PT Masmindo Dwi Area (MDA), a company in the energy and mineral resources sector, held a hearing and discussion with the Acting (Pj) Governor of South Sulawesi, Prof. Zudan Arif Fakrulloh, during his visit to Luwu Regency. The meeting, facilitated by Acting Regent of Luwu, Drs. H. Muh. Saleh, M.Si, took place at the Regent’s office and was attended by representatives of the Luwu Regency Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda). The main agenda was to discuss the latest developments of the Awak Mas Project and MDA’s commitment to contributing to regional development through sustainable investments.

The Awak Mas Project is a strategic investment in South Sulawesi’s mining sector that is expected to positively impact the region's economic growth. During the presentation, MDA President Director Trisakti Simorangkir explained that despite the project having entered the construction phase, challenges remain, particularly regarding compensation for land and crops, which had sparked protests from certain community groups several times in the past year.

“These issues arise because some parties still do not fully understand the legal status of the land under the Contract of Work (CoW) entrusted to MDA by the state. Additionally, certain individuals have sought to exploit the situation for their own interests, using the name of the community to enforce baseless demands. Despite these challenges, MDA remains committed to finding the best solutions through collaboration with stakeholders while continuing to fulfill its obligations under the regulations governing mining operations,” said Trisakti.

Between 2020 and 2024, MDA has contributed IDR 290 billion to state revenues, close to its target of IDR 295 billion. Additionally, MDA has implemented Community Empowerment and Development (PPM) programs worth IDR 23 billion out of a planned total of IDR 54.6 billion. "MDA will continue to strengthen its PPM programs, which include initiatives in education, health, economic empowerment, and infrastructure. One of the latest initiatives is the gradual provision of free nutritious meals for elementary school students in mining-affected areas,” Trisakti elaborated.

The Acting Governor of South Sulawesi, Prof. Zudan Arif Fakrulloh, commended MDA’s progress. He emphasized the Awak Mas Project’s significant potential as a key driver of regional development, particularly in the energy and mineral resources sector. He stressed the importance of synergy between MDA and local governments to realize this potential. Furthermore, Prof. Zudan reminded MDA to consistently implement the Green Mining concept sustainably, ensuring benefits not only for the current generation but also for future ones, as MDA is expected to operate for the next 20 years.

“Programs like these are a tangible manifestation of sustainable investment. Full support from local governments is crucial to ensure the smooth implementation of planned programs, maximizing their benefits for the community. Therefore, I urge the Luwu Regency Government to actively take necessary measures to ensure MDA’s operational activities proceed as expected. This is not only in MDA’s interest but also for the broader interests of the Luwu community,” he stated.

“South Sulawesi's economic growth reached 5.08 percent in the third quarter of 2024, but President Prabowo Subianto has set a target for Indonesia’s economy to grow by 8 percent. Only through accelerated investments can we bridge this gap. Investments will come when there is a sense of security and legal certainty, and this is where the government must play its role to ensure these conditions. By doing so, the benefits of these investments can be maximized for the people,” Prof. Zudan concluded.***