This statement is prepared in response to articles published on the Indonesian Government’s prosecution of Heri Budiawan and the assertion that the Tujuh Bukit mine is causing environmental damage.

PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk (Merdeka) is a public company listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange. Merdeka has a controlling interest in PT Bumi Suksesindo (BSI) which is the company that holds the Tujuh Bukit IUP mine license and operates the Tujuh Bukit Gold Mine, located in Banyuwangi Regency, East Java. The Regency of Banyuwangi is a significant shareholder in Merdeka.

The matter reported in the media with respect to allegations of the illegal use of communist symbols by Heri Budiawan is a matter between that individual and the Indonesian Authorities.