Since the first event in 2002 the tournament has raised well over US$332,000 - over IR 3 billion, 21 million and 200 thousand - for local Batam charities. It is the fourth year the event has been running.

“Through the generous backing and sponsorship of our loyal customers and supporters, I am proud that together as a community the Batam Charity Bash has been able to raise over US$75,000 for the local islanders this year,” said Steven Roll, president and director P.T. McDermott Indonesia.

McDermott said to ensure the proceeds are used correctly, and to ensure transparency in how the proceeds are spent, the orphanage committee annually evaluates the orphanages on Batam and carefully studies social community projects that require assistance; as well as responding to local disaster relief.

“Through a dedicated charity account established specifically for donations, the orphanage committee ensures effective distribution, and careful and appropriate purchases are made.”

During 2004, McDermott said the committee assisted 6 orphanages and 447 orphans, and hundreds of needy villagers throughout 14 community projects on the island through donations of food, clothing, medicine, improving general living conditions, paying school fees, uniforms, educational books and computers, as well as furniture; and has assisted with renovation and construction of buildings at the orphanages and within the community at large.

Golfers comprising valued customers from the international oil and gas industry, key regional vendors and contractors as well as local dignitaries, travelled from across Asia Pacific to the popular event to support the fund raising effort.