The Ministry of Forestry is intensifying oversight of mining operations in forest areas of Raja Ampat, Southwest Papua Province and preparing legal measures against any violations found in their operations amid rising environmental concerns raised by the public and activists. 

“We will immediately conduct supervision and take calculated legal measures through three instruments: administrative, criminal, and civil law,” Dwi Januanto Nugroho, Director General of Law Enforcement at the Ministry of Ministry, said as quoted by Antara on Sunday, June 8, 2025.

Dwi cited that the supervision will focus on two companies that hold Forest Area Utilization Permits (PPKH) − PT Gag Nikel (GN) and PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining (KSM). The ministry’s law enforcement team previously conducted field investigations from May 27 to June 2, 2025 in response to mounting environmental issues in Raja Ampat Regency.

The investigation identified three companies conducting mining activities within forest areas. While PT GN and PT KSM have secured PPKH permits, another company, PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa (MRP), is still in the exploration phase and does not yet have official permits.

The ministry will evaluate the compliance of PT GN and PT KSM with existing permits and regulations. If violations are found, the companies could face administrative sanctions ranging from warnings to license suspension or revocation.

In cases where sufficient preliminary evidence is uncovered, the ministry will consider pursuing criminal charges and civil lawsuits.

Regarding PT MRP, the Maluku-Papua Law Enforcement Agency issued an official investigation order on June 4, 2025 to begin collecting materials and information. The company’s representatives have been summoned for clarification this week at the Agency office in Sorong due to suspected unauthorized mining activity.

Dwi reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to protecting Raja Ampat’s forests and environment from destructive activities.

“Our initial measure is to apply administrative legal instruments while continuing to gather evidence for further legal action,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation for public concern and support in preserving forest ecosystems. According to him, community oversight plays a vital role in safeguarding natural resources and protecting the unique environment of Raja Ampat.