the challenges and transformation needs facing PLN in the future,” he stated.
Proven Leadership During Power System Crises
Maret noted that during Darmawan Prasodjo’s tenure, PLN faced numerous major challenges, including interconnection system disturbances, pressure on primary energy supplies, and natural disasters that directly affected the nation’s electricity infrastructure.
In several large-scale blackout incidents, PLN demonstrated its ability to restore the power system quickly, systematically, and professionally.
According to him, when disruptions occurred within the interconnection system, PLN implemented a gradual recovery strategy through its defense scheme, utilizing power plants equipped with black start capabilities, such as hydroelectric and gas-fired power plants, enabling electricity services to be restored more rapidly.
Simultaneously, synchronization and recovery processes were carried out across other generating units to restore overall system reliability.
“What deserves appreciation is not only the technical capability demonstrated, but also the leadership approach. In various crisis situations, Darmawan Prasodjo personally addressed the public, offered apologies, and transparently explained both the causes of the disruptions and the recovery efforts underway,” Maret said.
He emphasized that transparency plays a critical role in maintaining public trust whenever service disruptions affect large segments of society.
Responsive in Facing Natural Disasters
Beyond power system disruptions, PLN has also demonstrated strong preparedness in responding to natural disasters such as floods, landslides, and extreme weather conditions that threaten electricity infrastructure.
During emergency situations, PLN activated its mutual aid system, deployed technical personnel from various regions, mobilized emergency equipment, and constructed emergency towers to replace damaged transmission structures.
The company also coordinated closely with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri), the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), regional governments, and other relevant institutions to accelerate power restoration efforts.
“Even in situations where land access was completely cut off, PLN prepared contingency plans that included the use of air transportation to support the distribution of logistics and technical equipment,” he explained.
Four Key Leadership Lessons
Drawing from these experiences, Maret Samuel Sueken highlighted several leadership lessons that could serve as valuable references for leaders of state-owned enterprises, regional government-owned enterprises, and public institutions.
First, the importance of establishing a strong and integrated command system, enabling all organizational units to work cohesively during times of crisis.
Second, transparency toward the public. According to him, citizens have the right to receive clear information regarding ongoing situations, the causes of problems, and the measures being taken to resolve them.
Third, preparedness for worst-case scenarios through comprehensive planning and risk mitigation strategies.
Fourth, the presence of leaders on the front lines during major organizational challenges.
“In times of crisis, people want to see that their leaders are present, accountable, and directly involved in leading the resolution process,” he emphasized.
A Pillar of National Energy Security
Maret stressed that PLN is a strategic national enterprise that plays a vital role in supporting economic activities, industrial operations, public services, and the daily lives of millions of Indonesians.
Therefore, PLN’s success should not be measured solely by its financial performance, but also by its ability to maintain a reliable national electricity supply under all circumstances.
“Based on these considerations, I believe that the trust once again placed in Mr. Darmawan Prasodjo and Mr. Yusuf Didi Setiarto represents recognition of the leadership, performance, and crisis management capabilities they have consistently demonstrated,” he said.
He expressed hope that PLN’s leadership team would continue strengthening the company’s transformation agenda, improving service quality for the public, and reinforcing Indonesia’s national energy security.
“Congratulations on this renewed mandate. May PLN continue to grow stronger, more reliable, and remain one of the key pillars of Indonesia’s development and energy resilience,” he concluded.
Journalist : Ine
