Oil palm estates in Irian

JAYAPURA (JP): Two plantation firms, PT Tujuh Wali-Wali and PT Prabu Alaska, intend to open oil palm plantations in Irian Jaya, an official from the Ministry of Forestry and Plantations said on Friday.

Head of the ministry's provincial office Sudjuu said PT Tujuh Wali-Wali has proposed to open a 30,000 hectare plantation in the Lereh subdistrict of Kaureh, Jayapura, and PT Prabu Alaska wants will use 6,000 hectares in the Buruway subdistrict of Buruway, Fakfak.

"Their proposals have been submitted to the Minister of Forestry and Plantations. Land clearing will start soon, if the proposals are approved," Sudjuu was quoted by Antara as saying.

He said the opening of new oil palm plantations will make Irian Jaya the largest palm oil producer in the country.

Several major plantations companies have operated in the province. They include state-owned PT Perkebunan Nusantara II, PT Sinar Mas Group, PT Varita Majutama and PT Korindo, which own 32,000 hectare, 6,000 hectare, 2,500 hectare and 30,000 hectare plots respectively. (cst)