Jakarta, June 9, 2025 — The Europe Today: Indonesia’s Environment Ministry has announced a stringent and systematic plan to curb nickel mining activities by four companies operating on different islands in Raja Ampat District, Southwest Papua. The move aims to safeguard one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq emphasized the ecological significance of Raja Ampat, home to 75 percent of the world’s coral species and thousands of endemic species. “We will not allow even one inch of damage in this critical area,” he stated.
Raja Ampat’s oceans are at the heart of the global coral triangle, boasting over 553 coral species, 1,070 species of reef fish, and 699 mollusc types. On land, the region hosts 874 plant species (nine endemic), 114 herpetofauna species (five endemic), 47 mammal species (one endemic), and 274 bird species (six endemic), making it a world-class ecological treasure and tourist destination.
The ministry’s findings came after direct inspections from May 26 to 31 of nickel mining activities by PT Gag Nikel (Gag Island), PT Anugerah Surya Pratama (Manuran Island), PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining (Kawei Island), and PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa (Manyaifun Island). Environmental clearances of these companies are under review, and legal action will be taken against two firms violating regulations.
The ministry is also preparing a Regional Spatial Plan for West Papua, prioritizing coastal and small island conservation as mandated by Indonesia’s Law No. 1 of 2014 on coastal and small island management.
“Raja Ampat symbolizes Indonesia’s and the world’s natural wealth. Protecting it is a shared responsibility,” Minister Nurofiq said. “All permits and activities must align with ecosystem preservation and legal requirements.”
