KKP reveals unlicensed mining surge on 153 small islands, calls for KPK intervention and legal overhaul
Indonesia’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has revealed that 370 mining permits are operating across 153 small islands—many without the required environmental clearance from KKP. With Kepulauan Riau (Kepri) topping the list, the ministry is calling for urgent regulatory harmonization and assistance from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).
Unlicensed Mining on Fragile Islands
On July 7, 2025, KKP Director of Coastal and Small Islands Affairs, Ahmad Aris, disclosed that the majority of these mining businesses lack proper marine and spatial utilization permits. Although licensed by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) and local governments, these operations are violating maritime regulations essential for protecting fragile coastal ecosystems.
“Out of 370 mining permits on 153 small islands, most do not have the required clearance from us,” said Aris after a hearing with the Indonesian Parliament in Jakarta. He stressed that small islands have limited ecological capacity and require stricter controls.
Kepri the Worst Offender
Kepulauan Riau (Kepri) emerged as the region with the highest number of mining activities on small islands. However, similar unregulated mining can be found in eastern Indonesia, indicating a widespread national issue.
KKP is currently mapping out these operations to identify violators. Aris explained that overlapping and conflicting regulations across ministries have led to this regulatory loophole. “Regulations aren’t uniform. Domestic investors have been required to get our recommendations since 2019, while foreign investors have needed them since 2014,” he added.
Regulatory Gaps and Legal Conflicts
The issue is further complicated by jurisdictional overlaps—particularly with areas classified as forest zones, which fall under the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK). “In forested areas, KKP has no authority to issue permits. This regulatory misalignment must be addressed,” said Aris.
The KKP is working closely with KPK to harmonize laws spanning the mining, forestry, and maritime sectors. These efforts aim to prevent further environmental degradation and ensure transparent, lawful operations on small islands.
Why KPK Must Step In
Given the magnitude of unregulated mining and its potential links to corruption or regulatory neglect, KKP has formally requested KPK involvement. The collaboration will focus on improving coordination between sectors and identifying legal inconsistencies that allow mining without KKP approval.
Unchecked mining on small islands threatens marine biodiversity, damages coral reefs, and puts coastal communities at risk. “These islands can’t support high-impact activities without collapsing ecologically,” Aris warned.
A Call for Environmental Justice
KKP emphasized that it remains committed to enforcing compliance among businesses operating in sensitive marine zones. The ministry is urging companies to obtain the required maritime permits or face sanctions.
“Our marine space must be protected—not just for now, but for generations,” Aris concluded. The broader effort reflects Indonesia’s push to balance economic development with environmental responsibility and legal integrity.
This revelation of 370 mining operations on small islands—many without environmental clearance—highlights a deep-rooted governance failure. For both Indonesians and neighboring Singaporeans, the health of these marine zones is vital to regional stability, food security, and sustainable development. Harmonizing cross-sectoral laws and enforcing compliance will be critical in safeguarding Southeast Asia’s ecological future.
Sources: Batam News (2025) , Kompas (2025)
Keywords: KKP, Mining Permits, Kepri Islands, Environmental Risk, Small Island Regulation, KPK Oversight
