Enviro News Asia, Jakarta — The government has decided to revoke four nickel mining business permits (IUP) operating in Raja Ampat Regency, Southwest Papua.
This decision was made after the four companies—PT Anugerah Surya Pratama (ASP), PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa (MRP), PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining (KSM), and PT Nurham—were found to have violated environmental regulations.
“After thoroughly considering all aspects, the President has decided to revoke the four IUPs outside of PT GAG Nickel. I immediately took technical steps and coordinated with the Minister of Environment and Forestry,” said Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia during a press conference at the State Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday (June 10).
The revocation of these four companies permits is a direct instruction from President Prabowo Subianto, following a Limited Cabinet Meeting (Ratas) and coordination with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, as well as the Governor of Southwest Papua and the Regent of Raja Ampat.
In addition to the limited meeting outcomes, the revocation is part of the government’s ongoing effort to implement Presidential Regulation No. 5 of 2025 concerning the Reorganization of Forest Areas, in alignment with principles of sustainability and environmental protection.
One of the President’s key considerations was the effort to protect the Raja Ampat geotourism area as a top priority.
The aim is to preserve the region’s natural beauty and marine biodiversity while promoting sustainable development of its world-class tourism potential.
“After conducting field inspections, we believe these areas must be protected, particularly considering marine life and conservation efforts. The President has shown strong commitment to ensuring Raja Ampat remains a premier global tourist destination,” Bahlil added.
Earlier, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi expressed appreciation to all community members who contributed input and information about mining activities within the Raja Ampat conservation area.
“On behalf of the government, we sincerely thank the public for continuously providing input and information, especially those active on social media who shared their concerns and insights with the government,” he said.
For context, all four revoked mining permits were issued before Raja Ampat was designated a Geopark—first recognized by the Indonesian government in 2017 and later by UNESCO in 2023.
Out of the five total permits, only PT Gag Nickel’s permit remains intact.
Following the President’s directive, all of PT Gag Nickel’s mining operations will be strictly monitored, including environmental impact assessments (AMDAL), reclamation activities, and environmental preservation measures.
“Although PT Gag Nickel’s permit was not revoked, it will be closely supervised,” Bahlil emphasized. (*)
