PRESS RELEASE: PTNNT commitment to the community and environment remains strong

West Sumbawa, 27/2, (NNT) - PTNNT demonstrated commitment to environmental stewardship and community development began during construction in 1997 and continues unabated. ?We operate in accordance with applicable law and requirements, defined by an environmental impact analysis completed and approved by the Government of Indonesia as well as in accordance with the aspirations of the community whenever possible. Our environmental performance has been assessed by external parties including both government and non-government organizations and has been highly rated among major mining companies,? said Robert Humberson.

PTNNT?s commitment to community development has also been demonstrated through extensive projects that include irrigation programs, health programs, business development, and education. ?Our community development performance and initiatives have won a national award for successfully improving community wellbeing. These programs provide the foundation for the community to continue to prosper in the future,? he added. Most communities in the mine area now enjoy better education facilities, water supplies, health facilities, irrigation, employment and business opportunities through programs conducted in partnership with the community and government.

PTNNT understands that one of the main economic drivers of a community is adequate electric power. While PTNNT supports efforts by the government and PLN to provide for those requirements, PTNNT?s power plant is not able to fill those requirements. Although there have recently been rumors circulating that PT Newmont Nusa Tenggara (PTNNT) power plant produces more power than needed by PTNNT, that is simply not true.

?To insure that our construction costs were commensurate with PTNNT?s business requirements, the power plant was designed to fulfill power requirements for our mine, process and support facilities only. PTNNT does not generate excess power.? said Robert Humberson.

PTNNT?s power plant produces power from both coal fired and diesel fired generators to supply power for PTNNT?s 24 hours, 365 days a year operational requirements. ?The power plant was designed based on Batu Hijau?s peak load profile for efficient operation to ensure the project activities and minimize the risk of operational halt due to electrical failure,? said Robert Humberson. PTNNT will continue to work with the community and the government to further improve the well-being of those in the mine area. (end of release)