KPK Warns Antam to Exercise Caution When Purchasing Artisanal Mining Output

Jakarta (ANTARA) — The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has reminded PT Aneka Tambang, or Antam (Persero), to remain cautious when executing its strategic plan to purchase artisanal mining output.

KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto explained that Antam must exercise care because, based on the anti-corruption body’s findings across several regions, artisanal mining areas are in practice still controlled by certain groups, potentially creating economic injustice for local communities.

“This must be taken seriously so that it does not cause harm or be exploited for the benefit of a select few,” Setyo said in a statement confirmed in Jakarta on Friday.

He therefore stated that the KPK is reminding Antam that its strategic plan to enter the artisanal mining sector must be accompanied by strict risk mitigation.

Moreover, he said, the KPK considers that every business decision by a state-owned enterprise (BUMN) needs to be overseen with robust governance to prevent irregularities amid the complexity of the mining industry.

He further stated that Antam must ensure its operations are not merely profit-oriented but also deliver sustainable social, economic and environmental impact.

Meanwhile, Antam President Director Untung Budiharto acknowledged that the company’s transformation currently faces macroeconomic challenges, geopolitical dynamics and increasingly complex regulations.

Untung said Antam is therefore partnering with the KPK to strengthen legal risk mitigation amid global market competition through various improvement recommendations.

According to him, Antam regards collaboration with the KPK as essential to ensuring that every business decision aligns with the principles of prudence and the public interest.