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| "Havidz Ageng Prakoso, S.IP., M.A Lecturer of International Relations at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) (Photo: Special) |
The discourse on establishing a smelter or refining industry for the processed products of PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) to drive significant economic growth continues to resonate. Havidz Ageng Prakoso, S.IP., M.A., as a Lecturer of International Relations at the University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM), conveyed that, as one of the ways to enhance the welfare of the surrounding community, the construction of this smelter also requires several considerations. One of them is an awareness of the effects that will emerge.
"Awareness related to mining activities from upstream to downstream will always have positive and negative aspects, depending on each perspective. It needs to be comprehensively assessed," he stated.
Ageng explained that there are various benefits if this Papua smelter project appears. One of them is compensation from the central government for the developmental disparities between the center and the regions, as well as minimizing issues of inequality. Since Indonesia's establishment as a unitary state, this has been a central issue, even becoming an international concern by activists.
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"The government's role is at stake in accommodating the desires, needs, and demands of the Papua and West Papua communities. Although, it will inevitably cause controversy from various parties," he added.
Ageng further noted that, from a global perspective, the discourse on constructing this smelter aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) program. This discourse is especially assessed based on several values that are in line, such as decent work and economic growth, innovation and infrastructure, reduced disparities, and partnerships to achieve goals.
The long process of demanding the smelter's construction in Papua has been intensively studied. In 2021, it marked the initial stage of positive signals towards the smelter's development in the Papua region. The central government has formulated development plans among stakeholders, both from PTFI and state-owned enterprises (BUMN).
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"I believe that in every government-led development, there are numerous considerations for what will happen in the future. Hopefully, the construction of the Papua smelter can make a positive contribution not only to the government but also to the local community. Especially for those directly affected by and experiencing the smelter's activities. The hope is that this step can minimize conflicts, be they horizontal, vertical, or environmental," he concluded. (*wil/fajr)
