Enviro News Asia, Jakarta – The government has once again demonstrated its firm stance in enforcing mining laws and protecting forest areas. Through a joint operation, 321.07 hectares of illegal mining land were successfully reclaimed and returned to the state, marking a decisive step in strengthening sustainable management of energy and mineral resources.
Rilke Jeffri Huwae, Director General of Law Enforcement at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), stressed on Monday (September 15) that monitoring and enforcement against unlicensed mining practices will be further intensified. “We aim to realize good mining practices across all regions of Indonesia,” he stated in an official release from the Ministry of ESDM.
The operation revealed 148.25 hectares of illegal mining in the concession area of PT Weda Bay Nickel in North Maluku, while another 172.82 hectares were found in the territory of PT Tonia Mitra Sejahtera in Southeast Sulawesi. Although both companies hold mining permits, they lacked forest-use permits, a legal gap that ultimately led to enforcement action.
Jeffri added that the Minister of ESDM continues to push for the adoption of Good Mining Practices (GMP)—a mining concept that emphasizes environmental responsibility, sustainability, and legal compliance. “The Ministry of ESDM will continue proactive collaboration with the Forest Area Control Task Force (Satgas PKH) Halilintar in every enforcement measure,” he asserted.
The Ministry of ESDM plays an integral role in Satgas PKH Halilintar, with the Minister of ESDM serving as a Steering Committee member alongside other ministers, the TNI Commander, the Attorney General, the National Police Chief, and the Head of BPKP. At the technical level, the Directors General of Law Enforcement and Mineral Resources serve as active members.
This enforcement effort not only safeguards state assets but also serves as a stern warning for mining companies to comply with environmental regulations. The government hopes this move will strengthen governance in the mining sector and encourage businesses to implement responsible mining practices. (*)
