By Magnam Tara
Copyright postcourier
Key stakeholders on Lihir Island have pledged to work together to secure sustainable development benefits for their people as the Special Mining Lease (SML) for the Lihir Gold Project edges towards its 2035 expiry.
The commitment was announced this week by the Nimamar Local Level Government (LLG), the Lihir Mining Area Landowners Association (LMALA), Nimamar Capital Limited (NCL), and the Lihir Tenements Association (LTA).
The groups say they are determined to present a united front in upcoming negotiations with the State over a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
Nimamar LLG President Stanley Tunut, LMALA Chairman James Laketan, NCL Chairman Martin Simol, and LTA Chairman Newman Sana said a stronger and fairer agreement must be reached to ensure long-term prosperity for the island’s communities.
“Our people deserve greater equity and fair representation in the benefits of the Lihir Gold Project,” Mr Sana said. “We are committed to unity, stable leadership, and continuity in addressing both legacy issues and future opportunities.”
The leaders noted that several longstanding grievances with the developer remain unresolved, particularly on outstanding landowner concerns.
They stressed that only a coordinated and collaborative approach would ensure those matters are effectively dealt with.
At the same time, attention is turning to new prospects in the region. The stakeholders welcomed the discovery and potential development of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the New Ireland Basin by Peak Oil.
They pledged to prepare communities to maximise benefits from this future industry.
Mr Laketan said the alignment of Lihir’s leadership was a critical step forward. “Too often, fragmented voices have weakened our position. This time we are united to pursue what is best for Lihir and its people,” he said.
The joint statement underscores a new era of cooperation between landowners, local government, and business leaders, with the focus on strengthening governance and ensuring development outcomes extend beyond the mine’s lifespan.
The Lihir Tenements Association, on behalf of all parties, reaffirmed its commitment to advancing shared goals of sustainability, equity, and long-term prosperity for Lihir Island.
