"This polemic is not yet resolved. Therefore, let's address the matter proportionally and resolve it through accountable mechanisms, not through emotional narratives," he said in a statement received here on Monday.
Patijaya, who heads Commission XII of the House of Representatives (DPR) that oversees energy and mineral resources, environment, and investment, noted that mining activities in Raja Ampat have attracted national attention due to the environmental damage they could potentially cause.
The government is still carrying out clarification and verification processes to ensure that on-site conditions at the mines comply with regulations and environmental protection standards.
"What is needed now are concrete and solution-oriented steps, not actions that only escalate the commotion," the legislator said.
He added that the situation on the ground is still being verified.
He then called on all parties to avoid forming uninformed opinions that could deepen negative perceptions of the region, which is among the iconic ecotourism destinations in the country.
He also expressed appreciation for the quick response taken by Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, who directly reviewed mining operations in the area and decided to suspend them temporarily as a precautionary measure.
However, Patijaya stressed that efforts from a single ministry would not be sufficient to address the issue.
It would require a comprehensive resolution involving coordination across ministries, including the Ministry of Environment, local governments, and stakeholders in Southwest Papua province.
"The government must be present as a unified entity. Do not act as though each ministry is working alone. We need collective efforts with a technocratic approach, based on data, field facts, and credible analysis," he expounded.
"The focus is to ensure environmental preservation, justice for local communities, and that industrial processes run within the legal corridors," he added.
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Translator: Arnidhya, Kenzu
Editor: Arie Novarina
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