Mining Permit In Raja Ampat Revoked, Chairman Of Commission X DPR RI Welcomes Good

Chairman of Commission X DPR RI, Hetifah Sjaifudian, welcomed the government's move to revoke four nickel mining business permits in Raja Ampat Regency, Southwest Papua.

The revocation of this permit is a response to environmental violations by mining companies in the area that have been designated as UNESCO Geoparks. According to Hetifah, this decision reflects the commitment to protect not only the environment, but also invaluable cultural heritage.

Geopark Raja Ampat is not only rich in geological and ecological value, but also contains cultural heritage of indigenous peoples including arts, traditions, and local wisdom that grows and develops with nature. This is not only a matter of nature, but also about the identity of the nation's culture," said Hetifah.

He added that Raja Ampat's status as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark must be accompanied by a management strategy that combines the preservation of nature and culture. Therefore, Commission X of the DPR RI encourages the development of cultural and ecological-based tourism, so that this local wealth can be introduced globally without destroying its sustainability.

Furthermore, Hetifah emphasized the importance of indigenous community participation in the management of the Geopark area. This decision is proof that the voices of local people who have been fighting for the preservation of their territory have been heard and appreciated. People must be the main actors in maintaining their identity and environment.

Closing his statement, Hetifah reminded that the integration between environmental and cultural policies must be the main principle in licensing mining businesses, especially in areas recognized by the world such as geoparks. He also encourages rearrangement of Geopark management throughout Indonesia so that cultural heritage is not sacrificed for the sake of short-term interests. We must maintain our historical and cultural evidence, because once damaged, it cannot be returned," he said.