Piter Abdullah, Program and Policy Director at Prasasti, will be featured as a speaker on the Tenggara Talk podcast, which raises the theme “Illegal Cigarettes and Energy Transition from an Economic Perspective.” The program is presented in a strategic insight discussion format, examining the interplay between policy, industry dynamics, and broader economic implications. The podcast is scheduled to be released soon on the official Tenggara Talk YouTube channel.
In the initial discussion, Piter Abdullah emphasized that the issue of illegal cigarettes should not be viewed merely as a law enforcement problem. “Illegal cigarettes are a reflection of how fiscal and non-fiscal policies interact with on-the-ground realities. When balance is not maintained, there will always be room for the illegal market to grow,” he stated. He underscored that policy approaches must consider the balance between consumption control objectives, state revenue, and the sustainability of the industrial ecosystem.
Piter Abdullah also expressed strong support for the government’s efforts to advance public health transition through gradually tightening policies. According to him, this policy direction is important and must be supported by a clear and measurable transition blueprint. “We fully support public health objectives through a well-designed gradual transition. The tobacco industry plays a significant economic role, so policies must ensure an adjustment process that does not create significant disruption,” he explained.
On the energy front, Piter Abdullah highlighted the importance of promoting a diversified energy mix and a gradual shift in energy sources. He noted that Indonesia has a comparative advantage in terms of energy resource diversity, which should be optimally utilized. “Indonesia is a country rich in energy resources. We should not rely on a single source, particularly oil,” he remarked.
Piter added that the main challenges in developing new energy lie in capital requirements and technology. Nevertheless, he stressed that the transition process must begin gradually and consistently. “The challenges are indeed significant, but there is no alternative but to start. Energy transition must be carried out gradually to maintain economic stability,” he concluded. The full discussion on these issues will be explored further in the Tenggara Talk podcast. (*)