Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia, has strongly refuted the allegations of forced labor in the country’s nickel industry.
This comes in response to a report from the U.S. Department of Labor (US DOL), which listed Indonesian nickel as a product allegedly manufactured through forced labor.
“There is no forced labor in the nickel industry. As a former Minister of Investment, I can assure you that such claims are baseless,” Bahlil said in a statement as quoted on Monday, October 7, 2024.
He emphasized that the allegations do not align with the reality on the ground. He urged that media reports about Indonesia’s nickel sector should be based on verified data, not negative perceptions that could harm the nation’s international reputation.
He also called on the media to take pride in the achievements of Indonesia’s nickel downstream industry, which has significantly contributed to the country’s economy.
Bahlil warned against following foreign narratives without proper verification, as it could unfairly damage the country’s image.
“We should not let negative perceptions about our country be spread in the media,” he said.
The US DOL report had alleged forced labor practices in nickel industrial zones located in Central and Southeast Sulawesi, where Chinese companies hold majority ownership. The report claimed that Chinese workers faced poor working conditions, including low wages and harsh treatment.
Bahlil, however, reaffirmed that these allegations are unfounded, and the Indonesian government ensures there is no forced labor in its domestic nickel industry.
