"Based on our observation, there is no sedimentation in the coastal area. Overall, there are no issues with this mining site," ESDM Ministry's Director General of Minerals and Coal Tri Winarno remarked after accompanying the minister during the site review on Saturday (June 7).
In a statement cited in Jakarta, he noted that despite the positive preliminary findings, the ministry had deployed a mining inspection team to conduct a more comprehensive evaluation of mining activities across the Raja Ampat District.
“Generally speaking, reclamation at this location has been carried out properly. However, we will wait for the mining inspectors' evaluation report and factor it in the next stage of our decision-making process,” he added.
Meanwhile, state-owned mining company Antam confirmed that its subsidiary, PT Gag Nikel, which is responsible for mining operations on Gag Island, had adhered to all technical and environmental protocols and regulations.
“Everyone can see that we have carried out legitimate reclamation efforts and implemented mechanisms to control mine drainage,” Business Development Director of Antam, I Dewa Wirantaya, emphasized.
He expressed hope that the presence of PT Gag Nikel on the small island would bring economic benefits to local communities and stakeholders.
According to the ESDM Ministry, five companies are registered as mine operators in Raja Ampat: PT Gag Nikel, PT Anugerah Surya Pratama, PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining, PT Mulia Raymond, and PT Nurham.
However, prior to the temporary suspension issued by ESDM Minister Lahadalia on June 5, PT Gag Nikel was the only company actively mining in the district.
The nickel company had been operating since 2018 on a 13,136-hectare site, having obtained its environmental clearance the previous year.
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Translator: Putu Indah, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
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