BP Indonesia calls on locals to back LNG plant

Anglo-American energy giant BP has called on non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the local community to support the Tangguh liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Tanah Merah, Babo sub-district, Manokwari regency in Irian Jaya.

?The Tangguh LNG project is of utmost importance to the state and nation in fostering Indonesia?s position in the natural gas industry sector,? BP Indonesia spokesman Erwin Maryoto said in Manokwari as quoted by Antara over the weekend.

Therefore, the support and active role of the people in the construction of the Tangguh LNG plant in the area of Bintuni-Berauw bay are expected to enable an anticipation of possible social upheavals in the future, Maryoto said.

British Petroleum Indonesia serves as a catalyst to accelerate the development of the people in the sectors of education, health, manpower, environment, public facilities and infrastructure.

Success of the Tangguh LNG project depends highly on the support of the people in building partnerships with investors so that all the problems that have surfaced can be settled.

He said the development of the community in the area of Bintuni-Berauw bay, which is based on partnership with BP Indonesia, should not be seen as the main role, but should embark from the aspirations of the local community.

The development of the community in Irian Jaya on the basis of partnership will provide an opportunity to NGOs, educational institutions, social and religious bodies and the private sector to play an active role with the local administration in promoting welfare, he said as reported by Antara. (*)