Indonesia reopens nickel mine in dive hot spot despite outcry

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Earth containing nickel ore being loaded on Halmahera island in eastern Indonesia.

PHOTO: REUTERS

JAKARTA – The Indonesian government has allowed a nickel mining company to resume operations in an eastern archipelago, a minister said on Sept 14, despite an outcry over damage it could cause to pristine islands.

The cluster of islands and shoals in South-west Papua Province sits in the Coral Triangle and is thought to be one of the world’s most pristine reefs, with its clear blue waters making it a popular diving spot.

Gag Nikel, a subsidiary of state mining company Aneka Tambang, resumed operations on tiny Gag island in Raja Ampat archipelago on Sept 3 after a suspension was lifted, a Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources official told reporters this week.

Environmental Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said Gag Nikel has received a “green” rating from the government, which means the company has complied with environmental standards assessed annually by the ministry.

“We have once again reviewed all our data related to mining operations at Gag Nikel… An environmental audit was conducted to ensure that the impact caused by Gag Nikel can be properly mitigated,” he told reporters in Bali on Sept 14.

Mr Hanif said the ministry would continue to monitor Gag Nikel and supervise its operations.

“Of course… there will always be concerns. That is why we must balance development and environmental protection,” he said.

The Indonesian government revoked permits in June for four out of five nickel mining companies operating in Raja Ampat following an outcry from activists and residents.

Gag Nikel was at first exempted,