Kaltim Prima Coal (KPC), the operator of one of the world's largest open-pit coal mines in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. KPC's relationship with Hitachi Construction Machinery began in 1990. How has this relationship of trust spanning over 30 years been nurtured? The keyword is sustainability. We want to keep both the workers at the mine and local communities happy, and we must also maintain the good relationship between KPC and Hitachi Construction Machinery. This is the opinion of KPC's management team.
KPC's CEO Ashok Mitra is an outstanding individual who has been selected as one Asia's top ten leaders in the mining industry. When asked how he would sum up their relationship with Hitachi Construction Machinery in a single word, he replied, "Openness."
"Even when we have problems, we are able to solve them through frank, open discussion. I really like this attitude and their transparent approach to customers." Currently, 40% of machines used at KPC are from Hitachi Construction Machinery. KPC’s COO Hendro Ichwanto says that KPC has continued to increase the number of Hitachi Construction Machinery’s machines they use because their high productivity contributes to improved business performance. The mining industry faces challenging conditions due to environmental regulations. Important issues for the industry are how to increase efficiency and achieve high performance. Remanufactured parts play a part in contributing to productivity. Hitachi Construction Machinery has established a remanufacturing facility in Balikpapan, close to the mine site. Having a prompt supply of remanufactured parts naturally improves productivity, but also helps the company meet SDGs.
"Hitachi Construction Machinery also has its own workshop at the mine site, meaning a ready supply of spare parts," said Ashok.
General Manager Susilo commented on this special relationship with Hitachi Construction Machinery. "They provide excellent support, with outstanding cost performance.”
Many women work as operators at the Sangatta mine. One became an operator inspired by her father working in the same job, while another met her husband here and has two daughters. Another wanted to prove that she could do the same work as a man in operating large machinery. Each is proud of the work they perform here. How do they feel about Hitachi Construction Machinery's machines? "They're fuel-efficient, agile, and very safe. Also, the air conditioner is cool and comfortable. Put simply, they're perfect." "The units are durable, with great performance." "We like this because the light steering is also easy for women to operate, and makes loading and dumping operations easy." The women state that KPC supports the growth of all employees. The phrase "colleagues are like family" comes naturally, probably because KPC's spirit of 'More Than Mining' has permeated throughout the company.
The population of Sangatta, which 30 years ago was only 3,000-4,000, began to increase with the commencement of KPC's mining operations and is now approaching 120,000. Hendro explains. "We focus not only on the mine, but on surrounding communities, so that when mining ends everyone can continue living happily here, farming or raising livestock." Mining is not the end of the story—it is what KPC creates beyond this that will surely build a sustainable society.
"We hope to continue our mutually beneficial relationship with Hitachi Construction Machinery," smiled Ashok. KPC has an eye to the future. We hope that our machinery will continue together with them.
