Kilang Minyak Pangkalan Brandan (1871-1961)

Abstract

This research discusses the Pangkalan Brandan Oil Refinery during the period of 1871–1961. The refinery is inseparable from its significant role during the colonial era and the Japanese occupation, where it had a major influence on production and infrastructure in both periods. After Indonesia's independence, the refinery became a focal point in the struggle for independence, as it was targeted for takeover. Following the successful takeover, the refinery faced numerous challenges, including destruction during the "scorched earth" policy, unclear ownership status, internal corporate conflicts, separatist threats, and stagnation. However, the condition of the refinery triggered changes in Indonesia's mining laws, and the Pangkalan Brandan Oil Refinery became a catalyst for returning mining assets to the state. The aim of this research is to explain the condition of the Pangkalan Brandan Oil Refinery before independence, the struggle for the clarification of its ownership status after the Dutch-Indonesian Round Table Conference (KMB), as well as the obstacles and efforts to restore the refinery after the scorched earth event. This research employs historical methods. The initial stage involves gathering supporting data from various libraries and institutions, such as the National Archives of the Republic of Indonesia in Jakarta and the National Library of Indonesia. After data collection, the next step is to filter and analyze the data, which is then written into a historical thesis. The results of this research show that the Pangkalan Brandan Oil Refinery had a cross-era and cross-authority influence: as a pioneer in the development of the oil industry during the colonial era, a source of oil for Japan's wartime needs, and a symbol of resistance during Indonesia's revolutionary period. The refinery also became the main reason for the revision of the Mining Law and marked the beginning of the oil and gas industry history in Indonesia.