Activists demo rejecting gold mining operation in Jember
Thursday, September 7 2000 - 04:00 AM WIB
At least 34 student organizations, non-governmental organizations and environmental groups staged a demonstration at the Jember Council's building, rejecting the planned gold mining operation by PT Jember Metals in Jember district, East Java.
They rejected the planned mining operation in their regency on the ground that the people were not yet ready with the impacts of mining activities, and the planned mining operation itself would cover an area belonging to the Meru Betiri National Parks.
The protest was held at the same time when the Jember Council's special team to study the mining proposal was having its meeting.
The protesters met with the Council's deputy speaker Machmud Sardjujono, who promised them that the Council would not give its green light if the majority of the people reject the planned mining operation.
PT Jember Metals has so far not yet announced the exact location of its planned mining sites.
At a meeting with activists, local leaders and members of the Jember Council, Jember Metal president Jusuf Merukh promised a better profit arrangement for locals. (*)