BY BEN BILUA
GIZO
The San Jorge Landowners Association [SJLA] has demanded the immediate removal of Johny Zhu, an employee of Far East Resource Company Limited sighting failure to liaise with landowners in certain decision-making processes.
A letter dated 1st September 2025 shows SJLA’s frustration over issues of poor public relationship and communication and failure to contribute to meaningful negotiations over landowners’ benefits.
SJLA allege that the employee’s action has led to issues namely; eroding trust between Far East Resources and landowners which threatens ongoing and future project cooperation, risk to social license and to the company’s operating environment if community grievance remains unresolved and potential legal and administrative escalation as landowners will consider all lawful options to protect their rights and community interests.
In the letter, the Association demand the following action be taken against the employee;
- Immediate cessation of role as middle man, liaison, or any official or unofficial representative engaging with San Jorge landowners.
- Formal review and independent audit of all interactions, payments, and agreements involving the employee since his appointment, with a report shared to the Association within 21 days of the letter.
- Replacement with an accredited, community-vetted representative who has proven public relations experience, a track record of respectful community engagement, and transparent accountability to both landowners and Far East Resources.
- Public apology and commitment from Far East Resources to restore respectful, consultative processes and to negotiate in good faith with the Association.
Fourteen days caveat has been given to Far East Resource Company to confirm the employee’s termination.
An ultimatum was also given to Far East Resource to choose between the employees or jeopardising the San Jorge Nickel Project and community relation.
“If Far East Resources fails to act within the stated timeframe, the San Jorge Landowners Association will pursue all lawful remedies available to us, including but not limited to formal complaints to regulatory authorities, public disclosure of grievances, and initiating legal or administrative action to remove inappropriate intermediaries and protect landowner rights.
“Removing Mr. Johny Zhu is a necessary first step toward restoring trust. We expect decisive action and timely communication,” the association said.
Island Sun understands that the Surface Access Right Agreement to allow Far East Resource Company to enter and operate at San Jorge Island was signed on 18th and 19th of September.
It is unclear whether the employee has been fired since the letter surfaced today, way after the signing of the SARA.
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