The practice is allowed by Government Regulation No. 25 of 2024 regulating mineral and coal resource mining activities, signed by President Joko Widodo on May 30.
Article 83A of this regulation specifically allows the government to prioritize companies owned by religious organizations for special mining permits in designated areas, aiming to enhance the well-being of the people.
"Public organizations, even political parties, have their business wings. The permits will be granted to these business wings, ensuring professional mine management," she stated.
She emphasized that allowing religious organizations to operate mines aligns with Indonesia's constitution.
"We must leverage all available channels to promote public productivity. For instance, we have social forests managed by the people," Bakar said.
She also highlighted the importance of supporting low-level officers and economically disadvantaged residents, as productivity is a fundamental right that the state should safeguard.
Public organizations with established business wings are well-equipped to manage mining operations professionally, Bakar asserted.
“It is preferable to have an established and professional business wing,” she added.
She refuted any notion that granting mining permits to religious organizations constitutes an effort by the government to “share” profits or court favor with specific groups.
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Translator: Rangga Pandu AJ, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Anton Santoso
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