Perminas Visits Polman, Babel, to Promote Rare Earth Metal Research
The atmosphere of the discussion in the director's meeting room, when Perminas and Polman Negeri Babel were developing rare earth metal research.
The National Mineral Company (Perminas), part of the State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN), paid an official visit to the Bangka Belitung State Manufacturing Polytechnic (Polman Babel) campus on Thursday (April 30, 2026).
The visit took place in the director's meeting room and was attended by Deputy Director I, Deputy Director III, and lecturers. The visit aimed to explore collaboration on research technology for managing rare earth metals, which have high economic value.
From the company's perspective, Fridolin Iyndius Silalahi, a Perminas member, stated that the visit was part of the "kick-off" program for downstreaming rare earth metal research, planned for the Tanjung Ular area of West Bangka Regency.
Fridolin explained that this program is part of the national roadmap for developing a tin-based industry.
"Starting from the research stage to downstreaming, Indonesia will not only be an exporter of raw materials but also export finished products," he added.
"Furthermore, Perminas is targeting the launch of innovative products by 2028, including the development of battery-based electric vehicles, which aligns with the priority programs of the President of the Republic of Indonesia," he said.
"The presence of rare earth metals is a crucial component in the battery industry and modern technology, so Polman Babel University is strengthening domestic research and technology development," he explained.
Beyond focusing on research, there are significant opportunities for Polman Babel students and graduates, as the institution will prioritize recruitment from institutions directly involved," he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Director I of Polman Babel, Irwan, Ph.D., expressed his support for the institution's readiness to provide competent human resources, including lecturers with relevant expertise in the field of mineral processing," he concluded.
Irwan appreciated Perminas' visit to Polman Babel and thanked them for the trust they have placed in him. "This presents a great opportunity to contribute jointly to the development of national technology," he concluded.
