Petronas confirms survey operations interfered with in Indonesian waters

Petronas has confirmed that its survey vessel was interfered with in Indonesian waters, leading to a temporary suspension of operations as a safety precaution.

The company explained that the Barokah-1 site survey vessel, operated by its subsidiary Petronas North Ketapang Sdn Bhd (PNKSB), was unexpectedly approached by several fishing boats during operations.

In response, PNKSB clarified that it had engaged with local communities beforehand to explain the nature of the activity and assess any potential impact on local livelihoods.

"Prior to the survey, PNKSB had engaged local fisherfolk and authorities to explain the activity and assess potential impacts on fish traps.

"Any affected traps will be compensated once the survey is completed, in line with the agreed process," the company stated when contacted by Malaysiakini.

Additionally, PNKSB confirmed that compensation for fish traps impacted during the 2024 Marine 3D Seismic Survey across the Bangkalan, Sampang, Pamekasan, and Sumenep regions has been fully settled through its appointed contractor, PT Elnusa Tbk.

The oil conglomerate also assured that no personnel were injured in the incident, adding that all survey activities have since been concluded.

PNKSB has affirmed its commitment to full regulatory compliance, saying it will continue collaborating closely with local authorities and communities to ensure safe as well as responsible operations.

Chased away

On Oct 17, approximately 100 traditional fishing boats surrounded and chased away a Petronas survey vessel out of the waters near Ketapang, off the northern coast of Madura Island.

According to footage published by the Indonesian website Tribunnews, a group of wooden fishing vessels was seen approaching the survey ship, surrounding the vessel to prevent it from continuing its activities.

The group of fisherfolk on board were heard shouting at the Petronas vessel, demanding that it stop its operations in the area and leave immediately.

They alleged that the survey operations in the area had damaged their fishing grounds, further demanding that the Petronas ship stop laying down cables on the seabed and recover the ones that had been put down that day.

Indonesian fisherfolk chase Petronas vessel away

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