Jakarta, July 15 -- The Indonesian government has assured the public that B50 biodiesel, a blend containing 50 percent palm oil, is safe for public use and will not damage vehicle engines.

Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry spokesperson Dwi Anggia said in a statement in Jakarta on Wednesday that the implementation of the B50 policy has undergone in-depth studies, comprehensive testing, and thorough evaluations.

"B50 is not a policy that was made overnight, nor is it a reckless leap forward. It is the result of a nearly two-decade journey in national biodiesel development," she said.

She further noted that the government fully understands public concerns regarding vehicle engine safety.

These concerns, she added, had been a primary ...