Government Vows to Protect Raja Ampat Forest Amid Environmental Concerns
- Antara/Akbar Nugroho Gumay
Jakarta, VIVA – The Ministry of Forestry has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the forest area in Raja Ampat, Papua, as environmental issues in the region continue to draw public attention.
Director General of Forestry Planning, Ade Triaji Kusumah, stated that Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni has given instruction not to issue any new Forest Area Utilization Permits (PPKH) in Raja Ampat.
According to Kusumah, as of now, only two PPKHs have been issued in the Raja Ampat region, one in 2020 and another in 2022.
He explained that both permits were granted for mining activities under valid Mining Business Licenses (IUP) and environmental approvals at the time.
“As a response to growing concerns about potential environmental degradation in high conservation value areas like Raja Ampat, the Minister of Forestry has ordered a temporary halt on the issuance of new PPKHs," Kusumah said on Thursday (June 5).
Ilustrasi Kawasan Raja Ampat
- VIVAlife/Maya Sofia
He added, "In short, new permits are suspended, and existing ones will be strictly evaluated and monitored."
Kusumah further explained that the Ministry of Forestry will prioritize the protection of Raja Ampat, as the region boasts a highly rich ecological system and significant cultural value.
He stated that this move aligns with Indonesia’s broader commitment to biodiversity conservation and strengthening the role of indigenous and local communities as sustainable forest stewards.
“We will also continue to enhance coordination with related agencies, local governments, and civil society to ensure that any development in Raja Ampat proceeds sustainably and does not threaten environmental conservation,” Kusumah concluded.
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