More Environmentally Friendly, Backfilling Method Could Boost Investment into Indonesia
Jakarta: The backfilling method used in mining activities is considered an appropriate choice as it prioritises safety and environmental protection. This method is being utilised by PT Dairi Prima Mineral (DPM) and has received approval from the Ministry of Environment (KLH). The sustainability of the project is also expected to create multiplier effects for the communities surrounding the mining area.
Mining and energy observer Ferdy Hasiman stated that the approval from the Ministry of Environment indicates that DPM’s plan to implement backfilling has undergone a rigorous study process. The method is deemed safer and more environmentally friendly, providing a foundation for DPM to continue its investment activities.
“Backfilling is safer and more environmentally friendly. This is the right choice for DPM. The Ministry, in this case, the Ministry of Environment (KLH), has certainly seen a mature process from DPM,” Ferdy said in a written statement on Wednesday, 2 September 2026.
Driving investment into Indonesia
Ferdy noted that the continuity of the DPM project is vital for accelerating investment. Furthermore, DPM has established a partnership with China, which is seen as having the potential to bring significant investment and provide economic impacts to the surrounding regions.
“We hope this project can proceed. This creates a multiplier effect. Large-scale miners follow best mining practices. Therefore, if this proceeds, DPM will be a positive force,” he explained.
According to Ferdy, the realisation of the project is increasingly important amidst the challenges of slowing foreign investment in Indonesia. Ongoing investments are expected to not only benefit the company but also create economic activity and business opportunities for the people living near the mining area.
From a technical and environmental perspective, LAPI ITB expert Irwan Iskandar stated that DPM’s management refers to studies on disaster, geology, hydrology, engineering geology, and environmental protection. He assessed that the management has considered aspects of science, technology, and environmental preservation.
One of the technologies applied is paste backfilling, where material is mixed with cement and then pumped back into mine openings, including longhole stoping areas. This method functions to maintain underground stability, control voids, minimise the risk of subsidence, and prevent the formation of acid mine drainage.
Integrated water management
The use of the backfilling method also allows for more integrated water management. Because it does not utilise tailings dams, disturbances to surface water can be suppressed.
Refilling material into the mining area also helps control the decline of groundwater levels. Residual mining materials can be reused to fill empty spaces underground.
To ensure environmental management is maintained, DPM will install approximately 10 monitoring wells around the underground mine openings. These wells will be used to monitor changes in groundwater and serve as a basis for evaluation if significant changes are detected.
Irwan assessed that backfilling technology is a strategic approach that has the potential to be applied to other mining activities. With technical, technological, and environmental aspects being met, the DPM project is deemed to have a solid foundation to proceed. However, its implementation must continue to consider the acceptance and involvement of the local community.