"For the other islands, together with the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, we have conducted aerial reviews. We will also assign mining inspectors to assess those areas," said Director General of Minerals and Coal at the Ministry, Tri Winarno.
He made the statement while accompanying Minister Lahadalia during a site visit to Gag Island, Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua, as quoted here on Sunday.
The ministry’s evaluation will cover aspects such as environmental protection and the sustainability of coastal and small island ecosystems, in accordance with the Constitutional Court's ruling Number 35/PUU-XXI/2023, which bans mining in coastal and small island areas.
Aside from the nickel mining operations on Gag Island, Winarno noted that Kawe Island also holds a production permit.
"Mining operations on Kawe ceased in 2024, with total production reaching around 700,000 tons," he stated.
Five mining companies are officially licensed to operate in the Raja Ampat region.
Two of them received permits from the central government: PT Gag Nikel, which holds a Production Operation permit since 2017, and PT Anugerah Surya Pratama (ASP), licensed since 2013.
Three other companies obtained permits from the local government, including PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa (MRP) with a mining business permit (IUP) issued in 2013, PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining (KSM) with an IUP issued in 2013, and PT Nurham with an IUP issued in 2025.
"There will be no changes to the spatial planning for the permits that have already been granted," Winarno emphasized.
Related news: Energy minister to inspect Raja Ampat nickel mining
Related news: Gag Island mine: No environmental issues found in initial review
Translator: Putu Indah Savitri, Katriana
Editor: Primayanti
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