inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Member of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) asked the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to immediately evaluate the nickel mine in Raja Ampat Regency to ensure that mining activities do not damage the ecosystem in the area.

Member of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives for the electoral district of Papua Barat Daya Province, Rico Sia hopes that the central government will immediately evaluate the mining permits that have been issued.

"We are a bountiful producing region, but because the regulations are made by the central government, we cannot do much. The ones who are harmed are not only the local government, but the community," remarks Rico in Sorong, Wednesday (5/28/2025) as quoted by Antaranews,

He said that many reports had been received regarding illegal mining in the Raja Ampat area which then had an impact on environmental pollution.

According to him, the central government should give full authority regarding mining permits to local governments, as they know exactly the conditions of their areas.

"Why is the authority to manage mining permits not given to the province, even though the local government understands the conditions in the field better and can act quickly with law enforcement officers?" he asked.

When the authority for permits is given, he said, of course supervision can be closer and more effective, then minimize environmental pollution.

"But now, because of the distance and long bureaucracy, violations are allowed, and the people are the ones who are harmed," he said.

For him, tourism is the future, as while it does not damage the environment, it also brings direct welfare to the community.

(ad/inp/pr/rs)