“In West Sumatra, in Aceh as well, we are conducting checks. In North Sumatra, our evaluation team is currently assessing the situation,” Lahadalia said in a statement received here on Friday.
He continued, "After the evaluation team completes its work, I will examine whether the mining operations have had an impact. I assure you, if there are mines operating outside legal regulations, we will impose strict sanctions."
He stressed that the government will not hesitate to take action against mining companies failing to follow proper mining practices, which may cause environmental damage or harm to communities.
"I want to emphasize that no company will be exempt. I have brought the Director General of Mineral and Coal to ensure all mining firms that do not comply with regulations are held accountable. All operations must meet established mining standards,” Lahadalia said.
The Ministry is prepared to impose sanctions, including revoking mining permits, for companies proven to violate regulations.
According to the ministry's data, there are four contract of work holders (KK) and 19 mining activity permits (IUP) for metal commodities across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.
In Aceh, there is one gold KK issued in 2018 and three gold IUPs from 2010 to 2017. The province also has three iron IUPs (2021-2024), three iron ore IUPs (2011-2020), and two iron ore IUPs (2012-2018).
In addition, one work contract for lead and zinc covers Aceh and North Sumatra since 2018. In North Sumatra, there are two work contracts for gold issued in 2017 and 2018, as well as one IUP for copper valid since 2017.
Meanwhile, in West Sumatra, there are four iron IUPs issued in 2019 and 2020, one iron ore IUP valid since 2013, one black tin IUP valid since 2020, and one gold IUP effective since 2019.
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Translator: Arnidhya, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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