Jayapura, Jubi – The meeting of Committee II of the Papua Regional Representative Council (DPD) resulted in the agreement on various aspects concerning the impact of mining giant Freeport Indonesia’s tailings in the Mimika region of Jita and Agimuga, Central Papua Province.
John NR Gobai, chairman of the Special Group of the Papua Legislative Council (DPRD) who was an active participant in the gathering, disclosed that this event occurred in Central Jakarta on Monday, November 9, 2023. The meeting was led by yCommittee II DPD chairman Yorris Raweyai.
During this assembly, several agreements were formally endorsed, outlining the tasks that Freeport Indonesia must undertake in collaboration with the local community. It was emphasized that the involvement of an NGO concerning indigenous communities, Lepemawil, and the establishment of a supervisory team were imperative to oversee the execution of these agreements.
The signed agreement encompassed various provisions, including Freeport Indonesia’s commitment to constructing multiple infrastructure projects and establishing the said supervisory team. Furthermore, the meeting witnessed a request for Freeport Indonesia to provide airboats capable of operating in silting areas.
In addition, Gobai and his associates put forth a proposal for Freeport Indonesia to substitute lime with more environmentally friendly materials in their mining processing operations, with the aim of reducing environmental impact.
“While tailings may bring benefits to the government, they present challenges to the local community,” Gobai said.
Consequently, attendees advocated for Freeport Indonesia to develop a program that addresses the community’s needs. Instead of awarding projects to contractors, there was also a call for the establishment of a cement mortar factory owned and managed by the indigenous people.
The meeting drew the attendance of representatives from various ministries, including the Acting Governor of Central Papua Province, Ribka Haluk, and executives from Freeport Indonesia, such as President Director Clayton Allen Wenas, Director Claus Wamafma, and Vice President Director Jenpino Ngabdi.
