Six of the world's most extraordinary places to dive From Fiji's kaleidoscopic reefs to shark-packed passes in French Polynesia, these six destinations offer some of the world's most exhilarating underwater experiences.

"these six destinations offer some of the world's most exhilarating underwater experiences."

www.bbc.com/travel/artic... #bajacalifornia #beautiful #dive #fiji #floridareef #frenchpolynesia #mesmerizing #okinawa #rajaampat #scuba #scubadiving #snorkleing #underwater

🌴 Raja Ampat Gezi Rehberi: Dünyanın En Büyüleyici Cennetini Keşfedin! mutlucicekler.com/2026/04/04/%...
#rajaampat #gezirehberi #travel #bluesky #photography #endonezya

다 이루었다
Manta
#scuba
#underwaterphotography
#oceanlife
#marinelife
#RajaAmpat
🇮🇩🇰🇷

Menjaga sepenggal surga di Raja Ampat Berkat Tuhan tidak pernah habis untuk Raja Ampat, gugusan kepulauan indah di barat Semenanjung Kepala Burung di Pulau Papua, sebuah surga yang penuh dengan ...

Raja Ampat, sepenggal surga di bumi yang memukau. Mari jaga keindahannya agar tetap lestari untuk generasi mendatang & alam yang kita cintai. #JagaAlam #RajaAmpat

Oceanist.blue image

**Raja Ampat: Earth's Marine Paradise 🐠**

Home to 75% of all coral species & 1,500+ fish species! This Indonesian gem is the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on our planet. Protecting it means protecting our ocean's future. 🌊💙

#RajaAmpat #SaveOurOceans #MarineConservation

Marty’s photo of the day #4903: The bright colors of checkerboard wrasses made them stand out—even among all the other colorful fish on the reef.

Photographed last month in the Raja Ampat of Indonesian New Guinea.

#photography #sealife #RajaAmpat #oceans #reefs

#Mantis #rajaampat

Indra Bayu Vimono on Instagram: "#rajaampat #indonesia #ijlselamat #missionscientifique #paradise #underwater #diving #sorong #waisai #arborek #work #research #fieldtrip #researchdiving" 22 likes, 4 comments - indrabayuvimono on December 1, 2024: "#rajaampat #indonesia #ijlselamat #missionscientifique #paradise #underwater #diving #sorong #waisai #arborek #work #research #fieldtrip #r...

Flashback on the IJL SELAMAT expedition in Raja Ampat, West Papua, November 2024 with @indrabayuvimono :

#rajaampat #indonesia #sentinelspecies #sentinelecosystem

www.instagram.com/reel/DDCtDCK...

Indonesia promotes #RajaAmpat because it’s a stunning, “Instagram-worthy” paradise that draws tourists and investment, while keeping the rest of #WestPapua — rife with conflict and human rights issues—out of the spotlight.

Can Indonesia stay green while becoming the ‘Saudi Arabia of nickel’? Indonesia’s push to become a nickel powerhouse amid its green energy transition threatens fragile ecosystems and local communities. The true test lies in balancing decarbonisation, biodiversity and ge...

Indonesia wants to be the “Saudi Arabia of nickel” — but its green dream is turning red. In #WestPapua’s Raja Ampat, nickel mining scars rainforests and chokes coral reefs — a brutal irony in a place once hailed for its biodiversity.

#RajaAmpat #mining #deforestation #biodiversity
#ecocide

Tourism in #WestPapua hides a grim truth: villages burned, people silenced, rainforests stripped for gold, copper, nickel, uranium. Marketed as “eco-heaven,” it’s a graveyard in disguise. #RajaAmpat

Indonesia keeps #WestPapua sealed off from witnesses — except for #RajaAmpat, where the rich glide over stolen waters on diesel yachts, too busy diving to notice the ecocide beneath them.

5/6 Ikan pari manta termasuk jenis hewan yang dilindungi sejak 2014 (Permen KP No. 4/2014). termasuk hiu & manta. Jika ada pemancing yang mendapatkannya, maka harus dilepas. #CatchAndRelease #RajaAmpat #MancingLaut #Conservation

🌊 À Raja Ampat, joyau marin d’Indonésie 🇮🇩, les coraux sont étouffés par les ravages des mines de nickel ⚠️

Malgré l'alerte des ONG, le business continue au nom de la voiture électrique « verte » !

#RajaAmpat #Nickel #ÉcologieHypocrite

#RajaAmpat is marketed as eco-tourism 🌍✨ — but it’s really cover for colonization, profit, and power. #WestPapua

Read more: www.msn.com/en-us/news/w...

Why Is Indonesia Letting PT Gag Nikel Resume Mining in Raja Ampat? The Energy Ministry granted PT Gag Nikel a permit to operate on Gag Island, Raja Ampat, after suspending activities over public opposition.

Why is Indonesia allowing PT Gag Nikel to restart mining in #RajaAmpat #WestPapua — home to 75% of the world’s coral reef species?
#ecocide #marinebiodiversity

Indonesia reopens nickel mine in dive hot spot despite outcry The cluster of islands and shoals is thought to be one of the world’s most pristine reefs. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

#RajaAmpat #WestPapua

Indonesia’s bright idea: let nickel mining rip open Raja Ampat — “the Last Paradise on Earth,” heart of the Coral Triangle. Who needs pristine reefs and clear blue waters when you can have toxic sludge and a quick buck? #marinebiodiversity #ecocide

Indonesia reopens Raja Ampat nickel mine despite reef damage concerns JAKARTA — The Indonesian government has allowed a controversial nickel mine to resume operating in the marine haven of Raja Ampat, despite a company-commissioned study finding the project has harmed t...

Indonesia spits on the “Amazon of the Ocean” and the “Last Paradise on Earth.”

In #WestPapua’s #RajaAmpat, they reopen a nickel mine — reef destruction be damned.

via @mongabay.com
Read more: news.mongabay.com/2025/09/indo...

The End Is Nigh: There is no such thing as an energy transition - It’s a scam | Hotpress It may be hard to compute,  but there are so many contradictions inherent in the push, in the Global North, to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels that it...

#RajaAmpat: Over 1,500 fish species, 75% of all coral species, and Indigenous Papuans depend on #WestPapua’s waters and forests. Now this sanctuary is being torn apart—not for oil, but for nickel, the new gold of the “green transition.”

Read more: www.hotpress.com/opinion/the-...

Ġlieda biex Tiġi Ssalvata l-Ġenna: Il-Minjieri tan-Nîkil jheddu lil Raja Ampat Aġġornat fl-4 ta’ Awwissu 2025 Ġlieda biex Tiġi Ssalvata l-Ġenna: Il-Minjieri tan-Nîkil jheddu lil Raja Ampat Gist: In-nies fil-gżejjer sbieħ ta’ Raja Ampat fl-Indoneżja jinsabu f’battalja biex iħarsu d-dar tagħhom mill-minjieri tan-nîkil. Il-minjieri qed jeqirdu l-foresti u jħammġu l-baħar, u dan qed ipoġġi fil-periklu l-għajxien tal-lokal li jiddependu fuq is-sajd. Għalkemm il-gvern Indoneżjan neħħa xi liċenzji tal-minjieri, waħda għadha attiva u qed tqajjem tħassib serju dwar l-impatt ambjentali u s-saħħa tan-nies, peress li studju reċenti sab livelli perikolużi ta’ metalli tqal fil-ħut u fid-demm tal-lokal ħdejn faċilità oħra tal-ipproċessar tan-nîkil. Naqilgħu minn xiri kwalifikanti permezz ta’ din il-link tal-Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Avoaxz Lest li tidħol aktar fil-fond fis-suġġetti li qed niddiskutu? Appoġġja x-xogħol tagħna billi tikklikkja fuq il-link affiljat tal-Amazon tagħna għax-xiri li jmiss tiegħek! Kull klikk tgħinna nwasslulkom kontenut aktar perspikativ. --- Kuntest Raja Ampat, arċipelagu fl-Indoneżja, ilu magħruf bħala "l-aħħar ġenna fuq l-art" minħabba l-ilmijiet lewn il-kristall u l-ħajja rikka tal-baħar. Huwa d-dar tal-Papuani, nies indiġeni li jgħixu mis-sajd. Iżda issa, dan il-post sabiħ qed jiġi mhedded minn industrija li qed tikber malajr ħafna: il-minjieri tan-nîkil. In-nîkil huwa metall importanti għall-batteriji tal-karozzi elettriċi, u l-Indoneżja hija l-akbar produttur tiegħu fid-dinja. Din l-espansjoni qed tikkawża qerda tal-foresti u tniġġis li jpoġġi fil-periklu d-djar u l-għajxien ta’ dawk li jgħixu fil-post. Konnessjoni Globali Id-domanda globali għall-vetturi elettriċi u l-enerġija ekoloġika żiedet il-ħtieġa għan-nîkil. Dan qed joħloq ħafna impjiegi fl-Indoneżja, iżda fl-istess ħin qed joħloq ukoll problemi ambjentali serji. L-industrija tan-nîkil hija appoġġjata minn investiment kbir minn kumpaniji Ċiniżi, li qed jistabbilixxu parks industrijali kbar biex jipproċessaw il-minerali. Minkejja l-benefiċċji ekonomiċi, bħall-ħolqien ta' impjiegi, ħafna nies huma mħassbin dwar it-tniġġis li jmur ma' din it-tkabbir, b'mod partikolari l-metalli tqal li jista' jkun hemm fil-ħut li mbagħad jittiekel min-nies. Impatt fuq Malta Malta, bħala pajjiż gżira li jiddependi ħafna mit-turiżmu u li jinsab viċin il-baħar, tista’ titgħallem minn dak li qed jiġri f’Raja Ampat. Filwaqt li m’għandniex minjieri tan-nîkil, ir-rakkont juri kif it-tkabbir ekonomiku jista’ jkun ta’ theddida għall-ambjent. Il-ġlieda biex jiġi protett is-sbuħija naturali ta' Raja Ampat tfakkarna fl-importanza li aħna nħarsu l-kosta u l-baħar tagħna stess, speċjalment minn attivitajiet li jistgħu jħammġu l-ilma u jeqirdu l-ħajja tal-baħar. Anke jekk jidher bogħod, id-diskussjonijiet dwar l-ambjent f’pajjiżi oħra jistgħu jgħinuna biex inżommu f’moħħna l-importanza li nieħdu ħsieb l-ambjent lokali tagħna u li nifhmu li l-iżvilupp irid isir b’mod sostenibbli. * World Bank Report on Sustainable Development: Dan ir-rapport jenfasizza l-importanza li jiġi bbilanċjat it-tkabbir ekonomiku mal-ħarsien ambjentali, xi ħaġa li hija importanti għal Malta. * European Environment Agency Reports: Ir-rapporti tal-Aġenzija Ewropea għall-Ambjent jipprovdu analiżi tal-istat tal-ambjent fl-Ewropa, inkluża Malta, u joffru għodda biex nifhmu l-isfidi lokali tagħna. Perspettiva Kulturali Għall-Papuani indiġeni ta' Raja Ampat, il-baħar mhuwiex biss sors ta' ikel; huwa parti mill-kultura u l-identità tagħhom. L-ilmijiet tagħhom huma s-“supermarket” u l-“bank” tagħhom, fejn isibu l-ikel ta’ kuljum u jaqilgħu l-għajxien tagħhom. Dan jixbah ħafna l-kultura Maltija li għandha rabta qawwija mal-baħar, kemm permezz tal-industrija tas-sajd kif ukoll bħala post ta’ rikreazzjoni. It-tradizzjonijiet tas-sajd u l-istorja marittima ta’ Malta juru kemm il-baħar huwa vitali għalina, u għalhekk nistgħu nifhmu s-sentimenti tal-Papuani li qed jiġġieldu biex iħarsu l-wirt naturali tagħhom. X’Jista’ Jagħmel Int? Tista’ titgħallem aktar dwar l-impatt tal-minjieri fuq l-ambjent. Billi tkun infurmat, tista’ tappoġġja kumpaniji li jimpurtahom mill-ambjent. Tista’ wkoll tgħin billi tifhem minn fejn ġejjin il-prodotti li tixtri. * Greenpeace Malta: Dan il-grupp lokali għandu informazzjoni u kampanji dwar kif tista’ tipproteġi l-ambjent f’Malta. Verifika tal-Fatti * Ir-rapport tal-Greenpeace jgħid li l-minjieri tan-nîkil ikkawżaw deforestazzjoni estensiva. (Fatt Verifikat): Ir-rapport tar-Reuters li għamel referenza għal Greenpeace jiddikjara li 309 ettaru ta’ foresti tneħħew. * Il-gvern Indoneżjan revoa erbgħa minn ħames liċenzji tal-minjieri f’Raja Ampat. (Fatt Verifikat): Il-gvern Indoneżjan ikkonferma din id-deċiżjoni minħabba “ksur ambjentali.” * Ir-riċerka wriet livelli għoljin ta’ metalli tqal fil-ħut u fid-demm tal-lokal. (Fatt Verifikat): Studju minn Nexus3 u l-Università ta’ Tadulako, ippubblikat f’Mejju 2025, sab livelli għoljin ta’ arseniku u merkurju. * Ir-rappreżentanti tal-gvern lokali qalu li l-ilma ma kienx imniġġes. (Ambigwità u Nuqqas ta’ Ċarezza): Din hija dikjarazzjoni li tista’ tkun influwenzata minn interessi tal-gvern jew ta’ kumpaniji u tmur kontra r-riżultati ta’ studju ieħor. Il-proċess tal-verifika tal-fatti jinvolvi li jiġu mqabbla l-informazzjoni minn sorsi differenti u affidabbli. Għal min irid ikun jaf aktar... Il-ġlieda f'Raja Ampat hija bħal meta raħal żgħir jipprova jwaqqaf proġett ta' bini kbir li jista' jkun ta' periklu għas-siġar fil-ġnien pubbliku tagħhom. Il-kumpanija tgħid li se toħloq postijiet tax-xogħol, iżda l-lokal jibżgħu li s-siġar se jinqatgħu, u bil-ma' tagħhom jitilfu l-post fejn it-tfal jilagħbu u n-nies jiltaqgħu. Min għandu jiddeċiedi x’hu l-aħjar għall-komunità? X'taħseb li hu l-bilanċ ġust bejn it-tkabbir ekonomiku u l-protezzjoni tal-ambjent? Konklużjoni Il-ġlieda biex Raja Ampat tiġi salvata mill-minjieri tan-nîkil turi l-kunflitt bejn il-ħtiġijiet ekonomiċi u l-ħarsien tal-ambjent. Xi wħud iħossu li l-minjieri huma meħtieġa għall-progress, billi joħolqu postijiet tax-xogħol u jipproduċu materjal għal teknoloġija ġdida. Oħrajn, bħall-Papuani lokali u l-konservazzjonisti, jemmnu li s-sbuħija naturali u l-għajxien tagħhom huma ta’ valur ikbar. Ir-riċerka turi li l-minjieri jistgħu jkollhom konsegwenzi serji fuq is-saħħa. L-aktar importanti, il-minjieri li għadhom għaddejjin fuq Gag Island iqajmu l-mistoqsija: x'garanzija hemm li s-saħħa tal-ambjent u l-poplu lokali se tkun prijorità fil-futur? Sorsi * ABC News – Ir-rapport oriġinali jipprovdi dettalji dwar il-ġlieda f’Raja Ampat. * Greenpeace Indonesia – Ir-rapport tagħhom juri r-riżultati tal-investigazzjoni dwar il-qerda tal-foresti. * Nexus3 – Dan l-istudju jiżvela l-livelli perikolużi ta’ tniġġis fil-komunità. Aktar Qari * UNESCO Global Geopark * The Sea People * Global Forest Watch --- Updated 4 August 2025 Battle to Save Paradise: Nickel Mining Threatens Raja Ampat Gist: People in the beautiful Raja Ampat islands of Indonesia are in a fight to protect their home from nickel mining. The mining is destroying forests and polluting the sea, which endangers the livelihoods of locals who depend on fishing. Although the Indonesian government has revoked some mining licenses, one remains active and is raising serious concerns about environmental impact and public health, as a recent study found dangerous levels of heavy metals in fish and local blood near another nickel processing facility. We earn from qualifying purchases through this Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3Avoaxz Ready to dive deeper into the topics we’re discussing? Support our work by clicking our Amazon affiliate link for your next purchase! Every click helps us deliver more insightful content. --- Context Raja Ampat, an archipelago in Indonesia, has long been known as "the last paradise on Earth" due to its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. It is home to the Papuans, an indigenous people who live from fishing. But now, this beautiful place is being threatened by a rapidly growing industry: nickel mining. Nickel is an important metal for electric vehicle batteries, and Indonesia is the world's largest producer. This expansion is causing deforestation and pollution that endangers the homes and livelihoods of those who live there. Global Connection The global demand for electric vehicles and green energy has increased the need for nickel. This is creating many jobs in Indonesia, but at the same time it is also creating serious environmental problems. The nickel industry is supported by large investment from Chinese companies, which are establishing large industrial parks to process the ore. Despite the economic benefits, such as job creation, many people are concerned about the pollution that comes with this growth, particularly the heavy metals that may be in the fish that people then eat. Impact on Malta Malta, as an island nation that relies heavily on tourism and is close to the sea, can learn from what is happening in Raja Ampat. While we do not have nickel mines, the story shows how economic growth can be a threat to the environment. The fight to protect Raja Ampat’s natural beauty reminds us of the importance of protecting our own coast and sea, especially from activities that can pollute the water and destroy marine life. Even if it seems far away, discussions about the environment in other countries can help us remember the importance of taking care of our local environment and understanding that development must be done sustainably. * World Bank Report on Sustainable Development: This report emphasizes the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental protection, something that is important for Malta. * European Environment Agency Reports: The European Environment Agency reports provide an analysis of the state of the environment in Europe, including Malta, and offer tools to understand our local challenges. Cultural Perspective For the indigenous Papuans of Raja Ampat, the sea is not just a source of food; it is part of their culture and identity. Their waters are their "supermarket" and "bank," where they find daily food and earn their living. This is very similar to Maltese culture, which has a strong connection to the sea, both through the fishing industry and as a place of recreation. Malta’s fishing traditions and maritime history show how vital the sea is to us, and so we can understand the feelings of the Papuans who are fighting to protect their natural heritage. What Can You Do? You can learn more about the impact of mining on the environment. By being informed, you can support companies that care about the environment. You can also help by understanding where the products you buy come from. * Greenpeace Malta: This local group has information and campaigns on how you can protect the environment in Malta. Fact Check * The Greenpeace report says that nickel mining has caused extensive deforestation. (Verified Fact): The Reuters report that referenced Greenpeace states that 309 hectares of forest have been cleared. * The Indonesian government revoked four of five mining licenses in Raja Ampat. (Verified Fact): The Indonesian government confirmed this decision due to "environmental violations." * Research showed high levels of heavy metals in local fish and blood. (Verified Fact): A study by Nexus3 and Tadulako University, published in May 2025, found high levels of arsenic and mercury. * Local government representatives said the water was not polluted. (Ambiguity or Lack of Clarity): This is a statement that may be influenced by government or corporate interests and contradicts the results of another study. The fact-checking process involves comparing information from different, reliable sources. For those who want to know more... The fight in Raja Ampat is like when a small village tries to stop a large construction project that could endanger the trees in their public garden. The company says it will create jobs, but the locals fear that the trees will be cut down, and with them, they will lose the place where children play and people meet. Who should decide what is best for the community? What do you think is the right balance between economic growth and environmental protection? Conclusion The fight to save Raja Ampat from nickel mining shows the conflict between economic needs and environmental protection. Some feel that mining is necessary for progress, creating jobs and producing material for new technology. Others, like the local Papuans and conservationists, believe that their natural beauty and livelihoods are of greater value. Research shows that mining can have serious health consequences. Most importantly, the mining still going on at Gag Island raises the question: what guarantee is there that the health of the environment and the local people will be a priority in the future? Sources * ABC News – The original report provides details on the fight in Raja Ampat. * Greenpeace Indonesia – Their report shows the results of the investigation into deforestation. * Nexus3 – This study reveals the dangerous levels of pollution in the community. Further Reading * UNESCO Global Geopark * The Sea People * Global Forest Watch

ICYMI: Ġlieda biex Tiġi Ssalvata l-Ġenna: Il-Minjieri tan-Nîkil jheddu lil Raja Ampat: Aġġornat fl-4 ta’ Awwissu 2025

Ġlieda biex Tiġi Ssalvata l-Ġenna: Il-Minjieri tan-Nîkil jheddu lil Raja Ampat



Gist: In-nies fil-gżejjer sbieħ ta’ Raja Ampat… #RajaAmpat #Minjieri #Ambjent #Saħħa #Foresti

Ġlieda biex Tiġi Ssalvata l-Ġenna: Il-Minjieri tan-Nîkil jheddu lil Raja Ampat Aġġornat fl-4 ta’ Awwissu 2025 Ġlieda biex Tiġi Ssalvata l-Ġenna: Il-Minjieri tan-Nîkil jheddu lil Raja Ampat Gist: In-nies fil-gżejjer sbieħ ta’ Raja Ampat fl-Indoneżja jinsabu f’battalja biex iħarsu d-dar tagħhom mill-minjieri tan-nîkil. Il-minjieri qed jeqirdu l-foresti u jħammġu l-baħar, u dan qed ipoġġi fil-periklu l-għajxien tal-lokal li jiddependu fuq is-sajd. Għalkemm il-gvern Indoneżjan neħħa xi liċenzji tal-minjieri, waħda għadha attiva u qed tqajjem tħassib serju dwar l-impatt ambjentali u s-saħħa tan-nies, peress li studju reċenti sab livelli perikolużi ta’ metalli tqal fil-ħut u fid-demm tal-lokal ħdejn faċilità oħra tal-ipproċessar tan-nîkil. Naqilgħu minn xiri kwalifikanti permezz ta’ din il-link tal-Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Avoaxz Lest li tidħol aktar fil-fond fis-suġġetti li qed niddiskutu? Appoġġja x-xogħol tagħna billi tikklikkja fuq il-link affiljat tal-Amazon tagħna għax-xiri li jmiss tiegħek! Kull klikk tgħinna nwasslulkom kontenut aktar perspikativ. --- Kuntest Raja Ampat, arċipelagu fl-Indoneżja, ilu magħruf bħala "l-aħħar ġenna fuq l-art" minħabba l-ilmijiet lewn il-kristall u l-ħajja rikka tal-baħar. Huwa d-dar tal-Papuani, nies indiġeni li jgħixu mis-sajd. Iżda issa, dan il-post sabiħ qed jiġi mhedded minn industrija li qed tikber malajr ħafna: il-minjieri tan-nîkil. In-nîkil huwa metall importanti għall-batteriji tal-karozzi elettriċi, u l-Indoneżja hija l-akbar produttur tiegħu fid-dinja. Din l-espansjoni qed tikkawża qerda tal-foresti u tniġġis li jpoġġi fil-periklu d-djar u l-għajxien ta’ dawk li jgħixu fil-post. Konnessjoni Globali Id-domanda globali għall-vetturi elettriċi u l-enerġija ekoloġika żiedet il-ħtieġa għan-nîkil. Dan qed joħloq ħafna impjiegi fl-Indoneżja, iżda fl-istess ħin qed joħloq ukoll problemi ambjentali serji. L-industrija tan-nîkil hija appoġġjata minn investiment kbir minn kumpaniji Ċiniżi, li qed jistabbilixxu parks industrijali kbar biex jipproċessaw il-minerali. Minkejja l-benefiċċji ekonomiċi, bħall-ħolqien ta' impjiegi, ħafna nies huma mħassbin dwar it-tniġġis li jmur ma' din it-tkabbir, b'mod partikolari l-metalli tqal li jista' jkun hemm fil-ħut li mbagħad jittiekel min-nies. Impatt fuq Malta Malta, bħala pajjiż gżira li jiddependi ħafna mit-turiżmu u li jinsab viċin il-baħar, tista’ titgħallem minn dak li qed jiġri f’Raja Ampat. Filwaqt li m’għandniex minjieri tan-nîkil, ir-rakkont juri kif it-tkabbir ekonomiku jista’ jkun ta’ theddida għall-ambjent. Il-ġlieda biex jiġi protett is-sbuħija naturali ta' Raja Ampat tfakkarna fl-importanza li aħna nħarsu l-kosta u l-baħar tagħna stess, speċjalment minn attivitajiet li jistgħu jħammġu l-ilma u jeqirdu l-ħajja tal-baħar. Anke jekk jidher bogħod, id-diskussjonijiet dwar l-ambjent f’pajjiżi oħra jistgħu jgħinuna biex inżommu f’moħħna l-importanza li nieħdu ħsieb l-ambjent lokali tagħna u li nifhmu li l-iżvilupp irid isir b’mod sostenibbli. * World Bank Report on Sustainable Development: Dan ir-rapport jenfasizza l-importanza li jiġi bbilanċjat it-tkabbir ekonomiku mal-ħarsien ambjentali, xi ħaġa li hija importanti għal Malta. * European Environment Agency Reports: Ir-rapporti tal-Aġenzija Ewropea għall-Ambjent jipprovdu analiżi tal-istat tal-ambjent fl-Ewropa, inkluża Malta, u joffru għodda biex nifhmu l-isfidi lokali tagħna. Perspettiva Kulturali Għall-Papuani indiġeni ta' Raja Ampat, il-baħar mhuwiex biss sors ta' ikel; huwa parti mill-kultura u l-identità tagħhom. L-ilmijiet tagħhom huma s-“supermarket” u l-“bank” tagħhom, fejn isibu l-ikel ta’ kuljum u jaqilgħu l-għajxien tagħhom. Dan jixbah ħafna l-kultura Maltija li għandha rabta qawwija mal-baħar, kemm permezz tal-industrija tas-sajd kif ukoll bħala post ta’ rikreazzjoni. It-tradizzjonijiet tas-sajd u l-istorja marittima ta’ Malta juru kemm il-baħar huwa vitali għalina, u għalhekk nistgħu nifhmu s-sentimenti tal-Papuani li qed jiġġieldu biex iħarsu l-wirt naturali tagħhom. X’Jista’ Jagħmel Int? Tista’ titgħallem aktar dwar l-impatt tal-minjieri fuq l-ambjent. Billi tkun infurmat, tista’ tappoġġja kumpaniji li jimpurtahom mill-ambjent. Tista’ wkoll tgħin billi tifhem minn fejn ġejjin il-prodotti li tixtri. * Greenpeace Malta: Dan il-grupp lokali għandu informazzjoni u kampanji dwar kif tista’ tipproteġi l-ambjent f’Malta. Verifika tal-Fatti * Ir-rapport tal-Greenpeace jgħid li l-minjieri tan-nîkil ikkawżaw deforestazzjoni estensiva. (Fatt Verifikat): Ir-rapport tar-Reuters li għamel referenza għal Greenpeace jiddikjara li 309 ettaru ta’ foresti tneħħew. * Il-gvern Indoneżjan revoa erbgħa minn ħames liċenzji tal-minjieri f’Raja Ampat. (Fatt Verifikat): Il-gvern Indoneżjan ikkonferma din id-deċiżjoni minħabba “ksur ambjentali.” * Ir-riċerka wriet livelli għoljin ta’ metalli tqal fil-ħut u fid-demm tal-lokal. (Fatt Verifikat): Studju minn Nexus3 u l-Università ta’ Tadulako, ippubblikat f’Mejju 2025, sab livelli għoljin ta’ arseniku u merkurju. * Ir-rappreżentanti tal-gvern lokali qalu li l-ilma ma kienx imniġġes. (Ambigwità u Nuqqas ta’ Ċarezza): Din hija dikjarazzjoni li tista’ tkun influwenzata minn interessi tal-gvern jew ta’ kumpaniji u tmur kontra r-riżultati ta’ studju ieħor. Il-proċess tal-verifika tal-fatti jinvolvi li jiġu mqabbla l-informazzjoni minn sorsi differenti u affidabbli. Għal min irid ikun jaf aktar... Il-ġlieda f'Raja Ampat hija bħal meta raħal żgħir jipprova jwaqqaf proġett ta' bini kbir li jista' jkun ta' periklu għas-siġar fil-ġnien pubbliku tagħhom. Il-kumpanija tgħid li se toħloq postijiet tax-xogħol, iżda l-lokal jibżgħu li s-siġar se jinqatgħu, u bil-ma' tagħhom jitilfu l-post fejn it-tfal jilagħbu u n-nies jiltaqgħu. Min għandu jiddeċiedi x’hu l-aħjar għall-komunità? X'taħseb li hu l-bilanċ ġust bejn it-tkabbir ekonomiku u l-protezzjoni tal-ambjent? Konklużjoni Il-ġlieda biex Raja Ampat tiġi salvata mill-minjieri tan-nîkil turi l-kunflitt bejn il-ħtiġijiet ekonomiċi u l-ħarsien tal-ambjent. Xi wħud iħossu li l-minjieri huma meħtieġa għall-progress, billi joħolqu postijiet tax-xogħol u jipproduċu materjal għal teknoloġija ġdida. Oħrajn, bħall-Papuani lokali u l-konservazzjonisti, jemmnu li s-sbuħija naturali u l-għajxien tagħhom huma ta’ valur ikbar. Ir-riċerka turi li l-minjieri jistgħu jkollhom konsegwenzi serji fuq is-saħħa. L-aktar importanti, il-minjieri li għadhom għaddejjin fuq Gag Island iqajmu l-mistoqsija: x'garanzija hemm li s-saħħa tal-ambjent u l-poplu lokali se tkun prijorità fil-futur? Sorsi * ABC News – Ir-rapport oriġinali jipprovdi dettalji dwar il-ġlieda f’Raja Ampat. * Greenpeace Indonesia – Ir-rapport tagħhom juri r-riżultati tal-investigazzjoni dwar il-qerda tal-foresti. * Nexus3 – Dan l-istudju jiżvela l-livelli perikolużi ta’ tniġġis fil-komunità. Aktar Qari * UNESCO Global Geopark * The Sea People * Global Forest Watch --- Updated 4 August 2025 Battle to Save Paradise: Nickel Mining Threatens Raja Ampat Gist: People in the beautiful Raja Ampat islands of Indonesia are in a fight to protect their home from nickel mining. The mining is destroying forests and polluting the sea, which endangers the livelihoods of locals who depend on fishing. Although the Indonesian government has revoked some mining licenses, one remains active and is raising serious concerns about environmental impact and public health, as a recent study found dangerous levels of heavy metals in fish and local blood near another nickel processing facility. We earn from qualifying purchases through this Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3Avoaxz Ready to dive deeper into the topics we’re discussing? Support our work by clicking our Amazon affiliate link for your next purchase! Every click helps us deliver more insightful content. --- Context Raja Ampat, an archipelago in Indonesia, has long been known as "the last paradise on Earth" due to its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. It is home to the Papuans, an indigenous people who live from fishing. But now, this beautiful place is being threatened by a rapidly growing industry: nickel mining. Nickel is an important metal for electric vehicle batteries, and Indonesia is the world's largest producer. This expansion is causing deforestation and pollution that endangers the homes and livelihoods of those who live there. Global Connection The global demand for electric vehicles and green energy has increased the need for nickel. This is creating many jobs in Indonesia, but at the same time it is also creating serious environmental problems. The nickel industry is supported by large investment from Chinese companies, which are establishing large industrial parks to process the ore. Despite the economic benefits, such as job creation, many people are concerned about the pollution that comes with this growth, particularly the heavy metals that may be in the fish that people then eat. Impact on Malta Malta, as an island nation that relies heavily on tourism and is close to the sea, can learn from what is happening in Raja Ampat. While we do not have nickel mines, the story shows how economic growth can be a threat to the environment. The fight to protect Raja Ampat’s natural beauty reminds us of the importance of protecting our own coast and sea, especially from activities that can pollute the water and destroy marine life. Even if it seems far away, discussions about the environment in other countries can help us remember the importance of taking care of our local environment and understanding that development must be done sustainably. * World Bank Report on Sustainable Development: This report emphasizes the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental protection, something that is important for Malta. * European Environment Agency Reports: The European Environment Agency reports provide an analysis of the state of the environment in Europe, including Malta, and offer tools to understand our local challenges. Cultural Perspective For the indigenous Papuans of Raja Ampat, the sea is not just a source of food; it is part of their culture and identity. Their waters are their "supermarket" and "bank," where they find daily food and earn their living. This is very similar to Maltese culture, which has a strong connection to the sea, both through the fishing industry and as a place of recreation. Malta’s fishing traditions and maritime history show how vital the sea is to us, and so we can understand the feelings of the Papuans who are fighting to protect their natural heritage. What Can You Do? You can learn more about the impact of mining on the environment. By being informed, you can support companies that care about the environment. You can also help by understanding where the products you buy come from. * Greenpeace Malta: This local group has information and campaigns on how you can protect the environment in Malta. Fact Check * The Greenpeace report says that nickel mining has caused extensive deforestation. (Verified Fact): The Reuters report that referenced Greenpeace states that 309 hectares of forest have been cleared. * The Indonesian government revoked four of five mining licenses in Raja Ampat. (Verified Fact): The Indonesian government confirmed this decision due to "environmental violations." * Research showed high levels of heavy metals in local fish and blood. (Verified Fact): A study by Nexus3 and Tadulako University, published in May 2025, found high levels of arsenic and mercury. * Local government representatives said the water was not polluted. (Ambiguity or Lack of Clarity): This is a statement that may be influenced by government or corporate interests and contradicts the results of another study. The fact-checking process involves comparing information from different, reliable sources. For those who want to know more... The fight in Raja Ampat is like when a small village tries to stop a large construction project that could endanger the trees in their public garden. The company says it will create jobs, but the locals fear that the trees will be cut down, and with them, they will lose the place where children play and people meet. Who should decide what is best for the community? What do you think is the right balance between economic growth and environmental protection? Conclusion The fight to save Raja Ampat from nickel mining shows the conflict between economic needs and environmental protection. Some feel that mining is necessary for progress, creating jobs and producing material for new technology. Others, like the local Papuans and conservationists, believe that their natural beauty and livelihoods are of greater value. Research shows that mining can have serious health consequences. Most importantly, the mining still going on at Gag Island raises the question: what guarantee is there that the health of the environment and the local people will be a priority in the future? Sources * ABC News – The original report provides details on the fight in Raja Ampat. * Greenpeace Indonesia – Their report shows the results of the investigation into deforestation. * Nexus3 – This study reveals the dangerous levels of pollution in the community. Further Reading * UNESCO Global Geopark * The Sea People * Global Forest Watch

Ġlieda biex Tiġi Ssalvata l-Ġenna: Il-Minjieri tan-Nîkil jheddu lil Raja Ampat: Aġġornat fl-4 ta’ Awwissu 2025

Ġlieda biex Tiġi Ssalvata l-Ġenna: Il-Minjieri tan-Nîkil jheddu lil Raja Ampat



Gist: In-nies fil-gżejjer sbieħ ta’ Raja Ampat fl-Indoneżja… #RajaAmpat #Minjieri #Ambjent #Foresti #Sajd

Raja Ampat Volume II, Illegal Exploitation Of Gebe Island Continues To Increase And Environmental Impacts That Are Piling Up After the public spotlight was focused on the #SaveRaja Ampat issue last June, now attention has shifted to Gebe Island, a small island in Central Halmahera Regency, North Maluku, which is in a geogra...

#WestPapua #RajaAmpat
Gebe Island is being stripped bare — illegally, efficiently, and with zero consequences.
Because paradise isn’t profitable until it’s dead.

Lush forests? Gone. Waters? Polluted.
But hey, at least someone’s quarterly profits are thriving

Read more: voi.id/fr/amp/501545

🎥: @uw.fanatic - thanks for sharing! Taken with SportDiver Housing series. Learn more: sealife-cameras.com.

#RajaAmpat #sealifecameras #sportdiver #sportdiverultra #micro3 #rm4k #seadragonlights #scubapro #vacation #travel #adventure #scubadiving #diving #snorkeling

Sharks didn’t rebound—so Mark Erdmann is putting them back For more than three decades, Mark Erdmann has worked where many only dream of diving—on the reefs and in the tangled mangroves of Indonesia’s farthest reaches. A marine biologist by training and a con...

As a leader behind Raja Ampat’s pioneering community-governed marine protected areas, Erdmann has shown how local stewardship can revive #ecosystems—bringing back sharks, rays, and sustainable tourism.
#MPAs #RajaAmpat #conservation #sharks
news.mongabay.com/2025/07/shar...

Nickel is becoming increasingly strategic due to its use in EV batteries. #WestPapua is believed to have significant nickel reserves, though exploration is still ongoing. Indon are currently messing up #RajaAmpat where loads of nickel is.

China isn’t the main culprit in Indonesia’s dirty nickel boom While Chinese firms capitalise on the country’s resources, the social and environmental damage lies squarely with Jakarta.

Don’t blame China for Indonesia’s dirty nickel boom.
It’s Indonesia handing out shady permits, ignoring toxic impacts, and silencing anyone who resists. China profits—but Jakarta enables.

#WestPapua #RajaAmpat

Read more: www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpre...

#RajaAmpat: A UNESCO Global Geopark with 1500 islands and iconic limestone karsts. Home to 75% of the world’s hard corals, 1,800 reef fish, and 5 endangered turtle species.
#WestPapua #BiodiversityCrisis #OceanTreasure

Battle to save Indonesian 'paradise' as nickel industry expands into Raja Ampat in Papua - ABC News

The last paradise on Earth” is turning into a battlefield.

Behind the beauty of #RajaAmpat lies a violent struggle over Indonesia’s booming nickel industry — threatening Indigenous lands, fragile ecosystems, and local lives.

Nickel profits are destroying #WestPapua’s most pristine islands.

Lil Bahlil (2025).
#popart #popartwork #popillustration #digitalillustration #digitalartwork #digitalart #saverajaampat #rajaampat

How a race for electric vehicles threatens a marine paradise Photographs appear to show how nickel mining damaged one the world's most diverse marine environments

#RajaAmpat
Good news! We’re saving the planet by destroying the ocean. EVs need batteries, and apparently, coral reefs and deep-sea life had it too good for too long #WestPapua

Read more: www.bbc.com/news/article...