Commission VII Highlights Nickel Mine In Raja Ampat: Don't Victim Nature For Business

The location of the nickel mine on Gag Island, Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua. (Photo: Doc. ANTARA)

Chairman of Commission VII DPR RI Saleh Partaonan Daulay asked the government to immediately evaluate nickel mining activities in Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua.

This statement was made after the Commission VII working visit to the mine site which recently drew public attention. The visit was made from May 28 to June 2, 2025, followed by a number of members of Commission VII to directly observe the situation on the ground.

During the visit, the DPR entourage met with the Governor of Southwest Papua, local government officials, and community representatives.

"We listen to various aspirations conveyed, ranging from concerns about the environment to hopes for the development of Raja Ampat tourism," Saleh said in a press statement, Monday, June 9.

Commission VII found two main issues that surfaced in dialogue with the community, namely regarding environmental conservation and Raja Ampat's future as strategic tourist destinations.

"If mining is not controlled and damages the environment, then Raja Ampat's tourism potential could be destroyed. That's what the public is worried about," said Saleh.

He emphasized that the DPR asked the government to review the operating permits of mining companies in the area. If proven to damage the environment, their business license must be revoked.

No company should reap profits while the community and nature around them suffer. The environment must be protected for the future of Papuan children, added the legislator from the North Sumatra electoral district.

Meanwhile, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia explained that currently only one mining company operates in Raja Ampat, namely PT GAG Nickel, a subsidiary of PT Antam Tbk.

The company started operating in 2018 after obtaining a Production Business License in 2017 and has an Environmental Impact Analysis Document (Amdal).

The other four IUPs, said Bahlil, are still at the exploration stage and have not started mining.

However, following the public spotlight triggered by Greenpeace Indonesia's report, the government has temporarily suspended the nickel mining operation.

Greenpeace highlighted the threat of mining to the Raja Ampat marine conservation area during a protest on June 3.