VIVAnews – Ministry of Forestry finally granted mining concession to PT Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper (RAPP) in Padang Island.
However, the license was handed over under certain conditions. PT RAPP is called on to map the area claimed by the locals as theirs. The areas are later to be excluded from the Industrial Plantation (HTI) area.
The measure was taken by the Ministry after receiving recommendation from a team which focuses on forestry affairs.
An official at Forestry Ministry, Imam Santoso, said the Ministry is committed to accommodate the local residents living around the HTI area.
“PT RAPP’s license is still being granted, not revoked. This decision was made based on the recommendation of the mediation team,” said Imam.
Imam said that in the mapping, people’s land within the HTI area will be exempted.
Commission IV of the House of Representatives, who also attended the meeting, urged the company to employ local residents, “especially if the company really wants to implement community development,” said a member of the Commission, Ian Siagian.
Earlier, the residents of Padang Island held a protest against PT RAAP. They demanded the government to immediately stop the operation of PT Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper by revoking Ministerial Decree No.327/2009 on HTI concession for PT RAAP.
The residents feared the company would destroy the forest.
