Minister Of Transportation Ensures Lifting IPPKH That Ignores Land Rehabilitation

Illustration of forest logging (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - The Minister of Forestry (Menhut) Raja Juli Antoni confirmed that he would revoke the Borrowing and Using Forest Area Permit (IPPKH) from companies that did not fulfill the obligation to carry out land rehabilitation. This decisive step was conveyed in a working meeting with Commission IV of the DPR RI in Jakarta, Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

"Regarding the IPPKH mining, I explicitly say, I am brave, sir. I have no problem," said Minister of Transportation Raja Antoni in response to a question from a member of the DPR from the Nasdem faction, Rajiv, who asked for the government's commitment to taking action against permit holders who did not carry out the reforestation.

The Minister of Transportation stated that the prosecution would be carried out with data support and cooperation with law enforcement officials, such as the Police and the Prosecutor's Office.

"As long as the data is available, with the authority we have, together with the Police and the Prosecutor's Office, we will take firm action against IPPKH who violates it. There is no doubt," he continued.

In addition to ensuring law enforcement, Raja Juli Antoni emphasized the government's commitment to managing forests in a sustainable manner for the welfare of the community. The Social Forestry Program will continue to be expanded to ensure the forest is maintained while supporting the economic improvement of the surrounding community.

"The surge in development needs cannot only define the forest from its area. The function of the forest as a source of community welfare must be considered," he said.

On this occasion, the Minister of Forestry also explained the Ministry of Forestry's work plan to support Asta Cita. Several main programs include providing land for food barns to support self-sufficiency and improve community nutrition.

The settlement of illegal palm oil cases by forming a special task force with the Attorney General's Office and BPKP to accelerate the handling of illegal palm oil cases in forest areas.

Forest and Land Rehabilitation by accelerating rehabilitation targets in forest areas to ensure environmental sustainability.

The government is also committed to making forests the main element of sustainable development. "The forest must be a strategic instrument that contributes to environmental balance and community welfare," concluded Raja Juli Antoni.