Local House forms investigation team on Unocal case

The local House of Representatives in the Kutai regency in East Kalimantan has formed an investigation team to help resolve problems between oil and gas company Unocal and the local community, according to House deputy M. Rusmin.

"The House will try to seek a way out that is best for and benefit all sides," said Rusmin, who's tipped to be the next Kutai regent.

Rusmin was responding to increasing calls from non-governmental organizations to shut down Unocal because the company had not provided much help in the development of the surrounding Tanjung Santan area during its 28 years of operation.

Rusmin was quoted by the Suara Kaltim daily as saying that the demand from the local community was just a fair thing.(*)