- Proximity to world trade centers such as Singapore and Johor Bahru.
Another frequently asked question is, "Are Bintan and Tanjung Pinang the same?" Administratively, Tanjung Pinang is a city on Bintan Island, while Bintan is both the name of the island and the regency. Both are located in the Riau Islands Province.
Other Bauxite Islands in the Riau Islands
Besides Bintan, several other islands in the Riau Islands known for their bauxite production include Kundur Island, Singkep Island, and parts of Lingga and Natuna.
These islands' proximity to international shipping routes gives the Riau Islands a natural logistical advantage.
Ships transporting bauxite and alumina can easily reach regional markets.
Central Kalimantan & Bangka Belitung: Growing Potential
Central Kalimantan: Reserves Beginning to be Optimized
After West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan (Kalteng) is emerging as a region with significant bauxite reserves. Areas such as West Kotawaringin, Lamandau, and Sukamara are said to possess substantial laterite bauxite resources.
Central Kalimantan is still in the development stage compared to West Kalimantan, but its potential is significant, especially when linked to plans for downstream processing and the construction of processing facilities on the island of Kalimantan.
Bangka Belitung: Not Just Tin
When discussing tin-producing regions, Bangka Belitung almost always comes up. However, in some parts of Belitung, particularly in the eastern region, other minerals, including bauxite, are also found.
In terms of volume, Bangka Belitung's bauxite production is not as large as West Kalimantan or the Riau Islands, but its presence adds to the list of mineral-rich regions in Indonesia. Besides bauxite, it also contains zircon, ilmenite, and other associated minerals that can support downstream industries.
Other Bauxite-Producing Regions in Indonesia
Beyond the four main clusters, several other regions in Indonesia also have indications and reserves of bauxite, although they have not yet been extensively exploited. For example, parts of central Sumatra, several locations in Sulawesi, and potential areas in Papua, which are still under study.
This information is important to demonstrate that Indonesia's bauxite potential is not confined to one or two provinces, but is spread out and awaits wise and sustainable management.