Jakarta – Indonesia's security might be threatened as conflicts in the pursuit of the world's dwindling energy sources are likely to shift towards equatorial regions, the military chief said in Jakarta on Wednesday (28/12).

Conflicts have been frequently erupting in several Middle Eastern countries – the leading oil producers – but sources of fossil fuel are expected to be exhausted soon, with the world's increasing population and power consumption.

The world is now struggling to meet the power demand. Indonesia and other equatorial countries, which are rich in renewable energy sources, may cater to it, Indonesian Military (TNI) chief Gen. Gatot Nurmantyo said.

According to him, this situation may spark conflicts in the region and put Indonesia under increasing threat.

"Our nation has been beleaguered. But we are not aware of it and remain calm. In the years to come, also conflict-linked food shortages might be present around the equator," Gatot said.

In 2040s, the world's population is projected to rise to 9.8 billion and the equatorial regions are expected to be home to 2.5 billion people, he added.

Source: http://jakartaglobe.id/news/indonesias-security-might-threatened-global-energy-conflicts-tni-chief/