The mining polemic in the Raja Ampat area is again in the public spotlight, raising concerns about environmental impacts. However, behind this turmoil, a number of industry leaders emphasized that the mining sector remains one of the important foundations of the national economy and the energy transition.
Secretary General of BPP HIPMI and General Chair of the Association of Mineral and Coal Energy Suppliers (Aspebindo), Anggawira, said that the mining industry could no longer be seen as conventional economic activity. According to him, mining now plays a strategic role in the global supply chain for future technology
"We are not talking about mining in an old context. It is about nickel and copper as key to batteries, electric vehicles, clean energy, and global digitization. Without Indonesia's contribution, the world will be in trouble," said Anggawira in a series, Monday, June 9.
He added that the mining industry is said to have contributed 6 to 7 percent of the national GDP, created hundreds of thousands of jobs, and contributed PNBP and continued to increase royalties. Since the enactment of the Minerba Law No. 3 of 2020, as well as the issuance of PP No. 96 of 2021, the government has sought to strengthen governance, downstreaming, and environmental supervision.
However, according to Anggawira, the main challenge is not on regulations, but on law enforcement, consistency, and transparency.
"We need a mine that is legal, sustainable, and modern. The government must take firm action against violations, but also protect and provide incentives for companies to obey the law," he said.
Anggawira also highlighted a number of national mining companies that were considered successful in carrying out sustainable and environmentally friendly operations:
PT Bumi Resources Tbk (BUMI) through East Kalimantan Prima Coal and Autmin is actively reclamation and biodiversity conservation. Achieve Green PROPER.
PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk manages gold and copper mining based on community empowerment and transparency.
PT Vale Indonesia successfully reveged its post-mining land and built a nickel smelter.
PT Freeport Indonesia pioneered the underground mine and Gresik smelter.
PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) has changed the former mine to a productive ecotourism and agriculture area.
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In 2023, more than 30 mining companies will receive Green and Gold PROPER awards from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.
Anggawira also warned that environmental issues are sometimes used as a means of pressure by foreign actors.
"The negative framing of national mines can erode the image of investment, competitiveness, and stability of downstream policy. We must not allow external narratives to lead to unbalanced public opinion," he said.
He emphasized that Indonesia must be sovereign against the narrative of its natural resource management.
"Don't let us be controlled by external opinion, while they in their own country carry out mining practices that are far from the principle of sustainability," he concluded.
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