PT Masmindo Dwi Area (MDA) remains committed to advancing the strategic phase of the Awak Mas Project located in Latimojong District, Luwu, South Sulawesi.

Recently, MDA held the first phase of socialization regarding pre-construction activities, which was attended by landowners or land cultivators whose properties have not yet been released, MDA representatives, village and district stakeholders, as well as local law enforcement officials, including the police and the district attorney’s office in Luwu Regency.

It was explained that MDA will continue pre-construction activities while simultaneously working on land acquisition and compensation payments so that the investment can soon benefit the broader community.

MDA has mediated with landowners multiple times but has faced challenges due to high compensation price demands.

Ultimately, MDA took a strategic step by depositing funds at Bank Mandiri KCP Belopa, specifically earmarked for compensation payments for all crops and/or land that has not been released, based on valuations from the Public Appraisal Service Office (KJPP) for compensation values.

This action demonstrates MDA’s financial readiness and willingness to carry out land acquisitions, enabling landowners or cultivators who wish to receive compensation to complete the process quickly.

While this process continues, MDA will proceed with operational activities on lands within its Contract of Work (Kontrak Karya) area.

Luwu District Attorney’s Civil and Administrative Law Section Chief (Kasi Datun) Muh. Hendra S emphasized the importance of resolving the matter through consensus. He noted that pricing already follows clear guidelines from the appraisal team, specifically the KJPP.

“If an impasse occurs, the final step is resolution through the courts, where the court's decision must be accepted by both parties. The price may change from the initial agreement or revert to the base price set by the KJPP,” he explained.

Hendra added that land clearing can continue while the court process is ongoing.

MDA is confident that the Awak Mas Project will provide long-term contributions to Luwu Regency, benefiting not only local economic growth but also strengthening the region’s fiscal capacity.

The company hopes this project will become a driving force for regional development, particularly in Luwu’s economy, which is in need of breakthroughs.

For this reason, MDA is seeking support from all parties, including local communities, stakeholders, and law enforcement, to ensure that pre-construction operations proceed smoothly and as expected.

MDA’s Head of Mining Engineering, Mustafa Ibrahim, stated that the company will always strive to approach matters in the best and most transparent ways, hoping that all processes will run smoothly in accordance with existing regulations.

“We also hope that this project will bring benefits to the community, as well as open up job opportunities and enhance economic growth for the local population,” he said.

MDA is optimistic that with full support from the community, government, and all stakeholders, the project’s continuation will achieve its goals and, in time, provide significant benefits to many involved parties.