Indonesia has taken strong action. The government revoked 28 company permits. This happened after deadly floods in Sumatra. These floods occurred in November 2025. Heavy rains caused catastrophic flooding and landslides. These disasters killed over 1,200 people. Many homes were destroyed. Over a million residents were displaced.
Government Investigations Uncover Links
An audit followed the disaster. A government task force conducted this audit. It focused on forest area enforcement. The audit examined companies in North Sumatra and Aceh. It also looked at West Sumatra. Investigators found environmental violations. These violations worsened the flooding and landslides. Deforestation played a major role. Poor land use also contributed significantly.
Batang Toru Ecosystem Under Scrutiny
The Batang Toru ecosystem was heavily impacted. This area is vital. It is the sole habitat for the Tapanuli orangutan. This ape is critically endangered. The floods killed up to 11 percent of the orangutan population. This is an “extinction-level disturbance”. Mining operations in this region faced criticism. Environmentalists argued these operations degraded watersheds. This made the area more prone to flooding.
Permits Revoked, Lawsuits Filed
President Prabowo Subianto announced the revocations. The decision came on January 20, 2026. It targets mining, forestry, and plantation sectors. These permits covered over 1 million hectares of land. Companies found violating environmental laws lost their permits. This action shows a new enforcement approach. It prioritizes ecological balance.
Separately, six companies face lawsuits. The government seeks $289 million. This is for alleged environmental damages. These damages occurred in the Batang Toru ecosystem. The ministry cited damage across 2,516 hectares. This highlights the “polluter pays” principle.
Key Companies Affected
Several prominent companies are involved. PT Agincourt Resources operates the Martabe gold mine. PT North Sumatra Hydro Energy (NSHE) developed the Batang Toru hydropower plant. This project is China-backed. PT Toba Pulp Lestari is another affected firm. These companies had permits revoked. Some operations were already suspended.
Environmental Groups’ Response
Environmental groups welcomed the revocations. However, they urged more action. They called for transparency. Ecosystem restoration is crucial. They also stressed protection against permit transfers. Greenpeace Indonesia warned against repeating past practices. They urged a moratorium on extractive activities. The government must prioritize public safety over profit.
Future Implications
The government plans to convert much revoked land to conservation forests. This aims to restore the Batang Toru ecosystem. This action signals rising regulatory risk. It shows a shift in enforcement strategy. The current trend is clear. Environmental accountability now guides resource management. This news is trending. It is current news for the west of the nation. Investigations continue. The government seeks to prevent future disasters. This ensures better land use. The focus is on protecting vital watersheds.
