Eni confirms the award of the Sapukala block with 100% participating interest in the Kutei Basin, in Indonesia, within the framework of the first Indonesia Petroleum Bidding Round 2026. The award follows the execution of a joint study with a prominent Indonesian academic institution, in accordance with local regulatory requirements, and participation in the direct offer bid round.
The Sapukala offshore block covers a large area in the deep-water sector (1,000-2,500 m water depth) of the Kutei Basin, East Kalimantan. The acreage is adjacent to Eni’s existing operated and participated blocks and close to the future North Hub developments, now operated by Searah (Eni 50%, Petronas 50%), which include the Geng North, Gehem, Gula and Geliga gas and condensate discoveries (in total more than 14 Tcf of gas in place and 800 Mbbls of condensate).
Based on the study conducted, the acreage is considered highly prospective. Eni has recently completed a new high-quality seismic data acquisition programme which covers also the Sapukala block, laying the basis for an accelerated further evaluation of the block.
Eni has been present in Indonesia since 2001 and currently directly operates the Peri-Mahakam and Makassar Strait blocks. Since June 2026 Eni owns a 50% share together with Petronas of the newly formed Searah company that brings the two companies’ complementary portfolios, capabilities, and regional expertise to deliver long-term value creation and operational excellence across Indonesia and Malaysia. With a portfolio of 19 gas-producing and development assets —14 in Indonesia and 5 in Malaysia — Searah is producing around 350 kboe/d, aiming to exceed 500 kboe/d of sustainable production by 2028.
Source: Eni
