Studies to find new prospects underway: Ministry

By Bernard Loebs

Shell is currently carrying out a study near the Masela block to explore the possibilities of finding new prospects, according to an official at the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry.

Naryanto Wagimin, Upstream Director at the Oil and Gas Directorate, told petromindo.com that Shell is willing to conduct the study as it has an excellent "seismic technology" and "strong financial resources."

Naryanto also revealed that Indika Resources have teamed up with Niko Resources in conducting a joint study near West Aru block operated by BP in Papua. "The joint study has actually been completed. We're waiting for their presentation on the results," he said.

Editing by Dadan Wijaksana