Belopa, August 12, 2024 — The Directorate General of Environmental and Forestry Law Enforcement of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, through the Sulawesi Regional Environmental and Forestry Law Enforcement and Security Center (Gakkum LHK), has conducted a field verification regarding public complaints against PT Masmindo Dwi Area (MDA) on July 23-27, 2024.

The field verification by Gakkum LHK, as stated in Assignment Letter number: ST.691/BPPHLHK.3/SWI/GKM.2.1/B/07/2024, aims to determine the level of compliance of business and/or activity persons in charge with the provisions stipulated in business permits or government approval related to environmental permits and regulations in the field of environmental protection and management. As well as following up on public complaints number 25/ADU-LHK/BPPHLHK.3/5/2024 regarding the gold mining activities of PT Masmindo Dwi Area, which are suspected of causing flash floods in Luwu, Sidrap, and Wajo Regencies, South Sulawesi Province.

From the results of the verification, Gakkum LHK concluded that in terms of environmental permits, MDA's planned activities are in accordance with those stated in the 2019 Environmental Impact Assessment (AMDAL) document and the current conditions.

Regarding public complaints alleging that MDA's activities have caused floods and landslides, Gakkum LHK has conducted field verification and stated that no correlation was found between MDA's activities and the flood and landslide disasters that occurred in May 2024.

Responding to the results of the field verification, MDA's Head of Mining Engineering (KTT), Mustafa Ibrahim, emphasized the company's commitment to regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility. "We always operate with high standards to ensure that MDA's mining activities do not have a negative impact on the surrounding environment. The results of the field verification from Gakkum LHK further strengthen our belief that the company's operations are on the right track," he said. Mustafa also stated that he will continue to improve communication with the community to ensure they have a correct understanding of the mining activities carried out by MDA.

For information, MDA has begun conducting studies and field surveys together with the Disaster Study Team of Hasanuddin University (UNHAS). This survey and study activity aims not only to understand the causes of the disaster but also to design mitigation strategies involving all stakeholders in an effort to prevent disasters.(YP)***