Kupang – Environment activists and members of the Ngada-Flores community in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, staged a rally on Tuesday against iron ore exploration activities conducted by PT Laki Tangguh. They feared that the activity would pollute water in the area.

Protest coordinator Isodorus Lilijawa said that the mine was located in Mt. Mbopok Riuang, part of which was inside a protected forest of 28,000 hectares. "We are afraid that the exploration activities will damage the ecosystem," Isodorus said on Tuesday.

The protesters urged the Ngada regency administration to revoke the mining business license issued by Regent Marianus Se in 2010.

They also urged the administration to give more attention to the agriculture, husbandry and fishery sectors that support the livelihood of local residents.