• The Indonesian government revoked permits for four out of five nickel mining companies in Raja Ampat.
• Activists highlighted environmental damage to one of the world's most pristine diving spots.
• Public outcry and viral campaigns have increased pressure for stronger mining regulations.
• The remaining company, PT Gag Nikel, will still operate but under close scrutiny.
• Greenpeace and local lawmakers are advocating for a complete ban on mining activities in the area.

The Indonesian government has recently taken significant action against nickel mining in the Raja Ampat archipelago by revoking the permits for four out of five mining companies. This decision follows widespread public outcry, particularly after activists circulated videos showcasing the environmental degradation caused by nickel extraction activities, which were viewed over 15 million times on social media, according to Times of India, Channel News Asia, The Jakarta Post, and The Jakarta Post.

President Prabowo Subianto announced the revocation as a response to the growing concerns about the environmental impact of mining in one of the world’s top marine biodiversity hotspots, which sits within the Coral Triangle. The four affected companies, including PT Anugerah Surya Pratama and PT Kawei Sejahtera Mining, had been under scrutiny for significant damage to the marine ecosystem, including the loss of over 500 hectares of forest, as reported by The Jakarta Post and Times of India.

In an effort to manage the remaining operations, the government is allowing PT Gag Nikel to continue its activities but under strict observation. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia emphasized that this decision was necessary to protect the region, stating, "We believe this region must be protected," while noting that the remaining company has violated certain regulations, according to The Jakarta Post and Channel News Asia.

Environmental organizations like Greenpeace have welcomed this revocation as a critical first step but maintain that the government needs to take further action to ensure complete cessation of mining effects in Raja Ampat. They express concern over the possibility of permits being reissued or challenged legally by the affected companies, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance, as noted by Times of India and The Jakarta Post.