A Modern Refinery Rooted in Culture: PT KPB Attends the 21st Anniversary Celebration of Sultan Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura

Monday, 9 February 2026

PT Kilang Pertamina Balikpapan (KPB), represented by its Director of Finance and Business Support and members of management, attended the official invitation to the celebration of the 21st Kaseh Selamat Day of Sultan Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura, Sultan Drs. H. Adji Muhammad Arifin, SE, M.Si, which took place at the Kutai Kartanegara Palace on Monday (02/09).

A member of the Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura Sultanate, Dhanur Dwijatmiko, who holds the title of Prince Mangkupati, stated that the commemoration of the Sultan’s Birthday is an important milestone for all elements of society.

“Today’s commemoration of the Sultan’s Birthday is a deeply meaningful moment for all of us to reflect on the long historical journey of the Sultanate, while reinforcing our shared commitment to preserving, maintaining, and developing traditional values and culture,” he said.

The series of events began with the Topeng Panah Buana and Kanjar Ganjur dances as symbols of traditional welcome and respect, followed by a religious discourse inviting all attendees to reflect on spiritual values.

This commemoration marks the 75th birthday of Sultan Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura XXI, reflecting a long journey of dedication, exemplary leadership, and wisdom in maintaining and preserving the noble heritage of the Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura Sultanate.

In response to this occasion, Asep Sulaeman, Vice President (VP) of Legal & Relations at PT KPB, believes that industrial development must align with local values.

“We believe that the development of a modern refinery must grow and evolve while remaining rooted in local customs and culture. Local wisdom serves as the foundation for building harmonious relationships between industry, the community, and the surrounding environment,” he said.

He also offered prayers and well-wishes for Sultan Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura XXI. “We pray that His Majesty the Sultan may always be granted health, wisdom, and both physical and spiritual strength in leading, safeguarding, and preserving the customs and culture of the Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura Sultanate as a noble legacy for future generations,” he said.

Throughout its history, the Kutai Kartanegara Ing Martadipura Sultanate has played a significant role in shaping the social and cultural identity of the people of East Kalimantan. As times have changed, the regions that were once under the historical influence of the Kutai Sultanate have also developed into centers of growth, including the city of Balikpapan, which has emerged as an oil city and become a vital component in the nation’s energy industry journey.