Deputy for Environmental Law Enforcement of the Ministry of Environment/Bureau of Environmental Control Rizal Irawan explained that the audit serves as an initial step to determine the monitoring mechanism for the mining company operating on a small island with a fragile ecosystem.
“There has already been an order for an environmental audit of PT Gag Nickel. The results of this audit will form the basis for further oversight, including whether the company has met its obligations. The findings will also be submitted to other relevant ministries,” Rizal said during a media briefing in Jakarta on Wednesday (Sept. 17).
The audit follows a statement from Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, who underlined several requirements PT Gag Nickel must meet to prevent pollution.
These include constructing precise sedimentation ponds to stop runoff from entering rivers and the sea, as well as controlling emissions to avoid air pollution.
Hanif emphasized that operational restrictions remain under the authority of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM).
Related news: Indonesian govt sets strict rules for Gag Nikel’s Raja Ampat mining
The ministry earlier stated that PT Gag Nickel’s resumption of activities is part of a broader evaluation and audit process.
The presence of mining operations in Raja Ampat has drawn public concern.
The government previously received complaints from local communities, who feared mining activities could threaten the area’s globally recognized biodiversity.
In response, the government revoked four mining business permits (IUP) in Raja Ampat, some of which were located in protected areas.
The permits were held by PT Anugerah Surya Pratama, PT Nurham, PT Melia Raymond Perkasa, and PT Kawai Sejahtera.
PT Gag Nickel, a subsidiary of PT Antam Tbk, was temporarily suspended for an environmental audit before resuming operations on September 3.
Related news: PT GAG Nikel operations still halted: Energy Ministry
Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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