Argo starts gas exploration

JAKARTA (JP): Oil and gas company PT Argo Bomberay Inc., a production sharing contractor of state oil and gas company Pertamina, plans to explore for natural gas in Bomberay, Kokas, Irian Jaya, an official said on Friday.

Subandri Fuad, an official for developmental affairs at the Kokas district office in the Fakfak regency, told Antara that the company's operation was expected to improve the welfare of the people living around the area.

He said the district administration had formulated a program to inform the local people about the company's exploration plan so that they are prepared to accept the company and benefit from its operation.

He said the Bomberay offshore area was believed to contain a large natural gas reserve. (jsk)