Jakarta – Greenpeace Indonesia has criticised the government’s decision to grant PT Gag Nikel a temporary operating permit. In a written statement on Friday, September 19, the environmental organisation said the move could potentially harm the marine ecosystem of Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua, which is home to 75% of the world’s coral reef species.
“Raja Ampat is not just a national treasure; it is a world heritage site. Granting mining permits to operate again in this region shows the greed of the government and corporations, which place short-term profits above environmental protection,” said Arie Rompas, Head of Greenpeace Indonesia’s Forest Campaign Team.
Previously, the government said that PT Gag Nikel’s operating permit was temporary. The Director General of Minerals and Coal at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Tri Winarno, explained that this permit was granted solely for an environmental audit.
“If the environmental audit is not satisfactory, there are two possibilities: it will either be continued or terminated. So this permit is to ensure that mining practices are in accordance with good mining practices,” said Tri in Jakarta.
He also mentioned that Gag Island is closer to North Maluku than the core area of Raja Ampat, which has been designated as a geopark. However, the government has said that it will take action if potential environmental damage is found during the audit.
“If the environmental audit finds no problems, then go ahead (continue operations),” he said.
Violating laws and climate commitments
Greenpeace believes that the government’s move is contrary to Law No. 1 of 2014 on Coastal Zone and Small Islands Management, and weakens Indonesia’s climate commitment.
“We are deeply concerned because this decision violates the law and damages the future of coral reef ecosystems, which are a source of food and livelihood for millions of people. This is a betrayal of climate commitments and deepens the ecological crisis,” added Arie.
Greenpeace, together with more than 60,000 people who have signed the #SaveRajaAmpat petition, is urging the government to revoke PT Gag Nikel’s permit. They also reject plans to build a smelter in Sorong and expand mining in the Raja Ampat region.
“No amount of nickel is worth the destruction of the Raja Ampat ecosystem, which is said to be the last paradise on Earth. Protecting Raja Ampat means protecting life, for the people of Papua, Indonesia, and the world,” concluded Arie. (Hartatik)
Banner photo: Residents of Manyaifun Village, with Manyaifun Village and the hills of Batang Pele Island in the background. © Alif R Nouddy Korua/Greenpeace
