Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita made the remark in response to an issue among the company’s employees, which led to a riot at its North Morowali premises.
"I truly regret this incident and express my deep condolences for the loss of the victims. This should not have happened and must be thoroughly investigated as well as the imposition of the applicable legal process (must be ensured),” he said here on Monday.
The government is consistently making efforts to attract investment to Indonesia to generate employment and stoke economic growth, he added.
Hence, it is ensuring that Indonesia is safe for investment by prompting everyone to work together to create a conducive business climate by complying with the applicable regulations.
"Nickel smelters play a crucial role in downstreaming the industry and improving the industrial structure in the country. The Industry Ministry is also preparing governance for mineral-based industries (smelters) which will regulate, among other things, incentives, obligations, and rights," he said.
The ministry fully supports constructive dialogue between the company and its employees in order to reach an agreement. It is also urging the company to comply with the applicable laws and regulations, including those related to fulfilling workers' rights as well as safety at work.
"We also urge for employees to maintain a conducive situation and comply with the standard operating procedures (SOPs), especially those related to safety at work so that issues can be resolved immediately so that their rights are fulfilled and they can conduct their activities again," Minister Kartasasmita added.
He said that his ministry is pursuing coordination with PT GNI regarding the handling of the case.
Meanwhile, the company said that it is pursuing an in-depth investigation together with the authorities to resolve all incidents that have caused losses.
Kartasasmita also asked the North Morowali government for support in enabling mediation for each party involved and for the authorities to handle the case from a legal standpoint.
"The government has urged all stakeholders to maintain a conducive situation together. This is also to maintain an investment climate that benefits many parties," he said.
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Translator: Sella P G, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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