MRDC 50-Year Commemorative Series - Episode 7: Ulato Avei

Ulato Avei has been instrumental in driving strong governance, community development, and resource benefit distribution as Chairlady of Gas Resources PNG LNG Plant Limited (GR Plant), the landowner company representing beneficiaries of the PNG LNG Plant Site located in Caution Bay, Central Province. Under her leadership, the company has successfully facilitated major royalty and equity payments and delivered key projects through its Community Investment Trust Fund (CITF) Program, supporting the construction of schools, health clinics, multi‑purpose hall, and related essential services that uplift communities and promote long-term sustainable development. GR Plant is managed by the @Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), which oversees all landowner trust entities under its portfolio. MRDC provides strategic management, investment oversight, and governance support to ensure landowner companies are run transparently and sustainably to maximise long-term value for beneficiary communities. A respected senior public servant with more than 25 years of government experience, including serving as Deputy Secretary of the Department of National Planning, Ms. Avei was elected as a director in 2017 and later became the first female chairperson of GR Plant, marking a historic milestone in the company’s governance. Her pioneering leadership has earned national recognition, including the Pioneer Award at the 2024 Power Play Awards hosted by ExxonMobil PNG.