Indonesian MPs back restructuring of the mining sector to ensure environmental sustainability

An MP from Commission XII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Beniyanto Tamoreka, expressed his support for the government’s steps via the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) to restructure the national mining sector to strengthen the state’s role and increase state revenue from the management of natural resources. According to Beniyanto, the move presented by ESDM Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, concerning an evaluation of mining governance, is an important moment to ensure that the management of minerals and coal truly delivers maximum benefits for national interests and the welfare of the people. ‘The state must be stronger in ensuring that Indonesia’s natural resources provide maximum added value for the people. The restructuring of the mining sector needs to be directed to strengthen governance, increase state revenue, and ensure environmental sustainability,’ Beniyanto said in a written statement on Thursday, 21 May 2026. He assessed that several regions are currently under serious consideration in the governance of the national mining sector, due to both the large resource potential and the challenges of supervision on the ground. The nickel mining areas in Sulawesi, including Morowali and Konawe, in his view need to have their oversight continuously strengthened in line with the rapid development of the downstream industry. In addition, Beniyanto also highlighted mining activity in Kalimantan, particularly the coal sector, which needs to be balanced between economic contribution and environmental aspects. Meanwhile in Papua and North Maluku, he believes the management of strategic mineral resources must be able to deliver greater economic impact for local communities and the producing regions. ‘We want mining-producing regions not only to be sites of resource exploitation, but also to share in the benefits of development, infrastructure improvements, employment, and regional economic growth,’ he said. Beniyanto emphasised that strengthening the state’s position in mining management must be carried out proportionally and provide legal certainty for the business world. According to him, a healthy investment climate remains an important factor in sustaining the national mining industry’s sustainability. ‘We want a balance between national interests, investment certainty, and environmental sustainability. Therefore, the restructuring of the mining sector must be carried out in a measured, transparent manner and while maintaining investor confidence,’ he said.