Bangka Island North Sulawesi

• • Summary of Bangka Island Conflict**

Bangka Island, located off the coast of Sulawesi, Indonesia, is renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant dive tourism industry. Administratively, it falls under East Likupang in North Minahasa regency.

The island spans 4,778 hectares, featuring diverse landscapes including forests, hills, and coconut plantations. The three main villages are Lihunu, Kahuku, and Libas, with Lihunu being the largest.

Economically, locals engage in fishing and agriculture, producing coconuts, copra, cloves, maize, and vegetables. Since 2007, eco-tourism has flourished, attracting visitors to its renowned dive sites.

However, a significant conflict arose over iron ore mining by PT MMP. Residents opposed the project, citing environmental risks and economic threats to tourism. They invoked Law No.27/2007, which prohibits mining on small islands like Bangka (48 km²).

Legal battles ensued, with courts initially rejecting residents' pleas but later overturning decisions, revoking PT MMP's permits. The Supreme Court upheld these rulings, deeming the permits illegal due to forestry law violations.

PT MMP attempted to reinstate permits, claiming violations of a "Peace Deed" and accusing government collusion. Despite investing $105 million, their efforts were thwarted by a 2018 inter-ministry meeting that formally rejected permit reactivation.

This conflict highlights tensions between economic development and environmental conservation, underscored by legal challenges and political intrigue.