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Papuan native to lead Freeport: Scholar
TIMIKA, Papua: A Papuan figure from native Amungme tribe, Silas Natkime, has secured support from influential Papua People's Assembly (MRP) to lead US-based gold mining firm PT Freeport Indonesia
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IMIKA, Papua: A Papuan figure from native Amungme tribe, Silas Natkime, has secured support from influential Papua People's Assembly (MRP) to lead US-based gold mining firm PT Freeport Indonesia.
Silas, currently Freeport senior manager for Papuan affairs, will take over from the gold miner's current president director Armando Mahler, a local figure claims.
Amungme figure and young scholar Hans Magal told a media conference in Timika on Saturday the historic change of guard would take place soon.
"On behalf of Papuan people I thank the government of Indonesia for entrusting a Papuan native to lead Freeport. I also thank Freeport management for grooming a native to take the company's top post," Magal said.
The MRP has issued its endorsement of Silas' promotion as Freeport Indonesia president director in a letter dated April 20. The Regional Representatives Council (DPD) also support his nomination through its letter dated May 18.
Magal said the appointment of Silas, a DPD member, would end the 46-year wait for native Papuans to play a pivotal role in the operation of their own gold mine, which has been controlled by the US company subsidiary since 1967.
"We will carve out history as a son of Grassberg Mountain will be entrusted to lead PT Freeport Indonesia," Magal said. - JP
