Chairman of the Islamic Da’wah Indonesia Institution (LDII), Chriswanto Santoso, has suggested that the organization is carefully evaluating the government’s offer of coal mining permits (IUP) to religious organizations.
This statement was made following his meeting with President Joko Widodo at the Merdeka Palace, in Jakarta, on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.
Chriswanto emphasized that LDII has not yet made any official statement regarding whether they will accept the government’s offer, while noting that the organization is still analyzing the proposal.
“When an offer is made, we carefully study it to determine whether we have the capability, and assess the risks involved before making any decisions,” Chriswanto told reporters after the meeting.
He clarified that the recent discussion with President Jokowi did not include specific talks about mining concessions.
However, LDII is continuing to evaluate the implications of managing coal mining permits, especially given that many LDII members are experienced in the mining industry.
“We are still in the process of studying it to ensure that we don’t become victims. If a religious organization were to suffer losses, it would be unfortunate,” Chriswanto added.
The provision of coal mining permits to religious organizations is mandated by Government Regulation (PP) No. 25/2024 on the Implementation of Mineral and Coal Mining Activities.
This regulation includes significant changes to 17 articles, particularly concerning the allocation of former mining areas managed by companies such as Kaltim Prima Coal, Adaro Energy, Indika Energy, and others.
If officially confirmed, LDII will be the third Muslim organization granted the IUP by the government after the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah.
Smooth government transition
During the meeting, Chriswanto also shared that President Jokowi urged LDII to support the smooth transition to the administration of President-elect Prabowo Subianto.
Additionally, Jokowi encouraged LDII to establish a presence in the new capital city, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan.
“The President asked LDII to support the new government and contribute to the continuation of the achievements of the current administration,” Chriswanto said.
He also mentioned that President Jokowi advised LDII leaders to meet with Prabowo soon to ensure a seamless transition.
“As the president-elect, it’s important for us to ensure continuity, and this meeting has already been planned,” Chriswanto noted.
Moreover, President Jokowi requested LDII to promptly submit a proposal for the construction of an office in the new capital.
“He asked us to apply for the office construction in IKN, so LDII has representation there,” Chriswanto said.
