Larantuka Bishop Demands Independent Review of Oka Ile Ange Project

Larantuka — The report was updated on 14 October 2026 to add that Bishop Yohanes Hans Monteiro is demanding independent technical, environmental, geological and hydrological assessments before the Oka Ile Ange geothermal project continues. Floresa reported that the bishop made the demand after opposing residents in Flores Timur received his support.

Monteiro said the assessment should examine technical feasibility, environmental effects, and geological and hydrological risks. He also said it should assess possible effects on water sources, agriculture, health, livelihoods and customary territory.

The bishop called for the project stages to be suspended until residents’ objections are addressed, the independent study is completed, and legal and justice principles are met. He said the process should involve experts, relevant institutions, affected communities, customary leaders, religious institutions and civil-society organisations.

Why the assessment matters for Flores readers

The Oka Ile Ange Geothermal Working Area covers 12.510 hectares in Flores Timur, according to Floresa. The report said the area is near springs, farms, settlements and protected forest.

Monteiro’s position concerns residents of Lewokluok, Blepanawa and Bama in Demon Pagong, Flores Timur, who oppose the project, Floresa reported. He also opposed development of the Atadei working area in Lembata.

The working area was established under Energy and Mineral Resources Ministerial Decree 2849 K/30/MEM/2012. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, the Flores Timur administration and PLN discussed surveys, site selection, permits, drilling and electricity distribution at a coordination meeting on 23 September 2026.

RRI reported separately that Flores Timur Regent Antonius Doni Dihen had called for scientific studies and broad public consultation before development. The report said further technical meetings involving the local government, the ministry, PLN and other parties were planned.

The next stated step is to continue technical meetings on the project’s development process, while the bishop is seeking a pause until the independent assessment and handling of residents’ objections are complete.

Sources

• Floresa — regional news organisation
• iNewsTTU — regional news organisation
• RRI — public radio news organisation
• esdm.go.id