Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has donated K1.25 million to Milne Bay Province to support relief efforts for communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.
Of the total amount, K1 million will go to the Milne Bay Provincial Disaster Committee, while K250,000 will support relief efforts in the Samarai-Murua district.
Ok Tedi hosted a presentation ceremony last Thursday at its Operations Office at Kwalimu Haus in Waigani. The event was attended by Milne Bay Governor Gordon Wesley, Acting Milne Bay Provincial Administrator Ms Sharon Mua, Misima Minerals General Manager Ben Burger, and members of the Ok Tedi Corporate Affairs team.
Ms Mua thanked Ok Tedi for its timely support for relief and recovery efforts in communities affected by the cyclone.
“Your timely support will make a significant difference to families in our most impacted wards across Samarai-Murua district, Maramatana, Huhu, Weraura, Duau, Goodenough and other LLGs,” Ms Mua said.
“The funds will be directed to urgent priorities identified in our initial damage assessment — shelter kits, medical supplies, clean water, food security, and the restoration of basic services.
“The spirit of Papua New Guinea is seen when we stand together in times of hardship. Ok Tedi’s support demonstrates genuine corporate citizenship and care for our people.”
As a 100 percent Papua New Guinean-owned mining company, Ok Tedi said it remains committed to national development and to supporting Papua New Guineans during times of need. The assistance aligns with the company’s long-standing practice of responding swiftly and meaningfully to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies across the country.
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Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr Kedi Ilimbit said the company’s support reflects its national responsibility and values.
“Ok Tedi is a company built by Papua New Guineans, for Papua New Guineans. As a wholly nationally owned mine, we stand with our people wherever they are, especially in times of hardship. Misima is now part of the Ok Tedi family, and our commitment goes beyond investment — we are here to support communities, restore hope, and contribute to rebuilding lives.
“Our nation is strongest when we stand together, and Ok Tedi will continue to play its role in nation building,” Mr Ilimbit said.
Ok Tedi said its recent acquisition of the Misima Mines Project represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth and long-term commitment to nation building. The K1 million support package for Milne Bay Province, together with the additional K250,000 for Misima communities, recognises Misima’s place within the Ok Tedi family and underscores the company’s commitment to contributing positively to the wellbeing of local communities.
In recent years, Ok Tedi has also supported disaster relief efforts across Papua New Guinea, including:
• Mulitaka, Enga Province (2024–2025): Donated K1 million to support humanitarian assistance and long-term recovery efforts following the devastating landslide.
• East Sepik and Chimbu provinces (2024): Provided K500,000 each to assist communities affected by severe flooding, landslides and a major earthquake.
• Middle and Lower Fly, Western Province (2024): Delivered K250,000 worth of food supplies to flood-affected villages.
Ok Tedi said these contributions reflect its ongoing commitment to supporting Papua New Guinean communities during times of crisis.
