ESDM partners with Unpatti to improve Gunung Botak mining governance
The study will feed into an effectiveness document on mine management after authorities uncovered suspected illegal mining there in May 2026.
The ESDM Ministry has teamed with academics from Universitas Pattimura to strengthen a study of governance in the Gunung Botak mining area in Buru regency, Maluku. The ESDM Directorate General for Law Enforcement said management in the block faces complex problems because several holders of People's Mining Permits have limited production capacity and depend on financiers and processing technology from outside. The situation is seen as risking violations of the principles of people's mining, raising safety risks and polluting the environment. ESDM law enforcement director general Jeffri Huwae said the university's input will form the main substance of the Gunung Botak Mining Business Management Effectiveness Study document. The move also follows the dismantling of suspected illegal gold mining practices in the area in May 2026.