Martabe Mine Evaluation: Government Promises Fair Treatment for Investors

JAKARTA - The government is evaluating the Martabe mining activity in North Sumatra thoroughly as part of enforcing the governance of the natural resources sector.

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia emphasized that President Prabowo Subianto directed that the evaluation process be carried out objectively and fairly.

Bahlil said that the state had an obligation to restore investor rights if the results of the assessment did not find any violations.

On the other hand, if it is proven that there has been a violation, sanctions will be imposed proportionally according to the applicable provisions.

"If there is no violation, investor rights must be restored. However, if there is a violation, of course, sanctions will be given in proportion," said Bahlil after a limited meeting at the Presidential Palace Complex, Wednesday, February 11.

Currently, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is conducting a technical assessment from the mining aspect, while the Ministry of Environment is studying the impact and environmental compliance.

The results of the evaluation are targeted to be completed in the near future.

Bahlil emphasized that there was no intervention or lobbying in the decision-making process.

He emphasized the importance of a balance between state authority and business certainty.

"Entrepreneurs should not rule the country, but the country should not act arbitrarily against entrepreneurs," he said.