The nickel mining industry in Raja Ampat has long been under scrutiny due to numerous cases of environmental degradation. Recently, it was revealed that several companies had committed violations in their mining operations, resulting in damage to parts of small islands.
As the case gained public attention, the government was criticized for failing to oversee mining activities in Raja Ampat. This is particularly concerning given that approximately 97 percent of Raja Ampat is designated as a conservation area, making such damage a threat to both the environment and the rights of local communities.
UGM strategic communication expert I Gusti Ngurah Putra stated that the government’s communication approach still needs improvement. As the primary stakeholder responsible for state governance, the government has an obligation to remain transparent to the public.
“This aspect has remained problematic in recent years. Several policies have not been communicated in an informative and structured manner, which has led to assumptions and undermined the government’s accountability in the public eye,” said Putra during Diskoma #22, themed “Crisis Communication: The Case of Nickel Mining in Raja Ampat”, in a statement to reporters on Wednesday (Aug. 13).
In the context of the Raja Ampat nickel mining issue, Putra noted that the crisis communication carried out has been inconsistent. Raja Ampat is one of Indonesia’s rich natural resources and a leading tourism destination. The case reflects the state’s stance on ensuring sustainability in such an exotic location.
“If the government is not firm, our image can collapse. Crisis communication is not merely about publicity strategies. It is about the political direction of development itself,” the expert emphasized.
He went on to say that crisis communication in the tourism sector has yet to become a priority in national policy. This, he argued, leaves crisis communication work in an uncertain and half-hearted state.
Meanwhile, Apni Jaya Putra, Special Staff to the Minister of Tourism for Communications and Media, provided insights into the government’s policy and communication strategy.
He explained how the Ministry of Tourism classified the nickel mining case in Raja Ampat as a “medium crisis” through a Crisis Detection Analysis. This status was triggered by ecosystem damage, licensing conflicts, and responses from indigenous communities, as well as international media attention.
“This issue is not just about the environment. It is about Indonesia’s reputation as a tourist destination, about how the world perceives us: whether we are preserving this last paradise or sacrificing it for short-term investment,” said Apni.
According to him, the ministry’s crisis communication strategy is built on the principles of acknowledge, explain, and act. This means openly recognizing the problem, explaining the position and responsibilities of each party, and inviting public participation in joint solutions.
“All narratives must be delivered with empathy, consistency, and a data-driven approach,” he concluded.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photograph: Greenpeace