West Aceh Regency Targets 19 Sites for Community Mining Areas

Meulaboh (ANTARA) - The West Aceh Regency government is targeting 1s9 locations for community mining areas (WPR) that have previously been proposed to the Aceh Provincial Government and the central government, aiming for swift legalisation to provide economic benefits to the community.

“These community mining areas must be well-organised to ensure legal certainty, safety, and real economic benefits without damaging the environment,” said the Vice Regent of West Aceh, Said Fadheil, in Meulaboh on Friday.

He noted that the designation of community mining areas is not merely about defining territories, nor is it an automatic legalisation of all mining activities.

“WPR must serve as an instrument for regulation,” he added.

As a demonstration of commitment, the West Aceh Regency government has been proposing 19 WPR sites in stages since December 2024 and November 2025. All proposals have been forwarded through the Aceh Provincial Government to the central government for follow-up in accordance with applicable regulations.

Said stated that the potential mineral resources in West Aceh are vast and could serve as a driver for the regional economy. However, he cautioned that mining management must not neglect occupational safety and environmental preservation.

Said Fadheil outlined three main principles for operating WPR in West Aceh: first, mining communities must operate according to regulations and hold official permits.

Second, the economic benefits of the WPR must be enjoyed directly by local residents, rather than being controlled by specific individuals or groups. Third, there must be strict supervision regarding occupational safety and a commitment to the reclamation of rivers, water sources, and community land following mining operations.

“We are not choosing between the economy or the environment. What we want to build is community mining that is legal, where the people are prosperous, and the environment remains protected,” Said emphasised.

The West Aceh Regency government remains ready and continues to coordinate with the Aceh Provincial Government and the central government to ensure the WPR legalisation process is transparent.

“Let us monitor these WPRs together: ensuring activities are legal, workers are safe, the environment is protected, the community is prosperous, and the impact on the region is positive,” he concluded.