It takes time and collaboration to gain the trust of communities. This lesson learned from Marathon's experience in Equatorial Guinea is guiding development efforts in the Company's new venture on the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia.

 

“It is quite challenging to win people's hearts and minds,” said Robin Reuneker, Marathon's field security operations manager in Indonesia. “But we are taking the time to use a participatory approach to build trusting relationships.

 

“We began talking with the communities several months before starting our offshore seismic work in the Pasangkayu production sharing contract (PSC). The biggest concerns were from fishermen and others whose livelihood would be affected. Together, we developed a compensation plan that has minimized the impact of the seismic work on the communities.

 

“Originally, we had specific development programs in mind. But we soon realized that the communities' needs were different than we had expected. We fostered discussions with all age groups that helped us develop small-scale, collaborative projects focused on the well-being and improvement of the community. We also provided training
and support for making fishing nets and sewing clothes. The communities requested this
type of assistance to generate income and improve their living conditions. About 3,000
people are actively involved in our programs.

 

“We have a strong team on the ground in Sulawesi and support and visibility from
Marathon leadership. All in all, Marathon is building the foundation for long-term
community relations.”