A Critical Review of the Debate over Granting Coal Mining Permits to Community Organizations: Measuring Relevance to Sustainable Development in Islam

Abstract

Natural resource management, particularly coal mining, is a central issue in Indonesia's development policy. Although coal mining contributes to economic growth, the sector often causes negative impacts, such as environmental damage and social conflict. Controversy has intensified with the emergence of Government Regulation No. 25/2004, which grants coal mining management licenses to major social organizations such as Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah. As the largest socio-religious organizations in Indonesia, their involvement raises questions about the role of community organizations in this high-risk industry sector, and its relevance to the concept of sustainable development. This research examines the debate surrounding the granting of mining licenses to NU and Muhammadiyah from a sustainable development perspective. Using a descriptive qualitative approach and content analysis of secondary data sources, this study analyzes the arguments developed in the media regarding the economic, social, and environmental aspects of coal mine management by community organizations. The results show that while the involvement of NU and Muhammadiyah can create economic opportunities for local communities, technical challenges and potential environmental damage remain major concerns. This research contributes to the discussion on the role of community organizations in natural resource management and the importance of applying sustainable development principles that are balanced between economic, social, and environmental aspects.