Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said in Jakarta on Wednesday that his ministry has sealed two metal smelting factories, PT JAS and PT LESI, in Serang district, Banten, for adding to air pollution.
"We will not stop at these two companies. The KLH is preparing an integrated monitoring road map that will cover industrial areas in Bekasi, Karawang, Tangerang, and other industrial areas in Java," Nurofiq informed.
He said that the firm steps taken by KLH, including the inspection and sealing of PT JAS and PT LESI on June 10, 2025, demonstrate the government's strictness and consistency in enforcing environmental law.
Air and waste samples were also collected from the companies for environmental forensic analysis. In addition to emission violations, the factories were found to be dumping B3 waste illegally.
PT JAS, which is located in Beberan village, Ciruas, is an iron smelter with a capacity of 150 thousand tons per year. The smelter, which uses an induction furnace, was found emitting concentrated emissions in large volumes without adequate management.
PT LESI, which is located in the Modern Cikande Industrial Area, is also engaged in the metal smelting industry. It was previously recommended for legal proceedings in 2023, but there was no follow-up.
On June 4, 2025, a KLH drone captured an image of emissions from its chimney, which reportedly exceeded air quality standards.
"Jabodetabek's blue sky must be the new standard, not an exception," Nurofiq stressed.
The minister emphasized that the sealing of the factories is not the end, but the beginning of stricter and more systematic supervision. He also called for a collective anti-pollution movement involving the government, business, academics, media, and civil society.
"We need a fair and strong environmental monitoring system. Industry must transform to low-emission technology. The government will be present as a guardian. The community as the supervisor. And the media as the voice of truth," he added.
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Translator: Prisca Triferna Violleta, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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