BUMN Holding Industri Pertambangan Indonesia (MIND ID) is enhancing the implementation of smart operations through automation, digitalization, and innovation to optimize added value in Indonesia’s mining sector downstream program.

Corporate Secretary of MIND ID, Heri Yusuf, explained in Jakarta on Sunday that the strengthening of the MIND ID Group’s downstream program is being executed comprehensively, including the implementation of digital transformation, which is expected to positively impact production, efficiency, and risk mitigation.

He elaborated that the MIND ID Group has successfully adopted artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics on a large scale, utilized by members such as PT Aneka Tambang Tbk, PT Bukit Asam Tbk, PT Freeport Indonesia, PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium, PT Timah Tbk, and PT Vale Indonesia Tbk.

In mining operations, many machines and vehicles are now remotely controlled, with various sensors assisting operators in identifying mineral potentials while also managing risks that could occur in the field.

Moreover, technology has significantly aided group members in predicting optimal maintenance schedules for machinery and equipment, ensuring that mining, refining, and mineral processing operations are consistently maintained at optimal levels.

“Gradual digital transformation across operations is being implemented to add value throughout the entire mining and mineral processing chain. This effort aims to achieve optimal and efficient operational activities,” Heri said.

A concrete example of this initiative is the adoption of advanced technology by MIND ID members, such as PT Freeport Indonesia, which has implemented smart mining operations.

Freeport Indonesia, as part of MIND ID, has been leading the use of advanced technology in the mining industry, including the optimization of 5G technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics in mining operations.

Freeport’s mining trucks, which are operated using joysticks, demonstrate significant digitalization in improving operational efficiency and worker safety.

Meanwhile, Vice Minister of SOEs, Kartika Wirjoatmodjo, praised the progress achieved by SOEs, including the MIND ID Group, over the past five years in applying digitalization to increase operational efficiency.

According to her, this strategic step provides substantial benefits to SOEs, particularly in ensuring the sustainability of the mining industry in the future.

“We are entering the digital world with increasingly competitive products. Every sector needs operational digitalization. One example is PT Freeport Indonesia’s underground copper mine, where the mining trucks are no longer driven by humans but are operated using joysticks with 5G technology,” she stated.