Cultural Moderation And Organizational Ambidexterity In Enhancing Knowledge Acquisition: A Study On Pertamina’s Oil And Gas Subsidiaries In Indonesia

Abstract

This study investigates the critical role of cultural moderation in enhancing knowledge acquisition through ambidextrous organizational strategies within Indonesia’s oil and gas sector. Focusing on seven Pertamina-affiliated companies Pertamina Hulu Rokan, Pertamina Offshore North West Java, Pertamina Offshore Southeast Sumatera, Pertamina Gas Negara, Pertamina Hulu Mahakam, Pertamina Hulu Kalimantan Timur, and Pertamina Hulu Sanga-Sanga the research examines how organizational culture moderates the relationship between ambidexterity (balancing exploitative and exploratory capabilities) and effective knowledge acquisition. Data were collected from 348 employees across these companies, utilizing a mixed-methods approach integrating surveys and semi-structured interviews. Structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that dimensions of organizational culture—such as openness to change, collaborative norms, and innovation tolerance—significantly strengthen the impact of ambidextrous practices on knowledge assimilation. Specifically, adaptive cultures amplified the dual focus on efficiency and innovation, enabling firms to better navigate the sector’s complexities. However, hierarchical cultural traits were found to constrain exploratory learning, underscoring the need for balanced cultural frameworks. Here, the Knowledge Acquisition construct, indicators such as Acquired Knowledge 1 and Integrated Knowledge 1 exhibit exceptionally high loadings (0.820 and 0.868, respectively). The study advances theoretical understanding of knowledge management by linking cultural moderation to ambidexterity outcomes, while offering practical insights for managers in aligning cultural dynamics with strategic agility. Findings emphasize prioritizing cultural adaptability and cross-functional collaboration to foster resilient knowledge ecosystems in high-risk industries.