MANDAILING NATAL – NORTH SUMATRA – To enhance understanding of the latest regulations on mineral and coal mining (Minerba), artisanal mining entrepreneurs and cooperative administrators across Mandailing Natal Regency held a socialization event for Government Regulation Number 39 of 2025. The initiative, aimed at improving welfare and regulating artisanal mining, was attended by the Chief Advisor of the National Artisanal Mining Cooperative (IKTN), Mulyadi Elhan Zakaria, accompanied by IKTN Regional Coordinator 1 Khairul Saleh Sipahutar and IKTN Supervisor Salman Harahap.
In his speech, Elhan Zakaria stated that the implementation of IKTN’s work program is currently in the final refinement stage, pending further policies in the form of a Ministerial Regulation on artisanal mining management. He also emphasized that revitalizing artisanal mining businesses and reforestation programs are top priorities for IKTN, particularly in areas at risk of natural disasters.
“We are still in the final improvement phase, and we continue to follow key policies from the relevant ministry while awaiting the issuance of the Ministerial Regulation,” said Elhan.
Additionally, Elhan shared findings from his visit to the Muara Soma and Batang Batahan Watershed (DAS), where open and blatant illegal mining activities were discovered. “I urge miners in the area to immediately form or join a cooperative, as being part of a cooperative will provide clear rules governing artisanal mining,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, the Head of Mandailing Natal Artisanal Mining Cooperative, Zulfahmi, expressed hope that local miners would join the cooperative soon. “By becoming cooperative members, miners will receive legal protection, clear legitimacy, and easier processes for obtaining mining permits,” explained Zulfahmi.
In a separate interview, Zulfahmi and Elhan Zakaria emphasized that transitioning to cooperative structures is an effort to preserve ecosystems and ensure the sustainability of artisanal mining. They urged all mining operators to comply with government regulations and join legitimate cooperative frameworks immediately. (Ed)
Source: Compiled from various sources
Media Center: Majelis Adat Indonesia (MAI)
Editor: Prime News Post – Executive Editorial Team
