President Joko Widodo inaugurated the copper smelter and precious metal refinery of Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara (AMNT) in West Sumbawa Regency, West Nusa Tenggara."I am happy because today (Indonesia), as the seventh biggest copper reserves in the world, have entered a new chapter in the downstreaming of the copper industry," said President Jokowi on Monday (9/22/2024).President Jokowi said that Indonesia's gross domestic product is currently still dominated by domestic consumption with a figure reaching 56 percent.According to him, the operation of the copper smelter is an effort to reverse Indonesia's gross domestic product from consumption to production."We also want the world's copper product needs in the future to depend on our country, Indonesia," explained President Jokowi.The Amman precious metal smelter and refining facility stands in an area of ​​272 hectares. Its location is 1.5 kilometers from Benete Port. The smelter's processing capacity reaches 900 thousand tons per year by processing copper concentrate from the Batu Hijau mine and the Elang mine, as well as 139 thousand tons of silica flux per year.The main production of the smelter is 220 thousand tons per year of LME grade A copper cathode with a purity of 99.99 percent and 830 thousand tons per year of sulfuric acid with a purity of 98.50 percent.Meanwhile, the main feature of precious metal refining is 987 tons per year of anode mud with the main product of 18 tons per year of gold bars with a purity of 99.99 percent, 55 tons per year of silver bars with a purity of 99.95 percent, and 77 tons per year of selenium with a purity of 99.9 percent.

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has confirmed that coal downstreaming projects are still ongoing. Currently, six companies are conducting economic feasibility studies and assessments."For coal downstreaming, it's still in process," said Director of Coal Business Development at the Ministry of ESDM, Surya Herjuna, to Kontan on Tuesday (September 17, 2024).Previously, the Indonesian government had proposed to China to develop and enhance the added value (PNT) of coal in other products, such as coal quality improvement (coal upgrading), coal briquetting, coke making, and coal liquefaction. This offer was made directly by the Acting Director General of Minerals and Coal, Bambang Suswantono, during The 7th Indonesia China Energy Forum (ICEF) earlier this September.To support the acceleration of these programs, in addition to providing three incentives, the government also mandates that extensions of Coal Contract of Work (PKP2B) agreements to Special Mining Business Licenses (IUPK) require companies to submit plans for coal development and/or utilization."Currently, there are six IUPKs that have planned to develop coal into gas, fertilizer, and coke. At present, these are under economic feasibility assessments and studies, and hopefully, by 2030, we can start commissioning," said Bambang.Several coal companies have confirmed that various preparations have been made to implement coal downstreaming projects.Corporate Secretary of PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA), Niko Chandra, stated that the company has been preparing to support coal downstreaming while ensuring national energy security."PTBA has allocated specific coal reserves for downstreaming projects to ensure that the coal demand for the downstream industry is met," Niko told Kontan on Tuesday (September 17).Niko further explained that PTBA is open to cooperation to develop these coal downstreaming projects. Previously, PTBA planned to work on the Coal to Dimethyl Ether (DME) project with Air Products and Chemicals Inc. However, the U.S.-based company withdrew from the project, which had an investment value of USD 2.1 billion.Most recently, PTBA collaborated with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to initiate a pilot project converting coal into Artificial Graphite and Anode Sheets as raw materials for Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.Artificial Graphite is the primary material for making anodes, while Anode Sheets serve as electrodes where oxidation reactions (positive poles) occur, a critical component of Li-ion batteries.Meanwhile, Director and Corporate Secretary of BUMI, Dileep Srivastava, mentioned that the company plans to make an announcement regarding their coal downstreaming project by the end of this year."There is a possibility of an announcement (project update) by the end of this year," Dileep told Kontan on Tuesday (September 17).Dileep confirmed that there have been no changes in the downstreaming plans for PT Kaltim Prima Coal (KPC) and PT Arutmin Indonesia.For reference, in this coal downstreaming project, KPC will supply coal for the gasification project in Bengalon, with a requirement of around 5 million to 6.5 million tons per year of GAR 4,200 kcal per kg quality. Once operational, the plant will be able to produce 1.8 million tons of methanol per year.Meanwhile, PT Arutmin Indonesia initially planned a coal to methanol downstreaming project with a production capacity of 2.95 million tons per year. Recently, it was reported that Arutmin has shifted its downstreaming project focus to coal to ammonia.Head of Corporate Communication at Adaro Energy (ADRO), Febriati Nadira, revealed that Adaro is currently studying coal downstreaming plans."Adaro is still conducting studies to enhance the added value of coal," Ira explained to Kontan on Tuesday (September 17).For context, Indonesia currently has coal resources of 97.29 billion tons and reserves of 31.71 billion tons, of which 70% of the resources consist of low-quality coal, and the remaining 30% are medium and high-quality coal.Most of the resources and reserves are located in East Kalimantan, South Sumatra, South Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and Jambi. The rest are spread across Jambi, Riau, North Kalimantan, Aceh, Bengkulu, West Sumatra, Papua, West Sulawesi, and western Java.

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.

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.

Castrol Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the national mining sector by introducing Castrol CRB Mining, a lubricant specifically designed for the industry. Castrol CRB Mining is formulated to provide maximum protection for heavy machinery operating under extreme conditions.This lubricant not only reduces engine wear but also extends the life of equipment, helping to enhance the efficiency and productivity of mining companies.Mike Zhang, Vice President of Castrol Asia Pacific, stated that the company brings experience and expertise from international markets, such as Australia, where they have established leadership in the mining industry.“In Indonesia, we continue to innovate to address the challenges of the mining sector, and with products like Castrol CRB Mining, we are confident we can remain a trusted partner,” Mike said at the Indonesia Mining Expo 2024, JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta, on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.Castrol Indonesia has built an extensive distribution network covering various mining regions across the country, allowing easy access to Castrol products for mining companies in remote locations.In addition, Castrol is supported by a team of professionals with deep experience in the mining industry, ensuring that every mining company can maintain operational efficiency and equipment reliability.Castrol, as one of the world’s leading lubricant brands, has a long history of developing high-quality lubricants for over 125 years. The company's partnership philosophy has driven it to create innovative lubricant solutions, not only for the automotive sector but also for heavy technology industries such as mining.“With our technology and experience, we believe Castrol will continue to play a crucial role in the development of Indonesia's mining industry,” Mike added.Besides Castrol CRB Mining, other Castrol products such as Castrol Vecton, Castrol Transmax, and Castrol Hyspin are also available to support the heavy equipment and commercial vehicle segments in Indonesia. As part of the BP group, Castrol serves customers across various sectors, from automotive to marine industries.In Indonesia, Castrol has been present for decades and plays a key role in major projects, including in the mining sector, making the company a reliable partner for many leading mining companies in the country.

PT Kobexindo Equipment ("KOBE"), a subsidiary of PT Kobexindo Tractors Tbk (IDX: “KOBX”), has delivered two units of SIBILIA truck Vacuum S24D to PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI)'s smelter in Gresik, East Java. These industrial heavy equipment trucks, mounted on a 6x4 diesel truck with a 7,684 cc engine, use a 4-stroke in-line diesel engine adhering to Euro 4 emission standards, designed to support operational mobility.The SIBILIA truck Vacuum S24D is an Italian-made vacuum machine with over 80 years of experience. Powered by a 136HP auxiliary diesel engine, it generates a suction force of 8,300DaPa. The machine is equipped with a 10m3 dust/waste collection tank and holds an ATEX certification (Atmospheres Explosible), meeting European Union standards for products used in potentially explosive environments.Suryanto, Director of PT Kobexindo Equipment, expressed pride in supporting Freeport Indonesia's zero-waste policy and maintaining high standards of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) across all its operational areas.The S24D's strong suction power is designed for large-scale industrial waste management, helping Freeport manage waste efficiently, reduce downtime, and maintain cleanliness in the smelter area.PTFI’s second smelter was inaugurated on June 27, 2024. Copper cathode, the smelter's primary product, serves as raw material for various downstream industries, including cables, electronics, and electrical sectors.Kobexindo's Performance Highlights: Strengthening Non-Mining SegmentsIn the S1 2024, Kobexindo’s heavy equipment unit sales reached IDR 499.93 billion, contributing 56.25% to the company's consolidated total revenue, the highest among its business segments. This growth was driven by strong sales performance across various business sectors.“Kobexindo remains committed to strengthening its non-mining segments, including the manufacturing sector, with a focus on providing environmentally friendly heavy equipment. Through KOBE, the company offers environmental solutions, material handling, and logistic solutions. This reflects Kobexindo’s commitment to supplying high-quality equipment tailored to industry needs while supporting environmentally responsible business practices,” explained Gabrielle Azelia, Corporate Secretary of PT Kobexindo Tractors Tbk.

PT Adaro Energy Indonesia plans to spin off a coal mining unit valued at USD 2.45 billion as part of its shift away from the fossil fuel.The company, which is one of country’s biggest coal miners, aims to offload its 99.9% stake in Adaro Andalan Indonesia and will seek shareholder approval for the plan on Oct. 18, according to a local exchange filing late on Wednesday. Shares in Adaro rose as much as 15.1% on Thursday, the most in more than two years.Indonesian coal miners have been boosting their investment in areas like metals and green energy to benefit from the energy transition. Adaro is building an aluminum smelter in Kalimantan, although the fossil fuel still accounts for more than 90% of its revenue. Other firms like PT Harum Energy and PT United Tractors have bought into the country’s rapidly expanding nickel sector.The Southeast Asian nation remains the world’s top exporter of thermal coal, used in power stations, and continues to rely on it for most of its domestic energy needs. An international plan to finance its shift away from the fossil fuel has stalled since being launched in 2022.Adaro said in the filing that separating its core coal business from its expanding minerals and green energy segments will allow it to access more sources of finance. The sale will be conducted as part of a public offering in which shareholders in the parent company may participate. The company has committed to boosting its non-coal revenue to more than half by the end of the decade, and plans to keep output of the fossil fuel flat this year.

(IANS) Indonesia has inaugurated its first electric vehicle (EV) battery factory, which will operate entirely on renewable energy at the Neo Energy Morowali Industrial Estate in Central Sulawesi.Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said on Saturday that the factory was part of the critical minerals downstream policy aimed at boosting national economic competitiveness, improving public welfare and utilising environmentally friendly technology, Xinhua news agency reported.“Successful downstream processing of nickel has significantly boosted the export value of nickel derivatives, rising from USD 4.31 billion in 2017 to USD 34.44 billion in 2023,” Airlangga said at the event.With abundant mineral resources especially nickel, Indonesia holds substantial potential for EV battery production, with an estimated annual capacity of 210 GWh.The factory’s high-pressure acid-leaching smelter will process nickel ore into mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP), a key material for EV battery cathodes, adding 120,000 tons of MHP to the country’s production capacity each year.The Investment Ministry revealed that as of June 2024, the total investment in nickel downstream activities, particularly smelter and EV battery factory development, has reached USD 30 billion in the country.On May 6, Indonesian President Joko Widodo had told the media that the first electric vehicle (EV) battery factory in the country will begin operating in June.Speaking at the EV exhibition of the Indonesian Electric Vehicle Industry Association or Periklindo Electric Vehicle Show in 2024, he emphasised that the factory’s operation signals that the domestic environmentally friendly vehicle ecosystem is starting to form in the country.The factory which is said to be owned by PT Hyundai LG Industry (HLI) Green Power, is located in Karawang, West Java, with a maximum capacity of up to 10 GW per hour and is capable of producing 32.6 million battery units.The Indonesian President said that Indonesia currently hosts 59 electric vehicle manufacturers, with plans for expansion in the pipeline.According to him, with current infrastructure, Indonesia can make up to 1.6 million electrical motorbikes yearly.However, the production of new electric motorbikes is 100,000 motorbikes now, so Indonesia sees room to develop the industry.

Indonesia, with the world's largest nickel reserves, is now at the center of the global industrial spotlight. In addition to nickel, Indonesia also holds significant reserves of another critical mineral—cobalt. These two minerals form the cornerstone of future technological development, particularly in the rapidly growing electric vehicle battery industry.In recent years, nickel has emerged as one of the most sought-after commodities globally. Major corporations, including Tesla, have shown significant interest in nickel, as it is a key material in electric vehicle battery production."Nickel falls into the category of critical minerals, which are essential in shaping the future of technology," said Muhammad Toha, General Manager of Permitting and Compliance at PT Merdeka Copper Gold, during the 2024 Media Mining Workshop in Surabaya, as reported on Saturday (14/9/2024).Merdeka Copper Gold recently acquired a nickel mine in Sulawesi and established Merdeka Battery Materials as part of its broader strategic plan.However, nickel is not the only important mineral in Indonesia. Each time nickel is discovered, cobalt is almost always found alongside it. "Cobalt is a far rarer mineral compared to nickel, and its distribution is very limited. Indonesia is fortunate to have significant cobalt reserves," Toha added.Though less well-known than nickel, cobalt plays an equally important role. It is used in the production of lithium-ion batteries, a key component in many future technologies, from smartphones to electric vehicles. The combination of nickel and cobalt positions Indonesia as a strategically important player in the global technology supply chain.Indonesia holds about 20% of the world's total nickel reserves, followed by Australia and Russia. This advantage makes Indonesia a key player in the global market.In recent years, Indonesia's nickel production has seen a significant increase, making it one of the largest nickel processing countries after China.“Although China is the largest nickel processing producer, they do not have their own nickel reserves. Most of the nickel raw materials they process are imported from countries like Indonesia and the Philippines,” he explained.The demand for nickel and cobalt is expected to continue increasing until 2030. In the past, nickel was primarily used for stainless steel production. However, this trend has shifted with the rising demand for electric vehicles. Advanced electric vehicle batteries require large amounts of nickel and cobalt, making these minerals crucial for the future.Despite this enormous potential, challenges remain. Resistance to mining activities continues to be an issue in some communities. “Opposing mining in extreme terms is akin to rejecting the technology of the future. There can be no technological advancement without critical minerals,” Toha said.However, he also highlighted the importance of strict oversight in the mining industry. "If mining is not properly supervised, the impact can be very damaging. We are committed to being a responsible mining company for a more sustainable future," he added.With the immense potential of nickel and cobalt, Indonesia has a significant opportunity not only to become a key player in the global technology industry but also to enhance the welfare of its people through the wise management of natural resources. These critical minerals are not just about the present—they are about the future of technology and the progress of human civilization.

PT Timah Tbk allocated IDR 37 billion in August 2024 to optimize the management of tin ore resources and reserves both on land and at sea to meet global market demands.“This exploration is not just about discovering new reserves but also a key part of the company’s sustainability strategy,” said PT Timah Tbk’s Head of Corporate Communications, Anggi Siahaan, in Pangkalpinang, Bangka Belitung (Babel), on Friday.He explained that PT Timah's exploration activities at sea included exploratory drilling and mine guidance using five drilling vessels.“On land, exploration activities include primary land drilling and topographic surveys,” he added.Anggi emphasized that exploration is a strategic step to ensure the continuity of the mining industry. However, it is not only about expanding production but also about balancing the utilization of natural resources with environmental preservation.“PT Timah is also continuously working to improve exploration, mining, and processing technologies as part of efforts to ensure the company’s sustainability,” he said.He noted that optimal management of tin mineral reserves, adhering to sustainable mining principles, is one way PT Timah can maintain its position as a global tin producer.“As a mining company that represents the nation, PT Timah Tbk conducts integrated mining operations by implementing Good Mining Practices,” Anggi said.He confirmed that the tin ore produced comes from PT Timah Tbk’s Mining Business Permit Area (IUP).