In a move to combat escalating pollution levels, the Environment Ministry (KLH) and Environmental Control Agency (BPLH) are developing a national road map focused on monitoring industrial zones across Indonesia. This initiative aims to tighten regulations and enforce environmental law more stringently.

Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq announced the sealing of two metal smelting factories, PT JAS and PT LESI, located in Serang district, Banten. The factories were shut down due to significant contributions to air pollution in the region.”We will not stop at these two companies,” Nurofiq stated, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to expanding its monitoring efforts to include industrial areas in Bekasi, Karawang, Tangerang, and other industrial hubs throughout Java.

The sealing of PT JAS and PT LESI on June 10, 2025, underscores the government’s dedication to enforcing environmental regulations. According to Nurofiq, these actions demonstrate the government’s “strictness and consistency in enforcing environmental law.”

During the inspection of the factories, authorities collected air and waste samples for environmental forensic analysis. The examination revealed that, in addition to emission violations, the factories were also involved in the illegal dumping of hazardous and toxic (B3) waste.

Details of the Violations

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PT JAS, situated in Beberan village, Ciruas, operates as an iron smelter with a ample capacity of 150,000 tons per year. The facility utilizes an induction furnace, which was found to be emitting concentrated emissions in excessive volumes without proper management systems in place.

PT LESI, located in the Modern Cikande Industrial Area, is also involved in the metal smelting industry. legal proceedings against the company were recommended in 2023, but no subsequent action was taken. on June 4, 2025, a KLH drone captured images of emissions from the factory’s chimney, which were found to exceed permissible air quality standards.

Nurofiq stressed that the closure of these factories marks the beginning of enhanced and more systematic supervision. He called for a collaborative anti-pollution movement involving the government, businesses, academics, the media, and civil society to achieve lasting improvements in environmental quality. “We need a fair and strong environmental monitoring system,” he stated. “Industry must transform to low-emission technology. The government will be present as a guardian. The community as the supervisor. And the media as the voice of truth.”