"It is important for them to understand that in mining management, there are things that should be preserved, the environment should not be damaged, and regulations should be observed," Amin stated on Thursday.
He made the remarks in Bandung District, West Java, after attending the inauguration of the Institute of Home Affairs Governance (IPDN) graduates in the nearby Sumedang District.
Amin affirmed that the special mining permit reflected the government's commitment to providing equal opportunities for public organizations to reap advantages from mining operations.
He acknowledged that criticism of the operation of mines by religious organizations might appear among the public.
"Hence, we expect them to operate (the mines) properly according to the prevailing regulations on mining management," he remarked.
So far, only two major Muslim organizations—Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah—have signaled their intent to accept the government-issued mining concession in specially designated zones.
Nonetheless, Amin stated that other public organizations could receive the mining permit as long as they qualify and fulfill the government's criteria.
"It is not for all public organizations. We have hundreds of such entities here. Hence, how many mines (for which permits) can be granted to them would depend on the priority according to our criteria," he remarked.
The government aims to create an equitable economy by allowing religious organizations to obtain mining business permits, as previously clarified by President Joko Widodo.
He explained that the government only intends to grant permits to business entities managed by religious organizations rather than to the organizations themselves.
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Translator: Benardy F, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Anton Santoso
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