Indonesia Revokes Four Nickel Licenses in Raja Ampat

Indonesia has revoked the mining permits of four nickel companies—PT Anugerah Surya Pratama, PT Nurham, PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining, and PT Mulia Raymond Perkasa—in Raja Ampat, a UNESCO Global Geopark, after environmental violations and viral activist videos sparked public outcry. Only PT Gag Nikel is permitted to continue operations, but it remains under strict government monitoring and recently faced a temporary suspension. The revoked permits are linked to violations concerning forest use and ecosystem degradation, escalating concerns about deforestation, water pollution, and coral reef threats. The government's decision follows increased scrutiny as Indonesia's nickel industry expands to meet global electric vehicle demand. Environmental groups have welcomed the permit revocations but call for broader protections of Raja Ampat's unique environment. Indonesia's actions underscore heightened efforts to balance economic growth with conservation of globally significant ecosystems.