TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - State electricity company, PLN, reported a disruption in the electrical system in northern and central Sumatra that triggered a major power outage in parts of the island on Friday evening, May 22, 2026.
The disruption affected the flow of electricity in parts of Aceh and North Sumatra provinces. Additionally, local media reports also noted blackouts in most parts of West Sumatra and Riau.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the disruption while expediting the gradual process of restoring power, according to the communication manager of the North Sumatra PLN, Darma Saputra. According to him, power has been out since 06:44 p.m. in North Sumatra.
Meanwhile, Antara reported that Pekanbaru City experienced a total blackout that not only disrupted lights in the buildings, but also traffic lights. Hot weather in the city exacerbated the conditions, with many residents complaining about uncomfortable and stifling atmospheres.
"We urge the public to remain calm and avoid panic. Information regarding the handling of the disruption will be periodically provided through the PLN Mobile application and PLN 123 call center service," Darma said in a written statement late Friday.
PLN also apologized for the service disruption and requested the public's understanding during the recovery process.
PLN's Executive Vice President of Corporate Communication & TJSL Gregorius Adi Trianto assured that the company is conducting a thorough examination of the electrical system disruption across Sumatra. Gregorius said a technical team has been deployed to expedite the recovery process and investigate the cause of the problem.
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