When it comes to natural wealth, Indonesia always ranks among the top. From lush tropical rainforests to mountains hiding untold treasures, this country is truly extraordinary. One of Indonesia's greatest treasures is gold — the precious metal that has long symbolized wealth and glory.
Did you know? Every year, Indonesia produces around 48 tons of gold and holds reserves of approximately 2,600 tons — about 5% of the world's gold reserves (US Geological Survey, 2023). That’s a significant number. No wonder gold mines play a strategic role in the nation's economy.
However, when people hear "gold mine," many immediately think of one name: Freeport. In reality, there are many other gold mines across Indonesia that contribute greatly as well. Let’s explore together the biggest gold mines in Indonesia, from east to west!
1. Grasberg Block Cave Mine, Mimika, Central Papua
In the heart of Central Papua lies the giant Grasberg Block Cave Mine. Operated by PT Freeport Indonesia, this mine has been a global gold icon for decades. In 2013 alone, it produced around 93.7 million ounces of gold. Grasberg is also rich in copper and silver. Utilizing underground mining technology, Grasberg is expected to remain active until 2041.
2. Deep Mill Level Zone, Papua
Still in Papua, another sophisticated underground mine called Deep Mill Level Zone operates nearby. Also managed by Freeport, this mine produced 63.3 million ounces of gold in 2023. It employs the block caving method — a highly precise and efficient technique for underground gold extraction.
3. Batu Hijau, West Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara
Moving away from Papua, we head to Sumbawa Island. Here stands the magnificent Batu Hijau Mine, operated by PT Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara. Since production began in 2000, Batu Hijau has consistently posted impressive figures, producing 44.8 million ounces of gold in 2023. Interestingly, Batu Hijau is also one of Indonesia’s largest copper producers.
4. Martabe, South Tapanuli, North Sumatra
In North Sumatra, specifically South Tapanuli, lies the Martabe Mine operated by PT Agincourt Resources. Since 2012, Martabe has been producing over 200,000 ounces of gold and millions of ounces of silver annually. Beyond its rich resources, Martabe is also recognized for balancing mining activities with environmental conservation.
5. Tujuh Bukit, Banyuwangi, East Java
Moving to Java Island, in Banyuwangi, we find the Tujuh Bukit Mine. Managed by PT Bumi Suksesindo, this mine uses efficient and environmentally friendly open-pit mining methods. Fully operational since 2017, Tujuh Bukit is considered one of Indonesia’s largest primary gold mines and is classified as a National Vital Object.
6. Pongkor, Bogor, West Java
Who would have thought that behind Bogor's cool mountain air lies incredible gold wealth? The Pongkor Mine, operated by ANTAM, is the largest epithermal gold mine in Indonesia. Since 1994, three main gold veins — Ciguha, Kubang Cicau, and Ciurug — have been significant sources of precious gold, extracted via underground mining.
7. Gosowong, North Halmahera, North Maluku
Crossing over to North Maluku, we find the Gosowong Mine. Now fully operated by PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals, it holds reserves of around 1.4 million ounces of gold. All operations are now underground, focusing on the Kencana and Toguraci areas. Its resource value is estimated to reach around IDR 70–80 trillion.
8. Onto, Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara
In Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, lies a newly discovered treasure called the Onto Mine. Operated by PT Sumbawa Timur Mining, Onto boasts extraordinary gold potential: 507 million tons! Its discovery in 2010 marked one of the biggest news stories in the global mining world over the past decade.
9. Toka Tindung, North Sulawesi
Finally, in North Sulawesi, we have the Toka Tindung Mine, operated by PT Archi Indonesia Tbk. In 2023, the mine produced around 2 million ounces of gold. With rapid growth, Toka Tindung has become one of the main pillars of gold mining in Eastern Indonesia.
Conclusion
It’s clear that Indonesia’s gold mines are spread widely from the western to eastern tips of the archipelago. It’s not just Freeport that shines, but many national and international companies also tap into Indonesia’s gold potential.
Beyond strengthening the national economy, these mines create job opportunities, drive technological innovation, and stimulate regional economies. The challenge now is ensuring that mining activities remain sustainable and environmentally friendly so that this wealth can be enjoyed by future generations.
Indonesia truly is a paradise — not just in songs, but deep within its earth as well!
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