Jakarta — Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) Bahlil Lahadalia has announced that the government will evaluate nickel mining activities in Raja Ampat, West Papua, following public concerns over potential environmental damage in the region, which is known for its tourism appeal.
“I will evaluate it. Once I return, I will hold a meeting with the Director General and summon the holders of mining permits, whether state-owned enterprises or private companies,” Bahlil said in Jakarta on Thursday (June 5, 2025).
Bahlil emphasized the importance of incorporating local wisdom in the management of natural resources in Papua, which holds special autonomy (Otsus) status. He noted that a similar approach is applied in Aceh.
“Papua is a special autonomy region, so it requires a specific approach. I see that some elements of local wisdom have not been properly addressed. We will conduct an evaluation, and mining activities will be aligned with environmental impact assessments (Amdal),” he explained.
Previously, nickel mining operations on several islands in Raja Ampat — including Kawe, Gag, and Manuran — have sparked public concern. The activities are believed to pose risks to both marine and terrestrial ecosystems in an area considered one of Indonesia’s key conservation and tourism zones.
