At the 2025 Society for Geology Applied to Mineral Deposits (SGA) meeting, held at the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado, renowned economic geologist Richard H. Sillitoe shared his perspectives on the declining rate of copper (Cu) discoveries and the path forward for revitalizing exploration success. Sillitoe identified three key reasons for the current slowdown in copper discoveries: a significant reduction in budgets for generative greenfield exploration, the decreasing number of easily accessible exposed deposits, and the diminishing amount of time geologists spend in the field. These factors, he noted, have collectively constrained the industry’s ability to identify new world-class deposits. To reverse this trend, Sillitoe emphasized that improved discovery rates require a combination of factors: strong field geologist efforts supported by geochemistry, geophysics, academic research, and the latest technological tools; more creative thinking and the development of new exploration concepts; greater allocation of time for critical thinking with fewer bureaucratic hurdles; and a willingness to accept higher geological risk in exchange for reduced ESG-related constraints. Summarizing his philosophy, Sillitoe presented what he called the “magic discovery formula”: high-quality fieldwork integrated with the right geochemical and geophysical techniques, plus the boldness to drill deeper. His message was clear: while technology and data are powerful tools, the heart of mineral discovery remains in the field, where geologists apply creativity, critical thinking, and the courage to test bold ideas.

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On February 15, 2025, PT Geo Fix Indonesia, PT Minera Nusa Drillindo, and PT Tekminera Nuestra Tierragua, in collaboration with the Indonesian Association of Geologists (IAGI), the Indonesian Society of Economic Geologists (MGEI), and Universitas Padjadjaran (UNPAD), proudly presented the Inspiring Geology Student Awards (IGSA) 2025. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding geology students who not only excel academically but also contribute meaningfully beyond the classroom. This year, Mochamad Ikral Pamungkas, from the Department of Geology at Universitas Indonesia, earned the top honor for his exceptional research and unwavering dedication. His project, “Petrogenesis of Samadua Granite and Its Correlation to Rare Earth Element Concentration,” impressed the judges with its strong methodological foundation and relevance to current geological challenges. Ikral employed advanced field techniques—including geological mapping, drill core logging, and geochemical analysis—ensuring that both his data collection and interpretation met industry and academic standards. The IGSA selection process involved multiple stages: university nominations, evaluation of student achievements, in-depth interviews, and final project presentations. Ikral's work stood out for its clarity, scientific rigor, and real-world applicability. His ability to connect field observations with broader geological contexts showcased his skill in integrating technical knowledge with critical thinking. With this award, Ikral not only affirms his academic excellence but also serves as an inspiration to other students passionate about advancing the geological sciences.

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On February 15, 2025, PT Geo Fix Indonesia, PT Minera Nusa Drillindo, and PT Tekminera Nuestra Tierragua, in collaboration with the Indonesian Association of Geologists (IAGI), the Indonesian Society of Economic Geologists (MGEI), and Universitas Padjadjaran (UNPAD), proudly presented the Economic Geology Research Excellence Award 2025. This prestigious award, which includes a cash prize of IDR 20,000,000, was granted to Prof. Ferian Anggara of the Department of Geological Engineering, Universitas Gadjah Mada, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the field of economic geology. Over the past three years, Prof. Anggara has produced a substantial body of work published in top-tier international journals, demonstrating both advanced expertise and innovative research. His registered intellectual property—including patents and trademarks—further reflects his commitment to advancing the intersection of academic research and industry practice. The Economic Geology Research Excellence Award (EGREA) is designed to be awarded triennially to at least one Indonesian researcher—particularly those affiliated with government institutions—whose work represents a significant contribution to the field of economic geology and, more broadly, to Indonesia’s mining sector. Candidates are assessed based on peer-reviewed publications and registered intellectual property within the last three years. This recognition not only honors Prof. Anggara’s impactful achievements but also underscores the vital role of research in supporting Indonesia’s geological and mining industries.

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