Misima Minerals Limited, a subsidiary of Ok Tedi Mining Limited, has taken a major step forward in the redevelopment of the Misima Project with the successful arrival of a vessel carrying the first machinery and equipment to commence work on Misima Island on 23 February 2026.
The arrival of the initial mobile equipment fleet — comprising earth-moving machinery, vehicles and essential supplies — signals the start of restoring critical infrastructure to support activities required to complete the feasibility and permitting stage of the project.
These works will be undertaken concurrently with ongoing exploration activities, including finalising the social and environmental impact assessment to meet environmental and mining permit application requirements. This demonstrates Ok Tedi’s commitment to progressing the project responsibly.
Local communities gathered in large numbers to witness the milestone, reflecting strong support, interest and optimism surrounding the project’s renewed momentum.
A welcoming ceremony was held at the landing site at Bwagaoia Station, attended by representatives of the Milne Bay provincial government, the Louisiade Rural LLG, Ok Tedi Mining Limited and community leaders from across Misima.
Speaking at the event, Ok Tedi Mining Limited General Manager for Social Performance and Sustainability Jesse Pile expressed gratitude to stakeholders who have supported the project’s progress from the outset. Consistent with OTML practice, stakeholder engagement from the provincial government level to the district, LLG and mine-associated communities — including local MP Isi Henry Leonard — has been completed and consent obtained.
“This milestone reflects the collective effort of government partners, landowners, community leaders and our parent company, Ok Tedi Mining Limited. Misima Minerals is committed to ensuring that this project becomes more than just a mine. Guided by Ok Tedi’s legacy, we aim to build a social mine — one that places people at the heart of its development,” Pile said.
He reaffirmed Ok Tedi and Misima Minerals’ commitment to fostering strong partnerships, supporting community aspirations and ensuring sustainable, long-term benefits are created for Misima’s stakeholders throughout the life of the project.
“Our goal is to help build positive and lasting legacies for Misima. As we progress through feasibility and beyond, we will continue to work closely with all partners to ensure development is inclusive, responsible and aligned with provincial, district and community needs through their LLG,” he added.
Samarai–Murua District acting administrator Ryan Seta, speaking on behalf of local MP Isi Henry Leonard, reaffirmed the district administration’s full support for the commencement of feasibility studies and initial project set-up.
He commended Ok Tedi Mining Limited for its proactive stakeholder engagement efforts, noting that such inclusive approaches reflect a genuine commitment to shared prosperity for all partners involved.
The arrival of the first equipment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Misima Island. It demonstrates tangible progress towards the redevelopment of the Misima Mine and reinforces Ok Tedi and MML’s commitment to responsible resource development.
