ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA — President Prabowo Subianto has been urged to take immediate action against alleged illegal bauxite mining in Sanggau Regency, West Kalimantan, which is reported to have caused losses to the state amounting to trillions of rupiah.
A recent report from the Regional Leadership Council of Kepri, National Asset Research Agency (BAPAN) reveals that the illegal operations may have been ongoing for nearly two decades without firm intervention from authorities or local government.
“The President said, whoever the generals are, take firm action. We fully support President Prabowo in cracking down on these illegal mines,” said Ahmad Iskandar Tanjung, BAPAN representative on December 3, 2025.
Ahmad emphasized that the alleged illegal mining has been reported to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, but the case requires direct presidential intervention to ensure no one is above the law.
“The state has suffered huge losses. This is not a small-scale mine. The state must step in,” Ahmad stressed.
Illegal Operations Allegedly Ongoing Since 2008
BAPAN identified two mining companies, PT MKU and PT KBM, and a buyer, PT BAE in Bintan, allegedly operating without active permits since 2008. All three companies are reportedly owned by one individual, San, and lack mining permits (IUP), reclamation guarantees, post-mining documentation, or recent investment records.
During a recent field inspection, Ahmad observed that mining activities were still ongoing.
“I visited Sanggau last Tuesday. The mine is still operating,” he said.
The estimated state losses could reach hundreds of billions to trillions of rupiah.
Local Oversight Questioned
Ahmad also raised concerns over weak oversight from authorities and local government, including alleged protection by powerful actors.
“The harbor authority allowed shipments. Where is the West Kalimantan Police Chief? Where is the Governor? These questions must be answered,” he asserted.
Environmental Threats Loom
Illegal mining also threatens forests and water catchment areas, potentially triggering major disasters such as floods that have occurred in Sumatra.
“Trees above the mine are being cut down. Water absorption is lost. This can trigger disasters,” Ahmad said.
BAPAN confirmed that additional reports will be submitted to: The Attorney General’s Task Force and The Presidential Palace.
“If these reports are not acted upon, we will make all findings public,” Ahmad warned. (ATN)
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