3 months ago
80
January 13, 2025 | 08:49 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi) has expressed concerns that the recent visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to Indonesia may signal a revival of the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) program, which has been criticized for its potential negative environmental impacts.
Prime Minister Ishiba's visit on Saturday, January 11, 2025, marked his first official trip abroad since assuming office in October 2024. During the visit, a joint press statement issued by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Ishiba highlighted a renewed focus on energy decarbonization partnerships.
The partnerships specifically mention the development of the Muara Laboh Geothermal Power Plant (PLTP) in South Solok, West Sumatra. This project is one of three key priorities within the framework of the AZEC initiative for Indonesia-Japan energy transition cooperation.
Fanny Tri Jambore, Head of Walhi's Campaign Division, voiced concerns that the joint statement effectively resurrected the AZEC program, which faced strong opposition from civil society last August. A petition signed by 41 Indonesian civil society organizations had called for the cessation of the AZEC program, citing concerns that it would prolong reliance on fossil fuels.
“Civil society has demanded the halt of AZEC implementation in Indonesia, as it will only prolong the use of fossil energy,” Fanny told Tempo on Monday, January 13, 2024.
In addition to the Muara Laboh PLTP, the Indonesia-Japan partnership, which also involves the development of hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuels, is considered by Walhi as a "false solution" that threatens the safety of the environment and communities. Concerns include potential human rights violations associated with these long-term energy projects.
According to Fanny, the land acquisition process for the Muara Laboh PLTP project has been characterized by coercion and discrimination. Furthermore, local farmers have experienced crop failures due to pollution from the project. The project is also suspected of depleting water sources and causing health issues due to elevated levels of toxic gases. Additionally, there are concerns about increased flood risks resulting from changes in the local landscape.
The power plant project in Muara Laboh has received investment from Japanese corporations, including Inpex and Sumitomo Corporation. The initial phase of construction was funded by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI). Future project phases are likely to also receive support from these investors.
Walhi has previously submitted demands to JBIC and NEXI urging them to cease support for the Muara Laboh PLTP development. However, Prime Minister Ishiba's recent statement has reinforced Japan's commitment to supporting the project.
Based on 2023 mining data, WALHI estimates that 1.3 million hectares of land in Indonesia are currently designated for mineral mining concessions. Critically, many of these concessions border or directly overlap with forested areas, potentially exacerbating deforestation rates. “This can trigger an increase in deforestation rates,” Fanny emphasized.
Given the significant environmental and social risks associated with these projects, Walhi urges the Japanese and Indonesian governments to cancel all energy projects initiated under the AZEC framework. “We call upon both governments to support a rapid, fair, and equitable energy transition that prioritizes decarbonization,” Fanny concluded.
Editor’s Choice: PM Shigeru Ishiba Confirms Japan's Participation in Indonesia's Muara Laboh Power Plant Development
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Today's Top 3 News: When Is Ramadan 2025 and When It Ends? Here's the Detail
22 jam lalu
Tempo English compiled the top 3 news on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
PM Shigeru Ishiba Confirms Japan's Participation in Indonesia's Muara Laboh Power Plant Development
1 hari lalu
Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba says Japan is committed to taking part in the development of the Muara Laboh Geothermal Power Plant in Indonesia.
Japan Provides Rp8.5 Trillion Loan to Develop Patimban Port
1 hari lalu
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a document of agreement for Japan's Soft Loan ODA for the Patimban Port Development Project.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Mulls Contributing to Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal Program
2 hari lalu
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba says he is interested in contributing to President Prabowo Subianto's government programs.
Indonesian Citizens Build First Indonesian Mosque in Yokohama, Japan
2 hari lalu
Indonesians are building the first Indonesian mosque called the As-Sholihin Mosque in Yokohama, Japan. The cost needed is estimated to be Rp40bn.
Japanese PM Arrives in Indonesia, to Meet Prabowo at Bogor Palace
3 hari lalu
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and First Lady Yoshiko Ishiba arrived at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Tangerang, Banten, on Friday.
Japanese Crime Leader Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Nuclear Materials from Myanmar
4 hari lalu
Takeshi Ebisawa, 60, of Japan, pleaded guilty in Manhattan, New York, to conspiring with a network of associates to traffic nuclear materials.
Indonesia, Japan Share Vision on South China Sea Resolution: Defense Ministry
6 hari lalu
Foreign Minister Sugiono explained that maritime cooperation does not compromise Indonesia's sovereignty over the South China Sea.
Fishing Boat Capsizes in Japan, Ministry Confirms Five Indonesian Crew Members Survive
6 hari lalu
Ohama Maru No. 8 capsized 31 kilometers east off the coast of Kashima Port, Ibaraki Prefecture, central Japan, leaving two people dead.
10 Best Places to Travel Alone, from Japan to Canada
6 hari lalu
Offering safe environments, these best places to travel alone transform into cozy havens for seasoned travelers. See the recommendation list here.
