"This could relate to the research aspect, as reflected in the appointment of the Minister of Education and Technology as head of the Mineral Industry Agency. It shows that research will serve as one of the initial foundations," Sinadia said on Monday.
He welcomed the agency's focus on developing Indonesia's rare earth potential, noting that such resources are in high demand from global powers including China, the United States, and the European Union.
Rare earths, he added, are a key component in various industries, including defense.
"President Prabowo Subianto, with his military background and geopolitical experience, understands that in today's global dynamics, rare earths are highly sought after by superpowers," Sinadia remarked.
Indonesia has significant potential in rare earth resources, but development has been hampered due to the absence of specific regulations governing their utilization, he said.
President Prabowo officially established the Mineral Industry Agency to optimize the management of Indonesia's strategic mineral resources. He appointed Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto as the agency's head.
Meanwhile, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stressed that essential minerals are urgently needed worldwide, requiring special management.
The new agency, he added, will play a key role in extracting and protecting strategic minerals while supporting the development of downstream industries.
Related news: Indonesia launches new agency to manage strategic minerals
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Translator: Putu Indah Savitri, Martha Herlinawati Simanjuntak
Editor: Anton Santoso
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