"If the industry does not comply (with the regulation), the people will bear the consequences. I urge companies operating in this area to improve (their operation) immediately. We will not hesitate to impose sanctions on those who violate," he noted in a statement on Friday.
Nurofiq delivered this warning during his visit to the Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) in Bahodopi, Central Sulawesi, on Thursday (May 29).
Nurofiq visited several locations, including the Bahomakmur Landfill Site (TPA) owned by PT IMIP, a flood-affected area at PT ONI, and the PT ITSS smelter unit, which earlier experienced an explosion.
At the Bahomakmur TPA, the minister observed an open dumping practice that posed a risk of polluting both soil and water.
In the PT ONI area, the floodwaters are being discharged directly into the sea without sufficient waste management measures.
Related news: Minister warns smelter investors on safety after Morowali explosion
Meanwhile, PT ITSS is recorded as having 26 stationary emission sources, but only some are monitored through the Continuous Emission Monitoring System (CEMS).
"This is not just about administrative violations. This is related to the lives, the future of the environment, and (the company's) responsibility. The state will be present and be more firm," he emphasized.
After reviewing the industrial area, Nurofiq also visited flood-affected villages in Labota Village, Bahodopi Sub-district, which is adjacent to the company's area.
During the visit, he expressed deep concern over the environmental impacts experienced directly by the community.
His side would issue a stern warning to companies found negligent in fulfilling their environmental management duties.
"Compliance with the environment is not only a legal obligation but also our shared moral responsibility. Let us protect the land of Morowali to remain habitable and sustainable for future generations," the minister remarked.
Related news: Clean water project in Morowali supports agriculture, says TNI-AD
Translator: Prisca Triferna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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