Jakarta, Aug. 25 -- The establishment of the Mineral Industry Agency is expected to strengthen Indonesia's research on the potential of critical minerals and rare earth elements, according to Indonesia Mining Association (IMA) Executive Director Hendra Sinadia.

"This could relate to the research aspect, as reflected in the appointment of the Minister of Education and Technology as head of the Mineral Industry Agency. It shows that research will serve as one of the initial foundations," Sinadia said on Monday.

He welcomed the agency's focus on developing Indonesia's rare earth potential, noting that such resources are in high demand from global powers including China, the United States, and the European Union.

Rare earths, he added, are...