PT Vale Ignites Green Nickel Future with Pomalaa Project Infrastructure Launch
Kolaka, Southeast Sulawesi – PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (IDX: INCO), a leading integrated and sustainable nickel mining company and part of MIND ID, marked a pivotal strategic step on July 29, 2025, with the commencement of construction for supporting infrastructure at its Indonesia Growth Project (IGP) Pomalaa. This significant development, taking place in Kolaka Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, is a cornerstone of PT Vale’s commitment to support the government’s downstreaming vision and solidify Indonesia’s crucial role in the global electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain. The project strategically leverages previously underutilized limonite ore, transforming it into a vital resource for EV battery raw materials.
The groundbreaking ceremony, a key milestone for PT Vale’s “green nickel” initiatives, was conducted in collaboration with PT Leighton Contractors Indonesia (LCI). Key stakeholders present included Kolaka Regent Amri, President Director of LCI Simon Burley, and representatives from the Australian Embassy and PT Vale IGP Pomalaa management. This new infrastructure encompasses a Workshop, Office Area, Operational Camp, Main Entrance, and various supporting facilities like Operation Building, Maintenance Building, Residence, and Support Building.
The infrastructure development by LCI is targeted for completion within 26 months, by October 31, 2026, emphasizing the application of the highest safety standards and advanced technology. Impressively, as of July 2025, the overall physical progress of the IGP Pomalaa project has already reached 31 percent. This includes the initial construction phase of the High Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL) plant, which is being developed in partnership with Huayou, a global leader in lateritic nickel processing. The HPAL technology is critical for processing limonite ore, unlocking its potential as a strategic resource for EV battery feedstock.
Mohammad Rifai, Head of Pomalaa Project PT Vale, underscored the project’s transformative impact, stating, “This project symbolizes that Kolaka limonite can be a source of welfare, not waste. And we cannot do it alone—collaboration with partners like LCI makes us optimistic that this project will build a legacy for future generations”.
President Director LCI, Simon Burley, expressed pride in LCI’s contribution to this national strategic project, highlighting their commitment to rapid, efficient construction with international standards and prioritizing safety.
This latest advancement for the Pomalaa project builds on PT Vale’s long-standing dedication to sustainable nickel mining.
