Corruption and Natural Resource Governance in Indonesia: Transparency Challenges in Coal Mining Licensing in East Kalimantan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65815/00ytry59Keywords:
Mining corruption, East Kalimantan, licensing, beneficial ownership, natural resourcesAbstract
East Kalimantan is one of Indonesia's major coal-producing regions, making mining licensing and natural resource governance particularly important areas for anti-corruption policy. The economic value of mining licenses creates incentives for rent-seeking, conflicts of interest, political intervention, and opaque decision-making. This article examines corruption risks in coal mining licensing in East Kalimantan. Using normative juridical and governance analysis, the study evaluates licensing procedures, transparency requirements, political connections, beneficial ownership, and oversight mechanisms. The article argues that formal licensing procedures may remain vulnerable when information concerning ownership, political interests, and environmental obligations is not publicly accessible. The study proposes a transparency-centered framework requiring comprehensive beneficial ownership disclosure, open licensing data, conflict-of-interest declarations, independent environmental assessments, and post-licensing monitoring. Particular attention is given to the relationship between local political actors and private mining interests. The article concludes that anti-corruption strategies in resource-rich regions should move beyond individual criminal enforcement and address structural opportunities for rent-seeking embedded in licensing systems. Strengthening transparency and public participation can improve accountability in East Kalimantan's mining governance.
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