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| Mikhael, an environmental activist and researcher in West Kalimantan. Doc. Mikhael. |
The Dayak Research Center (DRC) - PONTIANAK: Mikhael, an environmental activist and researcher in West Kalimantan, has raised serious concerns about the mercury contamination found in the region’s river waters.
In an exclusive interview, Mikhael explained that the Kapuas and Landak rivers serve as the primary sources of drinking water for local communities. However, these rivers are now contaminated with mercury due to unregulated illegal gold mining activities.
Contamination of local water sources by mercury
“We’ve taken water samples from the Kapuas and Landak rivers directly from the PDAM system, and the results show dangerously high levels of mercury. This is deeply concerning, as this water is being consumed by the local population,” Mikhael stated.
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| The sight of the Kapuas River, contaminated by mercury, as seen from the Sekayam river mouth, Sanggau, West Kalimantan. Documentation: Masri. |
As an activist dedicated to both environmental preservation and community empowerment, Mikhael has partnered with WALHI to conduct research on the impact of mercury in the human body. The research aims to identify the health risks posed by drinking mercury-contaminated water and to push the government to take immediate preventive action.
“Mercury not only contaminates the water but also enters the human body through consumption of tainted water or food, particularly fish living in polluted rivers. The effects are very dangerous, and they often take years to manifest,” Mikhael added.
The Need for government action and regulation
Based on their research findings, Mikhael highlighted that mercury exposure can lead to severe damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive health. Additionally, mercury exposure can disrupt brain development in children and significantly weaken the body’s immune response to diseases.
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“The effects of mercury in the human body take a long time to detect, which is why it is crucial for us to immediately raise awareness of our findings with both the community and the government. We hope for more stringent policies to be enacted to reduce the impact of mercury on society,” Mikhael explained.
Moreover, Mikhael expressed his desire for the local government to grant permits for legal community-managed gold mining operations, ensuring better oversight. This would prevent illegal mining and unregulated mercury use, both of which contribute to the worsening situation.
“Communities should be allowed to manage gold mining legally, with proper government permits, so that there can be better control over mercury usage and its sale,” Mikhael stated.
Mikhael collaborates on mercury research, advocates policy
In his research, Mikhael has collaborated with academics from Tanjungpura University (Untan), including Dr. Tamrin, Head of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, and Dr. Metrison, who served as the research examiner.
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Mikhael hopes that the results of this study will serve as a wake-up call for policymakers, urging the government to implement stricter regulations and adopt more comprehensive policies aimed at protecting the public from the severe dangers of mercury exposure. He emphasizes that mercury contamination is not only an environmental issue but also a significant public health crisis that requires immediate and sustained intervention.
One of the key findings of his research highlights how mercury, commonly used in small-scale gold mining, seeps into rivers and water sources, eventually accumulating in fish and other aquatic organisms. This contamination poses a severe risk to local communities who rely on these water sources for drinking, bathing, and fishing. Long-term exposure to mercury can lead to neurological disorders, developmental issues in children, and other serious health complications. Recognizing these dangers, Mikhael stresses that urgent action is needed to mitigate the harm before the situation worsens.
“The first step is to regulate mercury use in mining activities, ensuring that there are strict guidelines and enforcement measures in place to curb illegal practices,” Mikhael explained.
Mikhael further elaborated that without proper control and alternative solutions for miners, the problem would persist, endangering future generations. “The second step is to educate the community about the dangers of mercury exposure. Many people are unaware of the long-term consequences, and by raising awareness, we can empower local communities to advocate for their own health and safety,” he added.
Mikhael envisions a collaborative effort between the government, environmental organizations, and local communities to address this crisis holistically. He believes that sustainable mining practices must be introduced, along with economic alternatives for small-scale miners who depend on gold mining for their livelihoods. “We cannot simply impose restrictions without offering viable solutions. People need alternative means to sustain their families,” he pointed out.
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Through this research and awareness campaign, Mikhael aspires to bring about lasting change in West Kalimantan’s approach to environmental conservation and public health protection. He hopes that this study will spark broader discussions on sustainable development, responsible resource management, and community-driven initiatives to safeguard natural ecosystems.
By fostering dialogue between stakeholders and encouraging proactive solutions, he envisions a future where economic progress does not come at the expense of environmental and human well-being.
-- Masri Sareb Putra
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