13 NGOs against gold mining in Jember

A group of 13 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Jember, East Java, have been campaigning against planned gold and copper mining activities in their area by two prospective investors, arguing that such activities would destroy the environment in the area of the densely populated Java Island.

The spokesman for the 13 NGOs, Andi Sungkono, told Kompas in Jember on Tuesday that the location of the planned mining area was in the border with the Meru Betiri National Park, and therefore, the mining would potentially reduce or destroy parts of the park.

Andi noted that he understood that the planned mining activities in Jember would bring more employment for local people, give more money both to local and central governments in the form of royalties and taxes, but he warned that the environmental impacts of the mining could be more devastating than initially thought.

"Moreover, if the credibility of the investors is questionable, like the Bre-X case with its Busang gold mining fiasco," he said.

The NOGs launched their anti-mining campaigns following the Jember regency's decision to grant mining licenses to PT Jember Metal and PT Hakman Metalindo. Jember Metal has been given the rights to explore gold and copper in a 35,000-hectare area, while Hakman Tembaga/Emas/Platina Metalindo gets 25,120 hectares.

Jember regent Samsul Hadi Siswoyo said the planned mining activities in Jember were still in their earlier stage. "That's only in the planning stage, and therefore, it should not be exaggerated. If there are parties against this mining, please present their position to the Jember Council."

Meanwhile, the chairman of the Jember Council, Muchson Sudjono, said that his council would accommodate all opinions and positions from all layers of the society, and at a due time, it would summon the investors and all elements of the societies for hearings. (*)