ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – The nickel mining activities of PT Vale Indonesia Tbk in Morowali, Central Sulawesi are drawing public attention.
Members of the House of Representatives Commission XII, led by Beniyanto, have raised concerns over declining fish catches reported by local coastal communities, allegedly caused by nickel ore loading and unloading in port and marine zones.
During a Parliamentary Hearing with PT Vale, Beniyanto said, fishermen in Morowali reported reduced catches due to nickel ore operations, especially in port areas and offshore zones.
“We urge PT Vale to improve community engagement so that the company’s presence brings tangible benefits to local residents,” he said at the Nusantara Building, Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday, January 19, 2026.
Beyond fisheries concerns, Beniyanto emphasized the importance of by-product management. Proper handling of nickel by-products could not only increase Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) but also create employment opportunities for local communities.
He stressed the need to minimize nickel waste to protect the surrounding environment.
“We want PT Vale not only to focus on nickel ore but also to develop industrial by-products. This can generate PNBP for the state and create local employment. Nickel waste must be carefully managed,” he added.
Parliament Applauds PT Vale: Tangible Contributions to the Nation
In the same session, legislator Rokhmat Ardiyan commended PT Vale Indonesia for its real contributions, including job creation, land reclamation, and PNBP contributions.
“Commission XII fully supports PT Vale’s initiatives and is ready to assist in overcoming challenges so that investments are sustainable and deliver maximum benefits for the country,” he said.
Rokhmat also highlighted the importance of optimizing existing smelters to maximize the added value of Indonesia’s nickel resources.
PT Vale Reports Progress on Three Mega Nickel Projects Worth US$8.7 Billion
During the hearing, PT Vale President Director Bernardus Irmanto outlined progress on three Indonesia Growth Project (IGP) nickel mega-projects with a total investment of US$8.7 billion (Rp147.5 trillion). These projects are located in Pomalaa, Morowali, and Sorowako, aiming to strengthen Indonesia’s role in the global nickel supply chain.
– HPAL Pomalaa (US$4.5 billion) – Developed with Huayou (China) and Ford Motor Company (USA). Mining construction is 60% complete, while the HPAL plant is 50% complete, targeting mechanical completion in August 2026. The plant will only accept nickel ore from PT Vale, complying with sustainability standards agreed with Ford.
– IGP Morowali (US$2 billion) – In partnership with GEM (China) and EcoPro (South Korea). Mining in Bahodopi began in Q1 2025, with 99% completion of the first phase. The HPAL plant, producing 66,000 tons of Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP) per year, is 22% complete, scheduled to start operations in 2026–2027.
– IGP Sorowako (US$2.2 billion) – In collaboration with Huayou (China). Mining progress is 37%, and the HPAL plant is 17% complete. Nickel limonite will be transported via a 60 km pipeline to the Malili HPAL plant, with project completion expected in 2027.
Bernardus emphasized that a ready stockpile of nickel ore is crucial for the smooth operation of the HPAL plants in Pomalaa and Morowali.
Challenges and Outlook
The parliamentary session highlighted two key aspects of the nickel industry: economic benefits and environmental challenges.
Beniyanto stressed the need for responsible waste and by-product management, while Bernardus highlighted compliance with international sustainability standards.
With multi-trillion rupiah investments and progressive mega-projects, PT Vale’s operations in Southeast Sulawesi are pivotal for Indonesia’s nickel industry, impacting PNBP, local employment, and coastal communities. (AT Network)
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