Indonesia sits atop world-class manganese—key component for battery–reserves, yet its utilization remains sluggish. Amid the grand narrative of downstream industrialization, the manganese smelter project in the Bolok Industrial Zone, Kupang, stands as a stark symbol of stagnation. If taken seriously, the manganese potential in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) could be a game changer for eastern Indonesia’s economy. To subscribe please click here