The fate of the Agincourt Gold Mine will be determined next week

JAKARTA - Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia revealed that the government would soon announce the results of the environmental audit of the Martabe gold mine owned by PT Agincourt Resources (PTAR). For information, currently the audit process is still being carried out by the Task Force for Forest Area Enforcement (PKH) regarding the revocation of the work contract (KK).

"We have 1-2 days of love, if it is clear, we will announce it. Next week, God willing, next week," said Bahlil, quoted Saturday, February 14.

According to him, if later no environmental violations are found that cause flash floods in North Sumatra, the mining permit will be returned to PTAR. However, on the other hand, if violations are found, sanctions will still be given.

"Yes, I said yesterday that again in the research, if it does not find a significant violation in the research, it will definitely be returned to its owner. And that is not an administrative process from the follow-up announcement," said Bahlil.

He explained that this Astra Group business affiliate mine was undergoing two tests, namely environmental impact analysis (Amdal), Forest Area Lease Permit (IPPKH), and Work Contract (KK).

For information, the gold mines located in South Tapanuli Regency, Central Tapanuli, North Tapanuli, and Mandailing Natal are rumored to be taken over by the National Mineral Company (Perminas).

Previously, the Minister of Investment and Industrialization/Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Rosan Perkasa Roeslani revealed that he had received and reviewed the Clarification Letter from PT Agincourt Resources which contained an explanation regarding the Hydrological and Operational Environment Aspects and Compliance with the Provisions of the Area.

He added that every policy and decision would be taken carefully, transparently, and based on the law, while maintaining certainty and confidence in the national investment climate.

"The Ministry of Investment and Industrialization/BKPM believes that legal certainty is the main foundation in building trust and long-term mutually beneficial partnerships between the government and investors, both from within and outside the country," said Rosan.