Mining threat persists in the 'Amazon of the Seas'
Mongabay's follow-up notes that UNESCO's advisers asked Indonesia for more information on nickel mining before approving the Raja Ampat biosphere reserve in 2025.
Storyline · 3 stories
Oceans & coasts in Indonesia
Raja Ampat, coral reefs, fisheries and mining on small islands.
Energy minister: no new mining permits in Raja Ampat, only Gag Nikel operates
Responding to Greenpeace, Bahlil Lahadalia said the only active permit belongs to state-owned PT Gag Nikel, which predates his tenure, and that the other permits were revoked in 2025.
Why it matters: Government and NGOs disagree on whether pending applications count as a threat. Watch for any permit decisions on Waigeo.
A year after #SaveRajaAmpat, three nickel licences are still in process
Greenpeace's 'Unprotected Paradise' report finds mines planned for eastern Waigeo and says the 2025 revocation of four permits fell short of real protection.
Background reading
| Report | Organisation | Year | Storyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unprotected Paradise One-year review of nickel, coal and oil and gas threats to Raja Ampat after the 2025 permit revocations. | Greenpeace Indonesia | Jul 2026 | Oceans |