Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment (KLH) is currently investigating potential environmental damage caused by nickel mining operations in Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua.
The probe is part of a broader environmental audit ordered by President Prabowo Subianto to tighten regulatory oversight of the mining sector.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said the ministry is conducting a more in-depth study, with samples already collected and environmental experts deployed to assess the scale of the impact.
“Visually, we can already see signs of damage,” Hanif said on Monday (June 23, 2025). “But from a scientific standpoint, we need lab results and expert analysis to confirm the extent.”
Hanif noted that the scientific assessment could take up to one month. Should the lab findings indicate violations, the ministry will proceed with revoking the company’s environmental approval.
Currently, PT Gag Nikel remains authorized to operate in the area. According to the ministry, the company has received favorable ratings under Indonesia’s Environmental Performance Rating Program (PROPER) over the past four years.
“Administratively, it’s one of 13 companies allowed to mine in the region. From a technical standpoint, its environmental management is considered satisfactory, with green and blue ratings under PROPER,” Hanif explained.
Read Also:
Sasi Laut: an Ancient Tradition Safeguarding the Pristine Waters of Raja Ampat
The Indonesian government recently revoked the mining permits of four other companies operating in Raja Ampat which is PT Anugerah Surya Pratama (ASP), PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa (MRP), PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining (KSM), and PT Nurham, due to environmental violations.
PT Gag Nikel, a subsidiary of state-owned miner PT Aneka Tambang Tbk., was the only company not affected by the permit revocations. The company is considered compliant with environmental impact assessments and operates outside the boundaries of the Raja Ampat Geopark.
Nevertheless, Hanif emphasized that once the audit is complete, the ministry will review PT Gag Nikel’s environmental approval. If any future violations are discovered, the government will not hesitate to revoke the permit.
(Raidi/Agung)
