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Pani Gold Mine Distributes 43 Qurbani Cattle in Pohuwato and Gorontalo

In Gorontalo Province, Pani Gold Mine distributed 43 qurbani cattle to villages and stakeholders across Pohuwato Regency and Gorontalo City. Distribution was carried out in stages, beginning in Gorontalo City on May 23, 2026, followed by deliveries on May 25 and 26 to the villages of Hulawa, Karya Indah, North Taluduyunu, Taluduyunu, North Buntulia, Central Buntulia, Sipatana, Teratai, and Bulangita in Pohuwato Regency.

“Eid al-Adha reminds us of the values of sincerity, compassion, and sharing,” said Mahesha Lugiana, CSR Manager of Pani Gold Mine. “Through this qurbani program, we hope to strengthen harmonious relationships with local communities and governments while creating shared benefits.”

Before distribution, all animals underwent health inspections conducted by veterinary experts to ensure they were healthy, disease-free, and met Islamic requirements.

“We would like to thank Pani Gold Mine,” said Sjamsuddin Hadju, Head of Conservation Section II Gorontalo at the North Sulawesi Natural Resources Conservation Agency, during the symbolic handover ceremony. “We hope this contribution will benefit the community.”

Similar appreciation was expressed by Buntulia Subdistrict Head Syaiful Bahri M. Hunta, S.Pd., M.M., who witnessed the distribution in his area. “On behalf of the people of Buntulia, I would like to thank the company for generously donating qurbani cattle for seven villages in our subdistrict,” he said. “We pray that all company activities continue to run smoothly and successfully.”

“We would also like to thank Pani Gold Mine for providing four cattle for the Eid celebration,” said Rachmat Buluati, Vice Chairman of KUD Dharma Tani. “We will distribute them to those in need, and we hope they bring benefits to the community.”

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BKP-BTR’s Qurbani Program Reaches Wetar, Tiakur, and Ambon

In Maluku, PT Batutua Kharisma Permai and PT Batutua Tembaga Raya (BKP-BTR) distributed 13 cattle and four goats to communities on Wetar Island, in Tiakur, and in Ambon City. Distribution took place on May 27, 2026, with support from the company, contractors, employees, and management.

The Eid celebration began with prayers attended by employees and contractors at the mine site, followed by the handover of qurbani animals to Muslim communities in two villages. Residents of Lurang Village in North Wetar District received five cattle and three goats, while Ilwaki Village in South Wetar District received two cattle and one goat. The handover was conducted by BKP-BTR Acting Mine Manager Rudi Prabowo.

“Occasions such as Eid al-Adha are a tangible expression of our commitment and care for local communities,” said Rudi. According to him, the company’s presence is closely connected to the lives of nearby communities, including residents of Kampung Baru Hamlet, Lurang Village, and Uhak Village surrounding the mining area.

In addition to Wetar, BKP-BTR distributed six qurbani cattle in Ambon. Three cattle were donated to Al Ikhwan Mosque in the Kebun Cengkeh area by Carlos L.Q. Pattiselanno, BKP-BTR External Affairs Manager. Two cattle were donated to Mujiburahman Mosque in Batumerah by Jimmy Bob Suroto, BKP-BTR General Manager of Operations. One additional cow was distributed to Tiakur through Nurul Iman Kalwedo Mosque.

“On behalf of the management team and myself, I wish everyone a blessed Eid al-Adha,” said Jimmy. “May the spirit of sacrifice, sincerity, and compassion inspire us to continue working safely, collaboratively, and with blessings.”

According to Nurbaya Masang, administrator of Miftahul Khoir Mosque, BKP-BTR’s qurbani contribution holds significant value for the local Muslim community. “We sincerely appreciate BKP-BTR’s support,” said Nurbaya. “May it bring blessings to both the company and the surrounding communities.”

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BSI Distributes 72 Qurbani Animals in Banyuwangi

In Banyuwangi, PT Bumi Suksesindo (BSI) began distributing qurbani animals through mosque and prayer hall committees on May 26, 2026. The assistance consisted of 27 cattle and 45 goats.

According to BSI Community Development Supervisor Syahrul Wahidah, the program also involved partner companies and contractors. The animals were purchased from local traders and livestock farmers around the operation, ensuring that Eid al-Adha not only became a moment of sharing but also contributed to local economic activity.

According to Syahrul, distribution through mosque and prayer hall committees is expected to strengthen community institutions. “This aligns with our commitment to implementing social programs that support community development and empowerment,” he said.

BSI General Manager of Operations and Head of Mining Engineering, Roelly Fransza, noted that the values of Eid al-Adha—sincerity, sacrifice, and compassion—are equally relevant in the workplace.

“Amid various operational challenges, we hope the spirit of togetherness and mutual care continues to grow in our workplace,” said Roelly. “Success is built not only through achievements, but also through our willingness to support and respect one another.”

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to BSI,” said Sampurno, a representative of Al-Ikhlas Prayer Hall in Pancer Hamlet, Sumberagung Village, Pesanggaran District. “May the company’s operations continue to run smoothly.”

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SCM Distributes 54 Qurbani Animals in Southeast and Central Sulawesi

In Southeast Sulawesi and Central Sulawesi, PT Sulawesi Cahaya Mineral (SCM), together with its partners and contractors, distributed 40 cattle and 14 goats during this year’s Eid al-Adha celebration.

Distribution began one week before the holiday, starting in Routa District, Konawe Regency, and continuing to North Konawe Regency and Morowali Regency in Central Sulawesi. In addition to communities surrounding the mining operation, qurbani animals were also donated to the Konawe Police, Southeast Sulawesi Regional Police, Military District Command 1417/Kendari, and the Konawe Regency Government. At the Konawe Regent’s Office, the donation was received by Konawe Regional Secretary Ferdinand on May 25, 2026.

“This qurbani program is part of the company’s community empowerment initiatives, which deserve our full support,” said Ferdinand. “Moreover, the livestock distributed through this program were sourced from local farmers in Konawe Regency, creating additional economic benefits for the region.”

In Routa District, 11 cattle and 11 goats were handed over to village heads, urban village leaders, and district representatives from SCM’s surrounding communities.

“We appreciate the distribution of qurbani animals in Routa,” said Routa District Head Soefyan Meronda. “We hope this initiative will help maintain the harmonious relationship that has been built over the years between the company and surrounding communities.”

“The qurbani distribution, particularly in Lalomerui Village, demonstrates that SCM has become an integral part of Routa’s development,” said Lalomerui Village Head Taksir Unggahi. “We hope it can serve as a positive example of company-community relations in the future.”

Qurbani distribution has become an annual tradition since SCM began operating in Wonua Routa. This year, the program is expected to benefit approximately 4,500 residents across several villages in the Routa area.

“We view Eid al-Adha as an opportunity to strengthen our relationship with communities surrounding our operations,” said SCM Mine Manager Didik Fotunadi. “Through this program, we hope SCM’s presence can be felt not only through mining activities, but also through moments of togetherness and shared social and religious values, helping sustain social solidarity and harmonious relationships between the company and local communities.”

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MTI and the Self-Reliant Qurbani Initiative of Makarti Village-Owned Enterprise

In Morowali, PT Merdeka Tsingshan Indonesia (MTI) distributed two qurbani cattle to Makarti Village and Labota Village on May 26, 2026. The initiative was part of MTI’s Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility (CSER) program under its social and cultural pillar, aimed at strengthening relationships with local communities during a significant religious occasion.

In addition to donating two qurbani cattle, this year’s Eid al-Adha also marked a new milestone for Makarti Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes Makarti), which was able to independently carry out its own qurbani program through proceeds generated from MTI-supported agricultural businesses. The two cattle sacrificed by the BUMDes were funded by income from these agricultural ventures, which have become one of the suppliers of food ingredients for ADEN catering services within MTI’s operational area.

For MTI, the ability of Makarti BUMDes to independently conduct qurbani demonstrates how community empowerment programs can generate sustainable economic benefits for partner villages.

“Eid al-Adha is not only about sharing qurbani animals but also about fostering togetherness and compassion,” said Novaludin of MTI Community Relations. “We are grateful that MTI’s empowerment programs with local communities continue to grow and create tangible benefits, as reflected in Makarti BUMDes’s ability to independently conduct qurbani this year.”

For Kail, Chairman of Makarti BUMDes, the independent qurbani initiative represents a significant achievement.

“We are proud because the collaboration and guidance provided over the years have delivered real benefits to the community,” he said. “We hope programs like this continue and grow even further.”

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Across Merdeka Group’s operational areas, the celebration of Eid al-Adha 1447 Hijri served as an opportunity to strengthen relationships between the company and local communities. Through the distribution of qurbani animals, support for local livestock farmers, and community empowerment initiatives, Merdeka Group hopes to foster the values of compassion, togetherness, and mutual cooperation while growing alongside the communities surrounding its operations.

Main photo: Distribution of qurbani animals by MGR. 

Artikel Merdeka Group Distributes 188 Qurbani Animals, Strengthening Community Bonds Across Its Operational Areas pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.

Guided by the spirit of Harmony and Sustainability with Community, MTI remains committed to fostering a conducive and harmonious social environment through partnership-based collaboration with stakeholders. This commitment is reflected in various social programs designed to support the company’s growth while aligning with regulations and the needs of communities surrounding its operational areas.

Previously, the operator of the AIM (Acid, Iron, Metal) Plant, part of the Merdeka Group, had also received various CSR awards. At the CSR & PDB Awards 2024, MTI won a Silver award in the SDGs-Based CSR Program category for Village SDG No. 2: Zero Hunger, as well as a Gold award in the Individual Program – Institutional Practitioner category. At the TOP CSR Awards 2025, MTI received the same two award categories it achieved again in 2026.

“I dedicate this highest appreciation to all MTI employees for their extraordinary hard work and perseverance,” said Diaz Vatriando, President Director of MTI. “It is a source of pride for the company to maintain this recognition for two consecutive years—a testament to our strong commitment to delivering meaningful contributions to society.”

One of MTI’s flagship programs is BUMILOKA (Village-Owned Enterprise Driving the Local Economy) in Makarti Jaya Village. Through collaboration with the village government, village-owned enterprises (BUMDes), and local communities, the BUMILOKA program has successfully increased BUMDes revenue, created new job opportunities for residents and farmers, and improved the absorption of local agricultural products. BUMDes revenue grew from IDR 524.9 million at the end of 2024 to IDR 2.314 billion throughout 2025. A year later, in January 2026 alone, BUMDes revenue had already reached IDR 850 million.

The growth in BUMDes income over the past three years has also enabled the implementation of various village initiatives, ranging from social and religious activities to programs such as the Bahodopi District Quran recitation competition held in Makarti Jaya Village, waste transportation services, and support for the maintenance and operation of the village waterfall tourism site.

The achievements of MTI’s CSR programs over the years were also greatly influenced by the contributions of Haikal, MTI CSR Supervisor, who passed away in early May 2026, leaving deep sorrow within the MTI family.

“In particular, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for the tremendous dedication of the late Mr. Haikal in making this program a success,” Diaz added.

During his lifetime, Haikal was known as a friendly, hardworking, dedicated, and responsible individual who maintained strong relationships with colleagues and local residents, alongside his deep concern for community development. His presence among colleagues will always be remembered by the MTI family, and his dedication will continue to inspire the entire MTI CSR team to pursue the best possible programs for the community.

Main photo: Diaz Vatriando, President Director of MTI (center), receives the TOP Leader on CSR Commitment 2026 award.

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Artikel MTI Wins TOP CSR Awards and TOP Leader on CSR Commitment 2026 pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.

This step reflects the next phase in MGR’s journey to expand its access to global markets, following the successful listing of its shares on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX: EMAS).

As the Company’s operations continue to grow, access to international investors has become increasingly relevant—not only to enhance share trading liquidity, but also to provide greater flexibility in accessing capital to support long-term growth. This initiative is undertaken in the best interests of the Company, while remaining subject to applicable regulatory requirements and prevailing market conditions.

On the operational front, MGR continues to demonstrate steady progress through the development of the Pani Gold Mine in Pohuwato Regency, Gorontalo Province. The project is expected to rank among the top two primary gold mines in Asia by production by 2030.

The Company has achieved several key milestones, including its first gold pour in February 2026 and its first gold sale in March 2026 to PT Aneka Tambang (Persero) Tbk (IDX: ANTM), pursuant to a two-year domestic gold sales agreement. These milestones mark the commencement of commercial gold production and represent a significant step forward in the Company’s operational journey.

“The submission of our listing application to HKEX represents an important milestone following our successful IPO on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in September 2025 and the commencement of production at Pani earlier this year,” said President Director of PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk, Boyke Poerbaya Abidin. “We remain focused on safely ramping up operations and delivering long-term value, while enhancing our access to international capital markets.”

In connection with the application, a redacted draft application proof of the listing document has been published on the official website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for information purposes only. The document provides a detailed overview of the Company’s business, operations, financial condition, and risk factors. However, it is not in final form and remains subject to regulatory review and revision, and should not be relied upon as a basis for any investment decision.

MGR also emphasizes that this application does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to purchase any securities (including shares or other investment instruments), nor does it constitute a public offering under the prevailing laws and regulations of the Indonesian capital market.

Shareholders and potential investors are advised to exercise caution, as the proposed listing remains subject to various factors, including regulatory approvals and market conditions, and there is no assurance that the process will proceed or be completed. MGR will make further announcements as appropriate in accordance with applicable regulations.

Photo: President Director of MGR, Boyke P. Abidin, observes the release of doré bullion during the first gold pour, marking an initial milestone in the Company’s gold production.

Artikel MGR Submits Application for Listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.

The series began in Lalomerui Village, the closest to SCM’s mining site, and marked an important milestone with the inauguration of the newly renovated Al-Qautsar Mosque, fully supported by SCM.

“With the completion of this renovation, we hope the community can perform their worship more comfortably,” said Lalomerui Village Head, Taksir Unggahi.

The Ramadan Safari also fostered warm interactions, including through the “Anak Saleh” educational quiz. Children participated enthusiastically, offering candid answers that often drew laughter. Mothers accompanying them were occasionally invited to join as well.

As part of the program, SCM’s Community Affairs team and contractor partners distributed more than 350 Ramadan care packages to underprivileged households. These were symbolically handed over to village authorities for distribution.

“Through the Ramadan Safari and these donations, SCM hopes to further strengthen community ties,” said SCM Head of Mining Engineering, Didik Fotunadi. “Direct engagement and positive interactions form the foundation of a harmonious relationship between the company and the community.”
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Engaging Youth in Morowali
A similar sense of togetherness was seen in Morowali, Central Sulawesi. Here, PT Merdeka Tsingshan Indonesia (MTI) held Ramadan Safari events on February 27, 2026, at Babussalam Mosque in Makarti Jaya Village, and on February 28 at Ar-Rahman Mosque in Labota Village. Activities began before iftar with religious sermons, followed by communal breaking of the fast and prayers.

Beyond religious observances, MTI’s Ramadan Safari created space for youth engagement. In collaboration with Makarti Jaya Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes), the company organized religious competitions involving students from ten local Qur’anic learning centers. Events ranged from archery and short surah memorization to young preacher contests, adhan, quiz competitions, and Ramadan vlogging. These activities encouraged both religious understanding and creativity among village youth.

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Ramadan Fair at Tujuh Bukit
In Banyuwangi, East Java, PT Bumi Suksesindo (BSI) introduced a different approach through Ramadan Fair 2026, involving 56 students from seven high schools in Pesanggaran and Siliragung districts.

Held every weekend since February 27, 2026, the program combined Islamic boarding-style activities with educational sessions. Days were filled with communal worship, followed by tarawih prayers and Qur’an recitation in the evenings. Participants also explored topics relevant to youth, such as the risks of early marriage and drug abuse.

They also received social media content training and joined a mine tour at the Tujuh Bukit Gold Mine.

“Mining is something we usually only see from the outside. Now I can see it firsthand,” said Raya, a participant from SMK PGRI Pesanggaran.

As part of the program, BSI held “Bumi Suksesindo Bersholawat” on March 7, 2026, at Tujuh Bukit Futsal Stadium, attended by hundreds of employees and student participants. The event also included donations to local orphans.

A dedicated session for female employees, titled “Resilient Women Welcoming Ramadan,” focused on practical topics such as emotional awareness and mental resilience in a demanding work environment.

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Extended Safari and Ramadan Market in Pohuwato
In Gorontalo Province, the Pani Gold Mine conducted an extensive Ramadan Safari from February 23 to March 19, 2026. A total of 29 events were held across villages and hamlets, in collaboration with mosque committees and involving multiple company departments.

Each visit included iftar gatherings, religious talks, and congregational prayers, reaching areas such as Hulawa, Taluduyunu, Buntulia, Bulangita, and Palopo. Activities were also regularly held at Baiturrahim Grand Mosque, including a large iftar event at Pohuwato Grand Mosque attended by local government and the public. Cooking oil was distributed at each event as direct support to residents.

“We are impressed by the community’s enthusiasm. Their warm responds gives positive energy to the company,” said Mahesha Lugiana, CSR Manager of Pani Gold Mine.

The program concluded with a Ramadan Market held in Buntulia and Marisa districts. Hundreds of residents accessed subsidized staple packages—worth Rp200,000 but redeemable at Rp50,000—to help meet household needs ahead of Eid. The initiative also reached traditional miners in collaboration with Pohuwato Police.

Through the combination of Ramadan Safari and the Ramadan Market, Pani Gold Mine delivered both social engagement and tangible economic support to surrounding communities.

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Ramadan activities across Merdeka Group’s mining areas may vary, but all are tailored to local needs and cultural contexts. Through sustained interaction and engagement, Ramadan Safari goes beyond religious observance. It creates shared spaces that strengthen communication and trust between the company and the communities it operates in.

Artikel Merdeka Group’s Ramadan Safari: Strengthening Community Bonds Across Operational Areas pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.

The agreement is valid for two years with a total transaction volume of 3 metric tons (nearly 100,000 ounces of gold per year), with an option to increase by up to 3 additional metric tons per year. Under this partnership, BSI and PETS act as the sellers, while ANTAM serves as the buyer of domestically refined gold granules.

The gold production covered under this agreement comes from two of Merdeka Group’s key operations: the Tujuh Bukit Gold Mine in Banyuwangi, East Java, operated since 2017 by BSI, and the Pani Gold Mine in Pohuwato, Gorontalo, operated in part by PETS.

The Pani Gold Mine is the Group’s newest operation. The mine commenced first mining in October 2025 and successfully achieved its first gold pour on 14 February 2026 through the heap leach process. On 27 February 2026, the mine also delivered 44.04 kilograms of dore bullion to ANTAM for its first refining process. The first sale of refined gold under the GSPA is targeted to take place before the end of March 2026.

President Director of PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk, Albert Saputro, stated that the partnership represents a strategic step to ensure domestic absorption of the Group’s gold production while strengthening the integration of Indonesia’s gold industry supply chain. “With a growing production base from the Tujuh Bukit and Pani gold mines, we need a stable and measurable offtake structure. This GSPA provides certainty for production offtake while reinforcing our contribution to the domestic gold industry,” said Albert.

ANTAM Commercial Director Handi Sutanto added that the partnership reflects stronger national gold sovereignty, where Indonesia’s mined resources are refined into pure gold products accessible to the public. ANTAM’s gold bar products are accredited by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA). Through this collaboration, the integration of Indonesia’s gold supply chain is expected to become even stronger.

Going forward, with an increasingly solid production base from the Tujuh Bukit and Pani gold mines and the support of strategic partnerships, Merdeka Group remains optimistic about further increasing its contribution to Indonesia’s gold industry.

Main photo: Representatives of MDKA, EMAS, and ANTAM during the agreement signing on 4 March 2026.

Artikel MDKA and EMAS Sign Gold Sales and Purchase Agreement with ANTAM pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.

Two subsidiaries of PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk that operate Pani Gold Mine received awards in the large company category: PT Gorontalo Sejahtera Mining (GSM) for achieving 7,666,280 person-hours without a lost time injury, and PT Puncak Emas Tani Sejahtera (PETS) for achieving 2,166,209 person-hours without a lost time injury.

The award was presented by the Governor of Gorontalo Province in recognition of the companies’ achievement in recording zero lost time injuries (LTI), in accordance with Minister of Manpower Regulation No. PER-01/MEN/I/2007. This milestone demonstrates that the consistent implementation of OHS management systems can create a safe, healthy, and productive workplace.

The award was received by Sasongko Heru Nugroho, Head of Mine Technical PETS, accompanied by Adi Firdaus, HR Manager of Pani Gold Mine. “Everyone Safe, Always is our core operational value. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of all employees and partners in upholding safety standards,” said Sasongko. “We remain committed to maintaining and further strengthening OHS standards across all operations.”

Adi said that the achievement reflects strong collaboration in building a safety culture. “This award is not just about numbers, but about our consistency in ensuring every worker returns home safely each day,” said Adi. “We build our safety culture through continuous training, strict supervision, and active engagement of employees and partners.”

This recognition further Pani Gold Mine’s position as a mining operation that prioritizes safety alongside productivity and responsibility to its workforce.

Moving forward, the company will continue enhancing OHS training, operational supervision, and workforce competency to ensure safety remains the foundation as it advances toward full production.

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The open-pit mine, located in Hulawa Village, Pohuwato Regency, Gorontalo, has Gold Ore Reserves containing approximately 4.8 million ounces of gold, part of a Mineral Resource Estimate containing 7.01 million ounces of gold—positions it as one of Indonesia’s most prospective primary gold mines.

Since PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk (MGR), the mine operator, was listed on the Bursa Efek Indonesia under the ticker symbol EMAS, development of the Pani Gold Mine has accelerated rapidly. First mining was carried out on October 1, 2025, followed by the completion of the Ore Preparation Plant (OPP) two weeks later.

In the following months, the project reached several key milestones, including first ore crushing at the OPP, first ore stacking at the heap leach facility, and first irrigation, marking the start of the leaching process. The resulting pregnant leach solution was then processed at the Adsorption, Desorption, and Recovery (ADR) plant to extract and refine the gold into doré bullion.

During this initial operational phase, the Pani Gold Mine uses the heap leach method, targeting gold production of approximately 110,000–115,000 ounces in its first year, exceeding the initial 2026 target of 80,000 ounces.

The Pani Gold Mine has also begun construction of its Carbon-in-Leach (CIL) facility, with earthwork underway since early 2026, ahead of the original 2027 schedule. The CIL facility will complement the heap leach, enabling the mine to rely on two processing methods in parallel to optimize gold recovery.

The 12-million-ton-per-year CIL facility is now targeted for completion in 2028, earlier than the original phased plan extending to 2032. Once fully operational, total gold production at the Pani Gold Mine will be derived from a combination of heap leach and CIL processing. With this acceleration, peak production potential of up to 500,000 ounces of gold per year could be achieved by 2029, ahead of previous projections.

“This first gold pour marks a key milestone in EMAS’ successful transition from project development to commercial gold operations. Achieving this ahead of schedule reflects strong project execution discipline and operational readiness,” said Boyke Poerbaya Abidin, President Director of MGR, during the ceremony, which was also attended by Gorontalo Governor Gusnar Ismail and Vice Governor Ida Syahidah. Boyke added that the commencement of operations at the Pani Gold Mine also provides a foundation for further production growth.

In his remarks, Governor Gusnar Ismail expressed confidence that the mining industry will support economic growth in Gorontalo Province. “I am optimistic that with the mining industry, provincial economic growth could exceed 6 percent if managed properly,” he said, noting that current growth stands at 5.71 percent. With strong economic growth, he added, poverty level in the Gorontalo province is also expected to decline.

“In addition to strengthening Merdeka Group’s gold portfolio, the Pani Gold Mine will contribute to Indonesia’s gold production and support Gorontalo’s economic development through job creation and community empowerment programs,” Boyke added. “All our operations are conducted in accordance with Good Mining Practices and high environmental, social, and governance standards.”

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Main photo: The process of forming gold and silver into doré bullion.

Artikel First Gold Pour Marks Official Production Start at Pani Gold Mine pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.

Mosehe Wonua is a sacred customary ritual of territorial purification practiced by the Tolaki people, one of the ethnic groups of Southeast Sulawesi. The ritual aims to cleanse the self and the land, reconcile conflicts, and ward off misfortune by seeking protection from the Creator so that the region may be spared from harm.

The procession began solemnly with the Pengangkatan Adat, or the formal declaration of the ritual’s intent. Led by the To-ono Mo-tuo, or customary elders, of the Tolaki Customary Council, the ceremony involved the Vice Regent of Konawe, Syamsul Ibrahim, as the respected elder figure. The presence of customary leaders alongside government officials symbolized the harmony between traditional order and formal governance. Also in attendance were representatives of the Konawe Regency DPRD, officials from the regency and Routa Subdistrict governments, and village heads from across Routa.

Following the declaration, the ritual continued with a collective prayer. All participants bowed their heads in reverence. Holding hands or gently touching each other’s shoulders, they prayed together, offering hopes for the safety and well-being of the entire Routa community. The ritual then proceeded with a water-sprinkling procession. Water that had been prayed over was sprinkled onto those present, symbolizing inner purification and the cooling of the soul for every resident of Routa.

The climax of the Mosehe Wonua ritual was marked by the sacrifice of a buffalo. The blood that was shed symbolized atonement and the rejection of misfortune. Through this offering, the community sought to release negative energies and replace them with gratitude for the abundance bestowed upon the land of Routa.

The event was attended not only by residents and government representatives, but also by the private sector. The Head of Mine Technical of PT Sulawesi Cahaya Mineral (SCM), Didik Fotunadi, along with representatives of SCM contractors, took part in the ritual with deep respect, underscoring that industry and tradition can coexist in harmony.

In his remarks, Vice Regent Syamsul Ibrahim emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony between the community and companies operating in the area. “Mosehe Wonua purifies ourselves and our land so that we are kept away from misfortune. This is the first time in Routa’s history that Mosehe Wonua has been held,” he said. “I hope this ritual becomes a momentum to strengthen bonds with local communities, especially in Routa. We must work together to develop this area into a miniature of the most beautiful town in Konawe and Southeast Sulawesi.”

Echoing this sentiment, Routa Urban Village Head Ahmad stated that the collaboration between residents and the company to revive this nearly extinct ritual was a major step toward unity. “This event is sacred and is being held for the first time in Routa. It serves as a forum to unite all Routa residents,” he said. “If disputes arise, we should sit together and involve customary institutions. In Routa, we have always prioritized customary resolution for the sake of peace.”

From the industry perspective, Didik Fotunadi reaffirmed SCM, a subsidiary of PT Merdeka Battery Materials Tbk (IDX: MBMA), commitment to contributing to communities around its mining operations through various economic and infrastructure development programs. “Our contribution to the Mosehe Wonua event reflects our commitment to respecting local wisdom and cultural traditions in the communities surrounding SCM’s mining area in Routa,” he said. “As a ‘neighbour’ in Routa, we also need a safe and conducive environment so that our operations can continue to deliver positive contributions to community welfare. SCM will continue to work in synergy with local government and the community.”

As the ritual concluded and all prayers had been offered, a profound hope lingered on the Lalomerui field: that economic progress would never erode the noble values passed down by Tolaki ancestors. Routa now stands not only spiritually cleansed, but also ready to embrace a more harmonious future.

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Artikel Mosehe Wonua Routa: Purifying the Heart and Preserving Tradition in the Land of Konawe pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.

The availability of internet access in Lalomerui is the result of collaboration between SCM and PLN Icon Plus, Regional SBU Sulawesi and Eastern Indonesia. Infrastructure development began in early January 2026, starting with the installation of fiber optic cables. PLN Icon Plus supplied poles and network infrastructure from the provincial road junction to Routa Sub-district, while SCM’s IT team ensured distribution reached key facilities throughout the village. With bandwidth capacity of up to 200 Mbps, the connection is designed to be stable and capable of supporting a wide range of activities, from video conferencing to access to government servers—services that were previously difficult to reach from the area.

The most immediate benefits have been felt in the education sector. Prior to the installation, teachers at SD Negeri Lalomerui and SMP Negeri 2 Routa had to travel for hours to the regency capital simply to submit administrative reports and update the national Education Data System (Dapodik) online.

The principal of SMP Negeri 2 Routa, Imran, described the internet access as a turning point for teaching and learning. “For the past several years, our digital learning materials were practically unusable because they required access to central servers. With free Wi-Fi now available, learning resources can be accessed easily,” he said. “We believe this will significantly boost students’ motivation to learn.”

Internet access has also improved efficiency in school operations. Previously, students of SMP Negeri 2 Routa had to travel to the regency capital to take national assessments. This year, the school is proud to be able to conduct the National Assessment independently on its own campus.

Village Head of Lalomerui, Taksir Unggahi, expressed hope that the facility would broaden local perspectives and open new economic opportunities. “We hope this internet access brings new knowledge to communities around the mining area, including ways to develop the village economy through digital platforms,” he said.

Despite the many benefits, SCM also emphasized the importance of responsible use of technology. During the official handover ceremony of the Village Internet Facility held at SCM’s Community Affairs Office in Lalomerui on 4 February 2026, SCM’s Head of Mine Technical , Didik Fotunadi, reminded the community that the internet has two sides. “Internet technology is like a double-edged sword. It shortens distances, but it also exposes users—especially children—to outside influences if not properly supervised,” he said. “We entrust this facility to be safeguarded and used positively, with guidance from teachers and parents.”

Following the signing of the handover documents, representatives of SCM management, together with its parent company PT Merdeka Battery Materials Tbk and the PLN Icon Plus team, visited beneficiary locations including the Lalomerui Village Office, SMP Negeri 2 Routa, and SD Negeri Lalomerui. Technical teams checked signal strength and ensured routers and cable installations met safety standards and were ready for sustainable operation. The visit was also attended by teachers from SD Negeri Lalomerui led by Ramlin, S.Pd., and local community leaders.

With the operation of this free internet service, Lalomerui Village has officially entered the digital era. The initiative demonstrates that geographical constraints are no longer a barrier to access to technology—and that collaborative efforts can bring meaningful change to classrooms hidden behind hills and forests in remote areas of Konawe.

Main photo: View of Lalomerui Village.

Artikel SCM Provides Free Internet Access for Lalomerui Village in Remote Routa pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.

The Roworejo River is located not far from the Tujuh Bukit Gold Mine operated by PT Bumi Suksesindo (BSI). Both are situated in Sumberagung Village, Pesanggaran Subdistrict, Banyuwangi, East Java. When the Sumberagung Village Government initiated the normalization of the Roworejo River to reduce flood risks, the subsidiary of PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk provided support by covering the cost of excavator operations.

The river normalization work began on Saturday, 24 January 2026, targeting a one-kilometer stretch of the river. The process has been directly monitored by the Head of Pancer Hamlet, Estu Raharjo. Improved water flow following the normalization is expected to reduce flood risks. According to Estu, the effort is also crucial to protecting local livelihoods. “Our farmers depend heavily on their crops. When flooding occurs, plants are damaged and they suffer losses,” he said.

The excavator deployed on site has also been used for other community needs, such as creating household waste disposal pits to prevent rubbish from being carried into the river during the rainy season.

BSI’s support for river normalization in Sumberagung Village is not without precedent. In 2019, BSI was involved in the normalization of the Gonggo River, which had previously overflowed frequently, flooding residential areas, damaging farmland, and leaving large amounts of waste behind. After the river was dredged and the removed sediment was used to build embankments, areas that had experienced flooding up to three times a year were no longer affected.

Support for the normalization of the Roworejo River forms part of BSI’s ongoing involvement in environmental management around its mining operations. Through cooperation with the village government and local communities, flood mitigation efforts are expected to be carried out more effectively and deliver tangible benefits for the residents of Sumberagung.

Artikel Flood Mitigation Efforts, BSI Supports the Normalization of the Roworejo River in Sumberagung pertama kali tampil pada PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.