Mining in Indonesia continues to thrive, and in 2025, the largest gold mining project in the country will be built in Pahuwato, Gorontalo.
The Pani gold mine, with mineral resources of 6.9 million ounces, is under the management of PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk (MDKA).
Supporting infrastructure such as fuel storage facilities, ports, and electrical substations is also currently under construction.
In 2025, PLN (State Electricity Company) will provide the main electricity supply, and the metallurgical laboratory will also begin operations in early 2025.
The Chief of External Affairs of PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk and President Director of the Pani Gold Project, Boyke Abidin, explained that the construction of the Pani Gold Mine project will continue until the end of 2025.
Once the project is completed, the first gold pour at the Gorontalo mine is planned to begin in early 2026.
This mega project is expected to employ around 2,000 workers, the majority of whom will be local residents from Pani.
The Gorontalo Provincial Government also welcomes the ongoing investments made by PT Pani Gold Project.
Many programs have already been implemented, and the hope is that this company will truly bring prosperity and progress to Gorontalo Province.
With such vast mineral resources, it is predicted that the Pani Gold Mine’s production could reach up to 300,000 ounces per year.
In fact, the peak production is predicted to reach up to 500,000 ounces per year.
Boyke further revealed that in January 2025, the company will begin recruitment and training processes.
This is being done to ensure that the people of Pahuwato, Gorontalo are ready to work in the mining sector.
In fact, many locals have already been involved in mining activities, but some have participated in illegal, unlicensed mining projects, meaning the workers are not familiar with the application of good mining practices.
One of the key areas that has not been properly implemented, especially, is safety.
Boyke mentioned that every month, there is always a fatal incident occurring at the illegal mines in Gorontalo.
In fact, there have even been cases that resulted in fatalities. Therefore, starting in January 2025, all prospective workers participating in the recruitment process will receive training.
After being recruited, workers will undergo training to develop the necessary skills for working in the gold mine.
This approach will help them become more professional and reduce workplace accidents in the field.
