The mining, conducted by PT Freeport in Papua over several years, has significantly affected the local ecology, he stated here, Tuesday.
The ecological damage would be felt by the local people for the next 200 years, he added.
The exploitation by PT Freeport will eventually end. Hence, PT Freeport should be urged to invest part of its earnings for post-mining rehabilitation and restoration activities.
"Particularly for rehabilitation and restoration of the ecosystem and ecology in the Freeport mining location," he remarked.
He said Freeport is a national issue that concerns the Indonesian nation, in general, and the people in Papua in Timika District, in particular.
It is in the hands of the central government to renew the contract of the US gold and copper mining company, and either decision will have positive and negative consequences, he pointed out.
He hoped the government would take the best decision for Papua.
The professor called on the central government to involve the authorities and traditional leaders of Papua while negotiating the contract renewal.
PT Freeport has not only exploited the natural resources of Papua but has also altered its landscape, he stated.
"This is related to the traditions as well as the spiritual and cultural values of the local people," he noted.
He said it would be justified if PT Freeport pays a bigger royalty to Indonesia.
The royalty, however, should not be misused by individuals, including politicians, he remarked.
Besides this, the indigenous people should be more involved in the operations of mining companies in their regions, he added.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2015
