Mining Downstreaming Opens Job Opportunities in Underdeveloped Regions

Jakarta – Downstreaming the mining sector is believed to be a strategic path to drive economic growth, create jobs, and reduce inequality in underdeveloped regions.

North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda emphasized the importance of ensuring that the nickel downstreaming process is in line with improving community welfare and environmental preservation.

“In essence, I support downstreaming, but it must pay attention to the environment. I hope that the growth of downstreaming goes hand in hand with people’s welfare and maintaining environmental sustainability in the long term,” he said.

According to Sherly, the mining industry contributes around 50 percent to North Maluku’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, the contribution of nickel downstreaming is much more significant, reaching 75 percent of the total growth of the mining sector in the province.

“The growth of the mining industry is 50 percent of North Maluku’s GDP. But the increase is actually greater, 75 percent of that comes from nickel downstreaming,” he added.

Sherly also expressed her support for the existence of community mines, as long as they are run in accordance with applicable operational standards and regulations.

“I support people’s mining, but it must pay attention to safety, the environment, and the principle of sustainability,” he said.

In North Maluku, the presence of the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) is a real symbol of the acceleration of national nickel downstreaming.

This integrated industrial area has been designated as a National Strategic Project through Presidential Regulation Number 109 of 2020.

Meanwhile, the Governor of Central Kalimantan, Agustiar Sabran, is encouraging the downstreaming of mining and palm oil, especially in the western region of the province.

According to him, this will increase the added value of local natural resources and create many jobs.

“If the downstreaming of bauxite, silica, and palm oil can be realized in the western zone, then the added value will be very large. It will have a direct impact on development in 13 districts and one city,” explained Agustiar.

He emphasized that realizing downstreaming requires the readiness of industrial areas and the support of all parties.

“I need community support and coordination with the regents, so that this downstreaming really works,” he said.

Support for downstreaming also came from the Central Leadership of the Golkar Party Youth Force (PP AMPG).

The General Chairperson of PP AMPG, Said Aldi Al Idrus, called downstreaming a form of economic justice that opens up space for MSMEs and the younger generation to be involved in strategic sectors.

“Downstreaming opens up many new job and business opportunities in the country. This is a bold step that sides with the people,” said Said.

[edRW]