The Indonesian Forum for the Environment (WALHI) has reported 47 corporations to the Attorney General’s Office over alleged environmental damage in 17 provinces. The report estimates state losses at Rp437 trillion, highlighting the impact of decades-long natural resource exploitation.
Professor Priyono Suryanto from UGM’s Faculty of Forestry sees this report as a legal demand and a turning point for the nation to shift its approach to natural resource management.
Historically, natural resources like forests, plantations, and mining were managed to support national development.
After Indonesia’s independence, forests were viewed as state assets that could drive economic growth.
According to him, the initial mission of resource exploitation was successful, as evidenced by continuous development.
However, this success came at a high cost—widespread exploitation and environmental destruction.
“The principle was supposed to be exploitation for development. As a result, we achieved economic progress, but at the same time, we damaged the environment. The consequences are becoming clearer, and we are facing serious ecological repercussions,” Professor Suryanto said on Sunday, Mar. 16, 2025.
He pointed out that one of the key issues in environmental governance in Indonesia is the misuse of the licensing process and that environmental permits have become a business of their own.
“Although administratively nothing seems wrong, there are many irregularities due to manipulation in practice. As a result, permits are granted without ensuring environmental sustainability,” Professor Suryanto emphasized.
He further stressed that this issue must not be viewed in isolation but comprehensively.
Moving forward, he believes holding companies that have exploited natural resources accountable for environmental restoration is crucial.
“Regulations clearly state the obligation to restore exploited land to its original condition. For example, there must be proper reclamation after mining to allow forests to recover. Similarly, in the forestry sector, timber exploitation must be accompanied by efforts to maintain the ecosystem,” he explained.
According to Professor Suryanto, the Rp437 trillion in losses reported by WALHI is still less than the actual impact.
To him, this is not just about money but also about the environmental legacy for future generations.
He emphasized the need for a fundamental transformation in Indonesia’s environmental management as a long-term solution.
Previously, development was pursued through destructive means, but now, the focus should shift toward sustainable development, which must become the core principle in managing forests, plantations, and mining.
“If this exploitative pattern continues, we will not only lose resources but also leave behind ecological disasters for our descendants,” he warned.
Professor Suryanto also stressed the importance of the government strengthening sustainability principles within the current administration.
He urged the government to reflect on the exploitative development processes and adopt a new mindset for managing natural resources.
He suggested that relevant ministries intensify collaboration with universities and research institutions like the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to build long-term solidarity for sustainable resource management in Indonesia.
“The goal is for Indonesia to become a global benchmark for reforestation and rehabilitation efforts. Hopefully, the country will not face a bleak future but a brighter one if we are willing to make changes,” he concluded.
Author: Bolivia
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang
Image: Freepik