Straits Asia: Appointment of chief executive officer

(March 01, 2010)--Straits Asia Resources Limited announces the appointment of Martin Purvis as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Company, taking over the role from Richard Ong with effect from 1 March 2010. Ong will also retire as a director of Straits Asia with effect from 1 March 2010.

Purvis has been a director of Straits Asia since its initial public offering in November 2006 and was responsible for the original development of the Company?s Sebuku Coal Mine in 1997. He is a mining engineer with more than 25 years experience in the resource industry working in senior management roles in Indonesia, South Africa and Australia. Mr Purvis is currently Chief Executive Officer of PU Asia Pacific Mining, which controls 46% of Straits Asia?s shares.

Purvis and Ong have been working on the CEO succession planning process for the Company with the Board for several months and all parties have agreed that, with the recent release of Straits Asia?s 2009 results, now represents a good time for the succession to take place.

Ong took up the role of Chief Executive Officer of Straits Asia in May 2007. Since that time he has had a tremendous influence on Straits Asia?s strategic development and robust market performance. Ong and Purvis were the key drivers behind the decision to acquire the Jembayan Mine in December 2007 as part of a diversified growth plan for the Group.

The Board of Straits Asia recognises with gratitude the significant contribution that Ong has made to the Group over many years of related service and the positive vision for future growth that he has fostered within the company. The board wishes Richard the best success in his ongoing endeavours and interest. (end of release)