The Minister of Energy at the Prime Minister’s Office, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud officially launched the first shot for the 3D seismic survey on PetroleumBRUNEI’s Block M on 29 June 2009. The ceremony which was organized by Tap Energy (Borneo) Pty Ltd took place in Labi in the Belait District.

In his speech YB Pehin Hj Mohammad expressed confidence that the 3D seismic programme would assist Tap in getting a better understanding of any hydrocarbon potential within Block M. He also stressed the importance of ensuring the community and nation’s interests are well taken care of, in tandem with safety of the operations and protecting the environment.

Also present at the event was the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China Her Excellency Madam Tong Xiaoling, Deputy High Commissioner of Australia Ms Susan Ulrich and Deputy Ambassador of Indonesia Mr Budi Perianto. Members of PetroleumBRUNEI’s board of directors including YM Pengiran Dato Paduka Osman bin Pengiran Haji Patra, YM Awang Haji Morni bin Haji Mohamed and YM Awang Haji Zolkiflee bin Haji Abd Karim also attended the event.

Brunei Darussalam’s first oil and gas production which lasted from 1924 to 1931, with a total production of 33,000 barrels of oil, actually began on what is now Block M. A total of 118 square km of 3D data will be acquired and completion is expected in September 2009.