Uncertainty over mining permit extensions in the past six months has affected around 15,000 workers and residents in East Kalimantan.
The IUP–IKN Communication Forum discussed the issue at a meeting in Handil, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, on 5 July 2026. Forum chairman Soeharto stated that around 1,500 workers have already lost their jobs due to the delayed extension process.
The effects have spread to food stalls, transport services, and small businesses reliant on coal mining activity. Soeharto noted that the situation has also hit thousands of families who have lost their main source of income.
Worker Gendut Supriyanto expressed fears that companies might carry out layoffs citing force majeure without providing employee rights. He hopes the permit extensions can be resolved soon so work activities can resume.
