Vale Indonesia Accelerates Three HPAL Smelter Projects: Pomalaa & Bahodopi to Complete in 2026, Soro...

Vale Indonesia Accelerates Three HPAL Smelter Projects: Pomalaa & Bahodopi to Complete in 2026, Soro...

21 Jan 2026, 08:58 AM
Freeport’s “Kucing Liar” Mine Gold Reserves Increase to 8 Million Ounces
Freeport’s “Kucing Liar” Mine Gold Reserves Increase to 8 Mi...
24 Jan 2026, 09:17 AM
UNIDO Appoints IWIP as a Pilot Project for a Sustainable Nickel Industrial Zone
UNIDO Appoints IWIP as a Pilot Project for a Sustainable Nic...
23 Jan 2026, 10:37 AM
Darma Henwa (DEWA) Extends Mining Contract with Arutmin Worth IDR 10.5 Trillion
Darma Henwa (DEWA) Extends Mining Contract with Arutmin Wort...
20 Jan 2026, 12:38 PM
Pani Gold Mine Nears Gold Production as Heap Leach Irrigation Begins
Pani Gold Mine Nears Gold Production as Heap Leach Irrigatio...
27 Jan 2026, 07:22 AM
Minister Bahlil Targets DME Project to Start in 2026, Partners with China or Europe
Minister Bahlil Targets DME Project to Start in 2026, Partners with China or Europe
25 Oct 2025, 05:36 AM 1061

The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia, is targeting the start of construction in 2026 for the coal downstreaming project to produce Dimethyl Ether (DME) as a substitute for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).This project is among 18 strategic downstreaming initiatives currently being finalized by the Task Force for Accelerating Downstreaming and National Energy Security.Bahlil said the DME project is one of the government’s priorities to reduce dependence on LPG imports.“Our LPG consumption is 8.5 million tons, while domestic production capacity is only 1.3 million tons. So we import around 6.5–7 million tons. The way to reduce imports is by creating import substitutes through coal downstreaming,” Bahlil said on Friday evening (October 24, 2025).He explained that all concepts and pre-feasibility studies (pre-FS) for the 18 downstreaming projects have been completed by the Downstreaming Task Force.The results of these studies are currently being finalized by a consultant appointed by Danantara.“Next year the target is to begin construction. The partner will be Danantara. The technology could come from China or Europe, depending on which is most efficient,” Bahlil added.According to Kontan’s records, one of the companies involved in the DME project is PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA).PTBA’s Director of Downstreaming and Product Diversification, Turino Yulianto, said the company has earmarked around 800 million tons of coal specifically for downstreaming programs.“PTBA is fully committed to downstreaming. We’ve locked in 800 million tons of coal specifically for downstreaming. So it won’t be used for anything else,” Turino said after the HIPMI–Danantara Indonesia Business Forum in Jakarta, Monday (October 20).Turino added that of PTBA’s total coal reserves of 2.9 billion tons, around 5–6 million tons per year will be allocated to the DME project.“It’s not only for DME; there are various uses. DME itself only needs 5–6 million tons per year,” he explained.From an economic standpoint, PTBA has conducted internal calculations and is now discussing the business scheme with Danantara.Turino emphasized that the DME project must deliver dual benefits, supporting national energy security while also being commercially profitable for the mining issuer.Based on Kontan’s data, the DME project is one of six coal downstreaming projects under the coordination of the Downstreaming Task Force.One of the main projects is located in Muara Enim, South Sumatra, under PTBA’s responsibility.In addition to Muara Enim, the DME project is also planned to be developed in five other locations: Bulungan (North Kalimantan), East Kutai (East Kalimantan), Kota Baru (South Kalimantan), Pali (South Sumatra), and Banyuasin (South Sumatra).

5 Mining Licenses Reinstated
5 Mining Licenses Reinstated
24 Oct 2025, 07:23 AM 743

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has reportedly reopened five mining companies that were previously suspended. This step is part of the government’s process to normalize mining business permits (IUP) for 190 companies whose operations had been temporarily halted.Director General of Minerals and Coal (Minerba) at the ESDM Ministry, Tri Winarno, said that of the 190 companies suspended, 100 have submitted requests to resume operations. Of those, five companies have been allowed to operate.“So today and tomorrow we’re gathering them again. We’re coaching them. What are your obstacles? We coach them at the office. From the 190, previously five have been cleared, and about a hundred have applied. That’s why we’re calling them in,” Tri said after the ceremony commemorating the 80th Mining and Energy Day at Monas, Jakarta, Friday (October 24, 2025).Previously, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia addressed the government’s decision to temporarily suspend the operations of 190 coal and mineral mining companies.He emphasized that the decision was not made abruptly. Before the suspension, the government had sent three warning letters to the companies.“Look, for the 190, before being put on hold, letters had already been sent three times by the Director General of Minerba. So it wasn’t sudden. The government is always careful and acts according to the rules,” Bahlil said at the ESDM Ministry building, Friday (September 26, 2025).He stressed that the core issue is straightforward: companies’ obligation to pay reclamation guarantees. These reclamation guarantees form the basis for preparing the Work Plan and Budget (RKAB), which companies use to analyze their production capacity.“What’s the goal? So that once the mining is complete, they are obliged to carry out reclamation. Because if we don’t do this, the mine won’t benefit our generation, it’s about our children and grandchildren,” he said.

PT Anugrah Neo Energy Materials Plans IDR 4.98 Trillion IPO, Aiming to Become Major Player in Nickel...
PT Anugrah Neo Energy Materials Plans IDR 4.98 Trillion IPO, Aiming to Become Major Player in Nickel...
22 Oct 2025, 07:23 AM 1291

Indonesia’s nickel industry is once again in the spotlight. Mining and processing company PT Anugrah Neo Energy Materials (ANEM) is reportedly set to go public through an initial public offering (IPO) targeting more than USD 300 million, or around IDR 4.98 trillion.This strategic move is said to be one of the largest IPOs in Indonesia’s mining sector in recent years. No surprise, as ANEM is developing major projects in electric-vehicle (EV) raw materials, which are booming globally.According to reports, the IPO debut is planned for December 2025. If realized, the plan would not only strengthen ANEM’s market position but also push Indonesia further toward becoming a key player in the global EV battery supply chain.IPO Plan with a Striking ValuationANEM’s IPO plan first surfaced in a Reuters report on October 22, 2025. Two sources familiar with the process indicated the company’s valuation is expected to exceed USD 2 billion, or about IDR 33.21 trillion.At that size, the IPO would become one of the most anticipated corporate actions on the Indonesia Stock Exchange this year.Proceeds are planned for business expansion and development of nickel downstreaming projects, a highly strategic area given the global shift toward clean energy.Support from International BanksANEM has engaged two major financial institutions, DBS Bank Ltd and RHB Bank, as underwriters.This underscores the company’s seriousness in preparing a transparent and credible IPO process. Even so, neither ANEM nor the banks have issued official statements detailing the offering.Mining Operations and Major Projects in SulawesiANEM currently operates two laterite nickel mines in Central Sulawesi:*TAS (Morowali): Resource of more than 200 million tons*MDK (Ampana): Concession area of more than 10,800 hectaresThese mines are the backbone of the company’s operations. Beyond mining, ANEM is building a low-carbon HPAL (High Pressure Acid Leach) smelter to produce Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP), a key material for EV batteries.The smelter will be integrated with two supporting industrial parks, creating a strong and efficient nickel downstream ecosystem.Strategic Project for Indonesia’s Nickel RevolutionIn September 2024, ANEM broke ground on its HPAL project at the Neo Energy Industrial Park in Morowali. This is positioned as a pivotal step in modernizing Indonesia’s nickel processing industry.By using renewable energy in production, ANEM aims to be a pioneer of environmentally friendly nickel in Indonesia.“Our decision to fully adopt renewable energy is part of our dedication to a more sustainable future. We are proud to take this important step in Indonesia’s energy transition, especially in a critical industry like nickel production,” said Joseph Hong, President Commissioner of ANEM.Driving Indonesia Toward Global LeadershipANEM’s HPAL smelter is expected to start operating within the next two years. At full operation, the project will:* Strengthen Indonesia’s position as a leading supplier of low-carbon nickel* Meet surging global demand for EV battery materials* Support the growth of the national green economyJoseph Hong added that the project represents ANEM’s tangible contribution to the global energy transition while elevating Indonesia’s role in the EV industry.“Our project will meet rising global demand for nickel, especially in the fast-growing EV market. We are excited to contribute to Indonesia’s green economy and enhance the country’s global standing,” he said.Why ANEM’s IPO Is Drawing Big AttentionSeveral factors explain the intense interest from markets and industry:1. Large project scale: Significant investment and expansion in nickel downstreaming2. Global clean-energy tailwinds: Soaring demand for EV battery nickel3. High valuation: Above USD 2 billion, among the largest mining IPOs in Indonesia4. Right momentum: EV adoption is accelerating worldwide5. International bank support: A positive signal for investorsConclusion: A New Chapter for Indonesia’s NickelANEM’s planned IPO is more than a routine corporate exercise. It is part of Indonesia’s broader roadmap to advance resource downstreaming and become a major player in the global green economy.With ambitious projects and broad support, ANEM has a strong opportunity to help elevate Indonesia’s nickel industry to the next level.For investors and market participants, this IPO bears watching, not only for its standout valuation but also for its strategic role in the global energy transition.

J Resources Commits to Implementing ESG Principles Across All Production Processes
J Resources Commits to Implementing ESG Principles Across All Production Processes
21 Oct 2025, 07:28 AM 569

J Resources reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability through responsible mining practices. This commitment is not just a program but has been recognized through various awards, such as the Subroto Award in 2023 and 2024 for Community Development Programs, as well as a Green PROPER award for its environmental governance.“This is concrete proof of the company’s commitment to implementing ESG across the entire production process,” said President Director of J Resources Bolaang Mongondow, Anang Rizkani Noor, in a statement on Tuesday (October 21).Through its subsidiaries, J Resources is committed to caring for the earth and delivering optimal benefits to communities around its operations. The company also complies with regulations and good mining governance, and has consistently implemented Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in its production operations.At Minerba Convex 2025, held on October 15–16, 2025, J Resources showcased a range of initiatives as a manifestation of its sustainability commitment. “From the application of Good Mining Practice and Community Development programs (PPM) to concrete environmental efforts—this aligns with our booth theme, ‘Resilience Toward Sustainability,’” said J Resources Head of Corporate Communications, Fera Prajitno.This national gold mining company presented various information—from concession areas to sustainability efforts. Several data points on Community Development Programs already carried out were displayed, along with the company’s tangible environmental initiatives.Visitors were invited to trace the journey “From Rock to Hope” by viewing actual rock samples from the Bakan Mine owned by PT J Resources Bolaang Mongondow. Visitors could also see a dummy gold bar produced via heap leaching, as well as educational panels on environmentally responsible mine management.Each visitor was greeted and given explanations about mining processes, land reclamation, and the social impacts generated around the operating areas. “Many visitors came out of curiosity, but after talking, they realized mining can be managed with care and responsibility,” explained Hanif, an engineer at J Resources.It then became a lively space for dialogue, where the public could learn about mining from a perspective closer to everyday life. Minerba Convex 2025 was officially opened by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), Bahlil Lahadalia. In his remarks, Minister Bahlil emphasized the importance of mineral downstreaming and equitable mining governance, so that the benefits of natural resources are directly felt by the community. “We must not only extract, but also process. Mining outputs must deliver added value for the Indonesian people,” Bahlil said.On that occasion, Bahlil also highlighted the importance of eradicating illegal mining (PETI) and transitioning toward more sustainable mining practices. This national narrative aligns with J Resources’ commitment to implementing Good Mining Practice and strengthening social contributions through its eight CSR pillars, which include education, independent economic development, and environmental conservation.Minerba Convex 2025 also featured panel discussions, including sessions focused on human resources in the mining sector. On the second day, the event continued with targeted discussions covering seven major themes, one of which addressed community-based mining.In one of the panel sessions discussing community-based mining, Muhamad Cecep Yasin, Director of Mineral Mining Business Development, emphasized that sustainability and strong governance must form the foundation for the future of the mining industry. “Eradicating illegal mining (PETI) cannot rely on regulations alone. Active involvement from communities and the business sector is required,” Cecep said.This view intersects with the values practiced by J Resources through various community development programs around its operations. For J Resources, sustainability is not only about production—it’s about ensuring every mining activity delivers positive impacts for the environment and the social life of surrounding communities.

PTBA’s Coal Production Hits 35.9 Million Tons in the Q3 2025
PTBA’s Coal Production Hits 35.9 Million Tons in the Q3 2025
20 Oct 2025, 02:09 PM 1693

PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) released its operational performance for Q3 2025. As of the end of September 2025, PTBA recorded coal production of 35.9 million tons.That figure rose 9% compared with the same period in 2024, which was 32.97 million tons.1. Significant contribution from subsidiariesThis production achievement was supported by increased contribution from its mining services subsidiary, PT Satria Bahana Sarana, which accounted for 21% of the Company’s total output.The stripping ratio realized over the period was recorded at 5.98x.2. Coal sales up 8%On the sales side, coal volume reached 33.7 million tons, up 8% year on year (yoy) from 31.28 million tons in the same period last year. Of the total, 56% was absorbed by the domestic market, with the remainder exported.“This increase in sales performance demonstrates the continued strength of market demand for PTBA’s coal,” said PTBA Corporate Secretary Division Head, Eko Prayitno, in an official statement on Monday (Oct 20, 2025).3. Coal hauling performance up 8%In line with higher production and sales, coal transported through Q3 2025 reached 30.02 million tons, up 8% from 27.83 million tons in the same period last year.PTBA stated that a recovery in global coal prices has begun to emerge, reflected in the strengthening trend of the ICI index from mid-Q3 to early Q4 2025.“Backed by this momentum and our ongoing performance growth and efficiency measures, PTBA is confident that these solid operational results can offset the pressure from weaker coal prices during Q3 2025,” Eko said.

CNGR to Commence Operations at South Kalimantan Battery Precursor Plant by Year-End 2025
CNGR to Commence Operations at South Kalimantan Battery Precursor Plant by Year-End 2025
16 Oct 2025, 02:10 PM 1546

CNGR Advanced Material Co, a China-based battery materials manufacturer, will begin operating its precursor plant at the Setangga Special Economic Zone (KEK Setangga) in Tanah Bumbu Regency, South Kalimantan, in December 2025.The plan was conveyed by CNGR External Relations Director, Magdalena Veronika, at Minerba Convex 2025 in Jakarta, Thursday (Oct 16, 2025).She said CNGR had initially planned to inaugurate and operate its precursor plant in Indonesia in 2021. However, that plan was hampered by the United States government’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).“This year, CNGR will operate the precursor facility in Indonesia in December 2025, at KEK Setangga. Not at JIIPE, but in Setangga,” Magdalena said.She explained that the US IRA was one of the reasons CNGR postponed the operation of the precursor plant in South Kalimantan, as the law limits trade involving products from China, Russia, and North Korea.According to Magdalena, if the company had pushed ahead at that time, the precursor products would have been difficult to sell, especially since the electric vehicle (EV) market was still largely concentrated in the United States.Over time, the EV market has expanded. Industry players no longer have to rely on the US market to sell products related to EV components.On the other hand, processing and refining technologies for EV battery raw materials have continued to advance. Magdalena believes Asia is now the region with the most advanced processing technology.“As the market evolves, we can see that when it comes to technology—particularly nickel in advanced materials—no one is more advanced than Asia. That’s why the world’s top metallurgy schools are in China,” she said.For reference, KEK Setangga was designated by Indonesia’s 7th President, Joko Widodo, in June 2024. The 668.3-hectare zone is targeted to attract up to IDR 67.69 trillion in investment.KEK Setangga is planned to host smelter industries, biodiesel and refinery operations, as well as fractionation industries to support the production of cooking oil, palm products, iron, rubber, and packaging.Data from the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs show that CNGR is a major Chinese group engaged in nickel processing from upstream to downstream. As an integrated nickel processor, CNGR produces ternary precursor synthesis and electrolytic nickel.CNGR has already built nickel processing facilities in Morowali, North Morowali, Weda Bay, and Batulicin.

Indonesia Justifies Bauxite Export Ban to Boost Domestic Smelter Industry
Indonesia Justifies Bauxite Export Ban to Boost Domestic Smelter Industry
15 Oct 2025, 01:37 PM 2189

Indonesia’s ban on bauxite exports is driven by the country’s growing need for aluminum and other processed products, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said on Wednesday.He explained that the government aims to attract billions of dollars in downstream mining investment to add value to the country’s mineral exports.“We still import many bauxite derivatives like aluminum. Domestic demand is higher than industrial capacity, so we need investors to build bauxite smelters here,” Bahlil said in Jakarta.According to the minister, Indonesia’s total bauxite smelting capacity currently stands at 17.5 million tons per year, far below domestic requirements.“Bauxite is one of the key commodities we’re prioritizing for downstream industrialization. That’s why we’ve banned its raw exports,” he added.The government has set a target of USD 8 billion in investments for downstream mineral and coal processing, with about USD 4 billion already realized as of August, Bahlil said.West Kalimantan, home to one of Indonesia’s largest bauxite reserves, remains underdeveloped in processing capacity. “Most of our bauxite reserves are in West Kalimantan, so smelters should be built there. Our domestic demand remains high, and half of it is still met through imports,” Bahlil noted.Indonesia officially banned bauxite ore exports in June 2023, following a 2020 law requiring all raw minerals to be processed domestically before export.The policy mirrors the earlier nickel export ban introduced in 2020, part of Indonesia’s broader “downstreaming” industrialization program now continued under President Prabowo Subianto.The export bans have reshaped global supply chains for key industrial metals. Indonesia, one of the world’s largest producers of nickel and bauxite, aims to move up the value chain by processing minerals into higher-value products such as batteries, electric vehicles, and aluminum. The strategy has drawn both investment and international scrutiny -- including a World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute with the European Union over nickel restrictions.

Arsari Tambang Acquires Canadian Mine Worth IDR 7 Trillion
Arsari Tambang Acquires Canadian Mine Worth IDR 7 Trillion
15 Oct 2025, 01:31 PM 1325

President Director of Arsari Tambang, Aryo Djojohadikusumo, revealed the company’s major expansion plan to acquire a mining business in Canada. This strategic move was conveyed by Aryo at the Mineral and Coal (Minerba) Convex 2025 in Jakarta on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.“We are planning an expansion to acquire a mine in Canada,” Aryo said.He explained that the expansion plan is the result of cooperation between Indonesia, the European Union, and Canada under the Indonesia–European Union Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA).According to him, the agreement opens significant opportunities for national companies to expand onto the global stage.“Thanks to President Prabowo’s efforts, overseas investment opportunities are now wide open. Indonesian companies can move up a level and become multinational corporations,” he continued.Even so, Aryo did not specify which mining sector will be pursued in Canada because negotiations are still ongoing. He only mentioned that the acquisition value is estimated to reach IDR 7 trillion.“We will announce it once the financial close is completed. The acquisition value is around IDR 7 trillion. At the latest, we aim to finalize it by June 2026,” he concluded.

IDR 176.95 Billion Allocated for ANTM's Mining Exploration
IDR 176.95 Billion Allocated for ANTM's Mining Exploration
13 Oct 2025, 02:06 PM 938

PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (ANTM) continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable mining operations with a focus on gold, nickel, and bauxite. As of September 2025, ANTM’s preliminary unaudited exploration spending totaled IDR 176.95 billion.For gold, ANTM carried out exploration at Pongkor, West Java, which through the end of Q3 2025 focused on drilling activities consisting of in-mine (underground) drilling and deep (surface) drilling.Meanwhile, nickel exploration through September 30, 2025 took place in North Konawe and Pomalaa, Southeast Sulawesi. “In addition, exploration activities were also conducted under Antam’s subsidiary IUP, PT Sumberdaya Arindo (PT SDA), in Buli, North Maluku,” wrote Aneka Tambang Corporate Secretary, Wisnu Danandi Haryanto, in a disclosure.Nickel exploration work in North Konawe included geological mapping, core sampling, core logging, grid measurement and re-measurement, installation of pre-drill and post-drill stakes, resistivity measurements, single-tube drilling, sample preparation, laboratory analysis, and supporting activities. In Pomalaa, activities included geological mapping, core sampling, single-tube drilling, as well as preparation and laboratory work. In Buli, PT SDA conducted core logging, measurements, stake installation, re-measurement, and drilling.Bauxite exploration through the end of September 2025 was carried out in Tayan, Landak, and Mempawah–Toho, West Kalimantan, with activities such as test-pit excavation, benchmark stake surveying and installation, and construction of test pits/wells.Through its Geomin Unit, ANTM conducts integrated mineral exploration covering area surveys, geological and geophysical exploration, drilling, testing, and the calculation of mineral resources and reserves, supported by a Geographic Information System (GIS). “Exploration activities are undertaken to ensure adequate potential of the company’s strategic mineral resources and reserves,” Wisnu concluded.

BUMI Acquires Australian Mine, Targets Gold Production Starting 2026
BUMI Acquires Australian Mine, Targets Gold Production Starting 2026
13 Oct 2025, 07:13 AM 3718

PT Bumi Resources Tbk (BUMI) has officially acquired a majority stake in the Australian mining company Wolfram Limited (WFL). This move marks a strategic expansion by the Bakrie Group issuer into the minerals sector, as part of its transformation into a multi-commodity mining company.Acquiring Nearly 100% of SharesBUMI has taken over 126,599,340 shares, equal to approximately 99.68% ownership in Wolfram Limited. The transaction value reached IDR 696.77 billion, equivalent to AUD 6.39 million, which was paid on October 7, 2025.According to BUMI Director R.A. Sri Dharmayanti, this transaction is part of a plan to acquire 100% of Wolfram’s shares. The remaining 0.32% will be purchased at the end of October 2025 for an additional IDR 2.2 billion.“As a result, by November 2025, BUMI will become the holder of 100% of WFL’s shares with a total transaction value of IDR 698.98 billion, equivalent to AUD 6.35 million,” wrote Sri Dharmayanti in a disclosure on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.Gold Production Target Starting June 2026BUMI Advisor Christopher Fong stated that Wolfram’s mine will begin producing gold in June 2026. Within 12 months of the start of production, output is targeted to reach 75,000 to 100,000 troy ounces of gold per year.“BUMI shareholders will see positive financial results within one year after production in Australia begins,” he said on Thursday, October 9, 2025.Toward Commodity DiversificationThe Wolfram acquisition is BUMI’s first step to reduce dependence on coal and expand its portfolio into non-coal commodities.Fong indicated that BUMI will not stop with the Wolfram acquisition alone. Within the next six to twelve months, the company is expected to announce additional non-coal asset acquisitions in Indonesia or Australia.“We are in the process of transforming BUMI into an integrated, multi-commodity mining company,” he added.ConclusionThrough this strategic acquisition, BUMI is not only expanding its operational footprint geographically, but also strengthening its business fundamentals in the midst of shifting energy trends and more diverse global commodity demand.

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