2) 11 Indigenous Papuans arrested following land conflict with palmoil company PT IKSJ in Sorong, Papua Barat Daya
3) Molotov Attack on Jubi Editorial Office: Legal stalemate and demands for military accountability
4) Ministry reviews nickel mining in Raja Ampat after outcry
5) RI halts new forest permits in Raja Ampat amid nickel mining concerns
6) Minister joins community push to keep Raja Ampat free from mining
7) Ministry uncovers violations in Raja Ampat nickel mines
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(Photos in report)
Human Rights Monitor
https://humanrightsmonitor.org/news/at-least-three-indigenous-papuans-killed-and-one-wounded-during-military-operations-in-puncak-regency/
1) At least three indigenous Papuans killed and one wounded during military operations in Puncak Regency
The Indonesian military (TNI) launched an operation involving air strikes and ground forces against the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) in the districts of Gome and Gome Utara in late May 2025. The operation lasted at least five days. Indigenous Papuans witnessing the raids in various locations described that security forces indiscriminately opened fire at individuals they encountered in the forest and villagers who were not able to flee. The ground forces were reportedly accompanied by air raids, with helicopters dropping mortar grenades on civilian settlements. The operation is part of the Government’s plan to destroy the TPNPB, as the armed wing of the West Papuan independence movement.
On 22 May 2025, in Towenggi II Village, Gome District, Mr Agus Murib, 29, was reportedly shot dead by Indonesian military personnel while he and his wife were collecting wood in the forest. According to testimonies and a public statement published by TPNPB, Mr Murib had no affiliation with the TPNPB-OPM or any armed group. The killing was reportedly unprovoked, with no warning issued before soldiers opened fire. His wife managed to escape and alerted the community. Due to the military presence at the site, the relatives were not able to evacuate the body for an extended period (see photos below, source: WPCC). The remains were later cremated by family members.
On 23 May 2025, further violence occurred in Ninggabuma Village, Gome District, as Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel opened fire and allegedly wounded a civilian woman named Mrs Ariu Mayau (see photos below, source: WPCC). Sixteen-year-old Jefri Tabuni, allegedly a member of TPNPB, was fatally shot during the raid. Sources alleged that he was executed despite not being armed.
On 26 May 2025, the TNI conducted a coordinated land and air military operation in the Gome Utara District, Puncak Regency. During this operation, a civilian named Mr Sole Mosip, 52, was killed as a result of an airstrike. His residence was directly hit, caught fire, and the victim was burned to death. The charred remains of Mr Mosip were discovered by villagers two days later, on 28 May 2025. Due to restricted access, imposed by military control over the area, residents were forced to cremate the body at the scene.
On the morning of 26 May 2025, the TNI launched an aerial attack in Welenggaru Village, Gome Utara District. The bombardment led to the destruction of several properties, including Mr Mosip’s home. Military members set multiple residential houses on fire (see phots below, source: independent HRDs). Eyewitness accounts confirm that Mr Mosip was hit by the explosion, which also incinerated his home. Villagers also reported that the entire forest region of Gome Utara District remains under strict TNI control, obstructing civilian movement or humanitarian access. It is feared that other victims remain unaccounted for within the restricted area.
On 27 May 2025, further alarming reports emerged concerning the deployment of explosive devices by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) in Gome Utara District, Puncak Regency. According to eyewitness testimony, security forces were seen planting hand grenades and other explosive devices along public roads throughout the conflict zone. These explosive devices, ostensibly intended for engagement with TPNPB-OPM forces, were laid without any safeguarding measures for civilians. This practice places the lives of fleeing civilians in immediate peril, as they are forced to traverse these mined routes in search of safety.
On 28 May 2025, residents received secured conditional access from local police in the town of Kago. They recovered Mr Sole Mosip’s body and immediately cremated it due to the impossibility of evacuation.
The death of Sole Mosip is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of extrajudicial killings, forced displacement, and structural impunity in West Papua. Human rights groups demand an independent investigation by the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) to ensure that all perpetrators will be held accountable. The Government is urged to immediately allow unrestricted humanitarian access to the displaced population in Puncak Utara and other conflict areas, ensuring the protection of civilian populations as mandated under Indonesia’s obligations under the Geneva Conventions and the Rome Statute.
Legal and human rights assessment
The killings of Sole Mosip and Agus Murib constitute grave breaches of international humanitarian law, particularly the principles of distinction and proportionality as outlined in Article 51 of Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions. The deliberate use of aerial munitions in civilian zones without sufficient precautionary measures violates the obligation to distinguish between combatants and civilians. Article 51(4) of Additional Protocol I and Rule 71 of Customary International Humanitarian Law (CIHL) both prohibit indiscriminate weapons and tactics that cannot distinguish between combatants and civilians. The deliberate endangerment of non-combatants through the use of explosives on public roads may amount to a serious war crime and demands immediate investigation, demining, and legal accountability for those responsible.The incidents further raise concerns under Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees the right to life and prohibits arbitrary deprivation.
The killings of Sole Mosip and Agus Murib constitute grave breaches of international humanitarian law, particularly the principles of distinction and proportionality as outlined in Article 51 of Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions. The deliberate use of aerial munitions in civilian zones without sufficient precautionary measures violates the obligation to distinguish between combatants and civilians. Article 51(4) of Additional Protocol I and Rule 71 of Customary International Humanitarian Law (CIHL) both prohibit indiscriminate weapons and tactics that cannot distinguish between combatants and civilians. The deliberate endangerment of non-combatants through the use of explosives on public roads may amount to a serious war crime and demands immediate investigation, demining, and legal accountability for those responsible.
The incidents further raise concerns under Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees the right to life and prohibits arbitrary deprivation.
Table of victims killed or injured by bullets during security raids in Puncak in late May 2025.........
Mrs Ariu Mayau receiving first aid inside a traditional hut after being shot
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Human Rights Monitor
https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/11-indigenous-papuans-arrested-following-land-conflict-with-palmoil-company-pt-iksj-in-sorong-papua-barat-daya/
2) 11 Indigenous Papuans arrested following land conflict with palmoil company PT IKSJ in Sorong, Papua Barat Daya
On 4 June 2025, members of the Malamoi Indigenous Community—including individuals from the Masinau, Motowol, Sawat, Klafiyu, and Klawen clans, along with residents of Ninjomor and Klasari villages—initiated a road blockade in Sorong Regency, Papua Barat Daya (see photo on top, source: Jubi). The protest targeted the entrance to the office and factory of the palm oil corporation PT Inti Kebun Sejahtera (IKSJ). The community had blocked the road in response to the arbitrary arrest and subsequent detention of 11 indigenous community members on 8 May 2025. The police pressed charges against them on 10 May under allegations of misappropriating company-owned diesel fuel. Among the detained is 40-year-old Oktovianus Masinau, a recognised traditional landowner.
On 8 May 2025, eleven indigenous residents were arrested on accusations of selling diesel fuel allegedly belonging to PT IKSJ (see table below, source: Jubi). They were detained two days later without due clarification or legal transparency. PT IKSJ claims that an internal audit revealed a Rp 200 million loss due to fuel mismanagement. Despite this, no official documentation or legal proceedings clarifying the evidence or process of arrest have been made public. Protesting against the arbitrary arrests, the community erected a blockade on 4 June 2025 and demanded state intervention, specifically requesting the presence of government representatives from Jakarta rather than low-level corporate emissaries.
Systematic criminalisation of indigenous peoples in Indonesia
This incident must be contextualised within a broader national pattern of repression and criminalisation of indigenous peoples across Indonesia. In a report presented to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples, Dr Albert K. Barume, by the Indigenous Peoples Alliance of the Archipelago (AMAN), it was clearly stated that the persecution of indigenous leaders is not incidental but part of a deliberate and systematic strategy. According to AMAN’s Secretary-General, Mr Rukka Sombolinggi, the state, in collaboration with private corporate interests, has developed a structural pattern of targeting indigenous leaders in order to paralyse community resistance. Criminalisation is employed as a political and symbolic tool to silence the cultural and spiritual backbone of indigenous communities.
Testimonies from AMAN representatives across Indonesia illustrate that intimidation, surveillance, and legal harassment are widespread tactics used to displace indigenous peoples from their ancestral lands under the guise of investment, conservation, or public order. From Papua to North Maluku and South Kalimantan, indigenous defenders have been arrested, threatened, and forced into exile. These acts constitute serious violations of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples(UNDRIP), particularly Article 8 (protection from forced assimilation and destruction of culture) and Article 18 (participation in decision-making). The consistent targeting of indigenous figures like Oktovianus Masinau in Papua Barat Daya Province reflects a broader state-enabled pattern of repression that demands urgent international scrutiny.
Demands and Call to Action
The Malamoi community has made several urgent demands:
- The immediate release of all 11 detained individuals.
- Transparent legal review of PT IKSJ’s claims and actions.
- Direct engagement by central government authorities with indigenous representatives.
- Respect and recognition of customary land rights in line with national and international law.
Human rights organisations, legal observers, and UN Special Rapporteurs are urged to monitor the case and advocate for the protection of indigenous rights in West Papua. The pattern of criminalisation and land dispossession in West Papua is symptomatic of broader systemic discrimination, and urgent state accountability is needed to prevent further harm.
Table of indigenous community members arrested on 10 May 2025......
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Human Rights Monitor
https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/arbitrary-detention-of-catholic-youth-activist-during-bishop-ordination-in-timika/
Arbitrary detention of Catholic youth activist during bishop ordination in Timika
On 14 May 2025, around 12:30 WIT, the bishop ordination at the Three Kings Cathedral in Timika, Central Papua, was disrupted by the arbitrary detention of indigenous Papuan youth activist, Malvin Yobe, by Mimika District Police, with support from members of the Catholic Youth Organisation and the ordination committee. The police approached the activists shortly after the episcopal ordination of Mgr. Bernardus Bofitwos Baru OSA as the new Bishop of Timika—a ceremony attended by the Vatican’s Ambassador to Indonesia and bishops from across the country. The activists had carried out a silent and peaceful protest in the cathedral courtyard (see photos, source: independent HRDs), displaying signs that called attention to human rights violations and environmental destruction in West Papua: The banners also voiced rejection of controversial public statements made by Archbishop Petrus Canisius Mandagi MSC of Merauke, who has expressed support for National Strategic Projects (PSN) that involve the expropriation of indigenous lands in the Merauke Regency.
The protest was organised by Suara Kaum Awam Katolik Regio Papua (The Voice of the Catholic Laity of Papua Region), as part of their weekly civic engagement initiative. They also circulated a petition calling for greater recognition of indigenous Papuan clergy and a more contextual pastoral leadership within the Papuan dioceses. Despite the peaceful and non-disruptive nature of their demonstration, the Mimika Police, without providing any legal justification, forcefully detained Malvin Yobe. Bystanders reported that protest materials were confiscated, banners torn, and the activists were swiftly dispersed. For several hours, the families and legal representatives of Malvin Yobe were unable to determine his whereabouts
The situation escalated due to the lack of transparency and the involvement of church-affiliated individuals in enabling the arrests. Civil society organisations, youth networks, and human rights groups condemned the actions as a gross infringement of freedom of expression, assembly, and religion. They demanded immediate clarification of the activists’ legal status. Malvin Yobe was released at 04:40 pm on the same day from Jalan Baru Police Station, but concerns remain regarding ongoing surveillance and possible reprisals.
The case underscores broader systemic issues of repression of indigenous voices, especially when they confront elite clerical or state-endorsed narratives. The crackdown on a non-violent expression of dissent within a religious setting sets a disturbing precedent and contradicts the Church’s own social justice teachings and the constitutional rights guaranteed under Indonesian law and international human rights standards.
Police officers arrest church activist during peaceful demonstration at the Three Kings Cathedral in Timika on 14 May 2025
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Human Rights Monitor
3) Molotov Attack on Jubi Editorial Office: Legal stalemate and demands for military accountability
In the early hours of 16 October 2024, unidentified assailants launched a Molotov cocktail attack on the editorial office of Jubi, an independent media outlet in Jayapura City, Papua Province. The arson attack caused material damage but no casualties. Investigations led to the identification of two suspects—Sergeant First Class Devrat and Private Arga Wisnu Tribaskara, both members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). However, the case has become mired in institutional conflict between the Papua Regional Police (Polda Papua) and the XVII/Cenderawasih Military Command (Kodam XVII/Cenderawasih), with each agency presenting contradictory conclusions. On 17 May 2025, the Papuan House of Representatives (DPR Papua) announced it would escalate the matter to the TNI Headquarters (Mabes TNI) and the Indonesian National Police Headquarters (Mabes Polri) in Jakarta.
Legal developments and institutional tensions
Shortly after the attack, Polda Papua launched an investigation, collecting CCTV footage, forensic evidence, and testimonies from nine witnesses, which pointed to the involvement of military personnel. According to Jubi’s legal counsel, this evidence was deemed sufficient under Article 184 of the Indonesian Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) and led to the case being transferred to the Cenderawasih Military Police for military judicial proceedings.
However, the TNI investigators rejected the case, citing inconsistent witness statements and insufficient evidence, and returned the case file to the police. This back-and-forth has obstructed legal progress and prompted DPR Papua’s Commission I, responsible for security and human rights, to intervene. A hearing on 16 May 2025 failed to resolve the impasse, leading Third Deputy Speaker Supriadi Laling to announce the DPR Papua’s plan to involve the national-level military and police authorities.
Meanwhile, the Coalition for Justice and Safety of Journalists in Papua, along with Jubi’s legal team, called for the formation of a special parliamentary committee (Pansus) to oversee the case. They also highlighted serious concerns about witness intimidation, including bribery attempts and threats, which forced at least one key witness to flee Jayapura.
Human rights and press freedom concerns
The attack on Jubi is emblematic of a broader and deeply concerning trend of impunity for violence against journalists in Indonesia, particularly in West Papua. According to data from the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI), the TNI and Polri were the top perpetrators of media-targeted violence in 2024, with 11 and 19 recorded incidents, respectively. Most cases remain unresolved, contributing to a climate of fear and censorship.
Human rights observers and journalists have criticised the lack of state accountability and the military’s unwillingness to prosecute its personnel, describing the institutional responses as symbolic and ineffective. They warn that the repetitive nature of these attacks, combined with the state’s silence or dismissive rhetoric, points to a systemic failure to uphold press freedom and the rule of law.
The attack’s proximity to multiple security installations, including a TNI post, Papua Police Headquarters, and Regional Police Station, raises troubling questions about state complicity or deliberate inaction. The fact that the suspects are known to witnesses and have been previously identified undermines the military’s claim of “insufficient evidence.”
The Indonesian state bears legal and moral responsibility under domestic and international law to guarantee freedom of the press and ensure protection against arbitrary violence, especially by state actors. Key legal instruments include Law No. 40/1999 on the Press, Law No. 39/1999 on Human Rights, Article 28F of the 1945 Constitution, and Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The apparent impunity surrounding the Jubi case constitutes a violation of these obligations and sets a dangerous precedent. Moreover, the failure to harmonise criminal procedures between civilian and military justice systems reveals a legal vacuum that enables impunity. The military’s ability to investigate its personnel without oversight or transparency contradicts the principles of fair trial and accountability. The attack on Jubi is not an isolated incident but part of a wider pattern of systemic repression in West Papua. The failure to hold perpetrators accountable not only endangers media workers but also erodes democratic principles and public trust in the institutions tasked with protecting them
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4) Ministry reviews nickel mining in Raja Ampat after outcry
The eastern archipelago of Raja Ampat in Southwest Papua Province sits in the Coral Triangle and is thought to be one of the world's most pristine reef areas, with its clear blue waters making it a popular diving spot.
AFP Jakarta Fri, June 6, 2025
The government will review nickel mining in a region known as the "world's last paradise" and could take legal action, the environment minister said, after Greenpeace videos sparked public outcry about potential damage. The eastern archipelago of Raja Ampat in Southwest Papua Province sits in the Coral Triangle and is thought to be one of the world's most pristine reef areas, with its clear blue waters making it a popular diving spot. Greenpeace Indonesia ignited social media uproar this week with several videos highlighting nickel mining projects in the area, with one amassing 13 million views on Instagram. Indonesia has the world's biggest nickel reserves and is the biggest producer of the metal used in electric vehicle batteries and stainless steel. However, environmentalists say its rush to capitalise on supply and boost processing is causing irreparable damage to land around mines and smelters.
The outcry over potential damage to the area drew a reaction from the government, with the energy ministry suspending operations at a nickel mine on one of Raja Ampat's islands pending an inspection.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said he would visit the area and vowed to punish mining firms there. "We will immediately take legal action related to activities in Raja Ampat, after going through our studies," Hanif said on Thursday. Nickel exploitation on the islands of Gag, Kawe and Manuran has led to the destruction of more than 500 hectares of forest and vegetation, according to a Greenpeace Indonesia analysis.
They are categorised as small islands that under Indonesian law should be off-limits to mining, the environmentalist group said. The government's response has raised hopes that spreading awareness was helping to protect Raja Ampat, Greenpeace Indonesia forest campaign team leader Arie Rompas told AFP on Friday. "We are happy because there are some actions that the government could take. We are pushing the right button with this campaign," he said. Arie said he hoped the public would carry on supporting Greenpeace's campaign until the government revoked all mining licences and until Raja Ampat is "truly protected".
The outcry over potential damage to the area drew a reaction from the government, with the energy ministry suspending operations at a nickel mine on one of Raja Ampat's islands pending an inspection.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said he would visit the area and vowed to punish mining firms there. "We will immediately take legal action related to activities in Raja Ampat, after going through our studies," Hanif said on Thursday. Nickel exploitation on the islands of Gag, Kawe and Manuran has led to the destruction of more than 500 hectares of forest and vegetation, according to a Greenpeace Indonesia analysis.
They are categorised as small islands that under Indonesian law should be off-limits to mining, the environmentalist group said. The government's response has raised hopes that spreading awareness was helping to protect Raja Ampat, Greenpeace Indonesia forest campaign team leader Arie Rompas told AFP on Friday. "We are happy because there are some actions that the government could take. We are pushing the right button with this campaign," he said. Arie said he hoped the public would carry on supporting Greenpeace's campaign until the government revoked all mining licences and until Raja Ampat is "truly protected".
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5) RI halts new forest permits in Raja Ampat amid nickel mining concerns
June 6, 2025 17:08 GMT+700
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has issued firm instructions not to issue new forest area use approvals (PPKH) in Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua, following recent concerns over nickel mining activities in the area.
"In response to concerns over possible environmental degradation in high conservation value areas such as Raja Ampat, the Minister of Forestry has instructed a temporary halt to the issuance of new PPKH,” the ministry’s director general of forestry planning, Ade Triaji Kusumah, noted in her statement on Thursday (June 5).
She revealed that while new approvals are on hold, the ministry is currently evaluating and monitoring existing approvals.
To date, two forest use approvals have been granted in the Raja Ampat area, one in 2020 and another in 2022.
Kusumah explained that both approvals were issued based on permits in the mining sector, including mining business permits (IUP) and environmental approvals valid at that time.
Raja Ampat, the globally renowned archipelago in Southwest Papua is celebrated for its unparalleled marine biodiversity, pristine coral reefs, and numerous jungle-covered islands.
Given Raja Ampat's ecological and cultural significance, Kusumah affirmed that the Forestry Ministry will prioritize protecting the area.
This measure aligns with Indonesia's commitment to biodiversity preservation and to empowering indigenous and local communities as sustainable forest guardians.
"We will also continue to strengthen coordination with related agencies, local governments, and civil society so that every development in Raja Ampat can take place sustainably and not threaten environmental sustainability," Kusumah elaborated.
Earlier, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia decided to temporarily halt nickel mining operations of PT GAG Nikel in Raja Ampat.
"For the time being, we will stop operations until field verification," he noted in a press conference on Thursday.
In doing its business, PT GAG Nikel has received a government permit based on a work contract registered in the Mineral One Data Indonesia (MODI) application, with a mining permit area of 13,136.00 ha.
According to Lahadalia, PT GAG Nikel is the only company currently operating in the area. The subsidiary of mining and metals company PT Antam Tbk received its work contract in 2017 and began operations a year later after securing an environmental impact analysis (AMDAL).
"There are several mining permits (issued) for Raja Ampat, maybe five. Well, the one operating now is only one, which is PT GAG,” he explained.
He further remarked that the islands in Raja Ampat serve various purposes, mostly conservation and tourism, with some areas containing mineral resources.
He claimed that the nickel mine is not located in the tourist destination of Piaynemo, Raja Ampat. The mine is approximately 30-40 kilometers from the tourist site.
Related news: Ministry uncovers violations in Raja Ampat nickel mines
Related news: Lonely Planet includes Raja Ampat in 'Best in Travel' list
"In response to concerns over possible environmental degradation in high conservation value areas such as Raja Ampat, the Minister of Forestry has instructed a temporary halt to the issuance of new PPKH,” the ministry’s director general of forestry planning, Ade Triaji Kusumah, noted in her statement on Thursday (June 5).
She revealed that while new approvals are on hold, the ministry is currently evaluating and monitoring existing approvals.
To date, two forest use approvals have been granted in the Raja Ampat area, one in 2020 and another in 2022.
Kusumah explained that both approvals were issued based on permits in the mining sector, including mining business permits (IUP) and environmental approvals valid at that time.
Raja Ampat, the globally renowned archipelago in Southwest Papua is celebrated for its unparalleled marine biodiversity, pristine coral reefs, and numerous jungle-covered islands.
Given Raja Ampat's ecological and cultural significance, Kusumah affirmed that the Forestry Ministry will prioritize protecting the area.
This measure aligns with Indonesia's commitment to biodiversity preservation and to empowering indigenous and local communities as sustainable forest guardians.
"We will also continue to strengthen coordination with related agencies, local governments, and civil society so that every development in Raja Ampat can take place sustainably and not threaten environmental sustainability," Kusumah elaborated.
Earlier, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia decided to temporarily halt nickel mining operations of PT GAG Nikel in Raja Ampat.
"For the time being, we will stop operations until field verification," he noted in a press conference on Thursday.
In doing its business, PT GAG Nikel has received a government permit based on a work contract registered in the Mineral One Data Indonesia (MODI) application, with a mining permit area of 13,136.00 ha.
According to Lahadalia, PT GAG Nikel is the only company currently operating in the area. The subsidiary of mining and metals company PT Antam Tbk received its work contract in 2017 and began operations a year later after securing an environmental impact analysis (AMDAL).
"There are several mining permits (issued) for Raja Ampat, maybe five. Well, the one operating now is only one, which is PT GAG,” he explained.
He further remarked that the islands in Raja Ampat serve various purposes, mostly conservation and tourism, with some areas containing mineral resources.
He claimed that the nickel mine is not located in the tourist destination of Piaynemo, Raja Ampat. The mine is approximately 30-40 kilometers from the tourist site.
Related news: Ministry uncovers violations in Raja Ampat nickel mines
Related news: Lonely Planet includes Raja Ampat in 'Best in Travel' list
Translator: Arnidhya Nur Zhafira, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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6) Minister joins community push to keep Raja Ampat free from mining
June 6, 2025 17:32 GMT+700
Jakarta (ANTARA) - In a decisive stand against extractive industries, the people of Raja Ampat have reaffirmed their commitment to preserving their islands as a world-renowned tourist destination, Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardana said.
Minister Wardhana revealed that after discussions with local residents and indigenous communities, there was overwhelming rejection of any efforts to expand nickel mining in the region.
"They emphasized that the ecosystem and identity of Raja Ampat must be maintained as a tourist area, not turned into an extractive industry area," Wardana in a statement on Thursday.
During a visit by the Tourism Ministry and the House of Representatives (DPR) from May 28 to June 1, 2025, the Raja Ampat community made their stance clear: the identity and ecosystem of these islands must remain intact for tourism, not sacrificed for mining.
Wardhana emphasized that the government must prioritize ecological preservation alongside economic growth to protect the natural beauty that draws visitors from around the world.
"We want any development, including tourism, to maintain a balance between ecology, social territory, and economic scale," she remarked.
Wardhana also met with Southwest Papua Governor Elisa Kambu in Jakarta on Wednesday to reinforce the government’s commitment on Raja Ampat, the globally renowned archipelago celebrated for its unparalleled marine biodiversity, pristine coral reefs, and numerous jungle-covered islands.
"The regional administration emphasized that Raja Ampat should remain a marine conservation area, UNESCO geopark, and Indonesia's leading tourism destination—without being compromised by mining activities," she highlighted.
The Tourism Ministry also held a coordination meeting with the National Economic Council (DEN) on Thursday to strengthen long-term protection for Raja Ampat.
The government is considering promoting Raja Ampat as a special economic zone focused on quality, sustainable tourism and green investment, benefiting both the community and the environment.
Wardhana affirmed that Raja Ampat's tourism development must prioritize environmental sustainability and local community welfare.
Future policy decisions for the area will be guided by principles of sustainability, social justice, and ecosystem resilience.
Related news: RI halts new forest permits in Raja Ampat amid nickel mining concerns
Related news: Ministry uncovers violations in Raja Ampat nickel mines
Minister Wardhana revealed that after discussions with local residents and indigenous communities, there was overwhelming rejection of any efforts to expand nickel mining in the region.
"They emphasized that the ecosystem and identity of Raja Ampat must be maintained as a tourist area, not turned into an extractive industry area," Wardana in a statement on Thursday.
During a visit by the Tourism Ministry and the House of Representatives (DPR) from May 28 to June 1, 2025, the Raja Ampat community made their stance clear: the identity and ecosystem of these islands must remain intact for tourism, not sacrificed for mining.
Wardhana emphasized that the government must prioritize ecological preservation alongside economic growth to protect the natural beauty that draws visitors from around the world.
"We want any development, including tourism, to maintain a balance between ecology, social territory, and economic scale," she remarked.
Wardhana also met with Southwest Papua Governor Elisa Kambu in Jakarta on Wednesday to reinforce the government’s commitment on Raja Ampat, the globally renowned archipelago celebrated for its unparalleled marine biodiversity, pristine coral reefs, and numerous jungle-covered islands.
"The regional administration emphasized that Raja Ampat should remain a marine conservation area, UNESCO geopark, and Indonesia's leading tourism destination—without being compromised by mining activities," she highlighted.
The Tourism Ministry also held a coordination meeting with the National Economic Council (DEN) on Thursday to strengthen long-term protection for Raja Ampat.
The government is considering promoting Raja Ampat as a special economic zone focused on quality, sustainable tourism and green investment, benefiting both the community and the environment.
Wardhana affirmed that Raja Ampat's tourism development must prioritize environmental sustainability and local community welfare.
Future policy decisions for the area will be guided by principles of sustainability, social justice, and ecosystem resilience.
Related news: RI halts new forest permits in Raja Ampat amid nickel mining concerns
Related news: Ministry uncovers violations in Raja Ampat nickel mines
Translator: Hreeloita Dharma Shanti, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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7) Ministry uncovers violations in Raja Ampat nickel mines
June 6, 2025 15:45 GMT+700
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Environment has identified several serious violations of environmental regulations and small island governance in connection with nickel mining activities in Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua.
"Mining on small islands actually undermines the principle of intergenerational justice. The ministry will not hesitate to revoke permits if there is proof of damage to irreplaceable ecosystems," Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq noted in a statement on Thursday (June 5).
He remarked that the principles of caution and sustainability would be the basis for taking action against these violations.
The Environment Ministry supervised nickel mining activities in the Raja Ampat area, from May 26 to 31, 2025.
This step was taken as part of the efforts to enforce the law and protect the environment in coastal areas and small islands that have significant ecological value.
The companies under supervision include PT GN, PT KSM, PT ASP, and PT MRP, all of which have obtained mining business permits (IUP) from the government. However, only PT GN, PT KSM, and PT ASP possess forest area use permits (PPKH).
Nurofiq said the supervision revealed various violations of environmental regulations and small island governance.
PT ASP, a foreign investment company from China, was found to be mining on Manuran Island, covering an area of approximately 746 hectares, without an environmental management system or wastewater management.
At this site, the ministry installed a warning sign to halt all activities.
Meanwhile, PT GN operates on Gag Island, covering approximately 6,030.53 hectares. Both islands are classified as small islands, making mining activities there contrary to Law Number 1 of 2014 on the Management of Coastal Areas and Small Islands.
The ministry is currently evaluating the Environmental Approvals held by PT ASP and PT GN. If proven to be in conflict with applicable laws, their environmental permits will be revoked.
In addition, PT MRP was found to lack environmental documents and a PPKH for its operations on Batang Pele Island. All exploration activities there have been suspended.
Meanwhile, PT KSM was found to have opened a mine outside its environmental permit and outside the five-hectare PPKH area on Kawe Island.
He explained that this activity has caused sedimentation along the coast. The company will face administrative sanctions requiring environmental restoration and may be subject to civil lawsuits.
Nurofiq emphasized that the Constitutional Court's decision Number 35/PUU-XXI/2023 also strengthened the policy of prohibiting mining activities in coastal areas and small islands.
The Constitutional Court emphasized that mineral mining in these areas can cause irreversible damage and violate the principles of preventing environmental hazards and intergenerational justice.
To this end, he echoed the government's commitment to taking firm action against all forms of violations that threaten the environment and the future of Indonesia's coastal areas.
Related news: Energy minister to inspect Raja Ampat nickel mining
Related news: Prioritize sustainable tourism over extractive activities: govt
"Mining on small islands actually undermines the principle of intergenerational justice. The ministry will not hesitate to revoke permits if there is proof of damage to irreplaceable ecosystems," Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq noted in a statement on Thursday (June 5).
He remarked that the principles of caution and sustainability would be the basis for taking action against these violations.
The Environment Ministry supervised nickel mining activities in the Raja Ampat area, from May 26 to 31, 2025.
This step was taken as part of the efforts to enforce the law and protect the environment in coastal areas and small islands that have significant ecological value.
The companies under supervision include PT GN, PT KSM, PT ASP, and PT MRP, all of which have obtained mining business permits (IUP) from the government. However, only PT GN, PT KSM, and PT ASP possess forest area use permits (PPKH).
Nurofiq said the supervision revealed various violations of environmental regulations and small island governance.
PT ASP, a foreign investment company from China, was found to be mining on Manuran Island, covering an area of approximately 746 hectares, without an environmental management system or wastewater management.
At this site, the ministry installed a warning sign to halt all activities.
Meanwhile, PT GN operates on Gag Island, covering approximately 6,030.53 hectares. Both islands are classified as small islands, making mining activities there contrary to Law Number 1 of 2014 on the Management of Coastal Areas and Small Islands.
The ministry is currently evaluating the Environmental Approvals held by PT ASP and PT GN. If proven to be in conflict with applicable laws, their environmental permits will be revoked.
In addition, PT MRP was found to lack environmental documents and a PPKH for its operations on Batang Pele Island. All exploration activities there have been suspended.
Meanwhile, PT KSM was found to have opened a mine outside its environmental permit and outside the five-hectare PPKH area on Kawe Island.
He explained that this activity has caused sedimentation along the coast. The company will face administrative sanctions requiring environmental restoration and may be subject to civil lawsuits.
Nurofiq emphasized that the Constitutional Court's decision Number 35/PUU-XXI/2023 also strengthened the policy of prohibiting mining activities in coastal areas and small islands.
The Constitutional Court emphasized that mineral mining in these areas can cause irreversible damage and violate the principles of preventing environmental hazards and intergenerational justice.
To this end, he echoed the government's commitment to taking firm action against all forms of violations that threaten the environment and the future of Indonesia's coastal areas.
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Translator: Prisca Triferna Violleta, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Arie Novarina
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