Multi-stakeholder communication for sustainable program environmental restoration in post-tin mining: Interventions, challenges, and mechanisms

Abstract

The growing challenges of the post-tin mining landscape in Indonesia reveal interrelated ecological degradation and socio-economic vulnerabilities that solutions implemented by a single stakeholder cannot address. This study examines multi-stakeholder collaborative communication in a post-tin mining environmental restoration program, utilizing Paulo Mefalopulos’ development communication framework to analyze participatory communication interventions and mechanisms. The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing a case study strategy in the world’s second-largest tin mining centre in Bangka Belitung, Indonesia. Stakeholder mapping utilizes interest and influence analysis techniques to identify the positions and levels of involvement of multi-stakeholder. The findings indicate asymmetries in communication and participation among stakeholders. Local governments dominate policy communication, thereby constraining the community’s capacity to shape strategic decisions. By contrast, mining companies maintain relatively symmetrical and continuous interactions with government institutions, particularly in technical coordination, program development, and licensing. However, their engagement with local communities remains limited and asymmetrical, characterized by weak channels and a lack of substantive deliberative dialogue. A collaborative multi-stakeholder communication mechanism is needed, facilitated by academics and ALOBI-local NGOs as neutral, independent participatory brokers with the institutional capacity to facilitate inclusive, deliberative dialogue, thereby strengthening social trust and community ownership of sustainable post-tin mining environmental restoration programs.