JAKARTA – PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (ANTM), or Antam, has officially collaborated with Java Integrated Industrial and Ports Estate (JIIPE), the party that manages Special Economic Zone (SEZ) of Gresik, East Java.

This partnership will promote the construction of Antam’s smelting facility, while utilising integrated infrastructure owned by JIIPE, which has been declared as National Vital Object.

I Dewa Wirantaya, Director of Business Development of Antam, mentioned that JIIPE is selected as Antam’s business development location following several strategic considerations. In addition to its proximity to raw materials, he highlights the importance of high-level security offered by National Vital Object status at JIIPE.

“JIIPE’s status as National Vital Object provides excellent security to support our operations, starting from raw materials processing to distribution. It becomes one of our main considerations for selecting this location,” Wirantaya further explained in the information disclosure, Monday (13/1).

Moreover, Wirantaya mentioned that the smelter of PT Freeport Indonesia (FPI) at JIIPE will give Antam another leverage. With direct access to raw materials for gold of 99.99% purity level, Antam may save up on foreign exchange reserves by cutting off import and boosting local product utilisation.

Aside from convenience factor, Wirantaya also emphasised the advanced infrastructure offered by JIIPE. “JIIPE is providing great infrastructure, accessible transportation, and reliable utility. They will allow us to promote downstreaming process, strengthen national economy, and drive sustainable industry growth,” he said.

With Antam joining JIIPE, the collaboration is expected to accelerate the precious metal refining process and industry growth in Indonesia. (DK/ZH)