Newmont to explore gold in South Sulawesi: Report

U.S. mining giant Newmont Corp. will look for gold in Tanatoraja in South Sulawesi, a local official was quoted by Antara as saying.

Newmonth Indonesia has submitted an application for license to carry out gold explorations in Tana Toraja,Oleke Jasin, head of regional mining and energy office, said.

Oleke said his office has given recommendation to the South Sulawesi governor favoring the application.

Oleke said the public should not be worried that Newmonth Indonesia's gold mining operations will cause pollution.

Newmont is in the center of controversy over pollution of the Buyat Bay in North Sulawesi allegedly caused by tailings from its gold mines in that area.

Oleke said mining sector contributes significantly to the region's economy, adding that the regional administration will contionue to invite foreign investors to exploit its rich mineral resources.

South Sulawesi also has large nickel reserve developed and operated by PT. INCO Soroako, a subsidiary of Canada's Inco Ltd.(*)