The mining sector social accountability project initiated by Publish What You Pay (PWYP) Indonesia together with a group of civil society organizations since January 2021 in several regions has received positive response from various stakeholder groups. One of them is in Nagan Raya Regency (Nagan Raya), Aceh Province (Aceh). This was conveyed in a media discussion that took place at the Bintang Syariah Hotel, last Friday (11/5).

Coordinator of GeRAK Aceh, Askhalani opened the forum by saying that mining practice management in Nagan Raya must be accountable to have a positive impact on the community and the region. “This is the big goal of the mining sector social accountability initiative that is being carried out by GeRAK together with PWYP Indonesia,” said Askhalani.

Edi Syahputra, Coordinator of GeRAK Aceh Barat added, “With this initiative, transparency can be delivered and contribute to the region and society, the development in Nagan Raya will be implemented in line with regional expectations”.

The special staff of the Nagan Raya Regent, Mukhtawali, welcomed this social accountability initiative. He also hopes that the presence of coal mining companies can have a positive impact in the form of increasing local revenue, employment opportunities for local workers, and delivering company’s responsibility on environmental impact.

The District Government (Pemkab) of Nagan Raya itself has issued a Qanun on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in 2019 so it can become the basis for companies to deliver contributions for society. “In 2021 alone, the number of companies that have been registered to deliver their CSR are as many as 31 units,” said Kamaruddin, Head of Agency for Regional Development in Nagan Raya. This figure has increased from the previous which only reached 10 companies. “In the near future we will call the company and make a declaration of commitment with the Regency Government that will be attended by the Regent of Nagan Raya,” he continued.

The mining sector social accountability project in Nagan Raya itself is focused on Krueng Mangkom and Alue Buloh Villages, Seunagan District, which is the coal mining area of PT BEL. Several meetings with the community, Provincial Energy and Mineral Resources Offices of Aceh, and a number of civil society groups have been held to build communication and networking in the implementation of this project.