PRESS RELEASE No. 002/RELEASE/PLNIP/UBPBRU/2026
PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru Provides Logistics Support for Aircraft Search and Rescue Operation
Barru, 20 January 2026 – PT PLN Indonesia Power, Barru Generation Business Unit (UBP Barru), provided logistical assistance and rescue equipment to the Main Command Post of the aircraft search operation located in Tompo Bulu Village, Balocci District, Pangkep Regency, South Sulawesi. The command post, situated in the Mount Bulusaraung area, serves as the coordination center for joint Search and Rescue (SAR) teams operating in mountainous terrain with challenging conditions.
The search operation was initiated following reports of a missing ATR 42-500 aircraft operating the Yogyakarta–Makassar route, which lost contact on Saturday, 17 January 2026, while passing through South Sulawesi airspace. The cause of the incident remains under investigation by the relevant authorities, and search and rescue efforts are being conducted intensively.
The assistance was delivered as a tangible form of support from PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru for the humanitarian operation involving the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri), local government authorities, and volunteers, to help ensure the safety and effectiveness of the search efforts.
To reach the command post, the team navigated damaged roads, rocky paths, steep inclines, and slippery terrain caused by weather conditions. Despite these challenges, PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru ensured that the assistance was delivered and could be optimally utilized by SAR personnel in the field.
The handover of assistance was carried out by the CSR and Public Relations Officer of PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru, Muhammad Nur Said, together with the UBP Barru Emergency Response Team, who directly delivered the support to representatives of the SAR command post based on operational needs.
Manager of PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru, Ahmad Burhani, expressed deep sympathy for the incident and appreciation for all SAR personnel involved in the operation.
“PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru extends its deepest sympathy for this incident. The assistance we provide reflects our concern and solidarity with all SAR teams carrying out this humanitarian mission. We hope that the logistical support and rescue equipment will help facilitate the operation and support the safety of all personnel in the field,” he stated.
A representative of the Search Operation Command Post also conveyed appreciation for the support provided by PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru, noting that the assistance was highly beneficial to field operations, particularly given the limited access and demanding terrain.
“We sincerely appreciate the support from PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru. This assistance is very helpful for SAR teams operating under difficult terrain and limited access. Support from various parties provides additional strength for us in carrying out this humanitarian mission,” the representative said.
Through this assistance, PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru reaffirms its values of care, solidarity, and rapid response in supporting humanitarian efforts, while strengthening synergy with stakeholders across South Sulawesi.
PLN Indonesia Power UBP Barru remains committed to continued coordination and readiness to provide further support as needed in humanitarian emergency situations.
Media Contact:
Muhammad Budi Setiawan
Assistant Manager of Administration
PT PLN Indonesia Power – Barru Generation Business Unit
Email: muhammad.budisetiawan@plnindonesiapower.co.id
About PLN Indonesia Power
PT PLN Indonesia Power is the largest power generation company in Southeast Asia and a subholding of PT PLN (Persero). The Company is committed to becoming a technology-based, innovative, and future-oriented energy company under the vision The New PLN 4.0 – Unleashing Energy and Beyond.
