Mimika

Mimika is a regency (kabupaten) of Indonesia in the southern part of Papua Province on the island of New Guinea. The regency’s capital is Timika, a coastal town near the Grasberg mine. The name Mimika is said to derive from the Mimika River, which runs through the interior of the regency.

The area is inhabited by indigenous communities, notably the Amungme and Kamoro peoples, who maintain distinct languages and traditions. Amungme territory is primarily in the highlands, while Kamoro communities are associated with the regency’s lowland and riverine environments. In recent decades, Timika has drawn migrants and workers linked to mining, shaping the region’s demographics, economy, and social dynamics.

The economy is dominated by mining, especially the Grasberg mine, one of the world’s largest gold and copper deposits. Operated by PT Freeport Indonesia in partnership with the Indonesian government, the mine has been a major driver of development, infrastructure, and employment in the regency, while also drawing attention to environmental and land-right issues.

Geography and environment include coastal plains, river valleys, and inland highlands with tropical rainforest ecosystems. The climate is tropical with heavy rainfall; deforestation and habitat change have been concerns in some areas. Mimika is divided into several districts (kecamatan) and includes the municipal area of Timika. It borders other regencies in Papua and is served by air and road connections, with Timika Airport providing regional access.