MANDALING NATAL | INDATANEWS.COM – The public debate over illegal gold mining in Mandailing Natal intensified on Tuesday (June 10, 2026), as stakeholders gathered in a forum organized by FOR MADINA. The discussion brought together students, miners, and environmental observers to examine the future of mining amid growing concerns over ecological damage and economic necessity.
The debate quickly became polarized, with one side pushing for the legalization of small-scale mining, while others warned that formalizing operations without strict oversight could deepen environmental destruction.
Miner from Huta Bargot, Zulfan Siregar, welcomed the local government's initiative to apply for a small-scale mining license from Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM). He argued that legalization would help bring order to previously unregulated activities.
"Once permits are issued, it becomes clear who is involved. No one will need to operate in secrecy anymore," he said.
He added that formal regulation would also allow tighter controls, particularly on the use of hazardous substances such as mercury, while emphasizing the need for worker training to improve safety and environmental protection.
Environmental Damage and Mercury ContaminationStudent representative Evan Heriansyah stressed that any legalization effort must include strict environmental restoration obligations. He warned that without firm enforcement, legalization could worsen ecological degradation.
"Every permit must come with a commitment to restore the damaged environment," he stated.
Meanwhile, researcher Agam Sutiro from
FOR MADINA reported severe environmental impacts from uncontrolled mining activities. Based on forum data from 2022 to 2024, approximately 79 hectares of forest across six districts have been destroyed, with further damage reported through 2025–2026.
The destruction has also disrupted wildlife habitats, including those of tigers, bears, and tapirs, forcing animals closer to human settlements. Increasing encounters with the critically endangered Sumatran tiger have been reported in several villages.
Researcher Syarifah Ainun highlighted alarming
mercury contamination levels in local waterways, particularly in the Batang Gadis River, where concentrations reportedly reach 1.24 mg/L—far above safe thresholds. Mercury waste is being discharged directly into ecosystems, entering the food chain.
The World Health Organization classifies mercury as one of the most hazardous substances globally, with long-term exposure linked to severe neurological disorders and congenital abnormalities.
Calls for Sustainable Economic AlternativesAuthorities and experts are now urging the development of sustainable livelihood options for local communities. Proposed alternatives include cocoa, banana, and rice cultivation as more stable income sources.
Zulfan Siregar also expressed willingness to transition away from mining if safer and more viable economic opportunities are provided, noting the high risks associated with open-pit operations.
"The work in open pits is dangerous. A collapse can cost lives," he said.
Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies intensified action against illegal mining activities, with police raids conducted in March 2026 seizing equipment and detaining workers. Financial authorities from PPATK also reported suspicious multi-billion-rupiah transactions linked to illegal mining operations.
Despite ongoing enforcement, experts say a long-term solution remains elusive, as economic dependence on mining continues to clash with environmental protection goals.
The discussion in Mandailing Natal highlights a continuing struggle between economic survival and ecological sustainability, with no clear resolution yet in sight. (IDNC)
REPORTER:
Darmailawati | EDITOR:
Fik Sagala