Maluku Provincial Government Accelerates Small-Scale Mining Legalisation in Buru
The Maluku Provincial Government has reaffirmed its commitment to regulating illegal mining activities in the Gunung Botak area, Buru Regency, while simultaneously accelerating the legalisation of small-scale mining to ensure local economic activities comply with existing regulations.
Speaking in Ambon on Friday, Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa stated that law enforcement against illegal mining remains a government priority, despite the potential impact on local economic activities. “Our primary footing is based on rules and respect for the law. The government cannot allow illegal activities to continue. While there are economic consequences, the correct path must be taken for environmental sustainability and long-term community welfare,” Hendrik said during a coordination meeting with the Buru Regency Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) and relevant regional agencies.
The Governor emphasised that while the government understands the evolving socio-economic conditions, it cannot ignore law enforcement for short-term interests. He noted that the restructuring of mining on Buru Island must be conducted through legal channels to provide sustainable economic benefits and preserve the environment.
In response to community aspirations, the Maluku Provincial Government has proposed an expansion of the People’s Mining Area (WPR) to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM). Currently, the central government has only designated 100 hectares as WPR in the Gunung Botak area, whereas the available reserves within the Mining Business Permit Area (WIUP) reach approximately 24,900 hectares.
The Governor explained that the local government lacks the authority to issue mining permits outside the provisions set by the central government. Therefore, the available course of action is to formally request an increase in the WPR area from the central government.
According to reports from the Maluku ESDM Office, nine out of ten cooperatives processing permits have completed the administrative boundary marking, while one cooperative is still in the final stages. Furthermore, of the ten cooperatives that have submitted their Work Plan and Budget (RKAB), six have met the requirements and are ready for the operational verification stage, while three others are undergoing evaluation.
The Maluku Provincial Government hopes that accelerating the licensing process will create opportunities for the community to conduct small-scale mining activities legally, safely, and in an environmentally friendly manner, while simultaneously driving economic recovery in Buru Regency. “There will be no compromise regarding illegal mining, but the government will continue to provide space for the community to conduct business through legitimate and responsible mechanisms,” Hendrik concluded.