BP denies report of a plan to build petrochemical complex

By Godang Sitompul

BP Plc said that it currently has no plan to build facilities for other industries in the area around Tangguh, west Papua, because its focus is on LNG and expanding Tangguh LNG project.

The company made the statement in response to media reports this morning that the company has expressed interest to develop a petrochemical complex in Papua, citing an Industry Ministry official.

"We have been made aware of the Government of Indonesia's intention to develop a petrochemical industry, but at the moment we have no plans to build facilities for other industries in the area around Tangguh,? Dharmawan H. Samsu, of BP Indonesia Country Head said in a media statement.

?Our focus in Indonesia is on LNG and expanding Tangguh, as well as our exploration and production activities,? he said.

?We believe development of industry should be aligned with local community aspirations and progressed at the right pace. We are committed to continue our community investment programs in the area of our operations, and provide support to help improve their welfare and livelihood,? he noted.

Editing by Roffie Kurniawan