Issuu

LABOUR COSTS UP

Upgraded road to improve transportation and essential services between Hela, Enga and other parts of the Highlands provinces

BY ROBERT APALA

UPNG journalism student

THE long awaited Porgera-Tari road connection is now under construction with encouraging momentum as construction teams on the ground work along the longabandoned corridor.

Project manager Standford Tokoya said that the main aim of the project is to complete the road from Porgera, Enga Province, to Tari, Hela Province, but for the first 9 kilometres the construction team is focusing on clearing and restoring the first 9 kilometres of the road which has not been maintained for more than 20 years.

Mr Tokoya said that due to years of neglect, the road has been eroded by continuous rainfall with overgrown bushes covering the road, with most of the gravel pavement having been washed away.

He said that the initial clean up phase is therefore critical to re-establish the road alignment and create a stable foundation for subsequent upgrading and construction activities.

“The Porgera-Tari road is not just another road connection but a significant and strategic link with wide ranging national and regional implications. The route is essential for supporting the gold project at Mount Kare, which is expected to become a major contributor to the regional mining economy”, Mr Tokoya said.

He said that the reliable road access will enable safer and more efficient movement of people with equipment and supplies, thereby supporting explorations and laying

the groundwork for long term development of the resources.

“The road will not only benefit the projects and the mining between Porgera and Tari but it will create a direct connection to Tari Airport, improving transportation of passengers, light cargo and essential services between Hela Province, Enga and other parts of the highlands provinces.” Mr Tokoya added that the improved mobility will enhance the effectiveness of the government service delivery, support emergency operations and broaden economic opportunities for businesses and communities around the project areas.

“The road corridor is important for the communities living along the Hides power transmission and many of these communities have been experiencing limited access to basic services, markets and administrative support due to poor road conditions”, Mr Tokoya said.

He further added that the upgraded Porgera-Tari road will greatly improve accessibility, enabling better monitoring of national energy infrastructure and facilities and more consistent engagement with the communities who support this critical asset.

“In the long term, the road is expected to extend from Tari to Koroba and into Oksapmin and eventually connected to Telefomin.

This future connectivity will create an important inter Provincial corridor, strengthening trade, social interaction and transport reliability into some of the most untouched yet economically promising parts of the highlands region.

“Because of these broader impacts,

PNGIW25 UNDERWAY Porgera-Tari route a vital link

the Porgera-Tari road has been realised as a priority under the Connect PNG Program”, Tokoya said.

“For many residents, the resumption of works shows the

The Porgera-Tari road The road is not just another is not just another road connection but a a significant and strategic and link with wide ranging link with wide ranging national and regional national and implications. The route is The route is essential for supporting essential for supporting the gold project at Mount the at Mount Kare, which is expected which is to become a major to become a major contributor to the regional contributor to the mining economy. economy.

STANDFORD TOKOYA Project manager manager

fulfilment of a vision of the former MP for Lagaip-Porgera Nixon Mangape. The road constriction heading to Tari from Porgera was first initiated by then Chairman of Porgera Development Authority Mr Mangape. His main objective was to connect Porgera and Tari through this vital corridor and now it is being carried forward through the commitment of the project team and backed by the local communities.”

The Porgera to Tari link road connection (below left and right) is under construction and approximately 9 kilometres has already been cleared from Porgera. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

-PENGEE: thedrum@spp.com.pg

ROBBERY GONE WRONG

Three men, armed to the teeth thought they were robbing a passing vehicle at Airvos Avenue, Konedobu on the weekend. They got the shock of their lives when their would be victims turned out to be policemen in an unmark car, who quickly arrested them and confiscated their weapons. They are now behind bars, waiting to face court. Crime does not pay, folks.

PX DOES NOT SEEM TO LEARN

We are getting reports of families waiting to get out of POM to join families in their villages for Christmas, because PX has cancelled their flights. One family reported going to the airport early in the morning for three days last week, after their flights were cancelled each day. One would have thought PX had learnt its lessons from previous Christmas periods to make travelling home for families easier but that is not the case, it seems. Such hiccups does not help the reputation of the national flag carrier.

NO CHRISTMAS PARTIES

There are disappointments everywhere in the public service because the Prime Minister has put a stop to parties for public servants this Christmas. The directive has not gone down well for many but the Prime Minister must be applauded for stopping what use to be a total waste of public funds. Some of these parties cost some government departments over K50,000 or more. Not to be deterred, some schools have raised their own funds to hold their Christmas parties. Thats the way to do, folks. If you really want to party, use some of the K6 billion we are paying you annually on your parties.

WHO’S THE NURSE?

A loving mum fell ill and was hospitalised. Her daughter is a nurse, but her son came along and told the sister that he would handle their mum’s issue. However, when it came to changing the mother’s urine bag, the young man was terrified. He quickly called his nurse sister, who calmly responded: ‘Go get the nurse to assist you.’

SAVED BY THE SICK IN-LAW

The in-law of the sick woman had planned to go home to Rigo. But then she had a change of heart and sent her food parcels with the bus crew to take to the village. She went back to visit her in-law at the hospital. Later in the day, pictures of a road accident on the Magi highway began to circulate on social media. The woman was horrified to learn that it was the very bus that she was to have travelled on earlier that morning. Her decision to stay back and care for her in-law saved the day!

FOOTWEAR FOR HAIR NETTING

A new intern nurse turned up with extension hair and had to scramble to cover up. She quickly turned her operating theatre footwear sock into a hair net. After her shift, she asked a fellow nurse what the sock was intended for – her mate laughed and said, ‘meh, em blo passim shoe.’

NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW

December 01 started with a loud bang for a Morobe MP: Traffic cops pulled him up for an incident involving an unregistered vehicle with expired registration. The leader, famous for his sausages, said: ‘I want to make it clear: no one is above the law. Whether you are a leader or an ordinary citizen, the law applies equally to everyone.’

ROAD WAITING FOR USERS

At the recent grand ICT Summit in Port Moresby, a top Government IT specialist gave a rather interesting analogy. He said; “consider the new ICT innovations we are rolling out as a network of interconnected sealed roads and what we want now are for departments and agencies to plop their vehicles on these roads and drive it”.

RAIN AND DRAIN

It is that time of the year again and the rains are back with a vengeance. It was a particularly dry year right up till October in some parts, November in others, and then December in a few, including NCD, when the skies started darkening up. Whichever is the case, we are now in the eye of the storm and the drains are overflowing everywhere, hence a late warning is sounded here for parents to keep children indoors during deluges, cause fun along drains can quickly turn into disaster and tragedy, as was a recent case involving a boy at 8mile in NCD.

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Peter Korugl

Email: pkorugl@spp.com.pg Ph: 309 1032

CHIEF OF STAFF

Frank Rai Ph: 309 1059

Email: frai@spp.com.pg

BUSINESS EDITOR Ph: 309 1173

SPORTS EDITOR

John Pangkatana Ph: 309 1068

BUREAUS

POM: Marcia Negri Ph: 309 1040

Email: mnegri@spp.com.pg

LAE: Daniel Kila Ph/Fax: 472 4166

Email: dkila@spp.com.pg

KOKOPO: Peter Korugl

Email: pkorugl@spp.com.pg Ph: 309 1032

MT HAGEN: Mal Taime Ph: 542 2602 Fax: 542 3039 Mobile: 76725260 / 72854454

Email: mtaime@spp.com.pg

DIGITAL/ONLINE

DIGITAL DIRECTOR Matthew Vari Email: mvari@spp.com.pg Ph: 309 1054

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K1.5m defamation win

Court awards former judge K1.5 million in damages for being defamed

BY MELYNE BAROI

THE National Court has awarded retired judge Les Gavara-Nanu a massive K1.5 million for being defamed following one of the country’s historical supreme court decisions that decided who the prime minister was.

Mr Gavara-Nanu commenced this proceedings against the then Prime Minister Peter O’Neil, Deputy Prime Minister Belden Nama, Governor of the National Capital District Powes Parkop and the State; for publishing defamatory statements against himself and other judges as a result of a Supreme Court decision that he was a part of, whose decision had the effect of ousting Peter O’Neil as Prime Minister and reinstating Sir Michael Somare who was earlier voted out by Parliament while on extended medical leave.

Parliament has voted for Peter O’Neil as Prime Minister.

That supreme court decision was handed down some weeks before the 2012 national general elections and after Parliament had risen.

Handing down the decision on December 18, Justice Pauline Bre ordered that the damages caused by each member of parliament were valued as: i) Peter O’Neill (the first defendant) for general and aggravated damages at K438,750.00, ii) ii)Belden Namah (the Second Defendant) will pay for general and aggravated damages at K506,250.00 and iii) iii)Powes Parkop (the Third Defendant) will pay for general damages at K337,500.00, Justice Bre noted that the Independent State of Papua New Guinea would pay for the total of these damages; K1,282,500.00 plus other general damages, aggravated damages and a pre-judgement interest of 2% per annum on the above damages valued at K179,550.00 giving a total of K1,462,050.00.00 to be paid by the State.

The K1.5 million to be paid was described as a “vicarious liability” noting that although O’Neill, Namah and Parkop were each responsible for the defamatory statements against former judge GavaraNanu, the State was liable to pay as their

employer (each MP had done the defamation while holding the position of an MP).

The court had heard that after the supreme court decision in 2012, O’Neill and Namah did not accept the decision and issued public statements “discrediting the members of the Supreme Court” who made the decision on 21 May 2012.

The members of the Supreme Court were five senior judges being the then Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia, Justice Nicholas Kirriwom and Justice Les Gavara-Nanu.

The then Deputy Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika and Justice Benard Sakora abstained from making a decision based on ethical grounds.

Before the decision, there was an email sent internally to judges by Justice Kirriwom allegedly saying that the government of Peter O'Neil was illegal.

Applications for recusal made against Chief Justice Sir Salamo and Justice Kirriwom were refused by them.

Justice Les Gavara-Nanu was on holidays at the time of the email and he saw it after he resumed work in February 2012 but “did not think much of it”.

It was noted that there was no recusal application was made against him.

On Thursday 24 May 2012, stormed into Court room 3 followed by some personnel from the military and the police while the Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia was sitting, with Namah shouting "arrest him" to the Chief Justice, who promptly walked out of the Court room.

A video was tendered into evidence confirming this incident.

The incident was widely reported by the news.

Following that, policemen were stationed outside the Court house gates in order to arrest the three Judges for allegedly committing the criminal offence of “sedition”.

According the criminal code Act chapter 262, sedition encompasses actions or speech intended to incite rebellion or disaffection against the established government or constitutional order.

It is considered a serious crime against the state, though less severe than treason.

Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia, and Justice

Kirriwom were arrested and released on bail. Their charges were dismissed. Mr Gavara-Nanu was not arrested but there were threats by the second defendant to also arrest him.

The defamatory statements were reported by local, Australian and regional media including the Post-Courier, Sydney Morning Herald,

The media reports quoted Namah as saying among others that “the judges “should resign and that “they” will be arrested for sedition.

The court noted that “The media and video reports are protected by sections 8 and 9 of the Defamation Act Chapter 293. That protection extends to the journalist and the media company”.

“I am satisfied that the three-defendant high profile public leaders had made public statements that injured the professional and personal reputation of the plaintiff (Gavara-Nanu), a respected judge and upstanding member of society, and the statements were made carelessly and without consideration of its impact to each of the judges that comprised the bench nor its impact in the eyes of the public for the judiciary” Justice Bre said.

“Mr Gavara-Nanu was unfortunately caught up for doing his job by the tense and high politically charged situation that for the first time in PNG's history saw very senior members of the executive arm of government clash with the senior arm of the judiciary.

It was a sad day in our history and good lessons must be learned from it, so it is not repeated

The rule of law must be respected. Leaders must act with considered judgement and address their grievances according to law. It is also a lesson for the judiciary to take note of’’ she added.

“I am satisfied that the plaintiff has provided sufficient evidence from media reports and full-page media releases by the defendants that demonstrates serious defamatory remarks were made which injured his reputation and profession as a senior member of the highest court of Papua New Guinea, the Supreme Court” she added.

Trio pay dearly after attempt to hold-up unmarked cop car

By MIRIAM ZARRIGA

THREE armed men were arrested yesterday morning on Airvos Avenue, Konedobu, after they attempted to hold up what turned out to be an unmarked police vehicle.

The quick-thinking and vigilance of police officers resulted in the apprehension of the suspects, who were allegedly preparing to rob oncoming motorists in the Port Moresby South area.

Police reports indicate that the three suspects were heavily armed, carrying a

homemade pistol loaded with live bullets, a wire catapult with five arrows, and a sharp knife.

The suspects were spotted by officers from an unmarked police unit. The officers, who were on alert, drove towards the men, appearing to be a regular civilian vehicle.

As the police vehicle approached, the officers confirmed the men were armed.

In a swift and decisive action, the officers reportedly opened their doors, surrounded the trio, and apprehended them at the scene. They were caught red-handed with

their cache of weapons.

The three men are currently detained at a police station and are expected to be formally charged accordingly.

The NCD police command has extended its thanks to the dedicated personnel of a police unit and other units that assisted in the successful and safe apprehension of the suspects.

The police stated that their swift action prevented what could have been a serious armed robbery incident in the nation’s capital.

Companies

to

take double

hit under new wages tax regime

FROM PAGE ONE

THE Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) explained that the new motorvehicle benefit valuation under the Income Tax Act will continue to be treated as employment income and not Fringe Benefits Tax.

Payroll tax obligations remain largely unchanged, but the way benefits are valued will shift significantly when the new rules take effect in 2026.

The IRC says the changes make the system clearer, more consistent and fairer.

However, when combined with the new Minimum Wage Determination coming into force next year, businesses are warning of additional cost pressures at a time when margins are already tight.

This report examines the new tax regime, its impacts, and whether it supports or hinders economic growth.

Under the IRC’s clarification, employers must now value a motorvehicle benefit using a uniform formula:

10% of the vehicle’s cost to the employer, or,

10% of its fair market value at the start of a lease.

This annual value is then divided across 26 fortnights for payroll purposes.

Tax is still paid by the employee as part of ordinary income. The employer’s payroll function simply incorporates the new formula.

The new rules also allow deductions that reduce the taxable value of the benefit, including:

Proven business use of the vehicle;

Employee contributions to fuel, servicing or maintenance, and,

Periods when the vehicle is not available for private use.

The IRC argues this creates “clarity, fairness and uniformity,” replacing a system where prescribed values varied and some lease arrangements pushed employees into higher marginal tax brackets.

For some workers—particularly those with lower-cost vehicles—the new system may result in similar or slightly lower taxable benefits when compared to the old prescribed values (around K2,470 to K3,250 annually).

But employees driving mid- to highvalue vehicles may see higher taxable amounts. Because the annual value is tied directly to the vehicle cost:

A K30,000 vehicle means K3,000 taxable value (similar to old system);

A K50,000 vehicle means K5,000 taxable value; and,

A K100,000 vehicle means K10,000 taxable value

Unless there is substantial business use or employee contribution, workers may pay more tax than before.

So while the new system is clearer, it will not benefit everyone equally.

The largest impact on employers will be administrative and cost pressures:

Payroll systems must be updated to apply the 10% formula;

Stricter record-keeping will be required; and,

Businesses may reconsider vehicle perks and shift toward cash allowances or pooled fleets.

Large companies may absorb the changes, but SMEs—already struggling with FX shortages,

higher import costs, and compliance requirements—will find the combined impact heavier.

The new minimum wage determination, will further raise the cost of labour.

With wages rising at the bottom end, businesses will also face upward pressure to maintain pay gaps for skilled and supervisory staff.

In effect, companies will face a “double hit”:

Higher wages, and

Stricter valuation and potentially higher tax exposure on motor-vehicle benefits.

Industries such as security, retail, transport, hospitality, and agriculture—where labour is a major cost component—are expected to feel the strongest strain.

Some employers may respond by reducing non-cash benefits such as private-use vehicles, slowing recruitment, restructuring work arrangements or opting for more casual labour, and or shifting to pooled fleet arrangements instead of individually assigned vehicles.

The IRC argues that the new rules protect employees by removing inconsistent valuations and ensuring fairness.

This is true in principle—especially for workers who previously faced higher taxable values under certain leasing arrangements.

However, in practice, the reform benefits some and burdens others:

Positive for employees who drive lower-cost vehicles, have high businessuse percentages, and make documented contributions to running costs.

Negative for employees who drive high-end or newer vehicles, use vehicles predominantly for private purposes, and cannot meet the logbook or documentation requirements.

For many middle-income employees, the new regime may mean a slight tax increase unless their employer restructures their package.

The answer is mixed but mildly negative in the short term.

Due to the combination of rising minimum wage, higher employment costs, tighter benefit valuation, and existing macro pressures like fuel costs, FX shortages, and slowing non-resource growth, employers are likely to slow hiring and reduce employee perks in the short term.

SMEs, which create most new jobs, may delay expansion plans or reduce staff numbers.

Into the medium-term the combined impact is expected to be neutral to slightly positive if administered well because the new tax rules create greater clarity and certainty, reduced disputes between IRC, employers and staff, and more predictable fiscal outcomes.

A fair and transparent tax system supports long-term confidence but that confidence will only translate into growth if accompanied by improvements in power reliability, logistics, FX availability, SME financing, and infrastructure funding in the 2026 Budget.

Whether this becomes a drag on economic growth depends on the Government’s broader policy mix. If supported by strong probusiness measures in the 2026 Appropriation, the shift may be absorbed smoothly. If not, the added cost pressures could weigh on an economy that is already navigating tight margins and limited fiscal space.

Marape: PNG a safe investment choice

BY GORETHY KENNETH

PRIME Minister James Marape said he will assure the Investment Conference in Sydney this week that Papua New Guinea is a safe and secure investment destination that is open to everyone for business.

Mr Marape travels to Sydney today and will meet his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese to jointly open the PNG Investment Conference tomorrow (Tuesday).

"Historically, for the first time the Australian Prime Minister and myself will be opening the conference," he said.

Both Marape and Albanese will join a dinner meeting organised by the PNG CORE, a body representing

event will be part of a broader initiative to strengthen business confidence and attract foreign investment to PNG.

Mr Marape noted that PNG has a robust free market economy and a democratic system, where all stakeholders – government, investors, and society – operate under a single rule book.

He said he will emphasise that Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a safe and secure investment destination, stating that the country’s track record of honouring agreements is a testament to its reliability and stability.

He will also highlight the country’s long-standing commitment to fulfilling its obligations, citing major projects such as the Lihir and Porgera mines, the PNG LNG project, and the Ramu Nickel project as examples of successful long-term agreements.

“PNG is a robust free market economy,” Mr Marape said.

“We have never, ever dishonoured any agreements we have signed.

“That is a proud testament and record.

Mr Marape noted that the country’s stability and strong legal framework make it an attractive destination for investors.

He emphasised that PNG’s ability to deliver on long-term commitments is a key factor in its appeal to both domestic and international businesses.

"We have never, ever dishonoured any agreements we have signed. That is a proud testament and record," said Mr Marape.

"Once agreements are signed, they run the test of the length of the agreements.

“Our records are there before all to see.

"Our country is a safe and secure investment destination and we will once again highlight this important facts to investors."

"I will also be giving an update on where we are in some of the projects we have lined up – WafiGolpu, P’yang, Pasca – as well as giving an overview into more than 20 different mining and petroleum and gas prospects we have in our country that we will sequence properly.

"This sequence should see PNG enter into a consistent construction phase, for not just one of construction.

“If we sequence them all properly, then they should, at the minimum, bring into the country construction, foreign direct investment, construction dollar, to the tune of anywhere between US$55-70, 80 billion.”

Court steps into H’lands power fray

THE National Court in Mt Hagen has intervened in the long-running power crisis gripping the Highlands, signalling a turning point in how PNG’s electricity woes will be addressed.

Deputy Chief Justice Ambang Kandakasi, who first raised the alarm after a major blackout disrupted court proceedings in August, ordered top executives of PNG Power Ltd (PPL) and Kumul Consolidated Holdings

Ltd (KCH) to personally appear last week.

While PPL fronted up, the court was told that no representative from KCH attended.

Displeased, Justice Kandakasi issued a fresh directive for both PPL and KCH to return to court on March 18, 2026, this time side-byside, to explain how they intend to end the power chaos that has crippled homes, businesses and essen-

tial services for years. For the first time, the two organisations have been ordered to jointly file detailed affidavits outlining their strategic, corporate and funding plans to rebuild the reliability of the national grid.

These documents are expected to provide hard evidence of real reforms—ranging from infrastructure upgrades to coordinated financing models—instead of the usual ex-

change of blame. PPL’s presence in court was seen as a positive marker of renewed transparency and leadership, with the utility signalling that its management is finally tightening systems and correcting long-standing inefficiencies.

Human rights lawyer Danny Gonol, who initiated the case after the blackout halted court operations in August 2025, welcomed the court’s firm stance.

City police conduct awareness on crime prevention

POLICE in National Capital District have carried out a crime prevention awareness campaign over the weekend to curb law-andorder problems and pave way for a peaceful Christmas and New Year seasonal celebrations.

"As we approach the festive season, the police are doing their best to ensure the safety of everyone,”

National Capital District Taskforce Commander, Inspector Jack Wesil stated in a media statement released yesterday.

“Crime prevention awareness is one of the strategies that police officers from each police station and other support units have been encouraged to adopt by the NCD/

Central Command management.”

Insp Wesil said his team has extended the awareness initiative to strategic locations, including Gorobe market, Manu bus stop, Koki market, and Two-Mile Hill — some of the known notorious hotspots in Port Moresby on Saturday.

National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab confirmed that this concerted effort is aimed to curb illicit activities and foster a culture of compliance among citizens. He said utilising state-of-the-art Long-Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) technology, the team, led by lead by himself, effectively disseminated crucial messages to the public,

highlighting the consequences of engaging in destructive behaviors such as vandalism of state property, narcotics trafficking, harboring armed fugitives, and obstruction of justice.

"The collaborative effort was bolstered by the active participation of Badili police officers, ensuring a comprehensive and visible presence throughout the operation,” Metsupt Simatab said.

“As the city prepares for the forthcoming Christmas festivities, this heightened awareness campaign seeks to preempt potential security breaches and maintain a secure environment for all residents and visitors.”

He stressed that access to electricity is a basic human right and that the people of Mt Hagen and the Highlands deserve better than the constant outages they have endured. With PPL showing discipline and KCH expected to meet its financial obligations, the court-mandated partnership could finally end the era of finger-pointing and deliver the stable, reliable power that Papua New Guineans await.

Four die in boat accident returning from end-of-year party

A WOMAN and three men drowned when a boat they were travelling in capsized between the waters of Gereka and Lion Island in Central Province on Saturday, according to police.

They were reportedly returning from a end-of-year function hosted by a company (named) for its staff members on Lion Island.

Metsupt Simatab said key areas within Moresby South were targeted, reinforcing the taskforce's commitment to proactive policing and community engagement.

"I want to thank Commander Taskforce and the Badili team for the proactive policing they have undertaken.

“I want this to be done in all parts of the city so that people are informed of what is happening in and around the city.

“As we approach the festive season, the public is urged to work with the police to help maintain law-and-order in their respective communities," he said.

Pukpuk Treaty

THE Pukpuk Defence Treaty is not healthy for Papua New Guinea, a senior community leader and businessman has warned. Thomas Amaiu from Kompiam in Enga, said yesterday while it may be good for the PNG Defence Force, it was not so for PNG as it is now exposed the country to the increasing geopolitical tension between Australia, United States and China.

‘unhealthy’ for PNG, local leader says

“Our foreign policy is friend to all, and enemy to none, and any treaty, whether they relate to defence or the economy, should be based on this policy,” Mr Amaiu said. The treaty, which was signed between the PNG and Australian governments recently in Canberra, is yet to be ratified by the PNG Parliament.

Mr Amaiu said the government should not forget that China has

contributed immensely to PNG by way of providing loans for infrastructure development, in particular the transport sector, which is now driving economic growth.

“Our people-to-people relationship is good. Just look at the Chinese investments in the country. The Chinese are actually transforming the economic landscape in many of our provinces today,” he said.

Mr Amaiu said the people-topeople relationship with Australia is also excellent, going back many years.

“Look at the involvement of Australians in our day-to-day lives — they are building us and helping us to grow,” he said. “That is the way things should remain, instead of war talks and games.”

He urged Parliament not to ratify the treaty when it is presented.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police, Benjamin Turi, said his officers are investigating the deaths, while the bodies are at Port Moresby General Hospital, along with the other survivors who were rescued by police, St John's Ambulance, and locals who witnessed the incident. He said the team rescued two children on the same afternoon, along with three others, in addition to the four who were rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, the four were pronounced dead by the doctors at the hospital.

He said Water Police officers are on the lookout for the other missing individuals, and they are yet to confirm how many have returned and how many are still missing.

According to information provided to the police, Commander Turi said 25 people left Gereka on Saturday for Lion Island for an end-of-year function that was alleged to have been organised by their company management.

He said of the 25, ten are children.

"I have assigned Criminal Investigation Division (CID) officers to investigate the boat owners and those who organised the event to see if they had taken into consideration the safety of the people they invited when traveling out to sea,” he said.

“It was an unfortunate situation, and I want the relatives of the victims to assist police with the investigation and not blame the Gereka locals or do anything that is not right.

“The party was organised, and those who were part of it are related to each other in one way or another.

“We must not blame innocent people.

“The boat operator must surrender himself to the police and provide his statement on what happened.”

ACP Turi said the National Maritime Safety Authority will work with the police to ensure those who were involved are held accountable for their actions.

He said the investigation team will look at the status of each individual who was on the boat and how many passengers were on the boat when the incident happened.

"This is a warning to everyone who is traveling on small boats to take safety measures before going out to sea. Overloading and boat operators under the influence of alcohol might be some of the causes of the deaths, but we will wait for the investigators’ findings.”

TOP and below: NCD Police conducting the awareness at respective locations in Port Moresby on Saturday. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

WHP petitioned over Unitech student deaths

BY ROBERT TIKI

THE relatives of the two Unitech students who died in a home set alight by arsonists in Mt Hagen three weeks ago have petitioned the authorities in the Western Highlands Province for justice to prevail.

In an unprecedented move, the relatives refused any form of compensation but instead demanded for justice for the tragic deaths of the two young female students and a younger male sibling in the fire.

The relatives travelled from Eastern Highlands to Mt Hagen in a convoy of vehicles and presented the petition to Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa and Hagen Open MP William Duma.

Provincial police commander Chief Superintendent John Sagom was also present at the Mara Haus conference room on Saturday.

Upon receiving the petition, Mr Rapa expressed sorrow in their loss and conveyed the apology and appreciation of the Western Highlands people to them for their decision to address the tragedy in a peaceful manner.

Mr Rapa said the relatives have made an unprecedented move by not claiming any compensation demand.

For this reason I can say that this is an honourable petition. In the traditional Highlands way, if a person dies, compensation is a normal thing that people prefer but in this case, the relatives only demand for justice and nothing

else. This is something rarely seen and experienced , therefore I want to thank the relatives for their understanding,” he said.

The Governor assured the grieving relatives that he will ensure justice is served on the perpetrators.

Mr Duma also echoed similar sentiments, saying he will back police to deal with the perpetrators.

Mr Duma assured them that he will fully resource the police and the investigation team in Mt Hagen to deal with the issue right through till justice is served.

"I want to make it clear that I will fully fund and resource police to carry out a thorough investigation until those involve in the death of the two students are arrested and face the full force of the law," he said.

Mr Duma also revealed he will liase with the police in Konodobu headquarter to work together with the investigation team in Mt Hagen apprend the culprits and put to rest the issue at once and for all if it means to do so.

The two deceased are Tabitha Magimoor of Okapa and Josepha “Jojo” Nuan from Lower Bena in the Unggai-Bena district, both in Eastern Highlands Province.

Josepha is a good friend of Tabita. They both visited Tabita's family in Mokep village in Mt Hagen when they met their fate.

Tabita was adopted and raised by her adopted parents for 22 years in Eastern Highlands but she was recently reconnected to her biological father Thomas Anis from Mokep village.

Families demand accountability for lives lost in arson

BY ERIC SUPA

A PLEA for justice has been made by the families of two University of Technology (Unitech) students, Josepha Nuan and Tabitha Magimoore, who died in a horrific arson attack in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands Province.

The grieving relatives, accompanied by their spokesperson Max Koti, handed over a petition to the Western Highlands Provincial government, demanding full justice and accountability for the heinous crime.

“Compensation is not what we want,” said Mr Koti, emphasising that the families are seeking justice, not financial gain.

“We want the perpetrators to be held accountable for their actions and face the full force of the law.”

The petition, received by Governor Wai Rapa and State Own Enterprise Minister William Duma, has sparked a renewed call for calm and restraint, as the families appeal to the community not to fuel further anger or resentment.

“We urge everyone to remain calm and allow the authorities to do their job,” said Mr Rapa.

“We assure the families that we

petition

will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served.”

Meanwhile, Western Highlands provincial police commander Superintendent John Sagom confirmed that eight suspects have

been arrested and are currently in custody, with more expected to be apprehended as the investigation unfolds.

“We will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice,” said Mr Sagom.

“The people of Western Highlands Province deserve to feel safe, and we will do everything to ensure that those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice.”

BY ROBERT TIKI and MAL TAIME

TWO senior politicians in Western Highlands Province are deeply saddened by the death of three students burnt alive in a local level government election related arson incident in Mt Hagen three weeks ago.

Governor for Western Highlands Wai Rapa and Member for Hagen Open and Minister for State Owned Enterprises William Duma expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the relatives of the students when receiving their petition on Saturday.

Meanwhile, police have arrested two more suspects at the weekend. The arrests brings the number of suspected in custody to eight.

Mr Duma said he is ashamed of the unfortunate death of the two students.

“I was shock and also ashamed of what really happened,” he said. He said the burning to death of the two Unitech students has brought shame to the people of Hagen Central and the Western Highlands Province.

Mr Duma said outsiders had negative perception when they heard of the tragic news.

“People in other provinces think that we Hageners are bad people. However, we are not. We are the peace loving and business minded people,” he said.

Mr Duma said burning people alive is not the culture of the Hagen people.

He said the evil action of few people had tarnished the reputation of the all Western Highlanders.

“We must understand that such heinous action are taken by few people who are sick in their brains.”

Mr Duma said he will make sure to leave no stone unturned on this issue.

“As the leader of the Hagen people, I will make sure to get to the bottom of this issue. That means I will fully support the police and the investigation team to arrest those perpetrators still roaming around to face the full force of the law.

Mr Rapa echoed similar sentiment saying that the death of the two students had painted a bad picture of his leadership.

“Since I took office in 2022, I have tried my best to build my province to progress. WHP is progressing well to this state,” he said.

Mr Rapa said he will give full support to police to arrest those still roaming around to face justice.

Police in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands Province, arrested two more suspects involved in the alleged burning of the house that killed three students three weeks ago.

Two University of Technology students Josepha Nuan with Tabitha Magimoor and a graduating secondary school male student Charles Thomas perished in the fire.

A total of eight suspects have been arrested and are detained at the Mt Hagen police station cellblocks. More arrests are expected as police investigations continue.

Provincial Police commander Chief Superintendent John Sagom said the two additional suspects were arrested on (Saturday).

Mr Sagom said the arrest was made following a successfully negotiations between the community leaders, the suspects and police.

He commended the community for cooperating with police, adding more arrests will be made as police investigation is still continuing.

The relatives of the two deceased presented the petition to the governor Rapa and Hagen Open MP and Minister for SoE William Duma inside the Sir Mara Haus conference room on Saturday. PICTURE: ROBERT TIKI

The

being presented at Sir Mara Haus in Western Highlands Province headquarter. Governor Wai Rapa and Minister for State Own Enterprise and Mt Hagen MP William Duma received the petition over the weekend.

PORT MORESBY TODAY

Hello valued readers.

Continuing from last week’s edition on addressing substance abuse and its effects on the city and its residents, we will be continuing on the effects of that today and address alcohol and its impacts in tomorrow’s edition.

Now, we might ask what substance abuse is. It is the use of a substance (such as alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs) in ways that can cause harm to the individual and also hurt the person’s family and the surrounding community.

With that in mind, we will be covering the different substances, their use and abuse and the relevant laws, penalties and charges that come with it.

Today, we will cover the illicit drugs that are covertly or openly sold in city streets, bars, clubs, hotels, homes and even in the markets.

Our awareness is aimed at you, the reader. We aim to reach the youths and vulnerable young people on how we can safeguard them and change their lives for the better.

Marijuana or cannabis is one type of drug that has been around and is easily accessible, as it is grown locally and poses a great risk to the residents. How we can address this will be discussed in this edition.

DESPITE being the national antinarcotics agency, the National Narcotics Bureau does not arrest, prosecute and incarcerate offenders in the production, trafficking and proliferation of illegal drugs and substances in the country. These are the exclusive mandates of the Police (RPNGC), Courts and the Correctional Services (CS). Rather, the bureau develops and employs policies and programs to create awareness around the many dangers of abusing drugs, including the severe criminal penalties now applicable under the Controlled Substances Act 2021

The RPNG, through its National Drugs and Vice Squad (NDVS) and other specialist police units, deal with all criminal matters involving illegal production, trafficking and consumption of drugs classified as illegal under the same Act.

Coincidentally, the NNB and the RPNGC have footing in the same law, hence the framework for closer partnership and collaboration in an area bearing grave consequences for PNG.

A new campaign is running parallel in both the print and electronic media this month

— highlighting the new severe penalties that carry a maximum sentence of life in prison and court fines of up to K2 million for illegal drug production, trafficking and abuse offenders.

The two foreign drugs of concern on the streets in Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul and elsewhere in recent years are methamphetamine or “crystal meth” (street name) and cocaine.

This is owing to an evolving trend in the past decade that indicate PNG has gradually passed from being merely a transit point for Asian drug cartels targeting the more lucrative markets in Australia and New Zealand to now a producing and consuming hub. But the more prevalent drug of serious concern is the widelygrown and consumed local marijuana that is recorded as having some of the highest THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content in the world.

Due to the local marijuana being much cheaper and easily available on the streets, even in rural communities, it continues to be the illicit drug of concern to the NNB and the NDVS.

CONTAINMENT, PREVENTATION

In the last decade, there has been a direct correlation between the escalating of crime and violence in the country and the proliferation of marijuana and its abuse, compounded with the exponential rise in the production and consumption of illegal alcohol like homebrew.

This has prompted the NNB acting Director General Kiria Kotange to raise the alarm on the escalating incidences of drug trafficking and abuse offending cases under prosecution.

And even more so are the disturbing numbers of druginduced psychotic (mental) cases roaming freely, outside legal and rehabilitative health care jurisdictions in communities.

He said: “The reality is far worse than anticipated. Today, no community in rural, urban or peri-urban PNG is left untouched by the scourge of drug abuse and its accompanying criminal behaviour, lawlessness, violence and social degradation.

“Combined, the situation is grave and demands a full, robust and coordinated action at all levels of government, utilising

Churches urge govt to collaborate on woes plaguing society

BY ROBERT APALA UPNG Communication Journalism Student

avoid police but they know that the churches are there.

of God and have converted many youths to become good law-abiding citizens.

editio

If there is an issue that you would like to bring attention to, do not hesitate to contact us by calling 3091040 and ask for Marcia Negri, or email: mnegri@spp.com.pg

th to to to calli ask for

mnegri@spp

THE escalating lawlessness in the city, especially the alcohol abuse, has put a lot of pressure on the National Government as incidents happening in different parts of the city overwhelm police capacity to response.

Christian Apostolic Church Pastor

Frank Waingi said the government alone cannot address the issues in the communities because youths

Drugs, alcohol testing for cops starts this week

POLICE officers in the National Capital District and Central Provinces will now be tested for drugs and alcohol, according to Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi (pictured).

Commander Turi confirmed that testing machines for drugs and alcohol had been donated to officers, who will be carrying out the tests in the command.

He further added that the Commissioner of Police, David Manning, had launched the alcohol and drug initiative last year, but it was not implemented due to a lack of available equipment.

"Now that we have the machines in place, the Internal Affairs Directorate officers will be moving around to conduct testing on all police officers in the command,” acting ACP Turi said.

“This is good because we want our officers to be in a good state of mind to carry out their policing duties.

“The tests will be administered to police drivers whom we suspect are under the influence of liquor while on duty driving police vehicles.

“The IIU officers have been directed that testing is compulsory for all members in the command to ensure everyone is in the right state of mind when performing their duties.”

He said the alcohol and drug testing machines will be used, and reports will be provided to the management.

ACP Turi said officers who are found to be taking drugs or consuming liquor will be dealt with accordingly.

He said during the launching of the two machines, two officers were tested using the machines to confirmed that they give proper reading.

The readings were all negative.

Pr Waingi said many youths are consuming alcohol and illegal drugs and no one is controlling.

He said churches can influence youths with awareness to be good citizens of God and citizens of this country.

Pr Waingi said there are not many police stations in the city but there are churches in all settlements and suburbs in the city.

He said churches share the Word

“The only way to address the alcohol abuse and lawlessness in the city and throughout the country is to work in partnership,” Pr Waingi said.

“Churches working with the government, regardless of which denomination will drive change.”

Church elder Aupi Lazarus said the CAC is an established church with branches all over the country.

He said the many government policies and laws being made cannot change people’s mindset but the Word of God can.

“We do a lot of church outreach programs in notorious communities and people listen to what we say.

“For many years churches have played the big role in changing the mindset of the people but the government has not realised that. Churches can solve the issues because they move with the word of God”, Mr Lazarus said.

BY PAUL MAIMA

CANNABIS (or marijuana) grows and flourishes like any other vegetables in the high altitudes, especially in the Highlands region of Papua New Guinea. The controlled substance labelled illegal by the Government has a huge economic value that tempts people to trade with it.

Marijuana cultivation, use and its impacts in PNG society has increased recently.

The consequences have been drastic affecting youths in every community across PNG. It is now creating a major social and health problem that requires the collective efforts of everyone to solve.

In the remote villages and places that do not have visibility of law-enforcing agencies, the

consumption rate of marijuana is quite high. Young school-aged children and adults smoke it.

The “drug bodies” (addicts) are ruling communities and societies in the Highlands region — even using force to be elected as councillors.

Some who are addicted are not in good health. It has affected their reasoning skills, visibility and some have lost their senses.

One, who requested anonymity, said: “The smoke that we inhale gives us a calm, happy feeling; we want more of that feeling”.

A dealer said: “We know that it is illegal to sell (marijuana) but due to the high demand, the money wins us over.”

Marijuana makes its way into Port Moresby by air, sea and land. There are several locations around the city, especially in the

proximity of the settlement areas, where marijuana is sold in public. Despite law-enforcing agencies continuing efforts to curb the production, sale and consumption of the illegal substance, no one seems to care.

Those who are caught by the law pay a hefty price, including conviction and imprisonment. Awareness of the consequences did not deter those who are engaged in the cannabis trade. Although there is no official statistics available in PNG on the number of marijuana addicts in our society, it is exponential. It is alarming to see a growing number of youths involved in the consumption of marijuana in

A SUCCESSFUL combined education and awar awar Narcotics Bureau and the NCDC Youth Desk at Narcotics Bureau and the NCDC Desk at hotspot area in Port Moresby city known for d area in Port known for d

AND ENFORCEMENT OF DRUGS

all resources at disposal, with the enabling powers of the law and its combined enforcement, prosecution and rehabilitative

functions under the ambits of the respective instruments of State.”

Mr Kotange said starting this year the NNB has re-strategised and is earnestly pursuing a dual approach to address the very real menace of abuse and addiction.

The first step was to establish a national network grid encompassing inter-government agencies, businesses and key social sector operators with the churches.

“That is work in progress but we are making significant progress, including the establishment of a Narcotics Desk in Bougainville’s Department of Justice and Legal Services in July,” Mr Kotange said.

“Others pending conclusion include a tripartite agreement with the National Youth Development Authority and the PNG Council of Churches, the NCDC and the Central Provincial Administration.

“We mooted the concept of a partnership approach to provincial administrators during a conference hosted for them last year and we are systematically approaching each

one,” he said. Mr Kotange said the underlying reason has always been critical resources and manpower constraints to go nationwide but NNB is innovating to overcome these shortcomings.

“As you would appreciate, the NNB in its present form, cannot independently contain and address the escalating drug abuse and addiction situation in the country.

“And especially now with increasing cases of the prevalence of highly addictive synthetic drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine (crystal meth),” he said.

He said the growing body of evidence that organised drug cartels are either operating in the country or targeting and using PNG as their transit point is a worrying trend.

“Therefore, collaboration is our hope of realistically dealing with the growing proportion of the youth bulge that are regularly abusing drugs with impunity,” he said.

Mr Kotange said the second plan of action is to expand NNB’s operations to the four regions via regional establishments and then cascade into individual provinces and districts.

This will ensure total coverage and presence throughout the country. According to him, the strategy is simple. Through partnerships, NNB will utilise existing infrastructure, logistics and manpower on the ground. That also applies to established systems and processes.

Essentially, it is about alignment with police, courts, CS, health, education, municipal authorities, provincial administrations and district authorities wherever they are.

It is an inherent part of NNB’s expansion and modernisation program that we anticipate to get underway starting this year with the project to be piloted in the Southern Region first.

The expansion will be rolled out in two stages.

Initially it will culminate in the establishment of 27 provincial offices, and then cascade into the 89 district authorities.

He said it is in-line with the NNB’s strategic plan and catered for within the established organisational structure in response to the dire situation facing the nation.

The long-term objective is to

Palma warns of cannabis crisis

BY PAUL MAIMA

FORMER Kerowagi MP Bari

Palma (pictured) has raised alarm about the rising negative effects of cannabis consumption in Chimbu Province and other centres in Papua New Guinea.

He urged the National Government to provide alternative policy measures to deter this epidemic from destroying the future generation.

“Our society is now being taken over by marijuana addicts and we must address this as it is already taking a toll on our communities,” Mr Palma said.

He said marijuana farming is happening everywhere in the country and it is easily available to youths.

Speaking to the Post-Courier last Friday, he said law-enforcing agencies are finding it hard to curb because most of the offenders are in remote villages.

Mr Palma said everyone knows the dangers of drug use.

“We have seen many of them (users) losing their minds and even roaming the streets naked,” he said. “Some are being killed too — yet their peers continue to use it.

“The government has to prioritise its policies for youths and engage them for a positive impact in our

society.

“We have a lot of school dropouts and with the rising unemployment rates in Papua New Guinea and much time on their hands, the youths getting involved in illicit activities.”

Mr Palma said if the government provides avenues for increased participation in socio-economic activities such as sports, small medium enterprise (SME) and open up the spaces in schools for TVET training for formal employment, the nation can overcome the difficulty in addressing the unemployment and drug issues.

“It is scary; the government must empower our LLGs, village courts officials, and peace officers at the community level to address this problem,” he said.

According to Mr Palma, drug addicts have entrenched PNG society and the government needs to uproot the problem.

He said more funding should be allocated to properly equip community peace officers, police, and magistrates,including the churches, to address the problem.

“It’s a growing culture that needs to be nipped in the bud.”

of cannabis and its negative impact

most villages, with some walking around like living zombies in a Hollywood blockbuster.

Their communities view them as “drug bodies” who cause violence and contribute to the law-andorder breakdown.

Due to the severe health impacts of marijuana use on people, the government of PNG has criminalised it as an illegal substance.

Those who cultivate, sell, are in possession or consume marijuana are at risk of facing the law.

Under the Controlled Substance Act 2021, those in possession of K2.5 kilograms of cannabis and above can face life imprisonment and/or be fined K26,000 to

K2,000,000.

The Cannabis And Public Health Edition issued in February 2024 revealed that cannabis use can have permanent effects on the developing brain when use begins in adolescence, especially with regular or heavy use.

The report said cannabis use has been linked to a range of mental health problems, such as depression and social anxiety.

People who use cannabis are more likely to develop temporary psychosis (not knowing what is real, hallucinations, and paranoia) and long-lasting mental disorders, including schizophrenia (a type of mental illness where people might see or hear things that aren't

establish NNB presence nationwide in support of the Police as a deterrent to the criminal elements who are peddling illegal drugs in the country.

The present dire national situation compels this extensive and intensive collaborative and expansion approach to arrest the criminal proliferation of illicit drugs and substances in PNG.

“We cannot deny anymore the glaring fact that youths, even primary school children and younger, are abusing illegal drugs, especially Marijuana, in public with shocking impunity.

“The detrimental effects of abusing dangerous drugs and substances goes well beyond the obvious and manageable social, health and law & order issues.

“And if PNG is saddled with a generation of chronic drug addicts, it can potentially exacerbate the socioeconomic decline that is prevalent today,” he warned.

According to Mr Kotange, the indicators point at a potential crisis, and unless PNG acts immediately to address it, the collective future aspirations of this nation is at stake.

HAVE YOUR SAY... With the increase of substance abuse resulting in a lot of law-and-order issues, how do we address this?

To address this, I think it must start at home. Families play a critical role in guiding and supporting their children and even adults who may be struggling with stress or personal problems. Parents and guardians need awareness and training to recognise the early signs of substance use and intervene before the problem grows.

“From my point of view, the health department needs to invest more in awareness so that the public knows how harmful these drugs are. When there is no proper awareness, people start practises which cause harm to their health. The lack of knowledge is one area that needs to be addressed. Every parent also needs to strictly monitor their kids and what they do in their daily life. When there is no proper parenting in the homes, that’s when children start hanging out with their peers and get involved in such activities like drinking alcohol and taking drugs.

The law and order issues in the city and throughout the country is mainly caused by alcohol. The government should monitor brewers for how much volume of alcohol and its alcoholic content they produce. Cheaper alcohol selling in the settlements means people can drink more for less. The outcome of consuming cheap alcohol is violence against women, ethnic clashes, properties being damaged, people getting killed and ended up at the police station and the worst part is that people ended up dead.

JERUSHA OMBA

JUNIOR SIMON

JEFF TINDIWI

eness program conducted by the National reness program conducted the National t the Faole community at Erima Flyover, a t the Faole community at Erima a drug dealing and consumption and consumption.

The association between cannabis and schizophrenia is stronger in people who start using cannabis at an earlier age and use cannabis more frequently.

THE health effects of marijuana use.

A MATURE marijuana plant.

Paita unveils plan to tackle Morobe’s power crisis

BY GORETHY KENNETH

MOROBE has a critical electricity crisis, and Governor Rainbo Paita has announced a multi-faceted plan to boost energy security and economic growth in Lae and the wider province.

Governor Paita has confirmed that power reliability remains the most urgent challenge facing businesses and communities in Lae and Morobe Province, but pledged a comprehensive strategy to restore stability.

The governor outlined immediate actions, including grid upgrades, a 100MW solar plant in Wawin, and a 20MW hydro project, emphasising

Calls for Angau to become standalone level 6 hospital

BY GORETHY KENNETH

MOROBE Governor Rainbo Paita has called on the National Government to immediately separate Angau Memorial Provincial Hospital from the Morobe Provincial Health Authority and elevate it to a level 6 standalone specialist hospital, citing an alarming decline in essential health services.

In a formal letter to Health Minister Elias Kapavore, Governor Paita highlighted systemic failures at ANGAU, including prolonged stockouts of essential medicines, non-functional sterilisation units, reduced ICU capacity, failure to maintain critical equipment, and chronic administrative weaknesses.

He described the situation as a “structural failure” requiring a structural solution.

To address the crisis, Governor Paita recommended establishing ANGAU as an independent Level 6 hospital with its own CEO, a dedicated ring-fenced budget for specialist operations, and the appointment of a non-clinical COO to stabilise procurement and logistics.

He proposed that the MoPHA Board maintain oversight during the transition to protect referral pathways.

The Governor reaffirmed the Morobe Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthening the provincial health system— including district hospital upgrades, a new Level 5 provincial hospital, and pharmaceutical manufacturing partnerships—while also supporting private hospital investment in Lae to expand specialist care.

Mr Paita urged the National Government to act urgently, stating that temporary fixes are no longer enough and that decisive structural reform is required to restore confidence in the region’s health services.

full government support to secure energy for industry and residents.

Paita has written to the Lae Chamber of Commerce highlighting the issues affecting businesses in Lae and Morobe Province.

“I would like to outline concrete actions that my Administration is already taking — and will continue to take — to move Morobe forward.

This includes; 1. Power – the most critical issue The biggest challenge confronting us — power reliability and I want to assure the business community that I will work closely with PNG Power Limited and will provide full provincial government support to address the major power issues in Lae.

Our strategy is multi-layered:

Grid Upgrades for Lae We will support PPL to upgrade the outdated Lae grid, which is currently overstretched and cannot sustain industrial demand.

100MW Solar Plant – Wawin Integrated Special Economic Zone We will progress a 100MW solar power plant in the Wawin Integrated Special Economic Zone that will significantly stabilize supply into Nadzab, Lae and the Markham Valley.

Burum–Kuat–Mongi Hydro Power We are starting with the 20MW Power Purchase Agreement already before the PPL Board, pending an independent assessment by KPMG on tariff rates. We are progressing the full hydro scheme to deliver long-term stability.

Exploring Wind Power in Sialum We are also assessing the viability of wind turbine farms on the Sialum coastline.

Waste-to-Energy Plant We are working with two major Chinese state-owned companies — Shenzhen Energy and China State Construction — on a waste-to-energy power plant outside of Lae

The team is already on the ground finalising the feasibility study.

Morobe Will Not Be a Bystander.

Power is the backbone of economic growth.

Under my leadership, Morobe will not be a bystander in the energy sector.

We will be stakeholders, investors, and co-owners.

Our long term goal is to make Morobe a green energy province.

Morobe Governor pushes feasibility study for Lae pharmaceutical plant

BY GORETHY KENNETH

MOROBE Governor Rainbo Paita has announced plans to conduct a feasibility study for a local pharmaceutical plant in Lae, in partnership with the National Department of Health and various international companies.

In a letter to the Lae Chamber of Commerce on issues challenging Morobe Province, Paita said that if the project proved viable, the Morobe Provincial Government (MPG) will secure land and contribute equity, while the Department of Health will serve as the off-taker for generic drugs.

He described the project as a transformational initiative with the potential to significantly boost PNG’s pharmaceutical sector and create jobs and economic opportunities in the region.

Under my 100-Day Plan:

spend an entire day at Angau hospital

We must understand all issues and fix them urgently;

Generic drug supply MPG will establish a backup generic drug supplier to prevent shortages;

Level 4 hospital upgrades we will: •

Upgrade all level 4 hospitals and reduce referrals to Angau Hospital • Support Menyamya and Kabwum • Ensure Bulolo has full staffing • Resolve power issues at Mutzing • Upgrade Braun Hospital to Level 4 ;

Katim Tasol Rural Health Posts I will budget K20 million next year to build 20 rural, prefabricated health posts in partnership with the German Government. Private health care we encourage private health providers to establish operations in Lae; and Pharmaceutical manufacturing.

I am pleased to announce plans to conduct a feasibility study for a local pharmaceutical plant in Lae in partnership with the National Department of Health and various international companies. If viable, the MPG will secure land and contribute equity whilst the Department of Health will be the off-taker for generic drugs.

“This can be a transformational project for PNG. I want to assure LCCI, the business houses, and the people of Lae that Morobe is open for business.

“And under my leadership, Morobe will not be a spectator, we will be an economic powerhouse and we should be providing leadership to the business and industry in PNG.

BY ROSE BOBOLA

IN commemoration of the international persons with disability day in Lae, last week, the Morobe Disable Agency (MDA) highlighted a number of areas which they would like to see a change in to make their lives easier. Representatives from this special group all emphasised on the lack of opportunities available for their community, the lack of accessibility they face when moving around and urged to be treated equally by all. MDA president, Benedict Hipom mentioned a number of activities that the agency hopes to accomplish next year, starting with a survey to collect data of persons living with disabilities in the province, having a designated space for persons with disability when the Lae market, currently under construction, reopens and setting up of a provincial disability committee

among other plans.

Mr Hipom said, although he knows they cannot achieve all their plans within the one-year span, it is good to have something in place so that they can work towards achieving them over time, with support from the government and their sponsors.

An advocate for the disability community and lead singer of the Jokema band, Honlly Isaac also appealed to the relevant and responsible bodies to consider the accessibility and equal opportunities for persons living with disability.

The day was an initiative of ADRA International and supported by other NGOs and church organisations and was commemorated under the theme “Fostering disabilityinclusive societies for advancing social progress”.

It shone a light on the challenges faced by people with living with disabilities in the country,

and highlighted the need for inclusively and accessibility for this community.

ADRA’s GEDSI officer, Durida Sisire said this year’s theme simply means to build a world where everyone belongs.

“It’s about creating communities where people with and without disabilities live, work and grow together, where every person’s gift helps move society forward,” Ms Sisire said.

ADRA signed a partnership with the Morobe Disable Agency (MDA) in May this year and has since been helping them enhance their capacity and skills in terms of building their governance and structure.

The MDA is working with partners towards an inclusive future for persons living with disability, especially in terms of income generating options and equal opportunities for this community.

“I look forward to continued partnership as we work together to make Morobe Great and build a province that is efficient, safe, competitive, and prosperous for all.”

AT A GLANCE

Under my 100-Day Plan: spend an entire day at Angau Hospital We must understand all issues and fix them urgently; Generic Drug Supply MPG will establish a backup generic drug supplier to prevent shortages; Level 4 Hospital Upgrades

Morobe celebrate international persons with disability day. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Butuka academy hosts first HSK exam

BY ILEEN NAKRA

MORE than 30 students of Butuka Academy in Port Moresby who are also studying Mandarin, the official Chinese language, had participated in the first ever HSK examination hosted by the school recently.

HSK an abbreviation for Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi in Chinese language, means Chinese Proficiency Test’ in English when translated.

According to HSK exam’s chief invigilator Zhao Zhiqiao, seven male and 29 female students from grades 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 sat the HSK exam.

Mr Zhiqiao, said that the HSK or Chinese Proficiency Test is the official standardised test of Chinese language proficiency for non-native speakers, administered by Centre for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC), Ministry of Education of China.

Organised under the guidance of the Confucius Institute at Papua New Guinea University of Technology, the HSK exam was supervised by Mr Zhiqiao, as the chief invigilator and Ms Xing Xinrui as an accompanied

invigilator.

Both teachers were from the Confucius Institute and have extensive experience in Chinese language teaching and assessment.

“This event received strong support from the leadership of Butuka Academy, whose cooperation ensured the smooth organisation of the examination.

Moving forward, Butuka Academy will become an official HSK test centre in Port Moresby, providing long-term access to standardised Chinese proficiency testing for local learners,” Mr Zhiqiao,said.

The launch of the HSK test in Port Moresby is of great significance.

It provides local students and professionals with a standardised pathway to evaluate their Chinese language ability, supports applications for scholarships, study opportunities, and future careers involving China–PNG cooperation, and marks an important milestone in strengthening cultural and educational exchange between the two countries.”

China donates essential medical supplies worth K2m KTF continues to support communities across PNG

FOR 23 years, the Republic of China has been sending medical teams to Papua New Guinea to strengthen cooperation and support the development of the country’s health sector. As part of this long-standing partnership, each visiting team donates essential medical supplies to the hospital.

Last Friday, Port Moresby General Hospital received K231,532.30 worth of medical supplies from the 15th China Medical Team, who began their mission in October.

Acting Health Secretary, Ken Wai on behalf of the Health Department received the donation and expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for their continuous support.

“It is our hope that this donation will play a vital role in improving medical conditions here, directly benefiting the local population,” he said.

Chinese Ambassador to PNG, Yang Xiaoguang stated: “The Chinese medical teams work closely with their local counterparts to provide quality medical services and training to the people of PNG, and their service is widely recognised and commended.

We would like to continue such cooperation and send more doctors in the fields of public health and traditional Chinese medicine to PNG in the future, and expand the scale of the Chinese medical team to PNG.”

Director Medical Services Dr Kone

Sobi also expressed gratitude to the China Medical Team and the ongoing collaboration for the past 23 years.

He said significant improvements in the neonatal intensive care unit and a renewed commitment to specialist healthcare locally.

He also acknowledged that there are areas still under development with the support of the China Medical Team, including urology, neurosurgery, cardiology, stroke care, and cancer treatment.

The donation is made up of medical supplies and equipment, ranging from electric operating tables, therapeutic apparatus, surgical instruments, surgical consumables, medical consumables and dental instruments.

Each item has been selected with care intended to support the dedicated clinical work at Port Moresby General Hospital.

WITH Strong partnerships and the spirit of Kokoda at its core, the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) will continue advancing education, health, equality and leadership outcomes for communities across Papua New Guinea.

Today, KTF’s impact is felt across the country:

Operating 16 FODE centres which enrol more than 4000 students - offering second chance, and in many cases, the only chance - for young Papua Guineans to complete their high school education and move into teacher and nursing training, Operating Balimo College in Western Province (the province’s first ever DHEST accredited tertiary institute) in partnership with SDP, and supporting the Modawa Institute in Northern Province, now training over 300 teachers and nurses annually, Delivering Early Childhood and Primary education programs in over 120 schools in PNG, with students showing measurable gains in literacy and numeracy,

Supporting 14 health centres in Northern Province, helping more than 120,000 people to access primary healthcare, family planning, routine immunisations and child and maternal health services, KTF’s Project Zero operates Northern Province's only Safe House supporting more than 100 survivors of violence each year to begin new lives, while also training almost 300 new counsellors across the province, and KTF’s Archer Leadership Development Program, now with 120 alumni, is shaping a new generation of PNG’s leaders.

KTF Chair, Ian Kemish said: “All of this work is rooted in the core principle that has always defined KTF: partnership. We don’t arrive with blueprints; we work with communities, listening first and acting alongside. That model, in many ways, mirrors the evolution of the PNG–Australia relationship itself.

“[The Ralph Honner Leadership Oration] is always a highlight

of the KTF calendar: a moment to reflect, to honour, and to look ahead at what we can achieve together.”

KTF is an international development organisation working alongside people and communities in Papua New Guinea to improve lives, livelihoods and futures through work in the vital areas of education, health, equality and leadership. For more than 20 years, we’ve been keeping the friendship between Australia and PNG and the spirit of Kokoda alive. KTF is a member of the Australian Council for International Development and has full accreditation with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trades’ ANCP program; their high standards for operation are integral to everything we do. We work with a broad range of government, corporate and philanthropic partners and supporters to effect real impact.

From (L - R) : KTF Head of Partnerships and Development, Anita Russell, KTF COO Mike Nelson, KTF Board Chairman Ian Kemish AM, KTF board director Peter Aitsi, Senator the Penny Wong, KTF CEO Dr Genevieve. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

CHINESE Ambassador to PNG, Yang Xiaoguang and acting Health Secretary, Ken Wai following the signing of the donation. PICTURE SUPPLIED

YU TOK

MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2025

Direct fee subsidy to tertiary students

It is around this time of the year when parents around the country are starting to ask how much they will have to pay in schools fees for their children next year.

For students in primary to secondary schools, their parents do not have to worry as the government took over this responsibility, leaving parents to spend their time gambling and doing everything that is not related at all to the education of their children, since the Tuition Fee subsidy program was established by the Peter O’Neill government more than a decade ago in the country.

The 2026 budget, passed by Parliament recently earmarked K5 billion on education cost. Of that allocation, the Tuition Fee subsidy took K860 million for students in primary to secondary schools throughout the country.

That is nearly a billion kina every year we have spent on paying the education cost of students in the primary and secondary level of our education system. That is a lot of cash and we have to seriously look at the returns we are getting from this huge investment.

Are we getting the results we want? The ongoing narrative on the drop in standards and in the value of education among parents and students have been attributed directly to the government sponsored fee policy.

Compared to that, those going to colleges and universities got K157 million under the TESAS and HELP schemes for 2026.

We join those who argue that of the more than 30,000 grade 12 students coming out of school every year, less than 10,000 will go on to colleges and universities and these are the students that deserve full support from the government.

Parents are paying between K15,000 to K30,000 per child in the tertiary institutions and they are the ones that really need the support, while the fees for students in primary to secondary schools are very low and affordable. Parents are just too lazy to raise the money and are expecting others to shoulder the cost.

We believe a 100 per cent fee subsidy scheme for tertiary education will also act as an incentive for students in secondary schools to do very well to aim for tertiary qualifications.

LETTER OF THE DAY

Toroama made the right call

PEOPLE from around the country including Bougainvilleans are not happy with the Government’s prolonged delay process in granting independence to the island of Bougainville.

The longer the Government takes with too many excuses and delays in granting independence to the people of Bougainville the more frustrated the people of Bougainville become.

The PM, Minister for Bougainville Affairs including all Members of Parliament must take a moment of silence and take the case of Bougainville as their own and they will definitely know how painful and inflicting it is like.

Let’s put it the other way - what would the son do if his parents strongly oppose him or say “NO” to marry the girl he loves. Would the son be happy? Of course not.

Likewise - the President of Bougainville and his people are eager for independence than anything else.

That’s the point and the whole idea behind all the past and present fuss of Bougainville. Common sense must prevail.

Please let us all have pity for the President of Bougainville and his people and rally behind them and let their wishes come true sooner without much delay. In a recent news headline in one of the daily papers titled: ‘27 ELECTION MAY BYPASS B’VILLE - TOROAMA WARNS*

However, news in part reads ... National elections may not take place in Bougainville in 2027 if the State continues to disregard core Joint Supervisory Body (JSB( resolutions, Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama warned yesterday”.

That is a clear sign of

anger and frustration by the President of Bougainville.

Well, this a right call by President Toroama because we are all human beings and at times lose patience and pour out what is inside us.

As an individual, I will still enjoy water from my village creek, will still enjoy fresh garden food from my garden and will not going to lose a single thing if Bougainville gets independence.

What the Government and our national leaders are doing is as if they will be going to lose all their riches if they grant Bougainville independence.

Please share a thought and put yourself in the same boat as Bougainvilleans and you will feel what they feel. “Mi gat bikpela bel sore long ol manmeri blo Bougainville”

PAUL MINGA

Power problem in East New Britain

AS a resident of East New Britain, I am deeply concerned about the ongoing power supply problems that continue to disrupt daily life in our province.

Frequent blackouts, unreliable electricity, and limited access to power in remote areas have become major obstacles to economic development and quality of life for many.

Small businesses, families, and essential services like hospitals are all suffering due to the lack of a stable power supply.

We urgently need a plan to expand the national grid to rural areas and invest in renewable energy solutions like solar, hydro, and geothermal, which are abundant in our region. It’s time for the government to prioritise sustainable power solutions and partner with local communities to bring reliable, affordable electricity to all areas of East New Britain. We cannot continue to rely on expensive and polluting diesel generators.

I hope this issue gets the attention it deserves, and that our leaders will take swift action to address the power crisis.

PNG security priorities: Internal security first

THE inaugural trilateral Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Port Moresby between Papua New Guinea, Australia, and Indonesia marks a milestone in regional security cooperation.

Discussions focused on joint maritime patrols, disaster response, aviation safety, and training exercises aimed at improving operational readiness.

While these partnerships can bring benefits, Papua New Guinea must prioritise internal security over external defence engagements. The country faces urgent domestic challenges, including illegal fishing, tribal and criminal conflicts, border insecurity, and limited disaster response capacity. These issues directly impact citizens’ safety

and national stability. Allocating scarce financial resources to external security arrangements risks weakening domestic security and diverting funds from areas of critical need.

Benefits and Limitations of Trilateral Cooperation

The trilateral meeting offers access to joint exercises, training programs, improved monitoring of PNG’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and faster disaster response through coordinated practices. However, these benefits must be weighed against significant risks: Internal security neglect: Over commitment to external operations may reduce the capacity of police, coastguard, and intelligence services.

Sovereignty concerns: Agreements must not compromise PNG’s autonomy or constitutional protections.

Geopolitical entanglement: Close alignment with stronger regional militaries could involve PNG in disputes outside its national interest.

Financial opportunity costs: PNG’s limited defence budget should primarily address domestic threats.

Recommendations

Internal Security First: Invest in police, coastguard, intelligence, and disaster management capabilities before committing to external operations.

Parliamentary Oversight: All trilateral agreements must be

tabled, costed, and reviewed by the Foreign Affairs & Defence Committee prior to ratification. Time-Bound, Transparent Agreements: Ensure external cooperation is limited, with clear objectives, opt-out clauses, and measurable outcomes.

Public Consultation: Engage communities and provinces to explain benefits and receive feedback.

Call to Parliamentary Action “That this Parliament: Notes the PNG–Australia–Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Meeting; Requests the Ministers for Defence and Foreign Affairs to table all documents, costed assessments, and legal advice within 14 sitting days; and

Directs prioritisation of internal security capacity-building to safeguard PNG’s sovereignty, stability, and citizen safety over external defence commitments.”

Conclusion Regional partnerships can support PNG’s security, but domestic priorities must come first. Parliament must ensure that all security arrangements reinforce internal stability, protect national sovereignty, and maximise the impact of limited financial resources. Internal security first is not just a policy choice - it is a national necessity.

STRATEGIC SECURITY PLANNING ANALYST

Seeking financial assistance

THE School Board Hierarchy of the proposed Kainantu Christian Grammar School (formally known as Tuempinka Grammar School) urgently needs financial assistance to do its registration.

Kainantu Christian Grammar School is yet to be registered with Accelerated Education Ministries, Australia.

The registration is one of the prerequisites to establish the school that will be using Accelerated Christian Education Curriculum (ACE).The Accelerated Education Ministries is an agency that is responsible to provide ACE materials and resources to newly and established schools that utilised

ACE Curriculum throughout Asia/ Pacific region.

Therefore, the School Board Hierarchy of proposed Kainantu Christian Grammar School needs your financial assistance of 550 Australian dollars, which is equivalent to K1,537.02 for registration. We are really in desperate need of this money before the official school’s commencement next year (2026). So, we are keen to register early as to get us prepared in advance. Part of the early preparations is to provide training to men and women who are interested to teach ACE Curriculum in our school. Further, to acquire essential materials,resources, and

to ensure that appropriate facilities are readily available.

The proposed Kainantu Christian Grammar School will be the one and only school that will be utilising ACE Curriculum in Kainantu town. And we are determined to provide quality and standard education to those students who will be attending our school.

Therefore, your timely financial assistance towards this worthy cause will be highly appreciated.

Focus on enforcement of current laws

OUR leaders and bureaucrats continue to look at changing laws, updating policy and amending regulations. The justification for all of this is to strengthen PNG and help to address some of our challenges.

Yes. All of this is important.

But for the last 50 years, PNG has had many relevant and appropriate laws, regulations and policies to steer our country. But look where we are. All of the laws and regulations don’t mean anything unless we actually enforce them.

A great example of the laws and regulations being wasted comes in the law and order sector. We all know we shouldn’t assault people, steal, drive all over the road, throw rubbish in the street. We are taught these basic laws early in our lives.

But because of the lack of enforcement, too many people do this in PNG all the time.

We don’t need more laws and policy to collect more tax. Only a small number of businesses and individuals actually pay their taxes as they should now.

More laws wont change this. It will just mean the same people will pay even more tax.

Instead, the Treasury should invest the energy and the money we spend developing these laws into enforcing more people to pay the tax they should be.

We don’t need more policies to fix our ailing SOEs or our government departments. We just need to ensure

that we root out corruption within the system and get people doing what they are paid to do.

Societies with the best standards of living and the lowest corruption aren’t the countries with the most laws.

They are the countries where people know that if they do the wrong thing, they will be held to account for this and so they don’t do the wrong thing.

It’s time we shift our obsession

with more regulation and policy that only keeps the public servants busy and costs good businesses more money to comply. Focus all of the energy on more ways to enforce the laws we already have.

The government will generate more revenue and our communities will become better over time.

Move PNG Forward, not backwards

FRUSTRATED CITIZEN

QUICK THOUGHTS

POLITICS AND GREED

Greed and wanting more has truly permeated the entire political landscape of PNG. This has been so since the late 1980’s to today and there appears to be no signs of turning back. The root of all evil ‘money’ has a complete stranglehold over our politicians and many of our CEOs they have all lost the plot in navigating the course to PNG’s progress and prosperity.

The poignant observation of Master Craftsman the late Sir Mekere Morau-

MOROBE, as the country’s largest province, with 13 per cent of MPs in parliament, has a very strategic position in national politics which can make or break a government. I do not know wether the province’s eleven MPs are aware of this but it is time our current crop of leaders should realise the amount of collective power they have which is so unique in itself. They should be taking advantage of this by working and speaking as one voice for the benefit of the province.

For example: . How do we capitalise on the trade that takes place via Lae to the seven higlands provinces? Can we use this as a bargaining chip in political horse trade?

Almost 70 per cent of industrial output and taxes associated with it comes from Lae to support the

ta rings loud and clear even to this very day as we speak. Talking about corruption Sir Mekere dryly observed that corruption is systemic and systematic in PNG politics. Words of Truth. What the Waigani politicians indoctrinate us daily in the various media outlets is all hogwash and delusion. These cowboys can lie once but not all the time obviously their sins will catch up with sooner or later.

NUMUTOKA MOHO

National government. How do we bargain for a fair and tangible development returns from this? Can Lae city be accorded a commission status so that it is modernised?

These are some things the province’s leaders should stand for as a collective front.

Old immature politics of the bygone years should be over.

Morobe MPs should not abuse their people’s mandate by giving in easily to the whims of today’s political power players. Put aside petty politics and differences in political party affiliations.

The collective interest of the province matters most.

Morobe leaders must think big and beyond to bring the province to the next level.

TAKI BORING, Port Moresby

Testament of resilience and leadership

CONGRATULATIONS to Francis Awesa on the launch of his autobiography “Nina Inji”!

This remarkable book is a testament to his unwavering dedication to serving Papua New Guinea, and his incredible journey from a humble upbringing in Mendi to becoming a respected leader.

The fact that Awesa has written this book entirely by himself makes it an even more impressive achievement.

His story is one of resilience, hard work, and perseverance, and I’m sure it will inspire many, especially young Papua New Guineans.

Thanks to Honourable Peter O’Neill for his heartfelt congratulations and for acknowledging Awesa’s loyalty to the PNC Party and the nation. Prime Minister James Marape’s virtual presence also shows that Awesa’s contributions to the country have not gone unnoticed.

“Nina Inji” is more than just a book - it’s a reflection of Awesa’s life, values, and leadership. I’m looking forward to reading it and learning more about his experiences. Thank you, Francis Awesa, for sharing your story with us!

MESHACH RAMBAMINAI

THE BOARD HIERARCHY

KAINANTU CHRISTIAN GRAMMAR SCHOOL

New university launched in city

BY ILEEN NAKRA

THE launch of a new university and its online website in Port Moresby last Wednesday is set to address the shortage of tertiary spaces, allowing more Grade 12 graduates to access higher education and increasing the nation’s skilled workforce.

With more than 30,000 grade 12 students graduating every year, competing for only 25,000 available spaces in tertiary institutions in the country, the newly established online Philippine Christian University in partnership (PCU) with the Waigani Christian College (WCC) aims to provide unlimited spaces for young Papua New Guineans to peruse degree after year 12. WCC’s founder and director Benjaman Mul expressed grave concerns on the recurring number of grade 12 students that were left out every academic year due to limited availability of quota in tertiary institutions, believing that the new university would provide unlimited spaces as it would be accessible online, anywhere and anytime.

“The government is not building

new universities to cater for the increasing number of grade 12s that are coming out of the schools every year. This new university is going to accommodate our many students,” he said.

“There will be no limitation to students who are coming here to study at our new university. When students come, they are looking for education, whether 1 000, 2 000, 5 000 or 10 000, we can accept them because we are technology driven.

“Classrooms will not be seen as a problem to us as students will only come for lecture or tutorial periods where they can ask questions or get some more information. They can study in the house through online access either with their smartphones and laptops.”

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) Kinoka Feo while launching the new university and its online website also highlight the critical role the university would play in addressing the increasingly high demand of spaces in the country’s tertiary institutions.

“Every year, we are graduating 30 000 plus grade 12 graduates. The

spaces in the universities are only 25 000. What happens to the rest? No more spaces and places like this will cater for that,” Mr Feo said.

“The current trend in the higher education system, spacing is limited to the physical infrastructure - depending on the size of the classroom, depending on the size of the number of teachers, depending on all these restrictions.

“But with online technology, online learning, there's no limitations. And I'm sure that this arrangement will now create access to close the gap that we have.”

He added that the new university was also included in the DHERST NAOS (National Online Application System) portal so this year’s grade 12 students who wish to study at PCU IN 2026 can apply directly for selection. The new university will offer five-degree programs and a diploma program starting next year. These include bachelors of - Accountancy, Business Administration, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Hospitality Management, and Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education.

Over 100 000 students benefit from TESAS and HELP

BY ILEEN NAKRA

OVER 100, 000 Papua New Guinean students have benefited from the Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) and Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) in the last five years.

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Kinoka Feo stated this in his speech when responding to the 2026 National Budget during the Parliament session last Tuesday, acknowledging the Marape-Rosso government for their continued support to sustain investments.

“In terms of support from the national government, our two important supports to the students of our country are TESAS and HELP. From 2020 to 2025, we have supported in terms of TESAS is 85 572 students” Mr Feo said.

“And as of 2020 till today, we have supported 56,087 students with HELP - that includes both

in-country and of course 246 of them doing postgraduate studies overseas, that's a master's and PhD.

That is a huge number of students that benefit from our TESAS scholarships. I thank the Prime Minister James Marape for the introduction of the Higher Education Loan Program, which is his own initiative. That program has really helped a lot of our students as well who would not have completed their studies.” Mr Feo stated that the budget allocations for the sector that it has been receiving over the years were all paid to the higher institutions. He also noted that the sector was among few departments that received 100 per cent of the funding allocation last year.

“We were able to support all the higher education institutions. So, in terms of next year's budget support, all our universities, all our colleges including the department is K636 million. And so, we want to thank the government for a 15 per cent

DHERST Minister acknowledges school founder

BY ILEEN NAKRA

MINISTER for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) Kinoka Feo has commended Waigani Christian College’s (WCC) founder and director Benjamin Mul for having a dream to provide education for the children of Papua New Guinea.

Mr Feo made this heartfelt acknowledging remark in his keynote address during the school’s grade 8,10 and 12 graduation, which coincided with the official launch of the Philippine Christian University (PCU) in partnership with WCC on Wednesday, last week.

“I want to thank you for your vision, for your drive, and for your passion in education,” he said.

“He is a man who heard God's call and responded with a lot of courage.

He is a man who planted a seed that is now blessing hundreds of families, hundreds of kids, thousands of kids.”

He has described Mr Mul’s commitment, dedication, perseverance in providing a second chance education pathway for Papua New Guinean children, enabling them to achieve their dreams in life as a “Pillar of Hope”.

“your service to Christian education, your obedience to God's

direction, and your commitment to shaping young people have built this institution into a pillar of hope for our city and our nation.

“your legacy will live on in the lives of every child who passes through these gates. So, Waigani Christian College is what it is today because God used you as his vessel.”

Mr Feo also clarified that the new university has followed all legal processes to get recognition from DHERST.

“As minister responsible for higher education in PNG, I am proud to announce that Philippine Christian University has met all the requirements and regulatory standards set out by DHERST,” he said. National Higher and Technical Education Board, pursuant to section 124 plus 126 of the Higher Education General Provisions Act 2014, grants the Philippine Christian University is recognised as a higher education provider in PNG for a period of four years starting on 26 November, 2025, to 26 November, 2029.

Established in 1993, WCC which is a private institution has been operating for 32 years now, providing equal education pathways to children from preparatory to grade 12 and is now transitioning into providing tertiary programs.

Minister thanks government for support

BY ILEEN NAKRA

HIGHER Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) minister Kinoka Feo has acknowledged the Government for its commitment to supporting tertiary institutions in the country.

increase in our budget.”

He said there was a 5 per cent TESAS increased from K98 million last year to now K103.9 million.

“So, obviously this will see an increase not just in numbers but also in the allocation of support for the students. That should see 16,100 students from all our registered tertiary institutions obviously will have to meet the eligibility criteria to benefit,” he said. In terms of the loan, higher education loan program, we have K53 million, so, that will support more than 8 000 students annually. Those who otherwise would not be able to pursue tertiary education.

I want to thank the government too despite our struggles.”

Mr Feo stated that the sector has also opened up to assist Vanuatu and Solomon Island countriesproviding K2 million in support for them to be able to find a place to study in our universities here in PNG.

Mr Feo expressed his appreciation to the government in his speech when responding to the 2026 National Budget during the Parliament session last Tuesday.

He did a detailed presentation of the budget allocation to supporting tertiary institutions in the country.

“In terms of support and access to universities, the government continues to support new universities with an allocation of K66.6 million for our new University of Medicine and Health Sciences.

K34.7 million to the Innovative University of Enga, K24.8 million for the Western Pacific University,” he said. “In terms of our post-secondary colleges, that is teachers, nursing, technical, business and agricultural colleges, we have also received an increase of 11 per cent, K69.4 million.

Thanks to our government, 10 of our TVET colleges will now receive about K60 million support from ADB (Asian Development Bank).

And that has enabled them to now upgrade their curriculum to

a Queensland TAFE level so that those that graduate and cannot find a job here are able to find jobs in Australia and other parts of the world.” Mr Feo said the sector has received a support of K12 million last year and that was able to support Unitech to get full American accreditation and that has allowed graduates from Unitec to work anywhere else in the world. He highlighted that the University of Goroka is building a massive six-story central administration building with multi-purpose halls that can seat up to 6,000 students at a cost of K120 million, including some funding being put into support with dormitories too.

The sector also recognises the churches as vital stakeholders in educating the country’s human resources. “In recognising the important role of churches and the private sector in the provision of higher education services, support has been also given to Divine Word University and Pacific Adventist University to invest in the infrastructure so they are able to get more students,” Mr Feo said.

He also highlighted that the availability of spaces at the universities and colleges have gradually increased in the recent past.

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sports Kinoka Feo (left) unveiling the plaque to signify the official launch of the new university in Port Moresby last Wednesday as founder and director Benjamin Mul and others look on. PICTURE: MAGNAM TARA

Waigani Christian College founder and director Benjamin Mul (left) Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sports Kinoka Feo and new university’s vice president Dr Joel Bitas holding the certificate of recognition. PICTURE: MAGNAM TARA

Buk Bilong Pikinini, BSP launch guide

BY STEPHANIE WAIDE

IT is a testament for BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) and the Buk Bilong Pikinini (BbP) to launch their new Financial Literacy Guide after 17-years of continued partnership.

This joint initiative leverages the financial expertise of BSP trainers and the BbP educators in early childhood learning skills to create the Financial Literacy Guide (FLG) launched at the Lae Unitech Library Learning Centre (LLC).

The guide designed specifically to introduce basic financial concepts to children as young as five years old.

The FLG will be integrated into the teaching curriculum, with the aim to equip students and their families with basic knowledge needed for effective money management and build a more secure future.

The BbP Founder Anne-Sophie Herman emphasised the necessity of early financial education.

“Like health and basic hygiene, the foundations in financial literacy, budgeting, and responsible spending must be taught to children at early age,” she said. “BbP is thankful for the generous support from BSP over the years, in establishing and maintaining three of our library learning centres.

“This impactful decade long partnership has been driving early childhood education and literacy in Papua New Guinea since 2008.

“The launch of the FLG speaks about our impactful partnership and BSP’s commitment in contributing to education, literacy and how banks

can be a key part of influencing lives in the community.”

All children enrolled at BbP libraries go through a vulnerability screening process, where BbP assesses all requirements, and offer spaces to eligible children.

The Library Learning Centre in Lae, enrols students from the surrounding suburbs, from East and West Taraka, Igam, and Kamkumung.

Totalling 80 students graduated

this year at the Unitech LLC, witnessed by BSP Board Chairman, Robert Bradshaw, Director Frank Bouraga, and Group CEO, Mark Robinson.

BSP has been the cornerstone sponsor for BbP's vital Library Outreach Program, initially committing to the setup and operation of three Library Learning Centres in Manus, Goroka, and Lae.

This generous support enabled BbP to successfully deliver essential

basic education and literacy programs, directly influencing the lives of over 20,000 underprivileged children in these communities.

The results have been transformative: many of these children have successfully transitioned into the main public school system, equipped with improved literacy skills and the confidence to excel.

Alucia Alusi, former student of BbP, LLC in Lae, was grateful for the

opportunity to learn in one of these centres, sponsored by BSP.

“Our teachers have been inspiring and thought me to blend letters and read. I still love reading. Reading opens doors for myself to find out more, has helped me to be more confident,” Alusi said.

Mr Robinson affirmed the bank's dedication saying: “Our partnership with BbP is a testament to BSP's commitment to the future of Papua New Guinea by investing in our children’s education.

The successful transition of these children into the public school system is the ultimate measure of our investment.

“The new FLG is the next important step in ensuring our communities are empowered for economic resilience. By investing in literacy and financial education from an early age, we are equipping children with the tools to become self-reliant, successful members of the community.”

Mr Robinson congratulated the children and teachers, for their success in wrapping up 2025 school year, and to the board and management of BbP for the continued management of its sponsors, partners and supporters.

BSP is pleased to support BbP to continue this impactful partnership in delivering education and financial literacy to our children.

The renewed commitment marks 17 years of dedicated partnership and focuses on not only sustaining the literacy program but also expanding its scope to include vital life skills.

Board Chairman, Robert Bradshaw and Group Chief Executive Officer Mark Robinson sharing moments with pupils as Director, Frank Bouraga (back) observes after launching financial literacy guide at Unitech(inset) Two pupils at Library Learning Centre dramatising as loan officers how it is done at the banks when enquiring for loans.. PICTURE: SUPPLIED.

Ramu Valley Secondary’s milestone achievement

IT wasn’t just a special day for Ramu Valley Secondary School on Friday December 5, but a huge milestone achieved as the school graduated its pioneer grade 12s.

RVSS deputy principal Ceslyn Dion said that she was very proud and honoured to be having two grades graduating this year.

“You have been with us for four years, some left but you these 36, are very strong group of students,” she said.

RVSS Principal Patrick Dion told the pioneer 36 grade 12 graduates that they were a special group of students.

“…making history for the school.”

Still overwhelmed by the event RVSS pioneer grade 12 graduate Salome Stanley also told the Post-Courier that being recognised as apioneer grade 12 graduate from Ramu Valley is a great feeling for me as well as the eldest in my family.”

Mr Dion proudly added that students from Ramu Valley are very privileged as parents always walk their children to early childhood learning centres, privately run schools and elementary schools, “…that is the reason why Ramu Valley seem to have a lot of good students and good

results at the end of grades eight, 10 and 12. “…because the foundation of this child, early education is very important.”

He told this paper recently that last year, Ramu Valley

High School took on their first grade 11s and was elevated to secondary school.

“The status is now confirmed, this school is now referred to as Ramu Valley Secondary and no longer a high school,” he said.

It was a real bittersweet moment as the teachers farewelled their first 36 grade 12s for the first time since its establishment as a high school in 2013.

Anditale marks 45 years of discipline, excellence

BY JOEL PETER

ANDITALE Secondary School, located 15 kilometres northeast of Wabag in the Ambum–Kompiam District, marked its 45th grade 10 and first grade 12 graduation on November 25, 2025.

A celebration of discipline, resilience and academic excellence that has made it one of Enga Province’s most respected learning institutions. Established in 1970, Anditale has grown into a school of 27 teachers and more than 450 students. Despite ongoing tribal conflicts in the surrounding communities, the school is regarded as a “neutral ground” where children from rival groups learn together peacefully.

Local students often say, “Haus paia tasol, pen ino paia” — meaning that while fighting may occur elsewhere, education is never touched.

The transformation of Anditale began under the leadership of the late Mr. Jacob Pisaro, a local landowner appointed headmaster in the early 2010s. He introduced strict policies that later earned Anditale the nickname “The Discipline School.”

Among his reforms were: Project fees and infrastructure upgrades, which helped improve classrooms and school facilities.

Compulsory weekend studies from 2–4 pm, which significantly boosted student performance.

Daily teacher and student attendance checks, with strict

penalties for absences. No public holidays during public holidays, days added instead to school breaks to ensure consistent learning.

Zero tolerance for lateness, with penalties aimed at building discipline and responsibility.

Under these reforms, Anditale’s Grade 10 results became some of the best in Enga Province from 2010 and early 2020.

In 2013, Mr.Yanage Peter joined the school as a classroom teacher. Six years later he became the headmaster, and in 2023 led the transition of Anditale from a high school to a full secondary school. His leadership has been praised by teachers, parents, church groups and district

leaders, Provincial leaders especially the Provincial Education Department.

Key achievements under Principal Yanage include: Maintaining and strengthening the school’s discipline policies.

Significant infrastructure development, including new classrooms, a science laboratory, staff houses, dormitories and renovations of existing buildings.

Strong partnerships with local leaders, landowners and churches and overseas.

Transparent administration, recognised by district leader Sir. John Pundari

Linkages with Australia, which have allowed topperforming students to travel for educational holidays.

One of the best performing pioneer grade 12 graduates of Ramu Valley Secondary, Salome Stanley with her family after her graduation on Friday December 5.

First grade 12 graduating students for Anditale Secondary School. PICTURES: SUPPLIED

Police urged to strengthen partnership

BY LAWRENCE FONG

DO not delay, embrace and strengthen collaborations to assist police work, said a senior policeman when accepting keys to brand staff houses constructed by a mining company.

Speaking at the handover of keys to nine houses renovated by Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) at Ningerum LLG in North Fly last week, Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of border command, Steven Francis said the lack of commitment from the Constabulary can be demoralising to the policemen and women who struggle to get resources to help in their commands.

“For the Border Command, stakeholder partnership is priority number three of our 11 key result areas that we must deliver to improve police service delivery.

“There are organisational challenges we must address urgently, particularly in ensuring that police are responsive and proactive in developing partnerships.

“Crime does not wait for paperwork or MoU partnership

arrangements to be signed.

“The OTML, owned by the Government and the people of Western Province, is setting a model for responsible partnership in the extractive sector.

“It is our duty to protect, support, and work alongside such partners to ensure sustained law and order is maintain within the Border Command and throughout the country.”

“Addressing the growing law and order challenges in our country requires a shared commitment across all sectors— government agencies, provincial, district authorities, private industry, civil society, NGOs, faith-based organisations, and the extractive and marine industries.

“No single agency can do it alone.

“A collaborative and coordinated approach is essential, and the time to act is now.”

Despite that, ACP Francis praised the provincial police commander Anjap Minata for his persistence in working with OTML to bring back police presence to Nigerum, which is going to be the main logistics hub for the mining company going

into the future.

He also commended the OTML for setting “a new standard of corporate partnership” and reaffirmed the constabulary’s commitment to supporting and safeguarding such initiatives for the benefit of Western Province and the country.

Besides the nine houses, which were renovated at a cost of close to K2 million, the mining company will also donate 12 new vehicles to police, according to managing director and CEO, Kedi Ilimbit. Eight of the vehicles will be used by the provincial police, and four will be used by Mobile Squads on national duty in the mine and surrounding communities.

The ACP has called on the Constabulary’s top management not to waste opportunities that can help build partnerships that would benefit policing in the country.

“I call on the RPNGC management to act swiftly when partnership arrangements are initiated. Let us not delay the goodwill of willing partners. Instead, let us embrace and strengthen these collaborations,” he said.

Police return to Ningerum after 9 years

BY LAWRENCE FONG

THE Ok Tedi Mining Limited, last week, handed over the keys of nine renovated houses to the police border command, paving the way for policemen to return to Ningerum after a nine-year absence.

Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Border Command, Steven Francis received the keys from OTML managing director and CEO Kedi Ilimbit at Nigerum station last Wednesday.

The government-owned mining company spent close to K2 million to renovate all nine houses. Ningerum LLG president Dominic Kadiam said at the

handover of the keys to the houses, that the last policeman packed up almost a decade ago when the houses fell into disrepair. Left behind was a lone policeman, who ensures that the police station remains open daily for the public to access.

Mr Francis praised OTML for its swift response from the provincial police.

“These houses represent not just accommodation; they are a symbol of partnership and trust between the OTML, RPNGC and the communities we serve in North Fly and Western Province,” he said.

“These are not just police houses, police are only custodians

of these infrastructures. These houses belong to the communities that we serve.

“The OTML support has gone far beyond what we are seeing here today. It has also helped in the areas of education, health and infrastructure, through the leadership of the CEO.”

He urged the provincial police commander and policemen who will occupy the houses to take good care of them.

“It is very important that we look after these infrastructures. We must safeguard and maintain them in order to enable us to fulfil our constitutional mandate of providing security in the community.

ACP Border Command Steven Francis calling for more proactive partnerships from the constabulary.

BY SAIKA VELO DWU JOURNALISM STUDENT

GINITOKA EBC (Evangelical Brotherhood Church) High School has passed out 357 grade 10 students during its 5th graduation ceremony last Thursday.

at home and is shaped by both parents and teachers.

He stressed that young people inherit values not only through bloodline but through what they observe daily.

“When you come to school, you bring those values with you.

integrity, the nation’s future will remain at risk.

He said he was deeply concerned for the younger generation, explaining that continued corruption puts the nation’s future at risk.

endeavours with integrity,” he told them.

He added that he personally refuses to stand for corruption in his own life.

Hombunaka urges students to navigate future with integrity Mu primary opens new building

Delivering his keynote address under the theme “Navigating Future Endeavour with Integrity”, CIC-PACD project manager Potaisa Hombunaka challenged the students to uphold integrity as they step into the next chapter of their lives.

Mr Hombunaka reminded students that character begins

“ Teachers then become your second parents, guiding your conduct and attitude,” he said.

Mr Hombunaka highlighted corruption as a major concern affecting Papua New Guinea, saying it has become “part and parcel” of many institutions and organisations.

He warned that unless the younger generations choose

He noted that despite high graduation rates across the country, many university graduates are still struggling to find formal employment because corruption has hindered business growth and job creation.

Mr Hombunaka urged the students to make independent, ethical choices as they grow older.

“Navigate your future

The ceremony marked an important milestone for Ginitoka EBC High School as it continues to grow, with 357 students completing Grade 10 this year.

AT A GLANCE

CHARACTER: Character begins at home and is shaped by both parents and teachers.

BY ROBERT TIKI

MU Primary School in Tabare, SinesineYongomugl district, Chimbu Province, has celebrated a major milestone achievement with the opening of its new K92,000 six-in-one building on Wednesday.

The building funded by the Sinesine-Yongomugl District Development Authority (SSYDDA) under the leadership of Kerenga Kua, will be used as a computer library, administration office, conference room, storeroom, and a classroom.

Head Teacher Lydia Jeffery said the new infrastructure is a breakthrough for the school, which has long struggled with limited learning space and outdated facilities.

“This project lifts the standard of our school and gives our children a better environment to learn,” Mrs Jeffery said.

She said she is happy with the district DDA for helping the school with the new building.

“I thank Kerenga Kua and the SSY DDA for placing education at the centre of development. As a young head teacher, I faced challenges but remained committed to seeing this building completed for our students.”

The opening ceremony coincided with the school's graduation, marking a proud moment for parents and community members who attended the ceremony in large numbers.

During the event, school inspector Hedwick Brekham delivered a powerful message directed at parents, urging them to shift their priorities.

“Parents must cut down on spending heavily on bride price and ceremonies. Those resources should be invested in your children’s education, which will determine their future and the future of this community,” she said.

“Your support is not just financial but also emotional and practical -- help them study, guide them and be part of their progress.”

PNG University of Technology SRC President Elijah Kapma encouraged graduating students to build discipline and character from an early age.

“If you want to succeed, discipline must start now,” he told the students.

“Your attitude shapes your future, and you must follow God’s direction in everything you do. These values will carry you through high school, tertiary studies and life.”

Kapma and Maubema Conservation founder Moses Kerry also donated boxes of books to support literacy in the school and the wider district, describing reading as an essential tool for shaping mindset and leadership.

The dual celebration was held under the theme “Building Strong Foundation for a Better Future.”

Elijah Kapma (left) and founder of Maubema Conservation Moses Kerry (right) cutting the ribbon for the new books they donated. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Juha LOs reject statement

LANDOWNERS of the Juha PDL 9 project area from the Hela side brushed aside a media statement by what they claimed as purported landowners in relation to the recent Ministerial Determination on benefit sharing.

“We the landowners did not approve or gave any consent for anyone to go to the media and speak on behalf of us,” said Peter Andama, the Chairman of Juha PDL 9.

“While we were challenging the recent benefit sharing percentage that was gazetted through the Ministerial Determination by Petroleum and Energy Minister Jimmy Maladina, a purported landowner claiming to be the Juha PDL 9 Special Purpose Authority Chairman, Ben Herow, quickly went to the media to welcome the Ministerial Determination,” Mr Andama said.

He claimed that Mr Herowa is not a legitimate landowner, does not represent the Levani Clan and does not have any standing to speak on behalf of the Juha landowners.

“His legal standing is yet to be determined by court as per the dispute on the gazettal notice by former Minister for Petroleum and Energy, William Duma, where the Minister included ‘others’ as beneficiaries also.

“Mr Herowa claimed to represent the ‘others’ and going around misleading people through the media and we call on him to refrain and respect pending court process that is yet to establish his legitimacy.” Mr Andama added.

A son of a Juha landowner chief, James Hinupi, reiterated that the ministerial determination and the benefit sharing unfairly allocates project benefits to Western Province interests when majority should have been given to Hela.

The objection was supported by Chief, Tami Hinarogo.

The group also seek to filed court proceedings challenging the Ministerial Determination and the gazettal notices, alleging that “the process was hijacked” and the outcome “unfair and unlawful.”

Mr Hinupi said the Ministerial Determination “completely disregards the legitimate ownership of the Juha resource area under Hela Province.”

“We are the legitimate resource owners of the Juha PDL 9 project impact area within the Topi and Umimi council wards of the Koroba LLG in Hela. There is no customary claim from any Western Province group over this land,” Hinupi said.

The landowners raised three key grounds in their objection letter.

First, they argue that the allocation of Juha PDL 9 benefits to Western Province is unlawful and inconsistent with the project’s geographic and customary boundaries.

Second, they accuse DPE of publishing “false beneficiary allocations,” claiming that 80 percent of the benefits were wrongly diverted to Western Province.

Mr Hinupi said the statements by Mr Herowa were completely misleading and did not represent the entire Juha PDL 9 landowners.

Resilience, respect and family key: Penny Wong

KOKODA Track Foundation (KTF) hosted the 23rd Lt Col Ralph Honner Leadership Oration event in Canberra last week. The 2025 Oration held particular significance as it coincided with Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence - an opportunity for reflection, celebration, and recommitment to the enduring partnership between the two countries.

Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Leader of the Government in the Senate - Senator Penny Wong, has reaffirmed the deep and longstanding ties between Australia and PNG, describing

the two nations as “true friends, closest neighbours and new allies”. Ms Wong centred her reflections on three defining themes of Lt-Col Honner’s life - resilience, respect, and family - and connected these values to Australia’s engagement in the Pacific. Acknowledging the resilience of those who fought in the Kokoda campaign, she stressed the importance of resilience today: “Modern challenges require modern resilience. Nowhere is this clearer than in our region, where climate change, governance challenges and economic insecurity demand responses from all of

us.” KTF’s annual Leadership Oration honours the enduring legacy of Lt Col Honner - a remarkable figure of the Kokoda Campaign. He is attributed with being an exceptional leader and orator, credited with reigniting the spirits of overwhelmed and young soldiers of the 39th Battalion and holding the line during one of World War II’s most critical battles. His example of courage, resilience, and devotion to his men continues to inspire generations. Each year, KTF invites a distinguished leader to address a cross-sector audience, celebrating the enduring bond between Australia and

PNG and inspiring collective action. The event also serves to raise awareness of KTF’s transformative work in remote communities across PNG. KTF CEO, Dr Genevieve Nelson, reflected on the importance of the evening: “Tonight is about leadership, service, and the Australia–PNG partnership - but it is also about the organisation KTF and the work so many of you help make possible… Our work is part of the living legacy of Kokoda, grounded in the pillars of courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice, and in KTF’s ongoing commitment to keep the spirit of Kokoda alive,” she said.

The Juha PDL 9 landowners airing their grievances in a recent press conference. PICTURE SUPPLIED

New junior highs for Sentral Niu Ailan

SENTRAL Niu Ailan LLG in the Namatanai district, New Ireland Province, will be achieving one of its most significant education changes in decades –– the establishment of three new junior high schools by 2026.

The confirmation came last Thursday from Messi Primary School headmaster Benjamin ToPidik, who announced that Messi, Kono and Simberi primarieswill all begin offering Grade 9 classes.

The three schools will be an addition to Silom Primary School which was elevated to junior high last year 2024, bringing the total of junior highs in the LLG to four.

Mr ToPidik described the expansion as a long-overdue response to rising student numbers and the strain on families who have had no nearby options for further schooling. “Population is growing.

The need is real,” he said.

“This upgrade finally brings secondary education closer to our communities. Families will no longer have to send children far away just to reach Grade 9,10 11 and 12.”

According to Joachim Lemis a

parent, “distance has been one of the biggest challenges to student progression especially in the West Coast of Sentral Niu Ailan LLG”.

“We parents are always worried when our children have to travel the highway to East Coast side to attend high schools and secondaries there because we do not have any here.

“We have had incidents of fights and a recent was the killing of a student from our LLG earlier this year and this really is concerning to us as parents,” he said.

The announcement has been met with relief and optimism across Dampet, Danu, Kaluan and surrounding communities.

Messi Primary School patron, Retired Colonel William Bartley, said the change honours a long history of education in the area.

“Messi has been operating since 1952 and has produced professionals in medicine, aviation, accounting, the military, everything. These new Junior High Schools are the next step in continuing a legacy built over generations.”

Mr Bartley also highlighted that Messi already has a 10-year development plan, including

ambitions to evolve into a STEMfocused institution, an indication that communities aren’t just thinking about access, but about quality and future careers.

Behind the progress is a story of collective responsibility.

Community members, private businesses, churches, and the board of management have been central in pushing the transition forward.

Mr ToPidik acknowledged that none of this would be possible without local support.

“Parents, the Education Department, and the wider community are the real force behind this upgrade,” he said. “Everyone has contributed to move us to Junior High level.”

The three schools are expected to welcome their first Grade 9 classes at the start of the 2026 academic year a timeline that puts pressure on infrastructure, staffing, and resources. But for many families, the shift signals something far more important: the chance for their children to continue education without the barriers that held previous generations back.

Hospital upgrades emergency response

THE Accident and Emergency (A&E) area of St Mary’s Vunapope Hospital, in Kokopo, East New Britain Province, has been upgraded to at meet emergency standards, required by the A&E teaching practice.

This utility and important section of the hospital last received the much-needed renovations and installation of new medical equipment some 20 plus years ago. With funding assistance close to K300,000 from the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), the A&E and outpatient area is now opened again (Tuesday last week), thanks to Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources, Jelta Wong, who receives treatment at the hospital.

The A&E has three new critical beds in coloured code –– indicating the condition of a patient; red, for very critical and must be seen immediately, yellow –– to be seen between 30 minutes to one hour and green, more stable and can be seen after an hour. Included in the emergency bay is 20 new vital signs monitor.

Director for Medical Service, Dr Felix Diaku, who is happy with the upgrade said that this is the new

‘Work together for change’

JONATHAN Mesulam, founder of the West Coast Development Foundation Centre, has called on communities in the West Coast of Sentral Niu Ailan to take charge of their own development, rather than waiting for government intervention.

Speaking at Messi Primary School’s graduation ceremony on Thursday, 4 December, Mr Mesulam emphasised the need for volunteerism, self-reliance, and education. He highlighted the challenges caused by population growth and the information gap, which have slowed educational progress in communities including Dampet, Danu, Messi, Kaluan, and Kanamaradan.

“No one is coming to change our school and community for us, change will only happen when we work together and volunteer our time and skills,” he said.

Mr Mesulam, a former teacher, reflected on national education reforms over the past 20 years.

He noted that while other provinces have successfully elevated schools to Junior High or Secondary levels, New Ireland has lagged behind.

“Even after 15 years, we are still talking about it. Meanwhile, communities elsewhere are already reaping the benefits,” he said.

Mr Mesulam said that volunteerism is a valuable skill.

“Even if you are not a carpenter, by volunteering alongside skilled people, you learn valuable skills

for free. You build your own capacity while contributing to your community,” he said.

Mr Mesulam also challenged the graduating students to value their education.

“Education is your key to life. Guard it well. Neglecting it risks your future. Knowledge will carry you far,” he said, reminding them that success starts with personal commitment and discipline.

He shared the purpose behind founding the West Coast Development Foundation FODE and Training Centre, to provide second chances for those who miss out in the formal school system.

“FODE and skills training are not just programs they are pathways to recognition, opportunity, and a better life. We brought them back to help our own people,” Mr Mesulam said.

His message extended to parents and communities, urging them to unite, volunteer, and contribute to school and community projects.

“Development is not only the responsibility of the Church or Government. It involves all of us individuals, NGOs, and every stakeholder.” He emphasised that mindset change and proactive action are essential for progress.

Communities that take ownership of their development and invest in education today will reap the benefits tomorrow, ensuring that future generations are better equipped to thrive.

practice which was not done before.

“We are trying to get this emergency practice teaching across to our young doctors, Health Extension Officers (HEO) and nurses, both here at St Mary’s Vunapope Hospital and Rabaul Provincial Hospital.”

In addition to the medical equipment upgrade, Dr Diaku, also made known the newly established oxygen manifold system, an expenditure K100,000 and currently under the supervision of Biomed

Consultants. “The hospital now has the system where multiple gas cylinder lines and junctions is connected to a single channel or a big regulator that is used individually to each critical patient, whereas before, an oxygen cylinder has to be wheeled.

“It is a big risk where it can become destructive when earthquake occurs with the cylinder falling down causing explosion.

“It is like a time bomb sitting there to explode.”

School head calls for access to genuine information

BY JOSHUA CHAD MARAIP DWU journalism student

DEPUTY principal (academic) of the Callan Inclusive Education Institute in Kokopo, East New Britain Province, has called for clearer and more accessible government information during the New Guinea Islands Regional Consultation on the draft of the Right to Information (RTI) Policy in Kokopo on Wednesday, 3rd November.

Everlyn Mosanga told the consultation that many organisations struggle to access important government information needed to deliver services.

“We don’t receive much information on key policies, funding, and support available in government departments,” she said.

Ms Mosanga also recommended that the RTI Policy include stronger

measures to address the spread of fake news on platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok. She further highlighted communication issues relating to funding access, employment processes, and delayed payments for retiring staff, saying unclear information often creates unnecessary barriers.

“Without information, there will be no decision and no action. Information is very important,” she said.

Ms Mosanga stressed that transparent, accurate, and timely information should be a requirement under the RTI Policy to ensure services reach people in need.

Her comments were among several raised by stakeholders during the consultation, which aims to gather public views before the national RTI Policy is

finalised.

Messi Primary School in West Coast Sentral Niu Ailan LLG set to be junior high next year. PICTURE: REINHARD MINONG

Director Medical Services (DMS) for St Mary’s Hospital, Vunapope, Dr Felix Diaku said he is happy with the upgrade. PICTURE SUPPLIED.

Jonathan Mesulam Ceo of West Coast Foundation Speaking during the Messi graduation Last Thursday. PICTURE: SUPPLIED.

K220,000 support for Gantom primary school

THE Australian Consulate-General in Lae has announced a new community-level investment for Gantom Primary School, located on the outskirts of Lae city in West Taraka of Huon Gulf district, Morobe Province.

The Australian government announced the school had been awarded a K220,000 grant to support the construction of a new perimeter fence.

The K220,000 funding will help Gantom Primary strengthen school

security and create a safer learning environment for its students.

The announcement follows the signing of the agreement between Principal Mr Jackson Dedingi and Australian Consul-General Brenton Kanowski in November.

Mr Kanowski said: “Local schools are the heart of their communities.

Australia is pleased to support Gantom Primary with this K220,000 grant, which will help provide a safer and more secure environment for students.

“Australia is committed to practical, community-driven development.

“This investment reflects our shared goal of ensuring that children across Morobe have safe and inclusive spaces in which to learn.

“This grant demonstrates our continued partnership with Morobe communities—working together on projects that make a real difference in people’s daily lives.”

Gantom Primary School head

teacher Jackson Dedingi thanked the Australian government for the grant and said the new fencing project will significantly improve the security of our school and reassure parents that their children are safe during the school day.

“This support is a major boost for Gantom Primary.

“Completing the fence has been a long-term priority for us, and this partnership is helping us deliver a better, safer school for our students,” he said.

Serving to create change and strengthen bonds

Youth employment program works with ADF, PNGDF to upgrade houses

THE Murray Barracks Married Quarters has reached a major milestone last week, with the renovation of its 100th house, marking a powerful collaboration that is providing opportunity and transforming lives.

The completion of the 100th house is the result of a strong partnership between the Australian Defence Cooperation Program (DCP), the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), and the Urban Youth Employment Project Phase II (UYEP II), a joint initiative of the National Government, the National Capital District Commission , and the World Bank.

Through UYEP II, young Papua New Guineans are gaining handson experience in skilled trades while working in a safe and supportive environment.

THE International Volunteers Day, Australia is celebrating all the volunteers and local organisations in PNG who are working together to create change and further strengthen bonds between the two countries.

One of the many organisations being supported through the Australian Volunteers Program is the Waniati Maternal Waiting Home, which is providing quality health services through innovative approaches to maternal and child healthcare.

Cindy Francis is one of the Australian volunteers supporting the work of Waniati Maternal Waiting Home as a Liaison Officer.

When reflecting on why she is volunteering in PNG, Cindy said that making a change was the motivating factor.

“I want to create change through partnering with an amazing locally led organisation, the Waniati Maternal Waiting home, to help them build stronger, sustainable relationships across Papua New Guinea and beyond.”

Waniati’s Victor Timothy, Executive Director and Founder, and his wife Bolena Azimo, Maternal and Child Health Director, are two locals from Eastern Highlands Province in PNG who started volunteering their time, funds and resources five

years ago to care for disadvantaged women.

Sr Azimo said she is “deeply passionate about helping our underprivileged mothers and babies to improve their lives, so together we can build a better nation”.

Victor Timothy is equally as committed, saying he “wants to reduce infant mortality, to create a safer environment for the mothers of Papua New Guinea, and to ensure no woman is left behind”.

Ben Francis, who is also volunteering at Waniati Maternal Waiting Home, as an Organisational Management Mentor, said that he hoped his effort would help to guide

the organisation into the future.

“I'm volunteering to create change by working with the Waniati executive team to strengthen their operational and leadership capacity so they can continue to deliver for the underprivileged mothers and babies of PNG well into the future,” he said.

There are currently 16 Australian volunteers in PNG, in Lae, Buka, Goroka and Port Moresby. The Australian Volunteers Program is an Australian Government-funded initiative that supports partner organisations in PNG and across the Pacific, Asia and Africa to achieve locally led development.

See more at australianvolunteers.

The latest UYEP II intake recently completed their placement at Port Moresby’s Murray Barracks, guided by members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and PNGDF.

Participants learned practical skills in house repairs, upgrades, and security enhancements. These improvements directly benefit PNGDF members and their families.

For many, this program is lifechanging. Latisha Benny, 21, expressed her gratitude to the program partners for giving her the chance to learn new skills.

“This program makes it easier for us,” she said.

“Many of us left school or stayed at home, and now I can earn for a better future.”

Kumai Taie, 26, shared a similar story. Under supervision, he developed skills in carpentry, welding, plumbing, and roofing.

“After the program, I’ll try to find work using the new skills and reference I’ve gained,” he said.

This initiative is an example of the strong partnership between PNGDF and ADF through the DCP. Together with key partners, the program is not only improving infrastructure at Murray Barracks but also equipping young Papua New Guineans with the tools they need for a brighter future.

Many of us left school or of us left or stayed at home, and now I at and now I can earn for better future can earn better

LATISHA BENNY Port Moresby Port

Volunteers celebrate strong partnerships on International Volunteers Day

AUSTRALIAN volunteers and their Papua New Guinea colleagues are celebrating the creation of enduring partnerships and shared outcomes this International Volunteers Day. From supporting local organisations delivering arts and conservation outcomes, to strengthening healthcare delivery and sustainable tourism, to providing a range of business development support, 35 Australian volunteers have worked alongside colleagues and friends in PNG this year. On 5 December, events will be

held in Port Moresby, Goroka, Lae and Buka and current Australian Volunteers, their partner organisations, DFAT staff and local communities will celebrate International Volunteers Day and the outcomes delivered jointly.

In Port Moresby, Cricket PNG will mark International Volunteers Day with a morning cricket festival at Zion Zeal School, starting with an Australian-style breakfast. Australian volunteers will join the development team and teachers for a morning of interactive cricket games and skill activities.

In Goroka, the PNG Institute of Medical Research will host a mental health awareness session for students and youth at Goroka Secondary School. Australian volunteers will also take part in a panel discussion on the importance of volunteerism, sharing their experiences and encouraging young people to explore ways they can contribute to their communities.

In Lae, National Agriculture and Research Institute will be hosting an appreciation lunch for all current volunteers and their counterparts as part of valuing their contributions

in various capacities in different organisations.

In Buka, Hako Women’s Collective with their volunteer will be conducting a 'clean-a-thon' in their community in Haku as part of promoting the day’s theme “Change in Action”.

The Australian government’s Volunteers Program is committed to locally led development. By providing skilled volunteers to support partners in PNG, the program enables a diverse range of Australians to contribute to positive change that is locally owned and led.

These volunteer deployments exemplify the ever-strengthening people-to-people ties between our two countries.

The volunteers build lasting relationships that will continue to benefit both nations across many professional sectors for years to come. The Australian Volunteers Program is an Australian government-funded initiative that supports partner organisations in PNG and across the Pacific, Asia and Africa to achieve locally led change.

VICTOR Timothy, Executive Director and Founder (left) and Australian volunteer Ben Francis (right). PHOTO: BOLENA AZIMO.

LOs urged to resolve issues in order to access royalties in trust

Sia: Over K400m in trust for K92 landowners

BY NELSON JOE

RESOLVE your ownership issues to start accessing your royalty payments accumulating to more than K400 million in trust accounts, K92 Mine landowners have been told.

Eastern Highlands Governor Simon Sia has made this appeal during the commissioning of a hightech X-Ray machine at the Kainantu district hospital and Agarabi Primary School’s 24th graduation ceremony last Tuesday.

“The royalty payment from the K92 Mine to the landowners is almost K400 million — and it’s sitting in the bank account,” he said.

However, Mr Sia pointed out that they cannot access their royalty payments, pending the determination of their land dispute at the Lands Title Commission and lamented that everyone claiming landownership have held the genuine landowners to ransom.

“This is too much money,” he said and highlighted that the “K92 Mine is doing fine”.

Foursquare Church leader, Pastor Susan Tiyofi, to whom the landowners have conferred their power of attorney mid this year,

has urged them to work together in relation to the Ramu hydro projects.

She said work on socio-economic development programs will only progress when they work together.

“Work with the leaders you have appointed, if you want to see development flow into your communities,” Pr Tiyofi said.

She said words alone are powerful to make or break or bless or curse and urged the people to be “very careful” of what they say, especially of the leaders they elected and appointed.

“Creation came into being by words alone, as stated in the book of Genesis and what we say can either make or break,” she said.

“People speak either blessing or curse.

“We must learn to be mindful of our words and speak respectfully to each other.”

Meanwhile, Mr Sia, said the next batch of the tax credit scheme from the K92 Mine will be used in upgrading the district hospital, educational infrastructure development programs, sealing of street roads within Kainantu, construction of a proper market and other development issues for the district.

School upgrades to junior high with graduating Gr 8s pioneering Gr 9s

BY NELSON JOE

THE Agarabi Primary School in Kainantu district, Eastern Highlands Province, has taken a step forward at its 24th graduation with two classes of grade eight students becoming the pioneer grade nine students of its newly-established junior high school.

The significance of the graduation ceremony was amplified with the presence of Governor Simon Sia, who presented K240,000 to local firm, Afayo Construction, to build a double classroom and promised a Coaster bus to the students from Agarabi local level government attending the Kainantu Technical Vocational Secondary School.

They were joined by the provincial health authority management team led by the chief executive officer, Dr Pomoso Warima, along with its board chairman, Chris Kopyoto and his wife, Pastor Susan Tiyofi, who are also locals, adding more significance to the graduation ceremony on Tuesday.

Head teacher Max Kafaro said it is the first time the school has received a high profile delegation since its establishment as a community school in 1953 and has come through different phases of changes to level seven, the second highest to Kainantu Primary School.

He announced that registration process for its junior high school status has just gone through approval stages and showed the delegation the four-in-one classroom undergoing construction to cater for two grade nine classes.

The new establishment will be the first rural junior high school in Agarabi local level government area, the most populated LLG in the district.

It is a milestone achievement of its plan towards technical secondary school, the proposal of which was presented to the governor among other issues.

Re-elected Wabag mayor appeals for funds to restore law-and-order services

BY DANIEL KUMBON JR

RE-ELECTED Wabag Urban Town Mayor, Felix Kandapaki, has appealled to the National Government and key provincial stakeholders to fund the Wabag Urban Local Level Government (LLG) because it is the face of Enga Province.

He said years of neglect have crippled service delivery and hindered the enforcement of much-

needed town regulations. He said during his previous term, the urban LLG received no direct funding from the National Government, despite being responsible for the administration of the province’s capital and economic hub.

“I do not know if there is any available funding from the government to support the Urban LLG,” he said. “Through the assembly, we have had plans to work effectively, but the only constraint is

funding. We can have many plans and laws ready to enforce within the township, but without funding, these plans cannot bear fruit.”

Mr Kandapaki also made a broad appeal to the Wabag District Development Authority, Enga Provincial Government, New Porgera Limited, and other DDAs in Enga Province to support the Wabag Urban LLG, emphasising that Wabag town is the heart and face of Enga. “Enga Province is in

chaos. There is fighting everywhere, and we can all see that Engans are coming to seek refuge in Wabag town,” he said.

“It would be helpful if more funding is available so Wabag can be a safe haven for all the people living within the township.”

He said adequate funding would allow the urban LLG to implement control measures, provide security, and coordinate support for displaced and conflicted groups who have

sought shelter in the town area.

“With funding, we can safeguard conflicting teams residing in the township,” Mr Kandapaki said.

“We can provide security to the people living within the urban LLGs. But without support, the risks continue to grow.”

He said the biggest social challenge in Wabag today is law-and-order, a problem made worse by drug abuse, alcohol abuse, and rising youth unemployment.

EASTERN Highlands Governor Simon Sia giving his address during the commissioning of the new X-Ray machine at Kainantu District Hospital. PICTURE: NELSON JOE

Woman walks free after child abuse

Woman gets suspended sentence for sexual offence involving minor

BY DIANNE WILSON

THE National Court in Kokopo, East New Britain Province, has imposed a four-year jail sentence – wholly suspended – on a 40-yearold woman, who was convicted of sexually touching a 13-year-old boy at Tabuna Plantation in Bitapaka, East New Britain Province.

Mathilda Peter, from Sarakolok village in West New Britain, was convicted after trial on August 4 this year for sexual touching under

Section 229B(1)(b) of the Criminal Code. She was initially charged with the more serious offence of sexual touching with aggravating circumstances but was instead found guilty of the lesser charge.

Justice Paul Tusais delivered the sentence last Friday, describing the case as “perhaps the first of its kind in Papua New Guinea involving a female offender and a male child”.

The court heard that on December 23, 2023, the 13-year-old victim sought shelter from the rain in the

kitchen house where the offender lived.

While they were alone, Peter engaged in inappropriate conduct with the boy.

A security guard walking past saw the incident and intervened, prompting the child to leave. The victim later became ill.

Justice Tusais said the boy suffered both physical distress and psychological harm from the incident.

“Children must be protected from adult predators, whether male or female,” he said. “To treat women offenders differently would also be discriminatory. The paramount consideration in cases like these

Hahela teachers upskill for inclusive classrooms

BY NICOLLETTE HIRIATS

FIFTEEN teachers from Hahela Primary School in Buka have gained new tools and confidence to help every child thrive, following handson training under the Inclusive Model School Program.

The program focused on three practical areas to make learning fairer and more accessible for students with disabilities or extra needs.

Teachers learned about the ‘whole child checklist’, a simple guide to spot early signs of learning challenges.

By looking at a child’s academic

progress, social skills, and behaviour, teachers can now step in sooner with the right support.

They also learnt about ‘hearing health skills’, including nine easyto-use strategies for students with hearing difficulties.

These include better communication tips, classroom tweaks like seating arrangements, and ways to keep every child involved in lessons.

The third part of the training was introduction to the ‘individual education plan’ (IEP) – a custom roadmap for students needing extra help.

Teachers now know how to create,

follow, and update these plans to fit each child’s unique goals and track their growth.

On top of their Inclusive Model School certificate, the teachers also earned a qualification in PNG sign language (introduction).

They practiced basic signs for the alphabet, numbers, greetings, classroom words, and everyday phrases, skills that open direct communication with deaf or hardof-hearing students. This was Phase 1 of the program; phase 2 is set for 2026. With these new abilities, Hahela’s teachers are ready to build a warmer, more welcoming school where no child is left behind.

should always be the protection of children.”

The court considered mitigating factors including the fact that Peter was a first-time offender, a single mother-of-four, and had expressed remorse during her interview with a probation officer.

A favourable pre-sentence report also recommended probation.

However, the court also recognised aggravating factors such as the significant age difference and the prevalence of offences involving minors in the country.

Peter was sentenced to four years imprisonment, with one year and eight months deducted for time spent in remand. The remaining

two years and four months were fully suspended. She was placed on two years’ probation with strict conditions, including paying K2000 compensation to the victim within 12 months, completing weekly community work, abstaining from alcohol and drugs, remaining within East New Britain unless granted court approval, and attending church regularly for counselling and spiritual support.

Justice Tusais warned that any breach of the conditions would result in Peter serving the remaining custodial term at Kerevat jail. The matter will return to court on December 7, 2026, for a compliance review.

BY DIANNE WILSON

THE Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment (PNG UNRE) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening academic quality and improving learning outcomes for students through enhanced curriculum development.

Last week, about 60 academic staff completed a four-day workshop on curriculum design, co-sponsored by USAID PNG.

The training was facilitated by Dr Aishat Balugun, a distinguished academic from Indiana University with extensive expertise in curriculum innovation, instructional development, and higher education quality assurance.

Dr Balugun’s depth of experience in curriculum design, assessment strategies, and faculty development provided valuable guidance to UNRE staff as they worked to align their academic programs with both institutional goals and national standards.

The workshop targeted teaching and learning personnel and forms part of the UNRE vice chancellor’s broader effort to embed a culture of quality assurance and continuous improvement across all academic programmes and service areas.

Participants said the workshop equipped them with tools to design industry-relevant and nationally aligned courses.

Daniel Waldi, from the Forestry Department, said: “Doing AI and comparing benchmarking against the best international and national quality standards that have put UNRE on the global frontier in terms of Red-Plus and carbon marketing.”

He said the training gave staff insights into how to further improve course design to better support student learning.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (academic and research) Peter Navus said the workshop marks the beginning of a new chapter for the university. He reminded academic staff that students must remain at the centre of the university’s work and deserve high-quality learning experiences.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (planning and development) Dr Livingstone Tavul said plans are under way to establish additional schools at UNRE, and the curriculum development skills gained from the workshop will be crucial.

He challenged staff to take curriculum writing seriously, saying it requires passion, determination, critical thinking and a commitment to producing programs that address priorities under PNG’s Medium-Term Development Plan 4 and Vision 2050. On behalf of the university management and council, Dr Tavul also acknowledged and thanked Dr Balugun for her time and commitment to supporting UNRE’s academic development efforts.

NGI consultation pushes forward PNG’s right to information policy

BY JOSHUA CHAD MARAIP DWU Journalism Student

STAKEHOLDERS from the New Guinea Islands region met in Kokopo, East New Britain Province, last week Wednesday, November 3, to discuss Papua New Guinea’s draft on the Right to Information (RTI) Policy, marking an important step toward improving public access to government information.

The consultation is part of a nationwide rollout led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) with support from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) PNG.

Participants from the provincial government, civil society, women’s groups, and the media discussed key issues and shared their views on the policy.

DICT Deputy Secretary Flierl Shongol told participants that the policy will help strengthen

citizens’ rights under Section 51 of the Constitution.

“This consultation is important because it will lead to legislation on the right to information,” he said.

“We are preparing for a national law that allows citizens to access public information.”

Open Government Partnership (OGP) Secretary Langa Kopio said information in government systems does not always flow freely, which often leads to confusion among the public.

“Information is power,” he said.

“People need to know how budgets are planned and how projects are carried out.”

Mr Kopio said feedback from the NGI consultation will be combined with input from other regions before the policy is submitted to the National Executive Council.

The final policy is expected to be approved in early 2026 and will lead to Papua New Guinea’s first right to information law.

JOSHUA CHAD MARAIP

THE teachers who underwent the inclusive model training in Buka. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Putin, Modi agree to expand trade

NEW DELHI: Russian President Vladimir Putin offered India uninterrupted fuel supplies on Friday, eliciting a cautious response even as he and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to expand trade and defence ties between countries with decadesold ties.

India, the world’s top buyer of Russian arms and seaborne oil, has rolled out the red carpet for Putin during his two-day state visit, his first to New Delhi since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

But New Delhi is also in talks with

the US on a trade deal to cut punitive tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on its goods over India’s purchases of Russian oil. India’s energy imports are expected to fall to a three-year-low this month following US tariffs and sanctions.

Deputy US Trade Representative Rick Switzer is still slated to travel to India today (Monday).

Russia has said it wants to import more Indian goods in an effort to grow trade to $100 billion by 2030.

Putin said Moscow was ready to continue ensuring “uninterrupted fuel supplies” to India, following

up on comments on Thursday questioning US pressure on India to curb oil purchases from Russia.

Asked about the future of energy trade between the two countries, India’s foreign secretary said Indian energy companies take decisions based on “evolving market dynamics” and “commercial issues that they confront while sourcing their supplies”, indicating the pressures of sanctions and prices.

Energy cooperation between the two countries continues within this framework, Vikram Misri told a media briefing. – Reuters

QUICK NEWS

4.8 QUAKE STRIKES GREECE

An earthquake of magnitude 4.8 struck Greece on Saturday but there were no immediate reports of any damage. The quake was at a depth of 12.4 kilometers and was in Peloponnese, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said. The German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) measured the quake initially at 6.36 magnitude.

DISASTER RELIEF FOR AUST

Australia on Sunday activated disaster relief for residents impacted by wildfires that have burnt properties, infrastructure and thousands of hectares of bushland in the country’s most populous state. More than 60 wildfires were burning in New South Wales on Sunday, a day after they destroyed at least 12 homes in the state’s central coast region, with a population of more than 350,000 people, about 45 km north of the state capital Sydney, Australia’s largest city. Authorities have warned of a high-risk bush fire season this Australian summer with increased risk of extreme heat forecast for large swaths of the country, after several quiet seasons.

BAR SHOOTING LEAVES 11 DEAD

At least 11 people were killed on Saturday including a three year old boy, after gunshots were fired at an illegal bar in the South African city of Pretoria, police said, adding that a manhunt was launched for three suspects who were not identified. Another 14 people were wounded during the incident in the Saulsville township, they said in a statement. Police didn’t say whether the shooting occurred inside or outside the illegal bar, known locally as a ‘shebeen.’

JOINT ANTI-MISSILE DRILLS

China and Russia held their third round of joint anti-missile drills on Russian territory in early December, China’s defence ministry said late on Saturday. The exercises were not targeted at any third party or in response to any current international situations, according to a post on the ministry’s website. The two countries held talks on missile defence and strategic stability last month and held artillery and anti-submarine drills in the Sea of Japan in August.

TOWER OF LONDON ARRESTS

Four people were arrested at London’s Tower of London after they threw food at a display case containing the Imperial State Crown, police said on Saturday, leading to a temporary closure of part of the historic building housing the Crown Jewels. An organisation called Take Back Power, which describes itself as a civil resistance group, posted footage of the incident on social media and said two of its members had smothered the display case with apple crumble and custard. London police said in a statement that four protesters were detained following the reports of criminal damage to the display case shortly before 1000 GMT.

PROGRESS IN PEACE TALKS

Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, has said he had a “very constructive” phone call with Donald Trump’s peace envoy, Steve Witkoff, and the US president’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner. Zelensky said they had discussed how to ensure that Russia stuck to any potential deal to end its war with Ukraine and that he was “determined” to continue working with the US. Ukrainian officials also joined the call from Miami, where they are in engaged in a third day of talks on US efforts to engineer a peace deal with Russia.

IRAN ARRESTS ORGANISERS

The Iranian judiciary says two organisers of a marathon have been arrested for allowing women who were not wearing hijabs to take part. The move comes after images appeared online of unveiled women competing in the race on Friday. Two thousand women and 3,000 men took part separately in the marathon on Kish Island off the southern coast of Iran.

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi walk ahead of their talks in New Delhi, India. New India. PICTURE: SPUTNIK

MARKET SNAPSHOT

Koim resigns as IRC Commissioner

SAM Koim is stepping away from his role as the commissioner general of the Internal Revenue Commission after spending nearly six and a half years with the agency.

TODAY will be the last day of Mr Koim, as the commissioner general, who will be vacating the office tomorrow.

Making his resignation announcement last Friday, he said, “I’m not running away from something, but I’m running into something.”

Stocks steady as slide in bitcoin, global bonds hit pause SINGAPORE, Dec 3 (Reuters) - Global shares were on steadier footing on Wednesday, helped by an overnight rebound on Wall Street as a brief selloff in bond markets and cryptocurrencies abated. Bitcoin reclaimed the $90,000 level and hit a two-week high while Nasdaq and S&P 500 futures rose 0.2% each. EUROSTOXX 50 futures were 0.3% firmer, while FTSE futures added 0.1%. Calm was restored to markets on Wednesday after an ugly start to the week, where expectations of a looming rate hike in Japan triggered a global bond selloff and exacerbated a slide in cryptocurrencies, leaving stocks caught in the rush from risk assets. “The narrowing in spreads and movement in the yen may have resurfaced some of the carry trade fears and unwinding of leverage positions,” said Kerry Craig, global market strategist at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, referring to the prospect of falling rate differentials between the U.S. and Japan. “Rightly or wrongly there was a period when the performance of crypto was being used as a gauge for risk sentiment, but we also know that the market is sensitive to broader liquidity conditions.” Japan’s Nikkeirose 1.5%, while MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan eased 0.12%, weighed down by losses in Chinese markets.

Mr Koim, who has been with Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) since August 2019 and was later confirmed as the commissioner in 2020.

He also announced that he will be parting ways with his two nonpaying jobs; his role as the chairman of Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority (WHPHA) and the chancellor of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT).

“So, I'm proud of what we've achieved together. But the time has come for me to move on and find

another path where I can be useful to society as well.”

Upon taking over the post in 2019, IRC under Mr Koim’s leadership had collected up to over K60 billion in tax revenue. The tax revenue is further projected to be around K80 billion by this year’s end, all under Mr Koim’s tenureship as the commissioner general.

“So, during my entire career, my tenureship as the Commissioner General here (at IRC), we've collected up to K65 billion last year. And this year we'll take it up to over 80 billion,” he said.

Of the tax revenue this year, Mr Koim is confident that IRC will be collecting around K17 billion.

Mr Koim, who took up the office, said his first year (in 2020) was challenging due to challenges like inefficiencies, noncompliance, and many more, but he managed to get through because of the great team that stood by his side.

Recounting on his career at IRC since August 2019, Mr Koim, who is a lawyer by profession, said he had no knowledge of tax when

he took over the role as acting commissioner to “I had zero tax knowledge when I came to IRC.

“But I've learned a lot along the way, and it's been very personally rewarding. Rewarding for me in all the things that I've done. I think what I've given back to IRC is much, but I've also gained much from IRC,” he said.

Among his challenging yet successful career at IRC, Mr Koim also contributed immensely to his two non-paying jobs, bringing both institutions to new heights.

Since taking up the chairman role of WHPHA in 2022, the provincial health authority (PHA) was ranked eighth (8th) across, in 2023 and 2024, WHPHA ranked as first (1st) amongst other PHA in the country.

He also played a crucial role while serving PNGUoT as its chancellor, which saw the university accredited to the Washington Accord.

This makes PNGUoT on par with all other major universities around the world offering Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (or STEM) courses.

Hike in retail fuel price

RETAIL fuel prices for this month will all increase on average right across the country today, says consumer watchdog.

The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) issued a statement last Friday saying that the indicative retail prices for petrol, diesel and kerosene will all increase on average.

That (the increase) is due to the movements in domestic retail fuel prices are attributed to the corresponding movements in the Mean of Platts Singapore prices, which have increased in November despite a slight decrease in crude oil price in the same month.

“The domestic retail fuel prices for this month are inclusive of the Import Parity Prices (IPPs) or the imported costs for each petroleum product, domestic sea and road freight rates for the fourth quarter of 2025, the approved annual wholesale and retail margins for 2025 and the Goods and Services Tax (GST), including the applicable excise duties, among other parameters,” said ICCC.

For all other centers, the maximum retail prices for each regulated petroleum product will change on average consistent with the changes observed for Port Moresby.

The prices set by the ICCC are the indicative maximum retail prices, however, retailers may choose to sell below the ICCC-approved maximum price.

“Whilst retailers may choose to set fuel prices on their pumps to one decimal place, the ICCC will continue to set the maximum price to two decimal places.

“No fuel pump operator should charge above the Indicative Retail Price for this month's price regardless of the number of decimal places.

“This is to ensure compliance with the Prices Regulation Act Chapter 320 under which the maximum prices for fuel products are set.

“Retailers who are displaying prices to 1 decimal place are urged by the ICCC to round the prices down to ensure prices are within the allowable indicative retail prices,” said ICCC.

ICCC inspectors will conduct regular spot checks on 8 December, 2025, to ensure on-going compliance by retail fuel operators.

Consumers are advised to report any instances of overcharging by retailers to the ICCC's Consumer Protection Division on telephone number 312 4600, or by contacting our Regional Offices closest to you on the numbers provided above.

TWO government agencies can now share vital information and improve cooperation in fighting tax and financial crimes, corruption and illicit asset concealment. The Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) and the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 'Information Sharing' last Friday. The partnership on “Information Sharing” between the two law enforcing agencies entails that both agencies to share information as they work hand-in-hand to combating corruption in a timely and efficient manner free without the need to deal with bureaucratic

impediments. More that just a partnership at it reflects a shared commitment to accountability and transparency across government systems. IRC Commissioner general said: "Tax crimes and corruption often operate hand-inhand. By working together, IRC and ICAC can respond more quickly and more effectively. This partnership allows us to detect risks early, close compliance gaps, and ensure public funds are protected,"

This strategic partnership is driven by the recognition of the strong link between tax and financial crimes and pervasive corruption. It enables both agencies to collaborate on intelligence, share critical data, and support each

other’s investigations.

ICAC Acting Commissioner, Thomas Eluh welcomed the signing of the MOU, stating: “This MoU marks an important step forward in our mutual effort to deter corruption risks. Internal revenue is vital to national development, but corruption remains a significant challenge within these systems. The MoU enables ICAC and IRC to work closely together to strengthen our ability to detect tax and financial irregularities, and close systemic gaps that allows corruption to thrive,” said Mr Eluh. The IRC fully supports ICAC's mandate to prevent and combat corruption by public officials, address systemic misconduct in government.

IRC commissioner general, Sam Koim addressing the media last Friday at Revenue Haus in Port Moresby. PICTURE: MAYSON LUIS

Sam Koim (left) shakes hands with the ICAC acting commissioner, Thomas Eluh during the MoU signing on “Information Sharing” last Friday in Port Moresby. PICTURE: MAYSON LUIS

PNG investment week underway

THE PNG Investment Week 2025 (PNGIW25) officially kicked off this morning at Sydney’s International Convention Centre with three major events: the PNG Climate Investment Summit, the PNG Regulators Forum, and the International Suppliers Forum.

Hosted by the PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE) under the theme “Stronger Together – Investing for the Future”, PNGIW25 has attracted more than 1,400 registered delegates from across the globe, setting the stage for a week of high-level discussions and strategic partnerships.

Papua New Guinea is taking a bold step toward climate leadership with the launch of its first Climate Investment Summit, held today as part of PNGIW25.

Building on PNG’s strong advocacy at COP30 in Belem, the summit aims to position the country as a regional hub for climate innovation and investment. The summit features an impressive lineup of speakers, including renowned climate scientist Professor Tim Flannery, who will deliver the keynote address titled “Confronting the Climate Challenge and Seizing Our Opportunity.”

The forum aims to produce actionable outcomes, including an Ease of Doing Business checklist for the National Government to consider in 2026.

Prof. Flannery emphasised PNG’s unique potential to leverage its biodiversity and resilient communities to drive sustainable development. Minister Simo Kilepa, responsible for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change, highlighted PNG’s national adaptation strategies, while voices from Australia, the World Bank, IFC, Bank of PNG, and KPMG joined regulators and industry leaders to explore financing innovation, regulatory trends, and investment opportunities in areas such as mangrove conservation, circular waste management, and resilient

McMonagle QLD wins PNGIW25 charity golf challenge trophy

THE PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE) proudly announces the winners of the K92 Mining-Sponsored PNG Investment Week 2025 Charity Golf Challenge, a pre-conference fundraiser that brought together industry leaders and partners for a day of camaraderie and giving.

First Place goes to McMonagle QLD with a Nett Score of 48.62, followed by Sun Engineering Ltd as RunnerUp with a Nett Score of 48.50, and High Arctic securing Third Place with a Nett Score of 47.93.

This exciting event last Friday set the stage for the 2025 Papua New Guinea Investment Week, which will run from December 8–12, 2025 in Sydney. Held at the scenic Northbridge Golf Club, the tournament united corporate and extractive industry partners in support of vital community initiatives across Papua New Guinea.

Since its inception, the PNG Investment Week Charity Golf Challenge has become a cornerstone event, raising essential funds for life-changing projects. In 2024, the challenge raised an impressive PGK 280,683.06, which transformed the paediatric ward at Mt Hagen Hospital by providing critical medical equipment for the paediatric ward such as phototherapy lights, portable ultrasound units, oxygen concentrators, and emergency monitors—improving care for over 100 children in a facility originally designed for only 48 beds.

This year, K92 Mining Ltd proudly serves as the Principal Sponsor, reinforcing our shared commitment to supporting communities in Papua New Guinea. Every swing at this tournament contributes to a legacy

of impact, ensuring that essential resources reach those who need them most.

PNG CORE Conference Committee Chair Mark McMonagle said, “A big thank you to K92 Mining for being the naming rights sponsor of the PNG CORE Charity Golf Challenge, and to John Lewins and his team for their generosity. We also thank all other sponsors for helping us purchase much-needed medical equipment for paediatric wards in Papua New Guinea. This event is about industry collaboration— coming together for a fun day in Sydney while raising vital funds to help children’s hospitals in PNG.”

It is collaboration of industry coming together and having an enjoyable and fun fill day in Sydney and creating fellowship

and friendship but at the same time raising much needed money to help the children’s hospital in PNG.”

K92 Mining Ltd Chief Executive Officer John Lewins said K92 Mining Ltd was pleased to be the principal sponsor for the Charity Golf event as it is always a good gesture to give back to communities in Papua New Guinea.

PNG CORE thanks our sponsors: Principal Sponsor – K92 Mining Ltd; Breakfast Sponsor – McMonagle QLD; Lunch Sponsor – Santos; Closing Drinks Sponsor – Sun Engineering.

Hole Sponsors include High Arctic, Blue Water Shipping, South Pacific Metals Corp, National Energy Authority, Santa Barbara, Pacific Lime and Cement, and Corrs Chambers Westgarth.

infrastructure.

Convenor of the Climate Investment Summit and PNG CORE President Anthony Smaré said, “Climate investment isn’t just a global agenda — it is at the heart of Papua New Guinea’s development priorities. By hosting this summit during PNGIW25, we are putting climate investment alongside our traditional economic pillars and positioning PNG as a regional hub for innovation, finance, and action.” Following its successful debut in 2024, the PNG Regulators Forum also returned as a key feature of PNGIW25.

Chaired by Chief Secretary Ambassador Ivan Pomaleu, the forum brings together leaders from regulatory bodies, government agencies, industry stakeholders, and development partners to address regulatory challenges impacting investment and economic growth.

The forum aims to produce actionable outcomes, including an Ease of Doing Business checklist for the National Government to consider in 2026. Discussions will span resources and energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, finance, agriculture, and fisheries sectors. PNG CORE President Anthony Smaré said, “This forum is not just about dialogue—it’s about action.

“We want to ensure that the outcomes from these discussions translate into real, measurable improvements in how business is conducted in PNG.”

Supporting sustainable development

AS SUSTAINABLE Investment

Sponsor for the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE) Investment Week, ANZ recognises its role in fostering long-term sustainable development in PNG.

ANZ Country Head for PNG, Andrew Betteridge, said, “ANZ’s footprint and strong proposition across the region, coupled with our approach to environmental sustainability, continues to foster important dialogue with our customers and key stakeholders.

“We hope that the conversations we have at PNG CORE Investment Week will promote investment and chart a path towards a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive PNG.

“Sustainable investment is critical to PNG achieving its goals set out under its Nationally Determined Contribution, supporting PNG’s key commitments to mitigating, addressing the impacts of climate change and transitioning the economy toward its carbon neutral objectives."

PNGIW25 Convenor and PNG

CORE President Anthony Smare said, “We are pleased to have ANZ once again on board for this important event. This year’s sponsorship is an innovative collaboration, built on values of economic empowerment, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility.”

ANZ is already exploring a range of opportunities to support its customers in PNG as they look to lower their emissions.

“Locally, ANZ continues to engage within the sustainability space across corporate, government and community sectors to help transition the economy, build resilience and create more sustainable outcomes. We draw expertise from our network across 29 markets to support the investment decisions of our PNG

clients,” Mr Betteridge said.

“We have been having conversations with customers, encouraging them to identify climate and nature risks and opportunities, create transition plans and report publicly on their progress. While no one organisation has the solution, collectively we can make a difference.”

ANZ’s involvement in PNG Investment Week aims to highlight the bank’s network, capabilities and expertise in sustainable finance and link it to the opportunities and local initiatives in PNG.

ANZ will be exhibiting at PNG Investment Week during the Sydney Conference. ANZ invites stakeholders—investors, local businesses, and communities—to visit its exhibit at PNG Investment Week between the 8th – 11th of December 2025.

Delegates queueing up to register yesterday.

Vice Chancellor of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology, Professor Ora Renagi being assisted by interns to register yesterday at the ICC in Sydney. PICTURES: SUPPLIED.

Winner of the 2025 PNG CORE Charity Golf Challenge, McMonagle QLD. PICTURE: SUPPLIED.

ANZ Country Head for PNG, Andrew Betteridge. PICTURE: SUPPLIED.

Fisheries authority funds K1.2m Mirigeda facility

THE National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has supported Hiri-Koiari District in Central province with a K1.2 million state-of-the-art accommodation and fisheries training facility in Mirigeda village, Hiri LLG, to house key economic sector public servants to boost economic activities in the district and the province.

The facilities; four (4x) two level staff houses, an office complex and a fisheries training facility are funded by NFA through its SubNational Government Institutional Infrastructure Capacity Building Program. The program is a nationwide program that NFA carry out in various provinces throughout the country in supporting key government department and agencies. The houses are fully furnished with cooking utensils, a fridge, toilet, laundry area, four (4x) bedrooms including the master bedroom, a balcony (veranda) and lounging area with TV and couch. Other basic household items are also included.

NFA managing director Justin Illakini said the facility will house public servants from forestry, agriculture, fisheries and health in Hiri-Koiar district and Central province. He acknowledges the traditional landowners in releasing their land for development purposes for the newly established HiriKoiari District and also Central province.

“Why are we (NFA) doing that?

Because we believe that one government sector or agency alone cannot grow or contribute to nation building. It is the responsibility of everybody. So, NFA try to encourage a cross-sectoral approach to development. We have to work with forestry, agriculture and

other government sectors of the economy,” Mr Ilakini said. He said;“ one of the things that we’ve realised as we stretched our mandated function is that, a lot of public servants do not have good houses. That’s why they cannot go to work and perform their full responsibilities. There are not good facilities that they can use to roll out government programs to serve our people. Accommodation is a huge problem for all workforce

Symbol of shared heritage, progress, and commitment to the future feature on the bank cards.

Kina bank unveils commemorative cards

KINA Bank is proud to announce a significant milestone in its journey, celebrating 40 years of empowering Papua New Guinea alongside the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

To mark this historic occasion, Kina Bank has introduced the Kina Bank 40th Anniversary Commemorative Card – a symbol of shared heritage, progress, and commitment to the future.

The commemorative card has an exclusive design inspired by PNG’s rich culture and Kina Banks’ legacy and is available for a limited time only.

Executive general manager –payments and digital banking, Shirly Prasad, said, "There are no changes to processes or fees – the card application process remains

PNGX to acquire PNG Registries

PNGX Group and MUFG Pension and Market Services on Friday announced that they have reached agreement for PNGX Group to acquire PNG Registries from MUFG Corporate Markets, a division of MUFG Pension and Market Services.

and therefore we are building accommodations for our staffs so that they are well taken care off with their families and come to work and perform well. An office complex and a fisheries training facility.

He said the fisheries training facility is to train students and fish farmers and officials in the province and also throughout the country.

NFA has agreements with some provinces that it will target those projects that can bring economic

benefits to the districts and provinces.

Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu received the keys to the facilities and thanked NFA management, the local landowners including the community.

He said the facilities are a very important infrastructures delivered by NFA program which will support the district’s five year plan on economic and infrastructure development.

The transaction is subject to clearance by Independent Consumer and Competition Commission. The proposed acquisition represents a significant milestone in the strategic development of the country's financial infrastructure and capital markets. If cleared, the transaction will see PNG Registries become part of PNGX Group, combining strengths and capabilities to better serve customers and support longterm market growth.

“This is a transformative opportunity for both organizations and for the capital markets as a whole,” said David Lawrence, Chairman of PNGX Group. “If cleared, the integration of PNG Registries into our group will not only enhance our service offering but also help drive innovation and efficiency in financial market operations.”

“PNG Registries has been an integral part of our business and operations since 2007. We would like to thank all of our clients for their partnership and support during this time, and sincerely thank our people, whose dedication and commitment is second to none.

“This opportunity presents the right time to pass the business into new ownership, and we are confident that PNGX Group will take the business to its next phase of growth,” said Lysa McKenna, CEO of MUFG Corporate Markets.

PNG Registries is a key provider of securities registry services and the proposed acquisition will strengthen the foundation for capital market modernisation.

Participants ready to grow

A HUNDRED and nine participants, who recently graduated after a twoweek comprehensive training, can now be able to utilise their practical skills and knowledge to further advance into SME businesses.

The training program, ‘International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Start Your Business’, focuses on assessing the readiness of the participants for a small business venture.

It also nurtures them (participants) with the core concepts of starting, managing, and running a small entrepreneurial business.

the same, only the design has changed.”

“This commemorative card is more than just a card – it represents a celebration of resilience, growth, and partnership.

“Thank you to all our customers for being part of this incredible journey. Together, we continue to build a stronger, brighter future for our country,” she said.

The cards are available at all Kina Bank branches starting December 1st, 2025 and customers can choose between the existing card design or the new commemorative card.

Kina Bank remains committed to driving digital transformation, expanding financial inclusion, and delivering customer-focused innovations that shape the future of banking in Papua New Guinea.

These concepts encompass planning a business, proposing and drafting a business plan, running a business, and most importantly, wise financial management.

The training commenced on November 25 and ended on December 4. It was facilitated by Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Corporation with the assistance of National Capital District Commission (NCDC).

Its graduation last Friday at the NCDC City Hall marks a pivotal moment in their lives as they set sights to delve in the small business enterprises, and also to manage and grow their already established small businesses.

The participants (both males and females) were from the two Port Moresby-based associations -

church and community.

A graduate, Roger Steven, said that programs like this (facilitated by SME Corporation) can chart ways forward to for locals to be heavily involved in SME sector and contribute to their community and economic development.

“I just want to say thank you for the two weeks of training, which we truly realise the importance of the training The certificate is a step forward towards contributing something to our communities,” he said.

Nathan Timo, who spoke on behalf of SME Corporation,

acting managing director, told the graduates that the certificates the evidence that the two-week programs align with the ILO’s standards and regulations.

Mr Timo said the program is to assist them in managing and growing their already established businesses into successful ones.

He further added, “What little business you like have like poultry, PMV service, you are already in the venture of SME sector.”

He told participants to be financially wise, “Income generated in the business operations is only for business purposes.”

One of the four (4) new accommodation facilities that was built through the K1.2 million funding from National Fisheries Authority. INSET: Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu (second from left) cutting the ribbon of the new facility with National Fisheries Authority officials and managing director Justin Ilakini last week. PICTURES: GABRIEL ERNEST

Participants with their certificates during the graduation last Friday. PICTURE: NCDC MEDIA

OTML transformation underway

BY LAWRENCE FONG

NINGERUM, which sits at the halfway mark between the Ok Tedi mine and Kiunga, will be transformed into OTML’s main logistics hub in the coming years, says the mine’s managing director and CEO Kedi Ilimbit.

Speaking last week when handing over keys to nine renovated police houses at the LLG station, Ilimbit said successive governments have been turning a blind eye to the development of Ningerum over the years, but that is about to change. He says this plan revolves around the future of the mine, which will go on for another 50 years.

Big plans for Nigerum, says mine CEO Mine CEO praises partnership with police

“Ningerum has been neglected by past administrations for a very long time. But that will change. We have big plans for Ningerum,” Ilimbit said.

“Ok Tedi’s mine life might continue for another 50 years, and we need to prepare Ningerum to be the logistics hub for the mine –beyond 2080. We have to plan and set up this place for that future.

These plans will include a tailings storage facility, he said.

“We are planning to build a tailings facility to be based here in Ningerum. OTML tailings personnel will move here, accommodated here and work here. Local SMEs must be prepared for this new development,

BY LAWRENCE FONG

OK Tedi Mining Limited CEO Kedi Ilimbit has praised the partnership between the mining company and police and called for more police personnel to maintain law and order as the mine sets course for the future.

“We have to increase the number of police personnel, and our own Asset Protection Division as well. The OTML will be here to assist in terms of logistics to help their

work,” Ilimbit said last week when handing over keys to nine renovated police houses at Ningerum.

“We spent almost K2 million to refurbish the houses. They have deteriorated and were abandoned, but the PPC persistently sought assistance from OTML through me, which has paid off.

“Thank you ACP for getting things moving. Previous police leaders were not as effective. There was a lot of start-stop activities but nothing concrete happened.

That’s something I don’t like to see. When we start something, we must complete it,” Ilimbit said in reference to the commander of the Border Command, Steven Francis.

“We need to improve the capacity of our police, defense force, Correctional Services, in preparation for future developments. We have to increase the number of police personnel, and our own Asset Protection Division as well. OTML will be here to assist in terms of logistics to help their

to make use of spin-off benefits,” he said.

“Fuel storage, food storage, and other equipment for the mine will be stockpiled or stored here in Ningerum, and from here we can easily move them up to Tabubil, instead of storing everything at Kiunga. Concentrates will also be stored here before shipping. These are in anticipation of the water level of Fly River dropping further.

“Ok Tedi’s mine life might continue for another 50 years, and we need to prepare Ningerum to be the logistics hub for the mine –beyond 2080. So we have to plan and set up this place for that future.”

Besides that future plan, OTML is already delivering a lot of social services to the LLG through partnerships with the community and other agencies.

work. We must respect visitors and businesses who are here, when we respect them, law and order will not be an issue.

“Twelve more vehicles will be given by OTML, eight to go to the police, and four will be used by Mobile Squad while on rotational duty at the mine.

“Western Province is so big, and when you put East and West Sepik together, the command becomes bigger, so we need police manpower.”

Ok Tedi mine pit. PICTURE: LAWRENCE FONG

OK Tedi Mining Limited CEO Kedi Ilimbit. PICTURE: LAWRENCE FONG

STARS

Somebody has picked a battle over a minor difference. While you’ll happily fight for what you believe in, you dread the variety of unimportant issues they seem to prefer. Try talking things through. It appears that they regret their hastiness and will be relieved if you offer them a way out.

LEO JUL 22 - AUG 22

You don’t think of yourself as being demanding until you realise, to your surprise, what others are willing to put up with. Yet, bizarrely, you’re about to discover one particular situation in which you’re compromising, but are unaware of it. Actually, once it was really important, but that’s no longer the case.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 - DEC 20

On Sunday the 3rd, the communication planet Mercury began one of its regular cycles of retrograde movement. While this occurs several times a year, because it’s in

some of the confusion typical of this period is bound to apply to matters of a personal nature, and could prove surprisingly illuminating.

GIANT CROSSWORD

As much as you’d like to see certain already complex situations discussed and dealt with, not only would rushing things be unwise, you could miss out on rather thrilling ideas or offers. Others are only now beginning to talk them through, and by the middle of the month, things will be much clearer.

VIRGO AUG 23 - SEP 22

While every sign is influenced by Mercury’s retrograde cycle, the fact it’s your ruler can lead to greater confusion, especially in personal matters. What’s more, because this particular cycle is taking place during a period of dramatic change in the world around you, even relatively simple arrangements could shift, and shift again.

CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 19

It’s rare that you leave important tasks until the last minute, mostly because you’d rather do things thoroughly, and once, than revisit them later. Despite that, several crucial matters need attention, and ideally before the 20th, when your ruler Saturn moves into Capricorn, and in the process triggers a new, and powerful, cycle.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUNE 20

Talking things over is always wise, but discussing issues would be especially helpful now. What you learn and discover as a result of the current link between your ruler Mercury and the most practical planet of them all, Saturn, will both highlight conflicts that need attention and lead to ways they can be handled.

LIBRA SEP 23- OCT 22

For ages you’ve been thinking about, and trying to gather facts that would define the source of certain persistent difficulties. And there’s no better time than now to discuss what you’ve observed with those who’re involved. While their initial reaction may not be enthusiastic, they’ll soon be thrilled with what they learn.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 17

For ages you’ve been working on certain ideas or plans that you’re convinced hold huge promise and which others seem to believe in as well. Yet recently progress has been worryingly slow. Be patient. Next week’s superb links between Mercury and the Sun with your ruler Uranus will get things going, and wonderfully.

CANCER JUN 21 - JUL 21

Although, being a Cancerian, you’ll have felt the influence of last Sunday’s Full Moon well before it took place, and will have dealt with numerous issues, there’s still bound to be fallout from it. Unsettling as it’s been, you’ve long known these matters would need to be dealt with. Now is the ideal time.

SCORPIO OCT 23 - NOV 21

Obviously you can’t ignore pressing issues. But you can acknowledge that since there’s no avoiding the influence of the current unsettling planetary activity, there’s little point in struggling to organise things in detail. In fact, the more flexible both arrangements and your attitude are, the easier it will be, now and later.

PISCES FEB 18 - MAR 19

The emotionally intense Full Moon may have taken place on Sunday, but it would appear you’re still dealing with certain of the issues that arose. Tackle those that are clear cut and can be discussed frankly and dealt with quickly. Others are more complex, enough any discussions can, and should, wait.

PUZZLE #0192

SOLUTION NO. 131578

ACROSS: 3 Molar, 8 Urchin, 9 Reaped, 11 Sultan, 12 Shares, 15 Esteem, 18 Tapir, 19 Pro, 20 Trinkets, 23 Stag, 25 Hoe, 26 Iris, 27 Ninepins, 29 Ore, 30 Steel, 33 Bandit, 36 Bistro, 37 Uneven, 38 Delete, 39 Across, 40 Snare

DOWN: 1 Burst, 2 Scrap, 3 Miser, 4 Onus, 5 Arteries, 6 Reason, 7 Here, 10 Ant, 13 Haiti, 14 Ridge, 16 Ewer, 17 Mass, 19 Prone, 20, Thirteen, 21 Kilts, 22 Tiger, 23 Snob, 24 Anon, 28 Points, 30 Sinc, , 31 Ethos, 32 Loose, 34 Apex, 35 Due, 36 Bear

SUDOKU MINI

‘Here to make a difference’

Mahoney to bring own style to Cowboys

RUGBY LEAGUE

COWBOYS recruit Reed Mahoney

admits he has “big shoes to fill” at the club but vowed to bring his own style of play to North Queensland as they aim to get back to the finals.

Mahoney was signed by the Cowboys to fill the hole left by the departure of NSW Origin representative Reece Robson to the Roosters, and the former Eels and Bulldogs hooker said he had made the move “to win”.

A Kawana Dolphins and Beerwah Bulldogs junior, Mahoney has been working hard to earn the respect of his new teammates but insisted he won’t change the way he plays.

“Reece has been great for this club for a number of years now, and for someone like that to leave; there is big shoes to fill,” Mahoney said.

“I’m not going to be here and become Reece Robson; I’m going to come here and be Reed Mahoney.

“So, it’s working hard, connecting with people and getting the best out of everyone around me and you go from there.

“I play with passion, and I want to win every game, every minute on the field. So, if I can bring that, I can definitely help the team in that way.

“I think a change is always nice as well. I came here to just earn my respect through my hard work and that’s what I’m planning on doing.

“It’s just working hard for my for my mates and (to) let them know that I am here to make a difference and that I’m passionate and that I came up here to win.” Describing himself as an 80-minute player, Mahoney said that while things did not finish the way he wanted at the Bulldogs, he knew he still had a lot to offer a team. “I’m an 80-minute player every week; I worked extremely hard in the off-season to get myself in peak fitness and there were some changes in the back end of the last year, but some of those were a bit out of my control and that was the coach’s decision,” Mahoney said.

“I had to run with it and it was about the team at the time … If I can take anything out of that, that motivates me for the years to come and I’m really looking forward to really pushing myself to stay at that level.” The Cowboys also didn’t have the season they would have wanted in 2025, with a number of injury disruptions one of the reasons that contributed to their 12th place finish after many had predicated another finals run for the talent-laden team. Despite some high-profile departures and retirements, Mahoney said he saw a bright future

for the club, which was another factor that attracted him to return to Queensland.

“The group of players that were here and the calibre and the type of coaches that were here,” Mahoney said of his decision.

“They said to me straight away that there was plenty left in me to learn and grow and that’s what I was looking for.

“There are some great players here that I’m really excited to play with and some really good young guys coming through as well … that’s what got my attention to come up

here …“The people that they have on the field and the people that are coming through the system; all the young boys that they’ve got going.

“I see a lot of improvement in us, and I see that we can get back to being like the Cowboys teams performing at the highest level …

“It’s about us walking towards it and getting better every day and really striving to be the best team that we can be. I see so much improvement in the side.”

The Cowboys will begin their 2026 season in Las Vegas against Newcastle Knights, with the

Bulldogs hosting the Dragons in the other match at Allegiant Stadium.

However, Mahoney was keeping his focus on training hard in the preseason, saying he was no guarantee to be on the plane for the season opener. “I knew we were going to Vegas and probably should think about who I’m versing, but we’ll get to that,” Mahoney said.

“As I said, I’ve got to earn everything and work really hard to earn my spot in the team and the only way I’m going to be in Vegas is me working hard and earning my spot.”

Injury concerns spark over Broncos star

Brisbane Broncos lock Pat Carrigan has sparked concern among fans after he was seen wearing a wrist brace while attending the second Ashes Test at the Gabba over the weekend.

Carrigan, who enjoyed a monster season in 2025, winning the NRL premiership with the Broncos, the State of Origin series with the Queensland Maroons, and the Ashes with Australia, appeared in the crowd with a cast on his left wrist.

The Broncos forward had strapping on the same wrist late in the NRL season and again during the Ashes series in England, prompting speculation he has undergone post-

QUICK NEWS

MORE DEPTH FOR RABBITOHS

THE South Sydney Rabbitohs have continued to add to their depth in the forward with the signing of a former NRL front-rower who spent time in the Canterbury Bulldogs and Cronulla Sharks systems.Following the signing of Jordi Mazzone and the Afualo brothers - Maxwell and William - the Rabbitohs have continued to add to their squads in the lower grades with a new arrival.Speaking on Rabbitohs Radio Podcast, Rabbitohs Recruitment Manager Brent Hill confirmed that the Cardinal and Myrtle had signed former Canterbury Bulldogs and Cronulla Sharks front-rower Franklin Pele.

SAILOR’S NIGHT IN CUSTODY DUAL-code rugby star Wendell Sailor has spent a night in custody after allegedly being found blocking traffic in the middle of a busy road in a bizarre incident.The 51-year-old former Australian league and union international was arrested after police received reports of a man yelling and standing in the middle of the road in Wollongong about 11pm on Friday.He was allegedly stopping traffic near a busy intersection not far from the city centre while apparently under the influence of drugs or alcohol.Sailor also allegedly fought officers’ attempts to move him before he was charged at Wollongong police station. He was accused of breaching bail conditions, obstructing traffic and resisting arrest, and held in custody ahead of his appearance in court on Saturday.No officers were injured in the incident, police said.The premiershipwinning former NRL player appeared in handcuffs wearing a Chicago Bulls T-shirt as the weekend bail court was told he was in the process of a “difficult” separation from his wife of almost 30 years. He accepted he had breached existing bail conditions that prevented him from being intoxicated in public, the court was told.

DRAGONS AFTER KOLOAMATANGI

The Dragons are pulling out all the stops for one of the best free agents on the market. In their pursuit of gun forward Keaon Koloamatangi, the Dragons are believed to have flown the Souths star from Sydney to Wollongong in a helicopter. The club want to lure Koloamatangi to the Red V and brought him to team headquarters via chopper to talk business and sell to the damaging forward that a move to the Dragons would prove fruitful.

ROOSTERS PLOTTING MOVES

A surprise team has emerged as a possible destination for star prop Tino Fa’asuamaleaui.According to Nine Newspapers, the Roosters are reportedly interested in the Titans gun, with teams around the NRL on high alert the Chooks may be plotting a massive move. The Titans are desperate to keep Fa’asuamaleaui and the hiring of Maroons assistant Josh Hannay as the club’s new head coach is said to be a good start, but the Gold Coast skipper has been keeping his options open since becoming a free agent on November 1.

EELS OUT TO POACH TITANS STAR

season surgery.

Images captured over the weekend showed Carrigan wearing a firm brace, with NRL Physio’s Brien Seeney later commenting that the type of cast typically indicates a thumb or wrist injury, potentially involving the scaphoid.

“This type of brace would often indicate a thumb or wrist (e.g., scaphoid) injury or surgery,” Seeney said on social media.

“These situations are common in the offseason.”

There has been no official comment from the Broncos at this stage, but despite the chatter, Carrigan is not expected to miss Round 1 in 2026. Seeney estimated a recovery window of 6–12 weeks, well within

the timeframe for Carrigan to be cleared for the start of Brisbane’s title defence.

“Even with the likelihood of recent surgery, he should be fully cleared for Round 1 2026,” Seeney said.

The only potential complication is Brisbane’s World Club Challenge showdown with Hull KR on February 19 in the UK.

Patrick Carrigan of the Broncos in action during the round five NRL match between Brisbane Broncos and Wests Tigers at Suncorp Stadium, on April 05, 2025, in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

The match is roughly 10 weeks away, meaning Carrigan’s availability will depend on which

end of the recovery range he falls into.

If the star lock requires closer to 8–12 weeks of rehabilitation, the Broncos may opt to rest him from the early-season showpiece event against the Super League champions.

While Carrigan’s brace drew attention online, the broader view is that it forms part of a routine offseason cleanup after a punishing year in both NRL and representative arenas. Barring setbacks, the Broncos’ inspirational forward leader is expected to be fit and firing for Round 1, with the Broncos again entering 2026 as one of the competition’s premiership heavyweights.

Parramatta are eyeing off a Titans star to help bolster their backline for 2026 and fill the void left by Zac Lomax. Brian Kelly is under contract until the end of next season with the Gold Coast, but the club have already signalled that they won’t resign him. Therefore, it’s no surprise to see rival clubs ask the Titans if Kelly is available immediately. Even before Lomax’s exit, the Eels had some question marks over their outside back depth. According to Code Sports, Kelly is right in the Eels’ line of sight, with the centre’s management trying to secure a release so the 29-year-old can link up with Parramatta for the 2026 season. Kelly would help provide a hard edge to the Eels’ backline and will likely form a talented centre duo with Will Penisini, however Kelly can play on the wing as well. If the Titans let Kelly walk, it’ll be yet another significant roster decision made by new coach Josh Hannay.

STORM SIGN DOLPHINS GUN

The Storm have reportedly poached Dolphins second-rower Oryn Keeley for 2027, but the expansion club have baulked at a request for an early release amid their injury crisis.

RUGBY LEAGUE

Cowboys recruit Reed Mahoney.

Off night for Opetaia

Jai Opetaia on his way to beating Huseyin Cinkara.

But trademark KO paves way for more

BOXING

A FRUSTRATED Jai Opetaia has immediately returned his focus to world title unification after what he described as a bad night at the office still resulted in another one-punch highlight-reel knockout.

Australia’s only current male boxing world champion defended his IBF and The Ring cruiserweight belts against testing German mandatory challenger Huseyin Cinkara on Saturday.

The 30-year-old was wobbled by two sharp right hands from the 40-year-old in the second round that triggered gasps through the sold-out Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre crowd.

But Opetaia kept his feet and then dominated the fight, setting up Cinkara for a left hook that sent the Istanbul-based giant into the ropes and left him prone on the canvas for several minutes midway through the eighth round.

It was the Gold Coast-based former Olympian’s third defence this year, the third time he’s left his opponent

in disarray, and the seventh easy kill in eight fights since first claiming his titles more than three years ago.

But Opetaia was filthy with his own performance, pacing in the ring post-fight and refusing to speak to media in his change-room once the dust had settled late on Saturday night.

“I fought like shit to be honest, but you get these nights,” he said in the ring.

“A lot of mistakes and I’m so pissed off, but we got the win and we move forward.”

The 29-0 fighter has been attempting to unify his division for three years, and his team is confident those targets can hide no more.

Gilberto “Zurdo’’ Ramirez, owner of the WBO and WBA straps, is the biggest culprit, having announced a defence for May next year against American David Benavidez in what will be his return from shoulder surgery.

Swedish-born Badou Jack, who boxes out of Las Vegas, will put his WBC belt on the line in a rematch

with Noel Mikaelian in Los Angeles on December 13.

Opetaia’s promoter Mick Francis, who heads Tasman Fighters, told AAP they planned to travel to the US this week and confront the winner of that fight.

“We want the unification fights. I’m just chasing the belts, I’ve been asking for them for a long time,” Opetaia said.

Francis has accused Mexican veteran Ramirez of ducking the Australian.

“Jai’s been calling this guy out for over a year now ... it’s about time he grows some nuts and takes on Jai Opetaia,” Francis said.

Saturday’s card also featured the successful return of former bantamweight world champion Jason Moloney in his Tasman Fighters debut, as well as dominant stoppage wins for Max McIntyre and Ben Mahoney.

But there was frustration when Paul Fleming’s comeback clash with Jake Wyllie ended in a draw and the three judges’ wide cards were called into question.

Villa blow EPL title race wide open by stunning Arsenal

SOCCER

THE Premier League title race has been blown open after leaders Arsenal conceded in stoppage time to lose at Aston Villa 2-1, while Manchester City closed the gap to just two points after beating Sunderland 3-0.

Late sub Emiliano Buendia struck at the death at Villa Park to stun the Gunners on Saturday and help push Villa up to third in the table, just another point behind City.

World club champions Chelsea could not take advantage, dropping points for the third game in a row in a 0-0 draw at Bournemouth that leaves them five points behind Villa in fourth.

Liverpool’s troubled title defence worsened when they dropped more points at Leeds. Arne Slot’s team blew a two-goal lead and conceded in the sixth minute of added time at Elland Road in a 3-3 draw.

Buendia’s winner for Villa came in the fifth minute of added time as the substitute lifted a shot through a crowded box and into the roof of the net.

“In the manner that happened at the end, obviously, it is really difficult to take,” Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta told TNT Sports. It was the third successive time that Arsenal have dropped points away from home after draws with Sunderland and Chelsea.

Villa’s ninth win from their past 10 games followed a dire start to the campaign when Unai Emery’s men were winless after five games.

“At the minute we’re on a great run,” said Matty Cash, who put Villa ahead in the 36th minute.

Leandro Trossard was a halftime substitute for Arsenal and levelled the game seven minutes later.

Buendia went on in the 87th minute and proved an inspired substitution, lifting a shot past Arsenal keeper David Raya.

Arsenal’s second loss of the season was their first since August at Liverpool.

Deep into stoppage time at Leeds,

Liverpool were set to move into the top five.

That was until Ao Tanaka arrived at the far post from a corner to deny Slot’s team a much-needed win.

“The only ones to blame is us because we do concede these chances,” Slot told Sky Sports.

Liverpool were poised for just a third league win in 10 games when Hugo Ekitike scored twice in two minutes shortly after halftime.

But Leeds responded with their own quickfire double when Dominic Calvert-Lewin converted from the penalty spot, before Anton Stach levelled two minutes later.

Dominik Szoboszlai put the visitors in front again in the 80th, but when the fourth official indicated nine minutes of added time the home crowd sensed another comeback and Tanaka delivered.

Ruben Dias, with a brilliant longrange goal, and Josko Gvardiol gave Manchester City a 2-0 lead at the break at Etihad Stadium against Sunderland and Phil Foden headed in a third in the second half.

Bruno Guimaraes scored directly from a corner in Newcastle’s 2-1 win against Burnley.

The midfielder’s wicked cross curled beyond Burnley goalkeeper Martin Dubravka and into the far corner in the 31st minute at St James’ Park. Anthony Gordon added a second from a penalty in first-half stoppage time.

Zian Flemming pulled a goal back with a stoppage-time penalty.

Tottenham got a long-awaited home win in the league, beating Brentford 2-0. Their last victory there had been the opening game of the season against newly promoted Burnley.

That was followed by six straight games without victory in front of their own fans, but that streak was broken by first-half goals from Richarlison and Xavi Simons against coach Thomas Frank’s former team.

Elsewhere, Everton moved up to fifth after a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

Australia dominate England to win second Test in Brisbane

CRICKET

AUSTRALIA cruised to an emphatic eight-wicket win over England in the day-night second Ashes Test in Brisbane on Sunday for an ominous 2-0 lead in the series. The hosts chased down the paltry target of 65 in just 10 overs, captain Steve Smith pulling Gus Atkinson for a huge six over square leg for the winning runs. Although not as humiliating as the two-day loss in the first Test in Perth, England were comprehensively outplayed in Brisbane in every department. Their batting, apart from that of Joe Root and Zak Crawley in the first innings and captain Ben Stokes and Will Jacks in the second, was just as rash as in Perth. They gave their wickets away

with poor strokes on the bouncy Gabba surface. They also bowled poorly, pitching too short on the Gabba wicket and wasting the new pink ball, in stark contrast to an Australian attack missing spearheads Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. To make matters worse, England dropped five catches in the first innings, whereas Australia’s fielders caught everything that came their way. Josh Inglis’s brilliant run-out of Stokes in the first innings changed the course of the match. Australia now have a 2-0 lead in the five-Test series and are overwhelming favourites to retain the Ashes with matches in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney to follow. England were behind the game once they let Australia’s tail help the home side post 511 on Saturday,

an overall lead of 177. They then lost six second-innings wickets under lights to end the third day 134-6, still 43 runs behind the Australian total.

While many expected England to surrender meekly on Sunday, Stokes and all-rounder Jacks led a fighting rearguard action to ensure Australia had to bat a second time. Stokes and Jacks defied the Australian pace attack on a fiercely hot day to edge their way past the initial deficit target and begin to set Australia something to chase.

England batting coach Marcus Trescothick said Saturday his batsmen would not change their aggressive approach, despite a clatter of wickets from poor shots.

But Stokes and Jacks did the exact opposite during the first session on Sunday. They left balls they didn’t

need to play and seemed happy to take their runs in singles rather than expansive boundary shots. They scored just 28 runs in the first hour and passed the 43-run deficit 96 minutes into the session, scoring only 59 runs in the two hours.

The Australian bowlers, who ran rampant under lights on Saturday with the pink ball, were far more ineffective on Sunday, despite the wicket beginning to play some tricks. The English offered only one chance when Scott Boland squared up Stokes, who got a thick edge over the slips cordon. They continued to frustrate the Australians in the second session until just before the drinks break, Jacks got an edge to Michael Neser and Smith snared a breathtaking catch at slip, diving full length to his left and catching

it low to the ground. Neser struck again in the next over when Stokes nibbled at a ball outside the offstump and got a fine edge to keeper Alex Carey to leave England 227-8, a lead of exactly 50. Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse and Jofra Archer offered no real resistance as Neser recorded career-best figures of 5-42 and Smith equalled Rahul Dravid on 210 outfield catches, three behind current record-holder Root. Sixty-five was never going to be enough, and although Australia lost Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne in the chase, Smith and Jake Weatherald guided the home side to an easy win in style.

The third test starts December 17 at the Adelaide Oval, with England needing a win to have any chance of reclaiming the Ashes.

Toks Nest United half-back Vetari Sevese gets his pass away during the A grade grand final against the Nikints Dragons yesterday.

Toks Nest United lineup for the RESET 50 PLUS Moresby North West A grade rugby league grand final at the Kone Tigers oval.

Nova Rugby Union Club Junior Academy Program at POMIS on Saturday.

Yagu captain Naomi Harold Gima digs the ball during the Gauna Gaudi volleyball grand final at Gerehu Stage One on Saturday.

Action in the Moresby North West RL U20 grand final between Giburi Dingoes and 38 United.

Die-hard supporters of the Gordons Flames volleyball team shaking it down at Gerehu Stage One.

Spectators at the Gauna Gaudi volleyball grand final at Gerehu Stage One

Birthday boys steal the show

ROAD RUNNING

PORT Moresby Road Runners conducted three events at Apec Haus on Saturday afternoon, and two of them were won by athletes with the same birthday. Hitofumi Abe attains the glorious age of 60 years on 8 December 2025 and celebrated that grand occasion with a pulsating victory in the 8-kilometre race in 38 minutes and 55 seconds.

The Japanese juggernaut nestled into third place as the field returned for the first time from the stretch along the Paga Ring Road to Harbourside and back.

Swans Pinampio was leading while Russell Evans was turning on a turbo and chasing hard. But in the second leg out to Harbourside Hitofumi took control and hammered Swans (41.38) and Russell (42.14) into submission. The brotherly combination of Henry Heaoa (45.31) and George Heaoa (47.35) fought like wildcats for fourth spot. Dominic Armbrust was a resilient sixth, belting out a consistent sub-7-minute per kilometre pace to roar home in 53.21. The one-lap 4-kilometre contest

PORT MORESBY ROAD RUNNERS RESULTS

SATURDAY 6 DECEMBER 2025

Apec Haus, Ela Beach, Paga Ring Road courses

2.0 KM: 1 Junior Heaoa 9.16, 2 Michael Andrew 9.33, 3 Jesina Wesley 9.37, 4 Linda Goksy 9.56, 5 Philip Solo 10.08, 6 Vincent John 10.27, 7 Tasi Unido 10.50, 8 Gary Jack 10.51, 9 Ricky Mou 10.58, 10 Girika McLaren 11.05, 11 Sonyzel Gombu 11.34, 12 Junior Mark 11.41, 13 Badui Irai 11.48, 14 Freddie Noare 12.26, 15 Moses Hudson 12.28, 16 Hannah Mera 20.54, 17 Kelina Mera 20.54, 18 Jeremiah Sailas 21.41, 19 Trent Scott

was taken out by another runner with a birthday on 8 December.

Joshua John turns 19 on that day and celebrated early with a fine win in 18.13 from Mataio Mou (19.05) and reigning Downtown 10,000 champion Joseph Michael (19.24).

Lovelyn Robert was the best of the girls in 27.01, with Jill Yomu (30.27) and Rhoda Jack (30.33) engaged in a classy duel for third place.

Females were prominent in the short course of 2 km.

Jesina Wesley (9.37) and Linda Goksy (9.56) were third and fourth respectively, while Girika McLaren (11.05) also forged a spot in the top ten. Hannah Mera (20.54) and RuthJoe McLaren (24.28) were also proud finishers. POM Road Runners celebrates all performances. Every finisher has their time recorded. Every participant whether they run or walk or amble their way to the finish line is a winner. There were 58 of them on Saturday.

Next Saturday at 5.00 pm, Road Runners will be just 400 metres along Ela Beach, starting in the car park opposite Ela Beach Hotel. There are three events on the card, over distances of 3.5, 5.4 and 10 km. They are all tough assignments at this time of the year.

Runners and walkers of every standard are welcome.

21.45, 20 Thomas Hudson 21.49, 21 RuthJoe McLaren 24.28, 22 Mark Eddie 24.28. 4.0 KM: 1 Joshua John 18.13, 2 Mataio Mou 19.05, 3 Joseph Michael 19.24, 4 Timur Zhumazhan 20.03, 5 Amoa Peter 22.40, 6 Josek Bomida 22.48, 7 Lionel Emmanuel 23.04, 8 James Maita 23.04, 9 Milton Iakosi 23.47, 10 Jonathan Sipa 24.15, 11 Nathan Ralphs 24.29, 12 Jamie Loho 24.48, 13 Patrick John 25.01, 14 Emmanuel Soltex

Toks Nest Utd bag K10,000 as MNW RL champs

FROM BACK PAGE

THE Tokarara outfit had a slow start with several errors and penalties going against them, but once they settled down to complete their sets, it wasn’t long before they landed a penalty to Vetari Sevese and scored a try to prop Timothy Paro who dissected the Nikints Dragons left edge.

The Dragons from Morata looked to play with more creativity, but the stifling defence by the latter denied everything they tried.

Then things swayed towards Toks Nest again when winger Navua Wanua cut on the inside off a pass from centre Gerard Taune, to again open up the Dragons left-edge defence-line for their second try.

Then when winger Gudi Laden collected the first of his two

intercepts for a 80 metre sprint to the try-line…things were getting desperate for the Dragons with the score at 14-0 at half-time. In the second-half, despite a mountain of pressure from the Morata side, the Tokarara side held firm, and put the icing on the cake when Laden stole his second intercept to seal the win.

The Dragons scored a late a try, but it was all too late, as the latter finally broke the ice after taking part for eight seasons under the then Suburban League without success and then last year again in the MNWRL inaugural season and now picking up top honours.

Toks Nest United also claimed K10,000 in prize-money, while Nikints picked up K7000.

The U20 winners 38 United won themselves K5000 and runners-up Giburi Dingoes K3000.

38 United won 8-2.

MNW RL vice-president Aaron Ainu congratulated Toks Nest United for their perseverance ad finally going all the way this season.

“I commend their coaching staff for a well-orchestrated win in the grand final,” he added.

Ainu further said it has been a touch season trying to manage 36 teams, but they managed to do so and complete with the grand final.

He acknowledged all the clubs for bearing with them with the challenges they faced weekly and acknowledged the referees for sticking by them and members of their executives headed by Yanga Harupa as president to deliver a successful 2025 season.

25.03, 15 John Ulelu 26.22, 16 Lovelyn Robert 27.01, 17 Patrick Jacob 27.31, 18 Eddie Joe 27.26, 19 Haragu Chi 29.45, 20 Mirzo Isoev 30.09, 21 James Gurumi 30.19, 22 Carlos Peko 30.19, 23 Jill Yomu 30.27, 24 Joseph Woka 30.30, 25 Rhoda Jack 30.33, 26 Simeon Paul 30.44, 27 Havae Harupa 33.25, 28 Henry Horou 33.50, 29 Michael Sullivan 37.29, 30 Titus Tobia 43.49.

8.0 KM: 1 Hitofumi Abe 38.55, 2 Swans Pinampio 41.38, 3 Russell Evans 42.14, 4 Henry Heaoa 45.31, 5 George Heaoa 47.35, 6 Dominic Armbrust 53.21.

REGISTRAR: Giri Sanata, Timekeeper: Philip Bade. Next weekend: Saturday 13 December 2025, 5.00 pm, Ela Beach (middle car park): 3.5, 5.4 & 10 km.

Runners unwind after APEC House event. PICTURE: SUPPLIED.

Hitofumi Abe flies to victory. PICTURE: SUPPLIED.

Crazy scenes after 38 United won

Toks Nest United right centre Gerard Taune was was easily one of their better players in winning the MNW RL grand final at the Kone Tigers oval yesterday.

Lae to host 2025 National Touch Championship after late venue change

TOUCH FOOTBALL

SCRUM field at the Lae Showground in Morobe province is set to host the 2025 National Touch Championship.

The five-day touch footy fest will tap off on Wednesday and conclude on Sunday (December 10-14).

This Touch Federation of PNG (TFPNG) sanctioned annual event was relocated from the initial host, Alotau Touch Association, at the 11th hour due to the fact that there were insufficient information relating to several critical factors required to host the championship.

TFPNG Steven Kuimp said the federation is committed and ready to host the tournament without changes to the initial dates of the tournament.

“So far 12 associations are coming to participate.”

“We have secured Scrum Oval within Lae Show Ground which can cater for four playing field and field condition is perfect.”

“Queensland Paia won't make it this year and also Alotau will not make it with having issue with ship arrangement,” said Kuimp.

Registered associations taking

part include NCD, Corporate Touch Port Moresby, Ijivitari, Popondetta, Sohe, Lae Corporate, Madang, Owan, Kainantu Corporate, Gateway Touch and Beli Touch.

Kuimp said there is no security concern but will be working closely with Eriku Foot-beat SRU through Lae Metropolitan Superintendent.

“On behalf of Touch Football PNG, we extend a warm welcome to all participating associations, players, officials, and supporters to this year's National Touch Championship in Lae.”

“We sincerely acknowledge and

thank our corporate sponsors, partners, and stakeholders whose support makes this championship possible, our corporate sponsors are: JJSHIP Equip. Lae Biscuit Company, Trophy Haus, Warrior Industries, Trukai Rice, Digicel PNG and Paradise Foods,” said Kuimp.

Meanwhile the championship will also be used for selections towards Federation of International Touch (FIT) sanctioned events.

“This tournament will be to select players for Asia Pacific Opens Touch Cup and Seniors Cup respectively

and Jnrs.”

“Selections will be based strictly on merit, discipline, performance, fitness, attitude, and compliance with team and association criteria,” said Kuimp. According to Kuimp, TFPNG will also convene its Annual General Meeting (AGM) during the championship.

“All affiliated associations are required to be represented. Details including agenda, time, and venue will be circulated separately and formally,” said Kuimp.

The Waghi Tigers geared for the Kande 9s

RUGBY LEAGUE BY MAL TAIME

GRAVITY Engineering Limited

Waghi Tigers have arrived safely in Madang to participate in the forthcoming Morobe Kandes 9s tournament.

The four-day tournament that will be staged at the Ron Albert Oval and the Madang Technical College is all set to kick off today.

44 teams have registered to compete.

This competition will give opportunity to the Kandes selectors to identify potential players to join their pre-season training camp, to prepare for next year's Digicel

Exxon Mobil Cup competition.

Those teams from the mainland started to travel by road last Thursday, Friday, Saturday and arrived in Madang yesterday for the

The officials are team

Wallace

they hope they do well and secure a placing in the play-offs.

Apan Dogs Chase rugby glory

RUGBY LEAGUE

LAE-BASED Apan Dogs Rugby Club takes the shot in the 2025 Kande 9s tournament starting today (Monday) in Madang and will be more than just a sporting team.

On behalf of Apan Dogs, team manager Frankiy Kapin acknowledges the backing of rugby league stronghold and Lae Snax Tigers owner Ian Chow, the Coca Cola Amatil Lae and Ramu Sugar-Ramu Agri Industries Limited (RAIL) to have shown more than the support for Apan Dogs but a staunch belief in the pathway we are taking.

drinks and branded merchandise including t shirts and caps, while RAIL's National Sales and Marketing Manager Harry Kaisa provided branded t-shirts and caps from the company for the entire team.

"We are a small lae based team of like minded peers and in a short time worked towards harnessing the best of rugby league talents that we believe have the potential to make it higher than where we are right now," Kapin said.

He said Apan Dogs is greatful to the Lae based businesses with Mr Chow donating 12 cartons of biscuits, 12 cartons of noodles, and 12 cartons of Pawa Drink, products of the Lae Biscuit Company, presented by Snax Tigers head coach Noel Zemming ahead of the team's travel to Madang.

Coca Cola Amatil's Lae Regional Activation Manager Serah Moana handed over 22 cartons of Fanta

"Thank you so much for the donations as it helps boost our campaign but more so gives us confidence that you share our vision.

I extend sincere thank you to certain individuals including Fidelis Powi, Dr David Kundi and Aron Pua having come on board during our preparations and boosting our trainings ahead of the tournament, " said Kapin

"This is a community initiative founded by proud Lae brought up sons and former SP PNG Hunters Joshua Lau and Sherwin Tanabi mentoring the next generation. The club serves as an inspiration and pathway for young protégés," said Kapin.Cub President and Morobe Provincial Magistrate Pious Tapil indicates the Apan Dogs initiative is driven by a vision to shape positive mindsets, encourage discipline, and promote unity among the youth through rugby. Apan Dogs continues to produce young potential talents to the bigger stage like our initial captain Gregan Format who has

gone to become a Junior Kumul and is currently in the Hunters pre season camp.Format has also become a pivotal recruit for the Agmark ENB Gurias this season (2025) in the Digicel Exon Mobil cup and promises to return to Gurias for season 2026."We are new to the scene and in a short time pushed our players to be the best just like Carlos Lung who was our star in last year's Pawa 9s in Lae grabbing the player of the tournament award and making his semi professional rugby league debut with the Lae Snax Tigers this year.Carlos has proven to be impressive and is

currently in the SP PNG Hunters off-season training as well.

The club is actively building a structured pathway for players and names like Simon Lau, Sammy Tobe, Emmanuel Tembon and Maiya Tusa carry the core of our aspirations, " said Kapin.

Following a strong third-place finish in the last years Pawa 9s out of 32 teams, bowing out of the semifinals and one game short of the grandfinal, the Apan Dogs aims to further promote community values in Madang's Kande 9s.

The team is led by former SP PNG Hunters halfback and 2021 Digicel

Cup player of the year Joshua Lau, arriving in Madang yesterday and ready to showcase their skills. "We're grateful for the support. The sponsorship will boost morale and help us perform our best as we are eager to really test uncharted waters," said Lau. Club co-founder and 2022 PNG Kumuls World Cup debutant Sherwin Tanabi who is currently in Australia with the Brisbane Tigers continues to provide motivation for the young lads taking part in offseason tournaments and where there are opportunities to grow with the sport.

CCA representative Ms Moana (centre) makes a donation to the Apan Dogs. Inset: Lae Tigers coach Noel Zemming with the Apan Dogs.

Joshua Lau and Sammy Tobe receiving the RAIL donation.

team management briefing.

Among the teams that went are the Gravity Engineer sponsored Waghi Tigers from the Kudjip LLG.

The travelling team is headed by Alohonse Kapil include Nunior James, Edwin Omba, Valentine Wamdi, Moses Pere, Samuel Wamdi, Sapea David, Desmond Greg, Motex Guri, Junior Karta, Paul Wawa, Tom Jones, Terry Onde, Issac Tumun, Mark Su, Jerome Nekints, Andrew Chris, Moses Dre, Apet Komni, Jeremaiah Tai, Alfred Wemin, McPhee Tai, Rex Karpos and Joshua Kaipel.

manager

Paa, trainer Harvey Tul, Tumunts Simon, coach Alphonse Kapil, team doctor Tobias Tumunts, technical officer Moses Reapha and patron Michael Kiap. Paa said

The Gravity Engineering Waghi Tigers arrive in Madang ready for the Kande 9s challenge, as players and officials gear up for four days of tough competition and a chance to impress Kandes selectors ahead of the 2025 Digicel Exxon Mobil Cup seaso.

TOKS NEST UTD WIN ELUSIVE MORESBY NORTH WEST

BY JOHN PANGKATANA

AFTER a decade, the stylish Toks Nest United ticked that evasive box to win the Moresby North West Rugby League premiership at the Kone Tigers Oval yesterday.

CONTINUE PAGE 46

Toks Nest United skipper Raymond Pepo (left) receives the Moresby North West RL A grade premiership from NCDC Sports Foundation chairman Billy Aki

Toks Nest United on the charge during the Reset 50 Plus Moresby North West RL grand final at the Kone Tigers Oval yesterday. PICTURE JOHN PANGKATANA