Harita Nickel is actively pursuing certification from the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) to facilitate the marketing of its nickel products in the European market.
Roy Arman Arfandy, the President Director of Harita Nickel, stated that IRMA is a highly reputable institution that can verify every aspect of the mining process end-to-end.
Roy expressed hope that Harita will obtain certification from IRMA, allowing Western buyers to feel more comfortable and confident in the company's mining products.
"They will be able to trace the source of the raw materials and ensure that they are processed correctly," he said during the Sustainability Action for the Future Economy (SAFE) 2024 event hosted by Katadata at the Grand Ballroom of the Hotel Kempinski on Thursday, August 8.
He noted that expanding Harita's nickel market to Europe is part of an effort to counter the Western perception of Indonesia's so-called "dirty nickel."
Roy emphasized that IRMA certification is a key demonstration of Harita's strong commitment to ESG principles, including the impacts resulting from its mining activities.
In addition to seeking IRMA certification, Roy mentioned that Harita undergoes annual audits from various parties on Obi Island, where its mining concessions are located, to review the mining processes.
"With IRMA certification, these auditors will be more comfortable, knowing that our processes are certified by an international organization," he added.
Roy underscored the importance of IRMA certification, noting that prospective nickel buyers from Europe pay close attention to how ESG principles are implemented.
"Fortunately, we have already started shipping to Europe because they see that our ESG processes are properly managed and comply with regulations, even approaching international standards," he said.
Roy highlighted that meeting the mining standards set by Europe is costly and requires fulfilling numerous criteria.
"We were audited with 600 questions, including how we interact with and improve the social living standards of the local community. They don't just look at mining operations; they evaluate everything from start to finish," he explained.
