Call to End Mining in Raja Ampat to Save Ecosystem and Tourism
- Antara/Akbar Nugroho Gumay
“We don’t want a temporary suspension. There must be no negotiation with those who destroy our tourism sites. Mining in Raja Ampat is a betrayal of the vision of sustainable development. True progress means protecting food sources, clean water, and natural ecosystems. If ecotourism disappears, the ocean is damaged, agriculture is destroyed, and forests are lost—local economies will collapse. The state must stand up for its people,” he explained.
From a legal standpoint, Wamafma pointed out that mining activities on small islands and coastal areas are prohibited under Law No. 27 of 2007 and Law No. 1 of 2014, as well as Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Regulation No. 20 of 2021.
These laws underline the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems.
Specifically, Article 23 Paragraph (2) of the law prioritizes the use of small islands and surrounding waters for activities such as conservation, education, research, and tourism.
Additionally, he referenced a ruling by the Constitutional Court (MK) Decision No. 35 of 2024, which rejected a petition by PT Gema Kreasi Perdana (GKP) that sought to legalize mining in coastal and small island areas. The Court ruled that such mining activities could harm the environment and negatively impact local communities.
He also cited the Supreme Court (MA) Decision No. 57 of 2022, which upheld a lawsuit filed by residents of Wawonii Island opposing mining operations there. The Court deemed mining on small islands an “abnormally dangerous activity” that must be banned.
Given all these regulations and legal precedents, he argued that there is more than enough justification to stop nickel mining in Raja Ampat.
“The destruction of Raja Ampat is not just an ecological loss—it is a national disaster. The state must be consistent. The state must stand on the side of sustainability. Therefore, nickel mining in Raja Ampat must be shut down immediately. Don’t wait until everything is destroyed,” he concluded.
KPK Diminta Telusuri Dugaan Penyalahgunaan Wewenang Pengelolaan PDRD Raja Ampat Tahun 2025
KPK juga diharapkan melakukan penindakan terhadap pejabat daerah yang terbukti melakukan penyalahgunaan wewenang, pungutan liar, dan manipulasi laporan keuangan.
