Botten recognised for service to Aust-PNG relations

Oil Search managing director Peter Botten has been awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to Australia-Papua New Guinea relations, particularly in the oil and gas industry.
Chairman Rick Lee congratulated Botten as recognition of his heartfelt and long-standing commitment to building corporate-community relationships in the country.
“Botten has led the company with strength and integrity for 25 years,” he said.
“Botten’s leadership is held in very high regard for making a difference in PNG – not only from an industry level but at a very personal level too.
“As managing director, Peter has fostered a culture within Oil Search that focuses on doing the right thing – not just for shareholders but for all stakeholders, especially local communities in PNG.
“He has ensured that achieving positive social outcomes is at the forefront of Oil Search’s strategy and operations.
“His passion and personal commitment to delivering such change exceeds, by most measures, what is expected in the role.
“As founder and chairman of the Oil Search Foundation, Botten has led pioneering initiatives in the areas of HIV/AIDS management, disease control, child and maternal health, family and sexual violence, gender equality and literacy.
“Under his leadership, Oil Search remains committed to addressing important social issues and aspiring to set the standard for private sector contribution to sustainable development.
“He has promoted deep relationships between PNG and Australia by championing initiatives that have built trust and understanding in both countries.”
The award to Botten, announced as part of Saturday’s Australia Day Honours, adds to his Commander of the British Empire (CBE) award for services to the community, mining
and petroleum industries in PNG.
Botten said: “I believe companies cannot operate in isolation from society if they are to generate goodwill, maintain a moral compass and create shared value between community and business.”