ILLEGAL MINING — The Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono The rise of illegal mining not only causes losses, but is a potential and threat to environmental damage in DIY.
Seeing the negative impacts and threats lurking for nature and the environment, Sri Sultan ordered that the proliferation of illegal mining in DIY be immediately followed up with control efforts. The control measures referred to are mainly carried out by closing illegal mining. “Yes, yesterday it was dealt with. Because many of them are illegal, just close them. Why are you scared?” said Sri Sultan at the Yogyakarta People’s Representative Council Building, recently
Sri Sultan asked for the involvement and responsibility of the district government in overcoming the problem of illegal mining in their respective areas. Moreover, it has been reported that there are a number of illegal mines in Kulonprogo, Gunungkidul, Bantul and Sleman districts whose mining activities have been stopped.
Even though it is closed, this does not mean that Sri Sultan prohibited mining activities in DIY. He only asked the miners to obey the applicable regulations. “For example, in Gunungkidul, the mine is in karst, which is an area that cannot be mined. There are all rules, you have to look at them,” he added.
The King of the Yogyakarta Palace also asked officers to be more careful regarding illegal mining activities which are currently widespread and in the spotlight in DIY. Thus, if it is found that mining activities are carried out in locations that are not permitted, strict action must be taken so as not to cause environmental damage.
The Special Yogyakarta Regional Government choosing to take a firm stance against illegal mining does not mean it is not open to mining investment. However, everything must refer to existing regulations and all aspects of requirements and permits must be complete. “That doesn’t mean it’s not allowed, it also allows mining, the important thing is that it’s not illegal. “The process must have a permit, if it’s illegal, just close it,” stressed Sri Sultan (*)
