President Director of PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk (MDKA), Albert Saputra, announced that the Pani Gold Mine in Pohuwato Regency, Gorontalo, is targeted to begin operations in the first quarter of 2026. He shared this during a media gathering in South Jakarta on Thursday (March 20, 2025).

Albert stated that in its initial phase, the mine is expected to contribute approximately 80,000 to 100,000 ounces of gold production per year for MDKA.

"In the early stage, Pani is projected to contribute around 80,000–100,000 ounces, give or take. We are aiming to start production in the first quarter of 2026," said Albert.

He added that as the mining project progresses, the company’s capital expenditure (Capex) this year will remain focused on completing the Pani Gold Mine and the HPAL project under Merdeka Battery Materials (MBMA).

The operation of the Pani Gold Mine is expected to significantly boost the company’s gold production.

"As mentioned earlier, additional production will come from the Pani project once it is completed in 2026," Albert explained.

The Pani Gold Mine is projected to become one of the largest primary gold mines in Indonesia. Based on the Feasibility Study (FS) and drilling results since 2022, the mine contains an estimated 303.1 million tons of ore, with a total gold content reaching 6.9 million ounces.