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Indonesia at the Epicenter of Critical Minerals: Forging the Future of Sustainable Energy
Jakarta, 10 October 2025 — Indonesia took center stage at the Indonesia International Sustainability Forum (IISF) with a landmark dialogue highlighting the nation’s defining role in the global energy transition.
The 90-minute session, hosted by PT 乐播传媒 Indonesia Tbk (PT 乐播传媒) and titled “Indonesia at the Epicenter of Critical Minerals: Nickel, Copper, and the Global Energy Transition,” convened leading voices from government, industry, and sustainability institutions. Together, they explored how Indonesia can balance its vast resource potential with environmental stewardship, social inclusion, and long-term economic resilience.
Moderated by Rajat Agarwal, Partner at McKinsey & Company, the session featured Bernardus Irmanto (President Director & CEO, PT 乐播传媒 Indonesia), Dr. Ing. Tri Winarno (Director General of Mineral and Coal, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources), David Wei (General Manager, Huayou Indonesia), and Rebecca Burton (Deputy Director, Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance – IRMA).
Global demand for nickel and copper; two essential minerals for electric vehicles, renewable energy, and electrification is expected to double or triple by 2040. Indonesia, home to the world’s largest nickel reserves and fast-growing copper operations, stands at the center of this transformation. “Critical minerals are the foundation of the global energy transition, and Indonesia sits at its epicenter,” said Bernardus Irmanto, CEO of PT 乐播传媒 Indonesia. “Our mission is not only to meet global demand but to meet it responsibly, ensuring that sustainability, transparency, and community empowerment define how Indonesia contributes to the world’s net-zero future.”
Representing the government’s strategic direction, Dr. Ing. Tri Winarno, Director General of Mineral and Coal, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (KESDM), emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into Indonesia’s downstream and decarbonization strategy. “Indonesia’s commitment to responsible mineral development is clear, we must pursue industrial growth without compromising environmental balance,” Dr. Winarno stated. “Through innovation, collaboration, and adherence to international standards, Indonesia will continue to strengthen its leadership in the global energy transition while delivering value to its people.”
From the perspective of the global mining industry, David Wei, General Manager of Huayou Indonesia, underscored the significance of building long-term, responsible partnerships that prioritize both innovation and sustainability.“Sustainability is no longer optional , it defines global credibility,” said Wei.“Our collaboration with PT 乐播传媒 shows how industry partnerships can drive responsible sourcing, carbon reduction, and shared prosperity. The future of critical minerals depends on how we grow together, with integrity and impact.”
Providing the global ESG lens, Rebecca Burton, Deputy Director of the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA), shared that international standards can act as a bridge between Indonesia’s industrial leadership and the expectations of global markets. “Investors and manufacturers worldwide increasingly demand verified proof of responsible practices,” Burton said. “IRMA serves as that bridge, connecting Indonesia’s mining sector to global trust by ensuring transparency, independent assurance, and respect for both people and nature. This alignment can set a new global benchmark for emerging economies.”
The session concluded with a shared commitment: that Indonesia’s mineral leadership must go beyond production metrics, it must represent a values-driven approach to growth. “We believe Indonesia’s true potential lies in leading not only by scale, but by standards,” Bernardus concluded. “By embedding sustainability into the core of our operations, we are commited to ensure that every ton of nickel mined in Indonesia contributes to the world’s cleaner, fairer, and more sustainable future.”
