Antam criticizes anti-mining groups
Wednesday, July 5 2000 - 04:00 AM WIB
President of state-owned mining company PT Aneka Tambang Deddy Aditya Sumanegara launched criticism against non-governmental organizations (NGO) which campaign for the closure of all mining operations in the country.
Deddy said the demand for the closure of all mining operations was unrealistic.
"Even developed countries like Australia and Canada, which are experienced in mining and very concerned with environmental protection, still think about opening new mines.
"Why do we, who still need money from mining operations, campaign for the closure of all mines? I don't understand their (the NGOs) way of thinking," Deddy told reporters on the sidelines of the hearing with the House of Representatives' Commission VIII for mines and energy.
Deddy refused to name the NGOs in question.
When asked if the Indonesian Forum for Environment (Walhi) took part in the anti-mining campaigns, Deddy said: "I don't think Walhi is like that."
Analysts say one of the NGOs, which have been aggressively campaigning for the closure of all mining operations, is the Mining Society Network (Jatam).
Analysts say this environmental group is linked with Walhi and several anti-mining groups overseas. This group has activists in most parts of the country, who are always on the front in any anti-mining protests. (*)