Indonesia has taken a major step in response to public pressure and environmental concerns. On June 10, 2025, the government officially cancelled four of the five mining permits in Raja Ampat. The decision followed weeks of international outcry over mining activity in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions.
Read our previous article here: Save Raja Ampat: The Last Paradise is Under Threat
What Happened?
After a wave of public reaction – sparked by drone footage and investigations from Greenpeace Indonesia – the Ministry of Investment cancelled four nickel mining permits. These permits covered small islands in Raja Ampat, including Gag, Kawe, and Manuran. The companies involved were PT Nurham, PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining, PT Anugerah Surya Pratama, and PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa.
Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated that President Prabowo Subianto made the decision directly. The move was aimed at protecting the marine environment. These concessions had raised serious concerns due to their environmental impact and their possible violation of national laws that prohibit mining on small islands.
Why It Matters
This announcement came after a spike in public interest. Greenpeace Indonesia and other environmental groups published videos and satellite images showing how mining was affecting the landscape – muddy runoff entering clear waters, forests cut down, and hillsides stripped bare. On social media, posts using #SaveRajaAmpat spread quickly and helped push the issue into national headlines.
The now-cancelled permits were located in areas close to coral reef zones and other marine habitats. Greenpeace and other experts argue that these activities conflicted with Indonesia’s 2014 Coastal and Small Islands law.
What’s Still Ongoing?
Right now, one mining permit is still active: PT Gag Nikel, a joint venture that includes the state-owned company Antam. This operation is located outside the official geopark boundaries. For that reason, the government did not include it in the cancellations.
Earlier this month, officials paused Gag Nikel’s operations. They also stated that the company’s site is under review. Gag Nikel claims it is replanting trees and protecting nearby coral reefs. These statements are being closely monitored by environmental groups.
What This Means for Raja Ampat
Most new mining projects in Raja Ampat have now been stopped. This is the first time in recent history that Indonesia has cancelled multiple permits in such an important conservation area. It shows that public pressure can make a difference.
However, there is still work to be done:
- Gag Nikel’s operations are paused, but not permanently stopped.
- The companies affected by the cancellations might try to appeal.
- Environmental groups continue to ask for a full ban on mining across Raja Ampat.
What You Can Do
- Follow updates from Greenpeace Indonesia and other verified news outlets.
- Share this news using #SaveRajaAmpat to keep awareness high.
- Support environmentally responsible tourism in the region.
Read the full Reuters article here: Indonesia revokes nickel ore mining permits in Raja Ampat after protest
This is an important step – but not the final one. Let’s keep pushing for full protection of Raja Ampat’s ecosystems, communities, and future.
