Total E&P and INPEX Corporation’s contract in the Mahakam Block will expire on December 31, 2017. The Block is now in transition to full rights being managed by PT Pertamina, particularly PT Pertamina Hulu Mahakam (PT PHM). The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), however, still allows Pertamina to partner with Total in the management of the Block. The Government previously set the maximum participation of the other contractor at 30 percent, with Pertamina firmly holding the balance. Total is interested, but they’ve asked for 39 percent instead. Minister of ESDM Ignasius Jonan and Vice Minister of ESDM Arcandra Tahar have a different view on this request. To subscribe please click here