The INDONESIAN — His Excellency M. Rafik Datuk Rajo Kuaso, Cumati Koto Piliang Langgam Nan 7 Kerajaan Pagaruyung Nusa, West Sumatra, who serves as the Secretary-General of the Majelis Adat Indonesia (MAI) the Indonesian Council of Indigenous Elders has issued a strong statement concerning the rampant illegal mining activities in the customary territory of Nagari Sulit Air, Solok Regency, West Sumatra.
In a message received by the press, His Excellency urged the West Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumbar) to take firm action and immediately arrest those responsible for operating illegal mining sites in the sacred customary area.
“I urge the West Sumatra Police to take decisive action and arrest the perpetrators of illegal mining in the customary lands under my leadership,” stressed His Excellency Datuk Rajo Kuaso on Monday (November 3, 2025).
According to him, illegal mining not only devastates the environment but also desecrates the dignity of customary law (adat) and the ulayat rights of the nagari community, which have been safeguarded for generations. Such practices, he said, constitute a betrayal of the indigenous values that uphold harmony between humans, nature, and ancestral heritage.
He also reminded the central government particularly the President of the Republic of Indonesia of its prior commitment to “crack down on illegal mining” across the nation. Viral videos circulating on social media showing ongoing illegal mining in Sulit Air, he added, should serve as undeniable proof that this promise demands immediate and concrete action.
“This nation has laws, traditions, and a government. Do not allow those who destroy nature to hide behind short-term economic interests. It is time for the state to be present in our customary territories,” he emphasized.
Furthermore, the MAI Secretary-General offered a constructive solution to ensure that community-based mining activities can operate in an orderly and equitable manner. He encouraged the government to simplify the licensing process for small-scale or community mining through cooperative-based mechanisms, in line with the President’s policy direction.
“The solution is for the government to make it easier for community mining permits to be issued through cooperatives, as directed by the President. That way, the people can continue working legally, orderly, and in an environmentally sustainable way,” he added.
The Majelis Adat Indonesia (MAI), through its Secretary-General, reaffirmed the institution’s readiness to collaborate with law enforcement agencies, local governments, and environmental organizations to eradicate illegal mining in West Sumatra in order to uphold indigenous dignity, preserve nature, and safeguard the welfare of the nagari communities.
This matter was also addressed by His Excellency M. Rafik Datuk Rajo Kuaso during the Majelis Adat Indonesia Communication Forum, attended by Kings, Sultans, Datuks, and Traditional Leaders from across the archipelago, as part of a shared commitment to protect indigenous lands from irresponsible exploitation.
Edited by the Prime News Post Editorial Team // sourced from various outlets // photo: doc.google/Special
