"Regulating mining areas in forest areas. After inspections by the task force, there are miners whose IUPs (mining business permits) are missing. This must be regulated," Lahadalia said in Jakarta on Friday.
Citing Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution, which mandates that natural resources be managed for the people's prosperity, he stressed the need to bring illegal mining under regulation.
Lahadalia said the aim is twofold: protecting the environment while ensuring that the state secures revenue.
He added that the mining sector contributes about 15 percent of state revenue, making energy and mineral resources a key pillar of Indonesia's economic growth.
Prabowo convened a limited cabinet meeting at his private residence in Bogor, West Java, on Wednesday, focusing on governance and permits for strategic mining commodities.
The president has made governance of strategic commodities a priority, noting Indonesia's vast reserves of valuable rare earth minerals, many of which are vital for high-tech industries.
Prabowo has pledged to save potential national wealth worth Rp300 trillion (around US$19.75 billion) by eliminating 1,063 illegal mining sites across the country.
In his recent state address, he asked for support from the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), the House of Representatives (DPR), and political parties for decisive government action.
He stressed that no one, including party elites or state officials, would be shielded from law enforcement.
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Translator: Putu Indah Savitri, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Anton Santoso
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