A National Symposium entitled "Making Hasanuddin University a Center for Research and Study of Indonesian Nickel Downstreaming" was successfully held by the Hasanuddin University Engineering Alumni Association (IKATEK UNHAS) at the UNHAS Hotel & Convention on February 26, 2025. The event brought together academics, government officials, and nickel industry players to discuss how nickel downstreaming can continue to grow without neglecting environmental aspects.
As one of the leading nickel mining and downstreaming companies in Indonesia, Harita Nickel participated in the discussion. Harita Nickel's Deputy Department Head of HSE, Iwan Syahroni, was present as a speaker and presented the company's environmental management strategy against a backdrop of national nickel industry expansion. "We recognize that the mining industry is often associated with social and environmental issues,” said Iwan. “Therefore, Harita Nickel strives to implement responsible mining practices in accordance with ESG principles."
He explained that the company implements responsible mining practices with an integrated mining concept, prioritizing the management of processing residues and post-mining land reclamation. One initiative is the processing of nickel slag into infrastructure development materials, road construction materials, and artificial reef cubes to support marine ecosystems. To date, Harita Nickel has revegetated more than 200 hectares of post-mining land as part of its commitment to sustainability.
Harita Nickel continues to strengthen its responsible mining practices by participating in the IRMA independent audit process. As the first mining operation in Indonesia to commit to an IRMA independent assessment, Harita Nickel voluntarily adheres to this standard to ensure its operations are transparent and aligned with the strictest global mining principles.
In his presentation, Iwan also explained that, in 2024, the company completed its IRMA self-assessment and began the independent audit process led by SCS Global Services, an IRMA-approved auditing firm. This audit not only assesses environmental management but also includes support for its workforce and engagement with local communities.
"We not only want to comply with regulations, but also exceed standards to be more transparent in our operations," said Iwan. This commitment aligns with the company's efforts to become a pioneer in sustainable nickel mining in Indonesia, while paving the way for other mining industries to adopt higher global standards.
The Rector of Hasanuddin University, Prof. Ir. Jamaluddin Jompa, M.Sc., Ph.D., expressed his support for the industry's sustainability efforts. He commended the contributions of industry players in supporting sustainability in the nickel sector. "We must have the courage to create an innovation center for nickel downstreaming, not just discussions without concrete action. I hope that UNHAS and our industry partners can realize one of our goals: to become a research center for nickel downstreaming in Indonesia," he said.
Echoing this sentiment, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Hasanuddin University, Prof. Dr. Ir. Muh. Isran Ramli, ST., MT., also emphasized the important role of academics in developing the nickel industry. "We continue to conduct research to help the nickel industry develop value-added products. Collaboration with industry like this is crucial for immediate implementation of innovations," he said.
The Chairman of the Unhas Engineering Association, Ir. M. Sapri Pamulu, Ph.D., emphasized that nickel downstreaming is not only about economic growth but also sustainability. "This is a great opportunity for engineering alumni to contribute further. From this discussion, we hope to produce practical recommendations, not just empty talk," he said.
Through this symposium, academics, government, and industry affirmed their shared commitment to ensuring that nickel downstreaming in Indonesia can continue to grow while prioritizing sustainability and compliance with environmental regulations. Harita Nickel is also committed to remaining part of the solution, not only as an industry player but also as a partner in responsible and sustainable mining.