ESDM Confirms No Ongoing Mining Activity at Gunung Slamet

Investigation Results Following Viral Land Clearing Reports

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has conducted a thorough investigation into the viral reports of land clearing at Gunung Slamet's southwest slope, specifically in Cilongok, Banyumas Regency, Central Java. The investigation, led by the Directorate General of Law Enforcement (Gakkum) under ESDM, confirmed that the observed land clearing was part of geothermal exploration activities conducted during 2017-2018 by PT Sejahtera Alam Energi (PT SAE) while it held a Geothermal Business License in the Baturraden area ¹

Findings from Satellite Imagery and Field Investigation

The investigation combined historical satellite imagery analysis with field observations. Google Earth historical imagery showed a 3-kilometer land clearing at an elevation between 1,300 to 2,0 meters above sea level, which initially raised public concerns about potential illegal mining activities. However, further analysis revealed that the clearing was for geothermal exploration infrastructure, including access roads, drilling water reservoirs, and three exploration wells ¹

Current Status and Environmental Measures

As of the latest satellite imagery on May 30, 2025, and field inspection on December 13, 2025, the cleared area has regrown with natural vegetation, indicating ongoing environmental recovery. The investigation team found no signs of potential landslides in the former 3-kilometer clearing. The ESDM is continuing to monitor the site to ensure proper reclamation and well closure procedures for inactive exploration wells.

Government Assurance and Ongoing Monitoring

The ESDM has assured the public that there are no current mining activities in the area and that the previous land clearing was conducted following proper engineering practices, including terracing and retaining walls to minimize landslide risks. The ministry continues to monitor geothermal activities in the region to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.