NZMATES Phase II Officially Launched

Ambon, September 14, 2026 – The strategic partnership between the governments of Indonesia and New Zealand in the renewable energy sector has entered a new chapter with the official launch of NZMATES (Supporting Maluku Access to Renewable Energy) Phase II. Officially open by New Zealand Ambassador H.E. Philip Taula; Assistant for General Administration of the Maluku Provincial Regional Secretariat, Dominggus Nicodemus Kaya; and Director General of New, Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Prof. Eniya Listiani Dewi, the programme aims to expand access to clean energy, strengthen local electricity infrastructure, and foster sustainable, island-based economic growth in Maluku Province.

An Enduring Partnership Between Indonesia and New Zealand

The launch of NZMATES Phase II was attended by the New Zealand Ambassador to Indonesia, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) and local government authorities. The presence of these key stakeholders underscores a shared commitment to accelerating the energy transition in eastern Indonesia.

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has affirmed its full support for the continuation of NZMATES, viewing it as an effective model of collaboration for addressing the geographical challenges of an archipelagic region by leveraging local renewable energy resources.

Driving Island-Based Economic Growth

Access to reliable and affordable renewable energy goes beyond merely meeting electricity needs; it serves as a primary catalyst for the local economy. By improving access to clean energy across the islands and rural areas of Maluku, NZMATES Phase II focuses on strengthening the local economy, empowering communities, and boosting the productivity of key regional sectors.

Strengthening the Role of Academia and Developing Local Human Resources

A vital pillar of the NZMATES Phase II launch is the active involvement of higher education and vocational institutions in Maluku:

• Pattimura University (Unpatti) is strengthening its academic role by supporting research, technical studies, and the development of renewable energy technological innovations tailored to the unique characteristics of the Maluku archipelago.
• Ambon State Polytechnic is collaborating on the development of local human resources, aiming to train skilled technical personnel capable of managing and maintaining renewable energy infrastructure in a sustainable manner.

Towards a Green and Resilient Future for Maluku

With the launch of NZMATES Phase II, this partnership between Indonesia and New Zealand is expected to generate an even broader positive impact for the people of Maluku—delivering clean, reliable, and sustainable energy to foster prosperity and energy self-reliance across the Maluku Islands.