PostCourier_2025.12.11_U

PNG CHIEFS MAKING HEADWAY MAKING HEADWAY

THE PNG Chiefs are starting to turn up the volume. The dial was set at low in 2025 since the historical announcement of the Chiefs entry into the NRL late last year - but for 2026, that volume is set for a steady increase with the man at the helm in former Canterbury Bulldogs top man, regarded as one of the most influential men in rugby league in Chiefs franchise Chairman Ray Dib - is set to ramp up the volume with several major announcements in the New Year - with the first being the establishment of the new Centre of Excellence. CONTINUE ON PAGE 4

STAN JOYCE: Business leader.

RAY DIB: Chairman, former Bulldogs chairman.

MARCUS BAI: Former PNG Kumul and Melbourne Storm player.

LORNA MCPHERSON: Business leader.

RICHARD PEGUM: Business leader.

IAN TARUTIA: Business leader.

This board is responsible for the franchise’s business operations, preparing it for entry into the NRL in 2028, focusing on nation-building and economic outcomes.

The PNG Chiefs franchise board members that were in Sydney include (from left) Marcus Bai, Stan Joyce, Lorna McPherson, Ian Tarutia, Ray Dib (centre) and Richard Pegum (far right). PICTURE: SUPPLIED

CHECK OUT CHETTY’S CR7 RESTAURANT

CR7 Restaurant has over the years created a name for itself and has fast become a favourite spot for travellers, families and locals looking for a warm meal and a welcoming atmosphere.

ESCAPE: SEE PAGES 28-29

Celebrating Saint Peter ToRot in ENB

BY SHARON WALI

THE celebration of the sainthood of Peter ToRot, will be witnessed by Maurizio Bravi, the Apostolic Nuncio or Pope’s representative to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

He arrived in Kokopo, East New Britain Province, yesterday for the celebration.

This is a historic event on the calendar of the Catholic Church in East New Britain, PNG and Solomon Islands, as all archdioceses and dioceses gather together for the four-day celebration.

Pope Francis approved the canonisation of Peter ToRot, who was canonised by Pope Leo XIV at a mass before an estimated 55,000 people in St Peter’s Square in Rome on October 19 this year.

About 1374 people have travelled in from 16 dioceses are already settled into different local parishes in the province, who are currently providing accommodation and

food for them. A local crowd from around the province is expected to keep the traffic busy at the respected celebration venues at Vunapope, Rakunai Basilica and the Takubar Sports Grounds.

Saint Peter Torot, a lay catechist was martyred by the Japanese for his faith and for defending the sanctity of marriage during World War II.

The celebration starts today, with the opening Eucharistic celebration followed by the Eucharistic Procession and Eucharistic Adoration by Maurizio Bravi, Cardinal Sir John Ribat and Bishop Otto Separy, at Vunapope in Kokopo.

This is a combined program for all the archdioceses and dioceses of the Catholic Bishops Conference in PNG, the Solomon Islands and the local deaneries.

ENB Regional MP Michael Marum will officiate at the closing Eucharist celebration on Sunday at the Takubar Sports Field.

Faithful from Kavieng and Lorengau flock to East New Britain

BY REINHARD MINONG

MORE than 100 faithful from the Kavieng-Lorengau diocese are on the move quietly boarding boats, bound for East New Britain to join thousands of Catholics gathering for the national celebration of St. Peter ToRot’s Sainthood.

According to Kavieng-Lorengau diocese reports; 18 pilgrims from Manus Deanery have already travelled.

Another 70 from OLSH Parish in Kavieng had left on the earlier hours of Tuesday Morning with their Parish Priest Fr Mathew Pulo who is the Pastoral Vicar of KaviengLorengau Diocese.

Also travelling with the Pilgrims; Formator of Tuas Formation Centre,

Fr Alex Tanai with few Diocesan Seminarians. Lamasong, Puas and Lovongai parishioners with other participants from other parishes and their respective Parish Priests are expected to depart soon.

And beyond the official list, many more are travelling at their own expense, determined not to miss this moment in their lifetime.

Their destination: a four-day national Celebration from December 11–14, honouring the first Papua New Guinean martyr to be declared a Saint of the Catholic Church.

According to Fr. Richard Koisilia, Judicial Vicar of the Archdiocese of Rabaul, the celebration follows Peter ToRot’s canonisation in Rome on October 19, a moment that unfolded while it was still October

18 in Papua New Guinea due to the time difference.

A smaller liturgical celebration was held locally on October 20 to align with the exact time Rome proclaimed him Saint Peter ToRot. But the national gathering in East New Britain is the true homecoming of the story.

He said that the expected number is 250 pilgrims from each archdiocese nationwide. The hosting Archdiocese of Rabaul has mobilised committees across logistics, accommodation and catering, with Catholic agency schools in Kokopo and Rabaul opening their classrooms to house travelling believers. The program carries deep spiritual weight: Dec 11: Opening at Vunapope Mission

Dec 12: Pilgrimage to Rakunai’s St. Peter ToRot Basilica

Dec 13: Thanksgiving Mass at Vunapope

Dec 14: final celebration at Takubar Sports Field

He said that Church leaders, government representatives and envoys from Rome, including the Apostolic Nuncio, will be present.

“Parishioners must travel under their diocesan banner,” Fr. Koisilia stresses. “Each archdiocese will shepherd its people.”

For the pilgrims from Kavieng and Manus, this journey carries the weight of prayer, identity and pride. As they travel across seas and provinces, they carry with them the legacy of a man whose quiet courage now inspires a nation.

Rabaul Archbishop Rochus Tatamai MSC DD sharing few words with Apostolic Nuncio Maurizio Bravi at Tokua airport upon their arrival yesterday. PICTURES: SUPPLIED

Maurizio Bravi Apostolic Nuncio to PNGSI, Kokopo MP Ereman ToBaining Jr and Cardinal Sir John Ribat upon arrival at Tokua yesterday.

Maurizio Bravi, Apostolic Nuncio to CBPNGSI being introduced to the ENBPA church representative Pastor Tony Kivung upon arrival in Kokopo yesterday.

Part of the over 100 pilgrims who travelled from New Ireland by boat to East New Britain to Join the celebration. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

-PENGEE: thedrum@spp.com.pg

BIG SIGN OF THINGS TO COME

A newbie made a big impression on the man who designs staff ID cards the other day. Asked for her personal signature, her biro flew across the A4 paper effortlessly. The only problem was that it covered the entire page. The man was left with a big, Happy Christmas smile as he put it through the software. Thanks to AI, the signature was able to fit nicely on the staff ID card.

EXERCISE FOR LIFE

The walk for human rights, organised by NCD Governor, Powes Parkop yesterday morning drew a lot of crowd, This Governor is known for organising these walks in the city to highlight important issues in our community. The walks are also good for those who want to do some physical exercise to lose weight and keep fit. Perhaps, Mr Parkop should invite his colleague MPs from the NCD to take part in these walks. Some of them definitely need some exercise.

THE DRAINAGE

We know that stormwater drainages carry a lot of rubble and refuse to the ocean. For a long time, the one at Koki Point, between the War Memorial and the Basketball Court, has been a regular outdoor venue for those in urgent need of an outlet. Two young shopkeepers were bent in the drain when a passing pmv turned the corner. Some buai spill spittle greeted the two lalokaus. Not only did they have to wash their hands, but they needed a thorough swim.

KOKI MARKET TOILETS

The Koki Market toilets are of no help to marketgoers, fish sellers, and shop assistants. The pots are dirty, no water, and the highly golden TP costs an arm and a leg and a ball if you are in a hurry. Time NCDC built proper facilities that are safely secured and free for pubic use.

KOKI CRIMS

A thief stole a car at Ela Beach yesterday and drove down the wrong lane to Koki Market, parked the vehicle and fled using the usual behind-the-toilet route to Koki Market. Half an hour later, a lone cop arrived, followed an hour later by six police units, including the dog squad. We’d love to have that kind of response for every stolen car, domestic dispute, petty crime and fish thief.

KOKI ‘TRAFFIC’ DIRECTORS

Fish buyers and motorists must always be careful when driving into the Koki fish market carpark. Don’t even trust the car park attendants. They work in cahoots with petty criminals. A lot of motorists fall victim to these so-called traffic officers. Bag snatchers and petty thieves rob and run, and the parkies just turn a blind eye. We watch this happen regularly from the eagle’s nest.

DEVELOPMENT IS NOT PROJECTS

Rather, a country’s development is measured by its social and human rights progress- it’s people. These constitute the social development index that is the yard stick to measure the real progress of a nation. “It’s measured by the quality of life, the health of our people, the literacy of our people, the standard of nutrition, the need for housing and shelter, the basic protection that our people deserve and are entitled to,” NCD Governor Powes Parkop said during the World Human Rights Day celebration in Port Moresby yesterday. And he urged that human rights must be at the core of PNG’s development aspirations, saying; “otherwise the equation is going wrong”.

AND THE ONE TRUE LEGACY

OUR children are our greatest treasure and our greatest legacy, said Governor Parkop at the same event yesterday. “They have our entire DNA, they have our entire physical being, and they are also the legacy of our ancestors, our history, our journey. How they are cared for and raised, and more importantly, live their lives will determine whether we, this generation now, parents of today, are successful or not,” he said as the chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Children and Youth, yesterday.

“And that’s why it’s important that we also get the rights of our children and their welfare into the core of our development plans. In all phases of development, and they must be at the forefront of development moving into the next 50 years.”

Kudos to Governor Parkop for always championing the cause of our womenfolk and children in the heart of the country that is the nation’s capital.

Scanheretoreadmore

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

Email: jpangkatana@spp.com.pg

YU TOK

Letters to the Editor Ph: 309 1061

Email: yutok@spp.com.pg

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

BUKA: Steven Busin Ph: 79826750 Email: sbusin@spp.com.pg

ARAWA: Peterson Tseraha Ph: 78313008 Email: ptseraha@spp.com.pg

GOROKA: Nelson Joe Ph: 76996961

Email: njoe@spp.com.pg

DIGITAL/ONLINE

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

DIGITAL EDITOR Philemon Kassman Email: pkassman@spp. com.pg Ph: 309 1084

ARCHIVES LIBRARIAN

Deborah Enaha Email: denaha@spp.com.pg Ph: 309 1092

CIRCULATION

CIRCULATION MANAGER (HQ) Althea Jerewai Ph: 309 1000 Email: ajerewai@spp.com.pg

CIRCULATION

Ojung Ure Ph: 309 1000

Email: oure@spp.com.pg

ADVERTISING

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

DIRECTOR

Ryan Morgan Ph: 309 1044

Email: rmorgan@spp.com.pg

SPECIAL PROJECTS

SPECIAL PROJECTS

MANAGER

Andrew Beggo Ph: 309 1174

Email: abeggo@spp.com.pg

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIED MANAGER

Catherine Oa Ph: 309 1126 Email: coa@spp.com.pg

Aust to confirm low-cost VISA arrangement

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA in Sydney, Australia

THE Australian Government has confirmed it is finalising a new low-cost visa arrangement for Papua New Guineans, a move tied directly to the historic entry of the PNG Chiefs into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028.

Australia’s Minister for the Pacific, Pat Conroy, said the visa program would open the door for easier travel between the two close neighbours, strengthening peopleto-people ties long championed by both governments.

Mr Conroy could not hide his excitement, saying the inclusion of the PNG Chiefs would be “astounding” for both countries and would bring economic benefits not only to Port Moresby but to regional centres across Australia.

He said thousands of Australians were expected to travel to PNG once the Chiefs begin hosting NRL matches at home grounds, while Papua New Guineans would also have new pathways to travel south to support their team.

“We want Papua New Guineans the team, officials, and supporters to be able to travel to Australia to watch their team play,” he said, adding that over time he believes the Chiefs will “dominate the NRL”.

While Minister Conroy did not go into specifics, he confirmed that the visa will be a specially designed short-stay tourism visa. Further details will be announced soon by the Australian Minister for Home Affairs.

He noted that Prime Minister James Marape had already been enthusiastic in conversations earlier in the day, joining NRL boss Peter V’landys on a panel

discussing PNG’s landmark entry into the league a decision both governments have described as “nationshaping”.

Mr Conroy said the visa initiative is another step in

cementing the shared history and deep ties between the two nations.

“Only four kilometres separates our two countries.

We’re joined at the hip geographically, and through sharing blood in common cause like Kokoda,” he said.

“This visa is just another brick in building that foundation.”

The announcement is expected to be welcomed widely in PNG, where anticipation for the Chiefs’ debut continues to build as 2028 approaches.

Franchise board to announce key dates and events

FROM PAGE ONE

THIS was amongst the topics discussed when the Chiefs board assembled in Sydney, Australia to set key timings and dates for next year for PNG’s entry into the NRL 2028.

The board held a series of high-level meetings and participated in several events during the PNG Investment Conference.

As part of the meetings, Chairman Dib and several members of the board toured the facilities of long established NRL clubs, the Parramatta Eels and the Penrith Panthers, to get a first-hand look into what it takes to create a world-class training facility.

“I’m delighted that we have one of the most accomplished boards in world sport,” said Dib.

“I am joined by a team of directors who

all hold senior positions and are captains of industry, which will be the ingredient to help drive our franchise forward and that’s why it was an important visit to tour leading facilities in Sydney.

“The vision of this club is to build a successful team on and off the field and that’s why we wanted to visit best practice facilities so that we can replicate that in PNG.

“The PNG Chiefs is more than the board, more than a logo and more than just a team, it’s for the people of this great country,” said Dib.

As part of the involvement in the PNG Investment Conference, Dib has also announced that the PNG Chiefs will support 50 young boys and girls with a full educational scholarship, supporting the team’s commitment to give back to the

community and support the next generation of players.

The Chiefs are committed to growing the number of scholarships handed out each year, with the hope of one day awarding up to 5,000 scholarships per year for all sports and arts.

“Our club is all about the community, in everything we do, we will always put emphasis on the community first.

“This is PNG’s team, we’re just the current custodians and as a board we are committed to giving back from day one,” said Dib.

The PNG Chiefs are set to hit the ground running in 2026 with a new office at the Santos National Football Stadium, while construction on the Centre of Excellence, and several key staff announcements will follow.

Participants at the PNG Investment Week 2025 in Sydney, Australia. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Migration chief warns investors

By MIRIAM ZARRIGA in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

PAPUA New Guinea’s Chief Migration Officer has issued a blunt warning to foreign investors — follow the country’s laws or face the consequences, even as major reforms roll out to make it easier to enter, invest and work in the country.

Speaking during an investor briefing, CMO Wellington Naviasivu said PNG is opening its doors wider to legitimate businesses through streamlined visas, digitalised services and new investment pathways — but stressed that “convenience does not mean complacency”.

The warning was sparked by recent arrests involving gold smuggling attempts at Jackson International Airport, including two cases detected over the weekend.

“These are serious offences. If you come into the country, come the right way,” he said.

“If you leave, leave the right way.”

Mr Naviasivu told investors that breaches of PNG’s border and

‘Follow the law as PNG streamlines visas’

immigration laws would attract significant penalties and damage both business and the nation’s reputation.

PNG’s immigration system has undergone its most significant overhaul in a decade, with business

visas and work permits now merged and processed electronically.

Key improvements include:

Short-term single-entry business visa (30 days, non-extendable)

Short-term multiple-entry visa (up to 60 days, re-entry allowed for 12 months)

Online visa + work permit system fully integrated from late 2024

Sponsor code system enabling companies to manage staff applications directly

Digital payments and online extensions now available from anywhere

He confirmed that the new sponsor code platform has eliminated the need for physical visa stickers and manual renewals.

“Your HR team can now extend your visa from your office. You will receive a grant letter — that is your approval. No more stickers,” Mr

PNG’s focus on investment partnerships

By MIRIAM ZARRIGA in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

PAPUA New Guinea is marking its 50th year of independence not just with celebration, but with a sharp focus on investment and enduring partnerships, said PNG CORE president Anthony Smaré.

Speaking at the opening of the newly expanded PNG Investment Week, Smare emphasised that the nation stands at a “threshold of a new era”, pivoting its resource wealth toward long-term national development under the theme“stronger together- investing for the future”.

The investment week has morphed from a traditional mining and petroleum forum into a broad “multi-summit platform”, showcasing opportunities across resources, energy, climate, and infrastructure.

Mr Smaré highlighted a historic moment at the event's commencement, noting the presence of two serving prime ministers.

“I say thank you to the both of them for placing this event and this relationship with esteem at the center of their engagement,” he said.

“This is truly a historic moment as many of you know—no serving Australian prime minister has ever addressed a PNG Parliament since independence.”

The presence of both leaders, he said, demonstrates the "rich historical, economic, political, and cultural relationships" binding PNG and Australia.

The core objective of the fourday event is to convert PNG's immense resource wealth into tangible benefits for its fast-growing population.

Mr Smare stressed that the next few decades will be defined by whether "projects and policies can convert the resource wealth into jobs, infrastructure, inclusive finance, and climate resilience for a young and rapidly growing population."

He affirmed that the “Stronger Together” theme is an acknowledgement that “every success gained over the last fifty years and into the future will be a result of strong and enduring partnerships”.

"The goal is no longer just today's

jobs or today's revenues, but building institutions, connectivity, and resilience so that future generations of our Papua New Guineans inherit a more stable, more prosperous, and inclusive nation than the one that Sir Michael Somare and his generation started in 1975," Mr Smare declared.

Scanheretoreadmore

The Investment Week program has been deliberately structured to move from policy clarity to longterm financial resilience.

For the first time, a Climate Investment Summit has taken centre-stage, demonstrating how "national policy, green finance, and climate risk financing can align lending and turn climate risk into a pipeline of bankable projects”. A dedicated Infrastructure

Naviasivu said.

A major legislative reform push is underway to modernise PNG’s Migration and Citizenship Acts.

One key addition is an nvestor Visa, expected to be operational before the end of the year pending Parliament’s approval.

Under the proposed requirements:

Applicants may need to deposit up to K10 million as proof of commitment

The visa will allow long-term residency

Holders can progress to PNG citizenship through investment

Dual citizenship with Australia will be permitted

“This is not selling passports,” Mr Naviasivu said.

“You must hold a legal visa, invest properly and meet conditions.

“Only then can you qualify for

Investment Summit will explore areas like digital inclusion and regional connectivity, underscoring that infrastructure including defence facilities are "also economic assets that support trade, investment, and community safety”.

Mr Smare concluded with a clear call to action for attendees, urging them to embrace serendipity the event's "great hidden asset" to forge new collaborations.

“Initiate the conversation, introduce yourself to a person that you did not already know, ask questions, share what you do and what you are looking for, and be intentional about making new connections," he said.

"It is through these relationships and partnerships that we truly become stronger together."

citizenship.”

PNG has invested heavily in digitising immigration processes since 2018.

Online lodgement, automated assessments and payment gateways have reduced delays and improved security checks.

“We want you to travel with ease and invest with confidence,” he said.

“But our systems rely on compliance.

“Fill in your forms properly.

“Apply for the correct visa.

“Adapt to the changes.”

Mr Naviasivu urged business travellers to use the correct visa category, warning that entering PNG on the wrong visa especially for work remains a common violation.

“If you’re coming for a meeting, apply for a business visa,” he said.

“If you’ll be entering and leaving frequently, get a multiple-entry visa.

“It saves you time and money.”

Mr Naviasivu reiterated that PNG welcomes investors but will take firm action against those who undermine border security.

“Come here to invest, not to break the law.”

PNGIW25 AWARDS IN PICTURES

PNG Prime Minister James Marape and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arriving to open the PNG Investment Week Summit in Sydney. PICTURE: PNGIW FACEBOOK

TOP: K92 Mining won the Outstanding Community Humanitarian Initiative award for 2025, which was awarded for delivering meaningful humanitarian outcomes beyond mandatory project deliverables, while Santos (below) was given the Recognition of Outstanding Health & Safety Initiative award for its exceptional promotion of health and safety throughout 2025. PICTURE: PNGIW FACEBOOK

PNG entering ‘decisive energy decade’, says Aopi

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

KUMUL Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) Chairman Gerea Aopi has declared that PNG is entering ‘a decisive energy decade’, when unveiling a bold roadmap for LNG expansion, domestic gas supply, and long-term national revenue gains during the PNG CORE Investment Week in Sydney.

Speaking before regional investors and government leaders, Mr Aopi said PNG’s petroleum future will depend on discipline, partnership and a regulatory system that protects the country’s interests.

“Our history shows that we are

strongest when we work together,”

Mr Aopi said.

“The next phase of energy development will demand that unity and a clear national mindset.”

Mr Aopi said the 2025 shift to Production Sharing Contracts (PSC) marks one of the most significant reforms in PNG’s petroleum history.

“The PSC framework is about fairness, transparency and proper oversight,” he said.

“It places the State in a true partnership position sharing risks and sharing rewards.”

Mr Aopi said natural gas remains PNG’s “transition fuel,” essential for stabilising the nation’s struggling electricity system.

“Gas is the key to cleaner, reliable and affordable energy for our people,” he said.

“Strengthening the domestic gas market is how we fix power reliability and unlock economic growth.”

He said Papua LNG, with the State finalising a 22.5 percent equity stake, and P’nyang LNG, which will operate as a strategic gas aggregation hub, will drive national income for decades.

“Papua LNG gives us a strong revenue foundation for the next generation,” Mr Aopi said.

“P’nyang will unlock Western Province’s vast gas potential and anchor future exports.”

Mr Aopi reaffirmed that KPHL will continue to act as the State’s nominee in all petroleum and energy projects.

“KPHL exists to protect and advance the State’s interests. We will participate in every major project on behalf of our people,” he said.

Mr Aopi said PNG has a clear path forward, despite challenges in power, regulation and investment confidence.

“We must invest in exploration, build bankable projects and strengthen our partnerships,” he said.

“If we stay united, PNG will not just develop energy we will develop our future. We are stronger together.”

INVEST IN

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

THE Government has ordered the aggregation of long-stranded gas fields in Western and Gulf provinces, directing the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and Kumul Petroleum Holdings Ltd to work with all project licence holders to create a unified development framework that will evolve into Papua New Guinea’s first Gas Master Plan.

Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina told the PNG Investment Summit in Sydney that fragmented development had stalled gas production in the region for years,

despite proven resources.

“These fields have remained undeveloped for too long,” he said.

On 27 November, Mr Maladina issued a Ministerial Policy Direction under the National Petroleum Authority Act requiring all licences in the region to be brought into a coordinated system for shared infrastructure, commercial alignment and staged development.

The move could unlock major stranded fields such as Stanley, Elevala/Ketu, P’nyang-adjacent resources, and Gulf Province discoveries—many of which have been stuck for more than a decade

to

and

CORPORATE TAX

Prime Minister James Marape has made one of his most striking economic commitments yet, declaring he will cut corporate tax once Papua New Guinea reaches a K200 billion economy, telling investors the country is on the cusp of a green-energy boom that will reshape its economic future. Speaking during a fireside conversation at PNG CORE Investment Week in Sydney, Mr Marape said the Government’s long-term strategy is to expand the economy through renewable energy, carbon markets, major resource projects and stronger security institutions. “When the economy reaches K200 billion, corporate tax will drop. That is my promise,” Mr Marape said, urging businesses to “hold him accountable.” Mr Marape said PNG intends to supply Australia with renewable energy as it phases out coal and gas power generation. “We want to supply Australia with clean energy harvested from our water sources,” he said. “PNG must be a leader in climate solutions and forest conservation.” He said PNG’s extensive hydropower and green-energy potential give the nation a unique opportunity to export clean energy while attracting billions in investment. Mr Marape urged global companies especially in the oil and gas sector to invest in PNG’s growing forest conservation and carbon-credit economy.

NEW AUTHORITY

Papua New Guinea has formally entered a new era in the petroleum sector, with Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina announcing the full establishment of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and confirming that the country’s largest upcoming gas project, Papua LNG, is now firmly on the pathway to a 2026 Final Investment Decision (FID). Speaking at the PNG Investment Summit in Sydney yesterday, Mr Maladina told global investors that PNG’s regulatory and fiscal overhaul is “finally taking shape,” signalling to the region that PNG is ready to compete for major new petroleum investment. “The NPA is now legislatively established, its Board is sworn in, and we have scored crucial runs on the board,” he said. The NPA replaces the former Department of Petroleum and Energy and is designed to be an independent, technically competent regulator aligned with global industry standards.

K3.4 BILLION GDP

of an Aggregation and Development Plan, due within six months, with the final objective of creating PNG’s first Gas Master Plan a national framework guiding upstream infrastructure, midstream processing, and downstream gas commercialisation.

“This will improve infrastructure efficiency and unlock value for the State and communities,” Mr Maladina said.

Downstream opportunities, including petrochemicals, LNG derivatives and domestic gas supply, will be incorporated into the Master Plan, which the Minister said would open new doors for both local and international investors.

Papua New Guinea’s economy is set for a major digital overhaul, with new undersea international cable connections projected to boost the gross domestic product (GDP) by up to K3.4 billion by 2028. Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald announced at PNG Investment Week 2025 that via the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP), Australia is offering three new connections. These critical cable links including the Google Pacific cable in the north, a connection to Bougainville, and a southern connection are focused on increasing internet reliability and lowering prices. “It is projected that these cables will increase internet coverage in PNG by 16 per cent,” McDonald stated. This digital strategy directly supports Prime Minister Marape’s ambition to take the economy from over K130 billion in 2025 to a K200 billion economy by 2030.

due

project complexity

lack of scale. The NPA will lead the development

The PNG Investment Promotion Authority marketing its services at their booth in Sydney . PICTURE: PNGCORE

PNG

PNG-Aust security ties enter strongest phase

REPORTS BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA IN SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

THE PNG-Australia security partnership has entered its strongest phase in history, with Canberra declaring that the Pacific is facing threats “more complex than ever before” and reaffirming that PNG’s stability is central to the region’s future.

In a statement to the Post-Courier, Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald, said the partnership is delivering tangible results across defence, police, and regional cooperation.

“Security is the foundation upon which all investment, innovation and prosperity are built,” Mr McDonald said.

“Our region faces transnational crime, illegal fishing, cyber threats,

KPHL moves to unlock PNG stranded gas fields

KUMUL Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has launched a major drive to unlock several of Papua New Guinea’s "longneglected" or “stranded” gas fields.

This will constitute what acting managing director Dr Luke Liria, calls a turning point for national resource development.

Presenting to industry leaders at PNG CORE, Dr Liria revealed that the State-owned petroleum company has completed extensive seismic work on four petroleum retention licences across the country on an unprecedented scale.

The fields include onshore licensed fields Kimu (PRL 48) and Barikewa (PRL 49), and offshore licensed fields Pandora (PRL 47) and Uramu (PRL 50).

The studies, conducted between 2024 and 2025, are designed to determine which of the fields can be commercially unlocked first.

“These PRLs have held some of the country’s most promising gas but remained unmonetised for decades,” Dr Liria said.

“Our seismic and development concept studies put us in a strong position to finally realise their value.”

KPHL is also reviewing floating LNG (FLNG) as a development option for its offshore assets — technology that could bring PNG’s isolated gas directly to global markets without relying on onshore infrastructure.

The national company’s push to revive these fields comes as it prepares for major investment demands in the forthcoming Papua LNG Project, where it aims to secure the full 22.5 per cent equity entitlement for Papua New Guinea.

Industry players say the renewed momentum in “stranded” fields could reshape the country’s gas future, offering new revenue sources and reducing reliance on the major LNG joint ventures.

Dr Liria said the renewed seismic programs, technical reviews and portfolio prioritisation are part of KPHL’s NEC-approved 2026 work program to ensure PNG takes full control of its resource potential.

natural disasters and increasing strategic pressures, but we face them together.”

McDonald said defence ties between the two nations has reached an unprecedented level.

“Our defence cooperation with Papua New Guinea is at an all-time high, strengthening the capacity of the PNG Defence Force, enhancing maritime surveillance, supporting disaster response and expanding training and interoperability between our security institutions,” he said.

He said all efforts are grounded in respect for PNG’s sovereignty and leadership.

Under the Bilateral Security Agreement, Mr McDonald said major infrastructure and capability upgrades are underway throughout the Royal PNG Constabulary.

“Major infrastructure projects are underway to house new recruits, and planning is progressing for expanded facilities across the country,” he said.

He highlighted Bomana Regional Centre of Excellence as a breakthrough for Pacific policing.

“Bomana is now a flagship for Pacific policing cooperation hosting its first investigative skills program with participants from 11 Pacific nations and setting the standard for regional training,” Mr McDonald said.

Other major developments include upgrade to the National Forensic

Science Centre, plans for regional forensic hubs and expansion to push Bomana’s intake to more than 500 recruits annually.

The High Commissioner stressed the link between security and prosperity, saying; “We know that building a stable, safe and trusted environment leads to long-term positive outcomes and increased investment”.

“Simply put, without security, growth stalls, and with it, opportunity diminishes for everyone.”

He reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting PNG in building a professional, communityfocused police force capable of earning public trust and enforcing the rule of law.

“We face the challenges of this region together and we move forward together,” McDonald said.

PRIME Minister James Marape has announced the most sweeping security reform in Papua New Guinea’s history, revealing plans to build a 10,000-strong, modern police force within the next five years to anchor investor confidence and stabilise the nation.

Speaking during a high-level fireside conversation at the PNG CORE Investment Week in Sydney, Mr Marape said security is now the country’s most urgent national priority.

“Security is our immediate need,” he told investors.

“A strong, well-resourced police force working with Australia, the USA and our defence partners will secure the investment environment and guarantee investors a return.”

Mr Marape confirmed that the Government is investing heavily across the entire law and justice chain courts, prosecution services, corrections and police arguing that economic growth cannot proceed without basic security.

He said Australia has already urged PNG to expand its police

force, but the Government is going further, committing to an unprecedented recruitment and modernisation agenda.

“We will develop our police force up to 10,000 men and women,” he said.

“Ten thousand good, modern,

A POWERFUL leadership shakeup at Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has triggered a full governance reset, with acting managing director Dr Luke Liria confirming that a new board under chairman Gerea Aopi is already steering the organisation towards a sharper, more disciplined direction. The overhaul marks the biggest leadership change at the State’s national petroleum company since its establishment under the KPHL Authorisation Act 2015.

Speaking at PNG CORE, Dr Liria said the board’s mandate is clearrebuild public confidence, stabilise operations, and ensure the company has the financial muscle to secure PNG’s maximum allowable 22.5 per cent equity in the upcoming Papua LNG Project.

“This board is focused, experienced, and determined to deliver. Our direction is very clear secure PNG’s interest and ensure full value flows to the country,” Dr Liria said.

Under the new leadership, KPHL has tightened operational priorities and begun strengthening its internal technical workforce now more than 100 skilled national engineers, geoscientists and petroleum specialists who have come through the company’s long-term graduate development program.

As Dr Liria put it “We are positioning KPHL for the next gas era one that must deliver more for the country than ever before.”

Dr Liria said the new board has reaffirmed the company’s broader 2023–2027 corporate strategy, which includes upstream development, midstream infrastructure, diversification and national development projects.

Key projects now under accelerated oversight include the Motukea Fuel Facility (due for completion in early 2026), construction of a national Training and Fabrication Facility, and ongoing work in the PRL gas fields.

Industry sources say the governance reboot arrives at a critical time, with Papua LNG expected to enter a decisive phase in 2026 and KPHL required to raise significant capital to meet its equity obligations.

professional police officers will underpin every investment we welcome into the country.”

Mr Marape also issued a clear message to global capital investors, PNG will honour major resource agreements.

He said investors should watch

the progress of Wafi-Golpu, Papua LNG, Pasca and P’nyang as the strongest demonstration of Government reliability.

“If these projects move to FID, investors will know PNG keeps its word,” he said.

The Prime Minister said the successful reopening of Porgera under a 51 per cent PNG shareholding something “many people said would never happen” proved the Government’s commitment to balanced partnership.

Mr Marape said that as PNG approaches 50 years of Independence, the Government’s focus is clear: secure the country, strengthen institutions, and build a stable environment where foreign and domestic investors can thrive.

“When security is strong, investors are happy, government is happy, and our landowners participate meaningfully,” he said.

Prime Minister James Marape

Participants at the PNG CORE Investment week. PICTURES: PNG CORE

ANOTHER SESSION AT THE MEET

City to impose alcohol controls

BY ROBERT APALA

UPNG Communication Journalsim Student

ALCOHOL consumption in Port Moresby city will be monitored during this festive season to maintain peace and good order in the communities.

National Capital District Liquor Licensing Board chairman and Moresby Northeast MP John Kaupa (pictured) said too many issues have been caused by alcohol during the festive season.

The board, at a recent meeting, decided to address the uncontrolled production of homebrew and cheap alcohol — especially in hotspot areas like Hanuabada, Vabukori,

Gabutu, Erima, 8-Mile and 9-Mile, Gerehu and Morata.

“We have the enforcement unit on the ground to go around the city –especially to targeted areas – because over the years, people have complained about youths playing loud music, disturbing the community and even threatening vulnerable people,” Mr Kaupa said.

He said shops selling alcohol will be given allocated appropriate trading hours.

He said shop owners must comply with the terms and conditions

of NCD Liquor Licensing Board because it is good for the business and good for the community.

“It is quite hard to catch those individuals producing homebrew,”

Mr Kaupa said.

“It is disrespectful to the laws of this country and also undermining the work tasked to me as NCD Liquor Licensing Board chairman because I have seen people selling it on the street.”

He said there are leaders at Hanuabada who are capable of addressing these issues; he said most people at Hanuabada mind their own business but a few produce the concoctions to make fast money.

“Hanuabada is not an alcohol-free village but it will soon be addressed during a planned meeting with the Motu-Koita Assembly (MKA), Moresby Northwest MP and the Hanuabada community representatives”, he said.

He said Christmas is a time of celebration, sharing, laughter and reflection on the achievements of the past year.

“It is the alcohol that some individuals consume for no good reason, making them think they are superheroes who can do the impossible and that is how issues starts,” he said.

Mr Kaupa urged citizens to respect the law and observe regulations

Intoxication culture fuelling PNG’s social violence

BY ILEEN NAKRA

WHILE alcohol serves functions for recreational relaxation and social bonding globally, Papua New Guineans who consume alcohol demonstrate a tendency towards high intoxication, binge-drinking and alcohol use disorders, which have significant negative societal impacts.

A National Research Institute (NRI) study by Michael Unage, which was cited from the 2007 Burnet Institute for Medical Research (BIMR) Study, has highlighted significant findings about the strong culture of intoxication in Port Moresby and throughout PNG.

“This notion captures the cultural practice of striving for extremely altered states of consciousness when consuming intoxicants,” the research stated.

“The culture of intoxication was especially associated with the use of alcohol, homebrew and when cannabis was used in conjunction with alcohol.”

The NRI study also noted crucial findings on people’s desire for intoxication, stating that “it was also revealed that some people combined cannabis with alcohol to increase intoxication.

However, the quantitative data indicated that up to a third of drug-using respondents reported using cannabis and alcohol together.

“Also, it is common that drug and alcohol are taken together to increase the effects of intoxication on the user,” the research pointed.

because it allows peace and good order in the communities.

“The enforcement unit is on alert and now moving around the city,”he said.

“If someone is caught selling alcohol illegally— or if the location is reported, the owner or the person responsible will face the law.

“If you do not want to end up in jail during this festive season, think twice.”

“We celebrated our Golden Jubilee in September well; this Christmas must also be celebrated with purpose.

“Let’s have some change and prove to the world that we are good people.”

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

“Substance abuse is destroying our villages, breaking families, and threatening the future of our children. We must stand together with education, awareness, strong community action, and leadership to protect PNG and secure a safe and prosperous tomorrow for our youth. Only through united prevention efforts can we build a safer, stronger, and thriving PNG for all.”

“Address substance abuse in PNG by combining community initiatives, law enforcement, and addressing poverty, with a focus on treatment and community engagement. This approach can reduce abuse and improve safety.”

In reference to a “Submission to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Alcohol-Related Violence’’ writeup done earlier by the St John Ambulance Service PNG, it also shared its own experience on the worrying damaging facts associated with the high intoxication of alcohol.

“St John have experienced an escalating number of cases relating to alcohol fueled

violence, injuries whilst intoxicated, and other direct health effects of excessive alcohol consumption in recent years,” it said.

The increase in alcohol fueled violence across the country is an alarming trend, and one which directly impacts St John operations.”

In PNG, high alcohol and

drug intoxication behaviour is a significant social issue often manifesting as violence (domestic and public), public disorder, road accidents, property damage, and various criminal acts.

This behaviour is a concern across all age groups but is particularly prevalent among youths and young adults.

“At the community level especially in Central Province and Motu-Koitabu villages, we just voted our new council leaders. They must be strict and do more awareness to stop homebrew and marijuana consumption. The people who are illegally selling must respect our law and stop it too.”

Porebada East councillor takes action against homebrew

BY PAUL MAIMA

GAU Morea Pako (pictured), the new councillor for Porebada East in the Hiri-Koiari district, Central Province, has vowed to clean up his ward as he resumes his role.

There are many issues and challenges facing the community, with the needs surpassing the budgetary requirement for a massive restoration, but Mr Pako is adamant to get the basics up and running with the involvement of the community.

The councillor wants to see a clean environment and respectful community, with zero-tolerance on the illegal brewing of alcohol and cannabis trading.

Porebada, the biggest Motuan village in Central Province, which was once a quiet place – especially on weekends – has been taken over by drunken youths with boom boxes and AI-generated music.

Grave concern has been raised by community, mothers and church leaders to address the issue that is affecting young school-aged children.

George Petroff, a father-of-four, said local leaders should do more community awareness to stop the productionand sale of homebrew in the village.

“The consumption and sale of homebrew has increased and many school-aged children are drinking it; some are even inhaling petrol

— and it's quite risky for them,” he said. “As parents, we are playing our part to discipline them but with cheap alcohol available at K10, they still purchase it behind our backs to drink.”

Mr Petroff said the new councillors from the two wards in Porebada should work together with other stakeholders like the village court and the churches to address the issue.

Councillor Pako said there is a rise in the making and consumption of homebrew in the village and he is in liaison with the Porebada West councillor to resolve the issue.

“We have called a village meeting and notified Porebada at large that we will impose community policing

to control misbehaviour and drunkenness but if our message is falling on deaf ears, we will take further action,” he said

Mr Pako said with the approach of the festive season, there should be more engagement in church activities as opposed to social functions that brews violence and unwanted disturbances.

He said a village curfew will be imposed during the festive season and Central Police will be requested to patrol the village to minimise alcohol-related violence.

“We will also monitor students and underage drinking and ask beverage sellers to produce liquor licences as a means to control sales.”

WETTY PAUL SUU

HUMBLE SINE DAWI

GEORGE PETROFF

GRAPHIC showing the adverse symptoms and effects of alcoholism.

Lelang refutes claims about road

MINISTER for Rural and Economic Development and KandrianGloucester Member of Parliament (MP) Joseph Lelang (pictured), has condemned misleading claims circulating in the mainstream and on social media made by a John Sanga Mondo, calling them “completely false and politically motivated”.

The allegations suggest that Mr Lelang and the Kandrian-Gloucester District Development Authority (DDA) have neglected the Silovuti Junction to Wara Wia road.

He rejected these claims,

describing them as deliberate attempts to mislead the district.

“I will not allow baseless accusations to tarnish the truth or undermine established government processes,” Mr Lelang said.

He said the DDA approved the specific road project on Nov 7, 2022.

The project received National Government approval for K50 million, with K10m to be released

Preparations start for Carols by the Sea 2025

THE National Capital District Commission (NCDC) has announced that preparations are underway for Carols by the Sea 2025, one of the most anticipated flagship events on the NCDC festive calendar.

This year’s celebration will take place on Saturday, December 13, from 10am to 9pm at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium – and it is open to the public.

The full day event will have music, culture, food, and festive magic. Families, friends, churches, youth groups, and communities across Port Moresby are invited to celebrate the spirit of Christmas in a safe, joyful, and inclusive environment.

This year’s program promises a vibrant blend of traditional and modern festive experiences, creating a truly Papua New Guinean Christmas celebration by the sea.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Peroveta Walk

Christmas Carols sung by some of the city’s finest choirs

Christmas Market & Food Festival showcasing local crafts and diverse cuisines

Nativity Performance

Live Artist Performances

Toy Donation Drive to support disadvantaged children during the festive season

Fireworks Display to close the night in spectacular fashion

Carols by the Sea is not just an event — it is a celebration of community spirit, togetherness, and the cultural heartbeat of Port Moresby.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to come early, bring their families, and soak in the joy and excitement of this festive tradition.

Let’s celebrate Christmas the Amazing Port Moresby way -- full of colour, music and unity.

annually under the Public Investment Program. Since this is an existing logging road, he said the funds are administered through the West New Britain Provincial Government, which issued contracts and engaged logging companies operating in the area to maintain the roads.

“This project is under an active contract with the provincial government,” Mr Lelang said. “The contractor’s equipment is on-site, their teams are working, and legally, I have no authority to intervene.

“Anyone making claims otherwise

is either ignorant of government procedure or deliberately misleading the public.”

He urged Mr Mondo to direct his questions to the WNB provincial government rather than making “reckless statements that mislead the public and attempt to score political points.”

Mr Mondo is a former candidate for the West New Britain Regional seat, who lost in the 2022 national elections.

Mr Lelang highlighted his ongoing commitment to infrastructure development, pointing to significant

allocations already in motion, including K2.3m for Phase One of the Gloucester ring road, K500,000 for Aingon Inland road maintenance in Gasmata LLG, and K3m for a maintenance program from Senemsi LLG Chamber to Kandrian Station road.

Following Prime Minister James Marape’s visit to Gasmata in February 2025, the DDA has also completed feasibility studies and submitted a K400m proposal for a major new highway linking Gloucester, Kandrian, Gasmata, and onward to Kimbe.

CITY residents enjoying the Christmas light installations at Ela Beach.

LAST EDITION - MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR READERS

WELCOME to the last edition of our Court Page for the year 2025.

In this edition, we run a recap of the legal year and major cases covered by the National and Supreme Courts. We highlight major events for the National Judicial and Staff Services to strengthen the law and justice system and the courts. The landmark court precinct was

opened in September this year marking a huge development for the National and Supreme Courts. We provide pictorials to show the successful transition of the Supreme court registry from the

Big cases, big stories

This year’s National and Supreme Court cases

BY MELYNE BAROI

THIS year the National Court closed one of the biggest trials involving, Jacob Yafai who was implicated in the Paraka Scandal.

He was the secretary for Finance who has approved the funds (K41.8) that were paid to Paul Paraka between 2012 and 2013.

He was sentenced to 22 years and imprisoned in the Bomana Correctional Institute in the National Capital District.

He immediately filed an appeal and is underway as the court prepares for a further direction tomorrow (Friday).

Other cases included matters of high-profile company executives such as sidelined managing director of the Kumul petroleum who tried to challenge the board members for removing him as well the prime minister for appointing that new board; but his attempts in the court failed.

He has filed a motion in the supreme court.

old building to the new one. As we take a break, we at PostCourier in partnership with the National Judicial Staff Services, would like to thank all our readers for your continued interest and

support in our content. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

See you in the new legal year, next year- 2026!

Other cases involve big name business men and politicians such Peter Yama, Brian Kramer in the leadership tribunal, Paul Paraka, Bhosip Kaiwi, Robert Agen an elite civil engineer (was acquitted off rape charges).

Another major release from prison was the case of Italian yacht owner Carlos D’Attanasio implied in cocaine trafficking near Papa and Lealea villages in Central province. He was released from a 19-year imprisonment and sent back to his country following a successful appeal. His co-accused three local men Shane Dikana, Dominic Terupo and Morgan Mogu are still figting there appeals in court while on a 18 year imprisonment.

The National and Supreme Courts would wind down for recess (Christmas break) in the coming week. It continues to uphold justice and dealing with each case on merit basis while upholding the rule of law.

Meanwhile, the court’s transition into the recently opened modern featured precinct will see a more

The Independent Commission Against Corruption deputy commissioners Daniel Baulch and Graham Gill were also terminated and had sued the State and the prime minister James Marape for their termination.

advanced information technologybased filing and handing of court documents.

The New National and Supreme Court registry have been open to use since last November.

Judges have yet to start using the court rooms there.

The precinct is expected to also house the newly established appeals courts; making a three-tiered court system for PNG.

Another major release from prison was the case of Italian yacht owner Carlos D’Attanasio implied in cocaine trafficking in Papa Lea village in Central province. He was released from a 19-year imprisonment and sent back to his country following a successful appeal.

Powi verdict on contempt adjourned

BY MELYNE BAROI

THE National Court decision on whether the governor for Southern Highlands province William Powi and his provincial government officials are guilty of contempt, has been adjourned to next year February.

Justice Jospeh Crowley confirmed February 23, 2025 for the verdict to be delivered

This is to allow the Supreme Court in Waigani National Capital District to deliver its decision on Applications for leave to appeal which was heard this Monday and reserved.

A notice of motion filed by Mr Powi to adjourn the decision based on medical grounds, that he is seeking medication in Singapore from December 5-10, 2025 was dismissed.

The Supreme Court decision was listed to be delivered yesterday in court but futher adjourned to later this week, noting the chairman of the three-man bench chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika had travelled to Mt Hagen for other matters.

The two other judges on the bench are Justice Paulne Bre and Derek Woods.

Mr Powi’s contempt charge relates to the 2019 Local Level Government elections hold serious claims that he had acted against a National court order by continuing to “recognise and allow” nullified LLG presidents to be in office.

Those presidents were Joseph Kunukunu, Jack Kipoi, Francis Walipa, Jacob Iki.

Mr Kunukunun was holding the position of deputy governor as well.

This alleged contempt is to be determined on Wednesday.

Pending that decision Mr Powi, the “nullified” presidents and the provincial assembly clerk Leo Vali have gone to the three-man bench of the Supreme Court to seek leave to appeal a dismissed objection in the National Court by the trial judge Joseph Crowley claiming it was “wrong and erroneous”.

This was heard yesterday by the bench consisting the Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika, Justice Derek Woods and Justice Pauline Bre, and a decision was reserved to be handed down on Thursday or Friday.

The court heard that after the Local Level Government elections of July 2019, there were two meetings to elect LLG presidents for the Ialibu Pangia District.

One meeting was organised by the District Administrator Samson Wereh and was held on August 7, 2019 at Ialibu Government Station.

At that meeting the Plaintiffs; Wambi Nondi, Lasa Mainu, Gibs Siri and Peter Yamuna were elected LLG presidents.

The second meeting was organised by the Acting Provincial Administrator Mr Joseph Cajetan and occurred on 14 August 2019 in Mendi.

Mr Kunukunu, Mr Kipoi, Mr Walipa and Mr Iki were elected LLG Presidents at that meeting.

That resulted in the District Administrator filing a case after he was suspended for organising the first meeting.

In a case filed by Mr Wereh challenging Cajetan, Justice Collin Makail declared “... any election

conducted in Mendi for the Locallevel Governments for Ialibu Pangia District is illegal, null and void ab initio”

The allegation is that the defendant’s actions were deliberate and wilful.

But Mr Powi allegedly recognised Kunukunu and his group as President of their LLGs and allowed them to sit in the Provincial Assembly.

The Third Defendant was Leo Vali the Southern Highlands Provincial Assembly Clerk.

The Fourth Defendant Jerry David was the Provincial Administrator.

At trial of this alleged contempt Powi and Kunukunu with his group raised an objection to the competency of an Originating Summons charging the defendants with contempt of court.

That was dismissed as Justice Crowley noted that “it is for the Court to establish for itself what behaviour it considers is contemptuous. The court of Papua New Guinea and the common law jurisprudence for England before that, has never prescribed what will or won’t amount to contempt. It has left it to be judged on a case-by-case basis” among others.

It is alleged the Defendants disobeyed an order of the National Court.

It is not disputed that the actions of all the Defendants (Powi, Kunukunu and his group, Leo Vali and Jerry David) were in contravention of Justice Makail’s orders in Wereh v Cajetan.

The allegation is that their actions were “deliberate and wilful”.

The new Supreme Court house has been opened and in used recently, Pom. PICTURES: MELYNE BAROI

People entering and leaving the new Supreme court registry at Waigani yesterday.

Supreme court registry room at Waigani in used.

Waigani new Supreme Court Registry building in use.

The entrance to the new Waigani Supreme Court Registry and its security guard.

Supreme Court registry reserved room for discussion and enquiries.

Kramer’s review case deferred

THE pending case of Madang MP Bryan Kramer, challenging his dismissal by a leadership tribunal, has been put forward to February next year.

The matter was scheduled for substantive hearing yesterday but State lawyers informed the court through a formal application to have the matter adjourned since the lawyer responsible for the case, Kevin Kipongi, was sick and could not participate in the trial.

Mr Kramer, through his lawyer Nelson Kopunye, agreed but informed the court that his client would appreciate if the matter can be dealt with promptly.

Presiding judge, Justice Susan Purdon-Sully, accepted the reasons for an adjournment, however, indicated that this should be the last adjournment since there had been two prior adjournments already and the matter cannot be delayed any further.

The judge set down February 6, 2026, for the matter to return and proceed with the trial.

Kramer was dismissed from public office as Madang MP around May 2023, following recommendations by a three-man Leadership Tribunal.

The tribunal found him guilty of seven counts of misconduct, which included two charges of “scandalising the judiciary” and five charges related to the misuse of district funds. The dismissal triggered a series of events and legal manoeuvres, ultimately leading to the current ongoing court battle. The core of his argument in the courts is that the tribunal’s decision was flawed, unjust, and potentially biased, thus breaching the principles of natural justice.

After his dismissal in May 2023, Kramer initially filed an application for leave for a judicial review in the National Court. However, the application was dismissed in August

2023 by Justice John Carey, who was not satisfied that all requirements for a review had been met.

Undeterred, Kramer appealed this decision to the Supreme and in June 2024, a Supreme Court bench quashed the National Court’s earlier ruling, allowing Kramer the right to pursue a substantive judicial review of the tribunal’s decision.

Kramer further sought stay and successfully stayed the leadership tribunal’s decision that dismissed him from office and a further interim injunction permitting him to return to Parliament and resume his duties as the Member for Madang Open.

This substantive hearing on February 6, 2026, is the pivotal moment where the National Court will thoroughly scrutinise the original tribunal proceedings and the allegations against Kramer to determine the final validity of his dismissal.

26-year-old man committed to stand trial for rape

BY MELYNE BAROI

A 26-year-old man has been committed to stand trial in the National Court for raping a fourteenyear-old girl.

Magistrate Paul Puri Nii committed the young man, from Hagen central in the Western Highlands Province on Monday following a successful completion of police files in the Committal Court.

Police alleged that the girl was confined in a house and raped by Emmanuel during a state of origin match that was being televised at a nearby house.

It was further alleged that because the place was noisy that time due to loud cheering and chanting, no one heard the girl calling out for help at

the time of the incident.

The girl soon left the house and went to report the incident to her parents. Medical reports were collected and other witness statements as well.

The alleged rapist claimed he did not sign the record of interview and also said that all the evidence were obtained unlawfully.

He also informed the court that the arresting officer told him that the ROI was not in the court file and hence told him to mention this to the court.

He had asked the court to dismiss the allegations against him.

But magistrate Nii said there was sufficient evidence to be tried in the National Court. “I have assessed the file and noted

Nine charged with unlawful assembly

BY UBA KAUPA DWU journalism student

ABOUT Nine people including three women appeared before the Waigani Committal last week for taking part in an unlawful assembly and ignoring police warning. The men were relatives of a man namely Nelson Yangen from Enga Province who had allegedly died as a result of being stabbed by a man from Gulf Province on September, 21, 2025 around 10am in Port Moresby. The men and women appeared before magistrate Paul Puri Nii and they were told that they were in court because they allegedly ignored the warning of the police by continuously hosting a haus krai in front of the burnt houses which caused fear and anxiety to the Gulf people.

According to the police reports, on September, 27, 2025, relatives of the late Mr Yangen took the law into their own hands and out of revenge and retaliation, mobilised and burnt two houses belonging to the Gulf people. The people named were 6 Engans (including the women) from Wapenamanda district Samson Lai, 57, Ismale Apangi 25, Ben Lumait 62, Melissa Ben, 39, Daniel Nepao 25 and Max Kalawai 26. The others were from Western Highlands province in the MulBaiyer district Wendy Nelson, 46, Ruth Douglas, 62 and Solo Benjiman 25. It was alleged that, on Tuesday September 21, 2025, around 10am

a man from Gulf Province, namely Moses Jack stabbed and killed an Engan named Nelson Yangen.

As a result, on the September 27, 2025, the relatives Mr Yangen burnt down two dwelling houses owned by the people of Gulf Province. On September 28, 2025, the murder suspect was apprehended by the Police officers and was taken to Boroko Police Station and handed him over to the CID Homicide at Boroko Police Station

On the September 29, 2025 at 1pm, the Police Station Commander of Badili went to Joyce BayZone 5 and warned the relatives of Mr Yangen not to cause any more damages. However, that night they burnt down 10 more houses. Mr Yangen’s family were reportedly not satisfied with the arrest of the Murder suspect, they continued to host a house krai in front of the burnt down houses owned by the Kerema people. Their gathering caused intimidation and fear towards the people of Gulf.

On the October 2, 2025, a mediation between the Wabags and the Kerema people took place at Badili Police Station and the Wabags demanded the Kerema/ Gulf people to pay them K200, 000.

On the October 6, 2025 at around 11.30am at Badili Station Commander, the nine suspects were arrested.

This matter next returns on next months as police complete file as they remain in custody.

Man in court for arson

BY UBA KAUPA DWU journalism student

A MAN from Chimbu has appeared before the Waigani Committal court last week for intentionally burning a semi-permanent house with properties that cost K17,056 at Bush wara in NCD.

Angai Joe, 34 from Gena Village in Kerowagi District, Chimbu Province put to flames a house belonging to Philimon Kraip after an argument.

Mr Joe claimed that Mr Kraip had assaulted his wife causing internal injuries in her body and allegedly killed his child (an infant).

According to the police reports, on June, 24, 2025, around 8.30 pm to 9.30 pm, Mr Joe called the nearby neighbours and asked for a lighter to burn Mr Kraip’s house.

The neighbours had ignored his request; he then went into a “fire house kitchen” and got a burning wood and went to Mr Philimon’s house and burnt it. They watched without being able to save any properties because the flames were too intense.

Mr Kraip filed a formal complaint at Gordons Police Station, the police then apprehended Mr Joe in a PMV

that the ROI is not in the police file. There is no evidence of ROI in the court file,” he said.

“ROI is an important piece of evidence where the Defendant’s constitutional rights are administered. It is through the ROI where the reasons for the defendant’s arrest and the charge shall be administered to the Defendant” he added.

“But there is a statemen that said on June 23, 2025, the Defendant was requested for the ROI but he refused. This means the defendant was invited for the ROI but he refused so there is evidence that defendant refused to participate in the ROI therefore I will rule that defendant refused to participate in the ROI” he said.

bus at 9-mile Makana on October, 05, 2025.

According to the reports, Mr Kraip and Mr Joe were were married to two sisters.

It was on June 24, 2025 time around 8.30pm to 9.30pm at Bush Wara, Philemon Kraip’s neighbour namely Ma Mepahol saw the Mr Joe walk pass their house and to the resident of Mr Kraip with a torchlight on his hand. After a few minutes later Mr Joe called Mally Bruce ask for a match and the neighbours that he wanted to burn Mr Kraip’s house. Mally Bruce did not give him any lighter so he went to the outdoor kitchen and got a burning firewood.

The nearby neighbours soon found out and came to see the fire.

A formal complaint was laid at Gordons Police Station by the complainant.

The Forensic Science photographer attended the scene of crime and assessed the damages, did report and the defendant was sighted at 9-Mile Makana on 5/10/25 and was arrested by police at 9-Mile Makana in the PMV bus. The total cost of the house with properties burnt down was K17, 056.00.

Dates set for Lagaip election petition

THE legal battle over the Lagaip Open seat will proceed in early 2026, with the National Court confirming two sets of hearings in the ongoing election petition. The substantive review of the case has been scheduled for 9:30am on 23 March 23, 2026, to be heard before a full five-man Supreme Court bench. This major hearing will address the core legal questions surrounding the disputed Lagaip Open election results and determine whether earlier decisions will be upheld or overturned. In the lead-up to that, the court set February 10, 2026, as the date for the hearing of a Stay Application pursued by courtousted Lagaip MP Amos Akem, before a single judge.

The stay will determine whether any previous orders or rulings should be temporarily halted while the review progresses. The matter is between petitioner and former MP Tomait Kapili and his predecessor Mr Akem, who was ousted by the court mid this year. With tensions simmering among supporters, Akem has appealed for calm and unity as the case proceeds through the judicial process. He urged communities to respect the rule of law and avoid actions that could disrupt peace in the electorate.

He also calls for patience and unity amongst supporters of both leaders and embrace peace and harmony during this Christmas

Mr Karmer and his lawyer Nelson Kopunye leaving the Waigani Court premises yesterday after the adjournment.

PICTURE: JACOB POK

YU TOK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2025

NRL franchise board on the move

The conversation around our entry into the world’s toughest rugby league competition –the Australian National Rugby League (NRL) has started.

In fact, it started a year ago when in December 2024 Australia and PNG announced that a PNG franchise would become the 19th team in an expanded NRL competition.

The new team received AU$600 million in government funding and 2028 is the year earmarked for the team’s entry into the competition.

In August 2025, a competition for a name of the PNG NRL team was launched and on October 2025, Prime Minister James Marape announced that the new team to enter the NRL would be known as the PNG Chiefs.

PM Marape, as this newspaper reported yesterday, is apparently on the hunt for a coach for the PNG team. While he is there for the 2025 Investment Conference, he paid a visit to the Penrith Panthers Headquarters, sparking off speculation that he was paying a visit to premiership winning coach, Ivan Cleary.

Will it be Cleary? Two other names floating around are super coach, Wayne Bennett and former Kumul skipper, Adrian Lam. All men are highly qualified to coach our team.

We are watching this development keenly like every other rugby league mad Papua New Guineans. Apart from the coach, who else will be part of the coaching staff?

We want to know whether we have a team and who will be part of that team. We want to know where they will stay, where they will train and where they will play. How is work on the junior development program going?

For the 10 million people in this country, this is an investment with huge potential in terms of security, tourism, employment, and national unity.

It is pleasing to note that the Chief’s franchise board is set to get to work. The board held a serious of meetings and participated in some important events at the Investment Conference in Sydney and is now ready to announce key dates and events in the coming months.

Get ready folks, we will rock and roll soon.

Privatise state owned entities

THE State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) are owned and controlled by the Government, which have become a serious threat to the welfare of the people and the economy of Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Each SOE is either owned and controlled by Kumul Consolidated Holdings Limited (KCHL), Kumul Mineral Holdings Limited (KMHL) or Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL).

A public trust that was created owns and controls KCHL, KMHL and KPHL (collectively as Kumul Group).

The Kumul Group, including their subsidiaries, own some of the best assets under management in PNG. However, the Kumul Group has a very bad governance structure and control. As a result, the entire Kumul Group has been plagued by inefficiency and ineffectiveness, corruption and politics. The Kumul Group assets are not generating profits and shareholder returns in the form of dividend payments to the State.

CONCERNED CITIZEN

TAKE BACK PNG SLOGEN ISN’T WORKING FOR US, ESPECIALLY FOR OUR YOUTHS

SO WHAT’S A GOOD SLOGEN TO INCLUDE OUR YOUTHS?

YOU HAVE IT TAKE BACK PNG YOUTHS

SIMPLY JUST ADD YOUTHS

District authorities need laws changed

AS a token or Independence gift to the people of PNG , the National Parliament should repeal the law on DDA. If the parliamentarians really represent the people, they need to repeal the DDA Law.

DDA has become the third level of government, a white elephant. DDA has degraded or abolished the work that local level governments previously achieved.

Jiwaka plans housing for its public servants

THE initiative by the Jiwaka provincial government to provide senior public servants with housing is the exemplary step for other provincial governments to duplicate the idea to serve their provinces well.

The thirteen (13) kit homes from PNG Forest Products (PNGFA) for the Jiwaka provincial administration’s senior public servants is a great step forward in improving public service delivery. Thirteen prefabricated housing at K4 million is a worthwhile economic investment.

The cost of construction, durable prefabricated materials selected, transportation and construction time of 6 to 8 weeks is very cost effective housing program.

Instead of giving away similar contracts to local construction companies, who are mostly political cronies who sometimes don’t deliver to expectations leading to failed projects.

PNG Forest Product can deliver effectively.

Whilst on the supplier, the Atlas Steel industry of Papua New Guinea is also understood to be providing steel materials for similar prefabricated housing projects, this is very durable and can even resist mould, fungal and termites infestation common with wooden materials.

The provincial governments and districts need to check these suppliers.

Under the current Minister for Public Service Joe Sungi, there is a policy paper on Public Service Housing. It is

appropriate for provincial governments and district development authorities to simply implement this policy for their own benefit in their respective provinces.

Jiwaka provincial government is showing the way in supporting its public servants, particularly senior program managers, for effective service delivery.

One of the main reasons why Papua New Guinea has not achieved much in terms of improved socio-economic indicators in the last 50 years was because of lack of merit - based appointment of senior public servants and support for basic humanitarian conditions like housing.

PHILIP UKUNI

The local government leaders lack power and resources to deliver service to the communities. Any funding received for DDA stops with the local MP and his/her cronies.

This continuous lack of funding for LLGs lead to poor services including health, education and road links, which in turn leads to urban migration. People from the remotest parts of the Highlands travel to Lae and some continue by walking to Port Morsby looking for health and education, or greener pastures as they say

Apart from attempting to increase education standards for a learned society, this current Parliament needs to repeal the DDA Law, if they truly represent the poor people in the electorates.

This is a personal opinion that the general public needs to support for the DDA Law to be abolished.

JK OF MONDOLI

Impacts of inflation on families in Papua New Guinea

INFLATION diminishes the buying power and puts a lot of strain on local businesses and citizens alike.

Inflation could be triggered by various factors such as global price pressures, government policies like high taxation on imported goods, excessive borrowing, and high floatation of kina and dependency on imports. The government can implement both fiscal policy such as providing tax relief on imports, reducing GST, reintroducing fuel subsidies and monetary policy through the Central Bank’s action to control the supply of money.

Major causes of inflation

Global factors triggering inflation through rising prices in imports, High taxation on both imported and domestic goods

can also contribute to rising prices,

Excessive borrowing and printing of new currency can devaluate kina, leading to inflation and high cost of living, Reliance on imported goods can affect us significantly due to global price fluctuations.

Needed action to improve inflation

Tax relief on imports -

Reducing import duties and providing tax exemption on imported goods can help lower prices,

Lowering prices of basic goods and services can relief strain on customers, Reducing fuel costs

can directly lower high transportation costs.

Monetary policy and Other Measures

Contractionary monetary policy - This requires the Central Bank to use tools to control the supply of money, such as increasing rates to curb inflation, Important Substitution - A more strategic focus on increasing domestic production, particularly in agriculture, can stabilise prices and improve the trade balance,

Encouraging increased labour supply, capital investment and overall productivity can positively influence economic stability and growth, while maintaining a stronger kina.

DJ AIGAL, Port Moresby

Commendation for Somare institute QUICK THOUGHTS

I WOULD like to commend the leadership and management of the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance for being innovative and emphatic in recently announcing the introduction of a Bachelor of Public (Government) Administration degree program.

The program is to be offered in 2027.

The Executive Director Mr Michael Barobe and your Administration and Academic team are doing the right thing to be on the cutting-edge of training and courses needed by the public sector, more so the public servants out there.

The Bachelor of Public (Government) Administration

degree is what all public servants and or public office holder requires because they must be fine tuned to understand the philosophies and purpose of “public service” within the Government.

I think it is worthy for all public servants and statutory authority and SOE staff to take up this Bachelors degree course to prepare themselves to work better.

The former Administration College (ADCOL) and later the Institute of Public Administration (PNGIPA) offered short courses to upskill public servants mainly, but now SILAG is offering a full-time Bachelor of Public (Government)

Administration, which is even better. The SILAG must roll out this program to the provinces or regional centres where the old ADCOL/PNGIPA facilities used to be.

The government must invest more in SILAG so it performs its role to train and educate our public servants to perform optimally and professionally.

I commend the SILAG team and your stakeholder and partners for introducing the Bachelor of Public (Government) Administration. Well done, SILAG leadership and management.

OBSERVER, Lae

Retired public servants continue to wait

THIS letter is written purposely to the Prime Minister who is the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Executive Officer of this country a prime minister who is well aware of the usage of the country’s budget implication.

Why writing open letter to the Prime Minister - it is for his office to publicly inform thousands of retired public servants who are still waiting to be paid their retirement entitlements since 2024.

This week is Pay N0 25 of 2025 and yet retired public servants are still waiting.

Our hope of being paid this year has vanished therefore we want the Prime Minister to tell us the TRUTH about the retirement payments, not lies.

His government allocated funding for retirement exercise in the 2025 but, it’s now end of the year so when is the government going to

implement it’s 2025 budget and pay us our retirement entitlements.

Many of us are over 65 years and health issues are now creeping into our lives, we need our savings from Nambawan Super to seek better medical attention, however, at this point in time, we are unable to access our savings because we have not formally been put off the government payroll thus it would be difficult to access our savings without final exist payments details.

Is the Prime Minister also aware that by keeping us on payroll, the government is breaching the Public Service Management Act as we are no longer public servants as such we are not entitled to fortnightly salaries after we completed all the formalities (signed Deed of Releases).

It must also be known to the Prime Minister that the longer the government keep us waiting will

pose risks to the State for potential lawsuit for damages caused to retired public servants whose rights are being denied by unnecessary delays.

The government’s delay in the payment of retirement entitlements are denying retired public servants from seeking opportunities to sustain themselves, visit their families, pay children’s schools fees and other expenses that goes with ; living in the city.

We have approached relevant departments without success as to why such a delay and when should we be paid. There is always no positive response and this has compelled is to write a open letter via print media.

As the current father of the nation we are hoping that he will inform us in due course.

RETIRED PUBLIC SERVANTS

STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF

In a world full of opinions, pressure, and expectations, staying true to yourself can feel difficult. Sometimes you’re told how to think, who to be, or what path to follow. But real peace and fulfillment come when you choose to live as your most authentic self.

You don’t have to fit into a mold created by others. You don’t need to copy someone else’s life or chase dreams that don’t belong to you. Your uniqueness is your strength. The way you think, feel, create, and live is valuable, even if others don’t understand it.

Staying true to yourself means listening to your inner voice. What do you truly want? What matters most to you? What brings you joy and meaning? When you quiet the noise around you, your heart

already knows the answer. It also means having the courage to say no, to people, habits, and opportunities that don’t align with your values or purpose. It may be uncomfortable, but every time you choose honesty over approval, you grow stronger in your identity.

Authenticity builds trust, not just with others, but with yourself. When you act in line with your beliefs, you feel proud of who you are. You stop pretending. You stop chasing validation. And you start living with real confidence. You weren’t created to blend in. You were made to shine in your own way. The world needs your truth, your story, your talents, not a version of you edited for others’ comfort.

BE INSPIRED La Salle Technical

School tops

10, 12 exams

AS a very proud guardian to a grade 10 student attending La Salle Technical Secondary School in the National Capital District, I would like to take this time to congratulate all other parents and guardians of 10th graders at the school, and their children, as well as the school administration for Salle Technical Secondary School topping the nation in the national exams.

The same goes for our grade 12s who did just as remarkably well, also topping PNG in the 2025 national exams.

To Br Antony, you have done great again and keep up the excellent trend.

GUARDIAN, Kone

Grade 10 students of La Salle Technical Secondary School during their graduation day this year.

Revise Incorporated Land Group Act 2009

INCORPORATED Land Group Act 2009 as amended need to be fine tuned to address the many unforseen challenges ILG Act lacks the means to curtail.

Foremost, there needs to be an amendment to the Act to cater and protect certain areas where ILG registration should and should not be allowed.

There have been cases where certain areas have experienced overriding or conflicting interest occurring especially in project areas namely between exploration license holders and ILG groups. This trend if not addressed will hold developers and the Governments hostage by smart ILG Chairman’s going into the future.

Secondly, the type of technology to be used for boundary demarcation of customary land need to be

specified and where it should and should not be used. I think survey of customary land within 6km radius from a provincial headquarters by use of Global Positioning System (GPS) should be disallowed by law.

Firstly such survey has the potential to misguide and distort boundary lines especially on customary land adjoining town boundaries creating boundary conflicts. Not forgetting that accuracy level for boundary survey in urban and Peri urban areas are higher than land far away from urban centres.

Secondly, GPS based mapping for registration on land near urban areas can easily bypass local scrutiny where population is dense and every inch of land counts.

MENEVI GENE

Remington group mourns Lion Island boating tragedy

THE Remington Group has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic boating incident off Lion Island on Saturday, 6 December, which claimed the lives of three of its employees and a child connected to the extended Remington family.

In an official statement, the company said the loss has shaken them profoundly, as Remington is a close-knit organisation, now grieving alongside the families and colleagues of those who died.

“Our thoughts, prayers, and

heartfelt condolences go out to the families, colleagues, and loved ones who are grieving during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement said.

Remington Group confirmed that since the incident, its management team has been working closely with families, authorities, the boat operator and other relevant parties to provide immediate and ongoing assistance.

The company said counselling services, medical support and

practical help are being offered to the survivors, and this support will continue in the days ahead.

The company also assured the public that it is fully cooperating with ongoing investigations into the cause of the tragedy and expects a thorough and transparent process. They emphasised their commitment to ensuring the circumstances surrounding the incident are properly addressed and that accountability is upheld in line with the law.

Remington further appealed to the public and media to refrain from sharing unverified information, images or speculation about the incident while investigations continue.

“Out of respect for the families and in support of the investigative process, we ask the public and the media to refrain from sharing unverified information. We respectfully request that the privacy of those affected be upheld,” the statement said.

Selling of land a crime, says Parkop

BY ROBERT APALA

UPNG COMMUNICATION

JOURNALISM STUDENT

THE Landowners and the Incorporated Land Groups of Pore Porena Freeway and Hanuabada finally came to an agreement with the Governor for the National Capital District and the City Manager and exchanged goods to start the access road from Pore porena freeway to Badili.

Governor Parkop said that the land is very important asset which will be benefiting the community and the future generations to come and to sell it to any developer is not appropriate and right thing to do.

Governor Parkop added that many landowners in the National capital District are selling their land for fast money just for today but are not considering the impacts which will have on the future generations to come. Governor Parkop stressed

that the Law had already passed at the National Parliament that the selling of land is illegal and it is against the law. He said that no landowners should sell their land because it has become law and anyone found selling it, will face the law.

“The NCD is ready to work with the Motu Koita Assembly (MKA) and any Incorporated Land Groups to allow them to properly secure their lands and legally acquire their land titles to allow best and experienced developer to come and invest”, Governor Parkop said.

Port Moresby City manager Ravu Frank said that to work in partnership is the way forward for better developments to be delivered to the people of Poreporena, Hanuabada and other Motuan communities because only through road will allow for better developments and services.

“This project will be different from other projects because the National Capital District will be closely working with the landowners as well as the Motu Koita Assembly to make sure whatever their issues are addressed and satisfied with it”, Mr Frank said.

NCD Governor Parkop said that some of the bypass roads like Koura way road was not properly settled because some landowners got their payment and some did not because there were some issues amongst themselves. He said that the NCD will see the outcome of their agreement and try to complete the payment to the landowners.

“The Baruni Freeway Bypass road was constructed but the landowners did not made the right deal because the developer they engaged with just gave them the money and left the land undeveloped. Now the area is there without any development”, Governor Parkop said.

Mr Parkop said when such developments comes to any customary land, the landowners must negotiate with experienced and good developer so that they can develop the land which can benefit the community and it will be benefiting younger generations in the future.

“Selling land now has become law and people in NCD as well as the Motu Koita people must not sell their land because most land have been given to the state and those land that are customary must be planned properly and secured by surveying and titling so that it will become permanent sources of income for the community,” Parkop said.

He added that NCD is focusing on developing all parts of the city and to partner with MKA and the Motuan landowners is the spirit which will drive this and job opportunities to the landowners.

THE Executive Officer of the Road Traffic Authority has been arrested and charged for perverting the course of justice following the arrest of the acting RTA Chief executive officer John Avira on the same allegations.

Joseph Pundu, adult male from Mul Baiyer district in Western Highlands province allegedly conspired with Mr Avira to have complainant in Mr Avira’s case withdraw his charges.

Director for Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Detective Superintendent Joel Simatab stated in the major incident brief that Mr Pundu was arrested and charged on one count of conspiracy to defeat justice and one count of attempting to prevent the course of justice.

Supt Simatap stated that Mr Pundu allegedly persuaded and intimidated the complainant to withdraw a case that was already before the committal court relating to acting CEO Mr Avira.

On October 7, 2025, Mr Avira was arrested under criminal charges of Official corruption, Misappropriation of property and Abuse of office and his case was placed before the Waigani Committal Court.

While the matter was pending, Mr Avira allegedly conspired with his executive officer, Mr Pundu, to have the complaint withdrawn by the complainant and removed from the court.

On October 14, 2025, Mr Avira was accompanied by his Executive Officer, Mr Pundu and a lawyer. They met at the transport office in 7 Mile. Police alleged that the plan involved drafting an affidavit for the complainant to sign, which would then be filed with the court to obtain a dismissal of the case.

On October 16, 2025, Mr Avira reportedly tendered the affidavit to the Committal Court seeking withdrawal of the case.

The presiding magistrate, Paul Puri Nii, rejected the request, stating that only the investigating police could authorise a withdrawal.

On October 17, 2025, the complainant went to the Konedobu Crimes Office and submitted a sworn affidavit stating that he understood the seriousness of the matter and wished to withdraw the earlier affidavit dated 14th October 2025.

The complainant affirmed that his original complaint dated August 15, 2025, concerning financial misappropriation, abuse of office, and fraud remained valid and should proceed.

Police further alleged that the affidavit dated October 14, 2025 was prepared and presented to the complainant under circumstances that the police later determined involved duress and undue influence. Mr Avira was arrested on November 4, 2025 and was charged with conspiracy and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Mr Pundu was arrested recently on the same charge.

Police investigate Hagen Park grade 12 student killing

BY ROBERT TIKI

and they all left their village and came out to look for more beer at a nearby beer shop about 4- 5 kilometres away from their home.

PPC Sagom said Yapi purportedly met her fate when they tried to get back home

" It was already getting dark while the mob walked back home. Along

their way back ,Delyan was killed and her body was dumped in a small creek just a kilometre away from her home ," he said.

Mr Sagom said the Police investigation team is working around to establish the facts behind the killing.

He said everything will be revealed once the autopsy and all other process is completed.

Mr Sagom said the relatives of the deceased are cooperating well with the police to bring the perpetrators who are still at large to face justice. He said few remaining suspects who are still roaming around the villages are known and will be arrested soon.

Mr Sagom also condemned the social media for making unfounded posts regarding the death of Yapi.

WESTERN Highlands Police are still conducting investigation for the tragic death of a grade twelve female student from Mt Hagen Park Day Secondary School last week. Provincial police commander chief Superintendent John Sagom has confirmed the death of Delyan Yapi in a media conference

yesterday. Yapi aged 18 years old hails from Komkui ( Ramba Rot) outside Mt Hagen City.

Mr Sagom said two female prime suspects were already arrested and now detained at the Mt Hagen Police station.

Mr Sagom said late Delyan with two other girls and three boys all from the same community had a few

beer on Saturday. He said three boys picked up the three girls

The Governor for NCD Powes Parkop (centre) handing over food to landowners of Poreporena Freeway to mark the partnership and agreed to open the access road from Poreporena freeway to Badili. PICTURE: ROBERT APALA

Gospel concert to raise funds for synod

BY ROSE BOBOLA

A THREE-DAY gospel music festival showcased a variety of talents, with performances from some big-name gospel artists, those upcoming as well as church bands.

The concert was organised and fully funded by the Jokema Band as a way to help the Evangelical Lutheran Church raise funds for the upcoming synod which will be held on Siassi Island, and at the same time promote oneness and unity through music.

Honlly Isaac, leader of Jokema band, said the idea for this concert is just to do something on the ground to support the church.

“I believe, at this time, it’s really

BY ROSE BOBOLA

THE Member for Huon Gulf, Jason Peter announced that almost K1.3 million has been allocated to the district administration to improve education.

Through this funding, the district is looking to build nine double classrooms as well as teachers’ houses for each school in the district.

“My dream is to build sixty-three double classrooms for my district by 2027, one for each school,” Mr Peter said.

In addition to building new classrooms, the district is also looking to build a one staff house for each school.

He said that education is his

good to do something to give back to the church- and at the same time, reach out and try our best to change someone else’s life through gospel music”, Mr Isaac said.

Chairman of the synod committee, Michael Som said because Siassi can only be reached by sea transport, raising enough funds for the upcoming synod has been a challenge for his committee.

He said the initiative for the gospel concert was an unexpected blessing for the synod committee, and they’re grateful for the support.

“The committee had no doubt or opposed the idea when we were approached with the idea of this gospel concert, we all supported the initiative and gave our support”, Mr

number one priority, and want to ensure that schools in his district are prioritised, hence, his administration allocates K5 million every year for the education sector.

Mr Peter further added that education is the gateway to unlocking everything, hence, his administration is doing this to see improvements. The district has built a number of classrooms already, with some classrooms, mostly in the rural parts of the district yet to be complete.

In addition, the MP also presented a total of 195 bicycles to ward councillors and police officers in the district.

He said this is a way to help support the efforts of ward councillors and police officers in the district to

MoA signed for Huon Gulf nursing college

A LAUNCH was made during the 50th independence anniversary celebrations at Nadzab on September 16, 2025, confirming the plan to establish a nursing college in Ngasuapum village, Ward 16, Wampar, Huon Gulf.

This vision became reality with the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MoA) yesterday (Tuesday) at the Huon Gulf District office.

The MoA was signed by Huon Gulf district administrator Andrew Namuesh, Wabuliu School of Nursing director Anne Sikiri, Principal Sr Rhondy Maso, Ward 16 councillor Dickson Warra, Montar Clan Chairman Wazo Hiob and David Hiob of the Chenah Family Business Group Inc.

Sr Maso stated that the project was initiated with funding from the Huon District Development Authority.

“The purpose of setting up the school is to provide second chances for children who have been failed by the education system due to high grade requirements,” she said.

“This nursing school aims to help underprivileged children/students by giving them hope. We took this idea to the government, and it was approved.”

Nursing director Ms Sikiri said:

“We have seen a concerning drop in student enrollment because of issues within the education system. It's essential to provide guidance

and hope for these students. With Maso's initiative, I worked to gain support from the landowners for this important development.

“We are thankful to the Member of Parliament and Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion, Jason Peter, and the Huon District Administration for launching this project on Independence Day. Today (Tuesday), we have officially signed the agreement to construct the school.”

Montar Clan Chairman Wazo expressed his happiness with the proposal from Sr Maso and Ms Sikiri, noting that land had been made available to partner in building the nursing school in Ngasuapum.

Councillor Warra emphasised appreciation for the signing of the agreement, stating that the district has eagerly anticipated the construction of the school.

“This is the first of its kind to be built in the Huon district. As a community leader, I am committed to working with the landowners and the government to improve living standards in our community. The school will offer a three-year diploma course for students.”

Mr Warra urged the landowners to “please do not sell your land; instead, make it available to partner with the district and the government to bring valuable services to our community.”

Nawaeb MP assists mothers

THEO Pelgen, the Member for Nawaeb, Morobe Province, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening women’s economic empowerment by delivering sewing machines and bolts of materials to mothers of Ahi Urban Ward 15 and Ward 16.

Som said.

He added that the positive side of this gospel concert is that it can have a good impact on the lives of the youths and the people.

“We are also very happy that such a stage has been created for the young people to come together to praise and worship God,” he said. With the synod just a month away, all proceeds from tickets and stall sales will be given to the committee to drive their work towards final preparations of this church gathering. More than 50 bands turned up for this unifying concert, with some who travelled from Port Moresby, one from New Ireland and other small church bands from across Morobe.

address law and order issues as it makes it easier for them to get from one place to another.

“Many times, when an issue arises somewhere, councillors and police officers take time getting there, hence, these bicycles will help them in this area,” Mr Peter said.

A total of K100,000 was allocated by the Huon Gulf administrator for the purchase of these bicycles, to help improve law and order in the district.

Mr Peter added that with the ward councillors and presidents recently elected to these posts, this gesture is a small way to recognise the role they play in the community and help them carry out their work as well.

The presentation, made last week, is part of the district’s ongoing drive to support sustainable Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) led by women across the district.

This targeted intervention provides mothers with the tools they need to grow small tailoring and sewing ventures, enabling them to increase household income, support their families and participate meaningfully in the local economy.

The assistance also serves as a pathway for women to use their creativity and skills to build resilient home-based businesses.

Mr Pelgen emphasised that empowering women remains a

central pillar of his development agenda for Nawaeb District.

“Women are at the heart of our families and communities. When we support our mothers, we support entire families and communities,” he said.

“This intervention is about giving them the practical tools to earn, to grow, and to stand on their own feet economically.”

The recent distribution builds on similar support already delivered to women’s groups in Labuta Rural, Erap-Wain, and other parts of Ahi Urban Local Level Governments. This inclusive approach ensures that women in all three LLGs benefit equally from the district’s MSME empowerment programs.

Mr Pelgen reaffirmed his commitment to continue rolling out programs that uplift women’s livelihoods, enhance skills development and expand opportunities for financial independence throughout Nawaeb District.

New Covenant Praise band performing at the Gospel Music Festival at the Martin Luther Seminary. PICTURE: ROSE BOBOLA

Member for Nawaeb Theo Pelgen (back to camera) in front of the sewing machines and bolts of material ready to be distributed to women from the Ahi Urban Ward 15 and Ward 16 in the Nawaeb district. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Police get major boost

BY DIANNE WILSON

THE Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) received another major boost on Tuesday, December, 9, 2025, with the opening of the new single quarters accommodation for female officers at Toguata Police Barracks in Baliora, East New Britain.

The facility, funded under the PNG–Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP), is part of a nationwide rollout aimed at improving police housing, operational readiness and officer welfare.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commander Jamie Strauss said the project highlighted how both countries’ policing agencies were working together to strengthen law and order.

“There’s a lot of people that made what we’re seeing today, which is the female barracks, and the male barracks further down the road that

will be completed in about a week or so,” Mr Strauss said.

He acknowledged Atlas Steel, PlanPac Group, AFP project officers and RPNGC logistics leadership, adding: “Without all that team coming together, this wouldn’t be here today.”

The female quarters contain nine rooms and can house 16 officers. The men’s 26-room facility, to be opened next week, will accommodate 48 officers.East New Britain is the second province to receive the newstyle barracks, following similar projects in Gordons, Port Moresby, with Mt Hagen, Western Highlands, to follow in early January, 2026.

“These have been very well delivered in a very ambitious time frame of eight months,” Strauss said.

“Australia remains committed… now and into the future.”

Deputy Commander for New Guinea Islands, Chief Inspector Gordon Magum, said the partnership

was delivering real change across PNG.

“I am honoured to be here today at the official handover… a significant moment not only for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary but for the ongoing partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia,” he said.

“These projects are critical to supporting Commissioner Manning’s priority of rebuilding the RPNGC.”

ENB provincial member Michael Marum said the provincial government welcomed the new development.

“Today’s opening… represents our commitment to improving the welfare, morale, and operational readiness of our hardworking police officers,” he said.

Mr Marum further thanked the AFP and the government for the ongoing support in the law-andorder sector to East New Britain.

Callan institute marks 4th graduation

BY DIANNE WILSON

THE Callan Inclusive Education Institute (CIEI) marked a significant milestone on November, 27, 2025, when 70 teachers graduated with an Applied Diploma in Special Education at its 4th graduation ceremony in Vunapope, Kokopo. Although the program is delivered through campuses in Wewak, Banz and Kokopo, 51 graduates received their diplomas in absentia due to the institute’s spread-out regional operations.

Principal Wilfred Baambu told graduates that the event not only celebrated their achievement but also highlighted the long journey of inclusive education in PNG.

He reminded them that the foundation of this work dates back to a major policy shift in 1992, when the government under then Prime Minister Paias Wingti endorsed the inclusion of children with disabilities into regular schools.

He said: “Following the decision in December 1992 for implementation in 1993… the National Department of Education policy concerning including children with disabilities in the regular education system has not taken a negative direction.”

This decision led to the establishment of 16 Callan resource centres, which provided bridging programs for children with disabilities to help them transition into mainstream schooling. The development of teacher training

followed shortly after, eventually leading to the National Education Board’s 2009 approval of the Callan Institute as part of the national education system.

The Applied Diploma program, now implemented across the regions, was formally approved in 2015.

Mr Baambu said that while CIEI has made progress, it continues to operate without its own classrooms, dormitories or dining facilities, and still relies on resource centres for space. Funding, he added, remained one of the biggest obstacles.

“CIEI has been receiving K50,000 as operational grants per annum…

This year we received a little above K10,000 which is way below survival but again we manage to operate till the end hosting this graduation ceremony,” he said.

Despite the financial strain, the institute has secured a K5 million infrastructure grant from the Department of National Planning and Monitoring and has expanded through flexible delivery to provinces such as Bougainville, Kimbe and Kavieng.

Mr Baambu encouraged teachers across the country to take up specialised training.

“In order to educate the whole country, all teachers… must take up the Applied Diploma Course… leaving no child behind,” he said.

He reminded graduates that their new knowledge carries great responsibility.

“Put into practice the knowledge and skills acquired… so that you will be able to see children actively participating in learning,” Mr Baambu said.

Magna Carta PNG inducts volunteers

BY MAGNAM TARA

MAGNA Carta PNG Inc. brought together more than 20 young volunteers on December 5 for an induction training held at the Institute of National Affairs to mark International Volunteer Day.

Program Manager and human rights advocate Shirley Kaupa opened the session by acknowledging the important contributions volunteers make in their communities.

She said this year’s theme, “Every Contribution Matters,” reflects the impact individuals can have when they choose to serve.

Her remarks were followed by Chan Apakas, Civil Society Coordination and Partnership Coordinator at the Consultative Implementation and Monitoring Council (CIMC).

He outlined CIMC’s work and highlighted the Family Sexual Violence Action Committee, an initiative that originated under the council before moving to

the Department for Community Development.

The keynote address was delivered by Samantha Bradley, First Secretary for Law and Justice at the Australian High Commission.

She described volunteers as “the heartbeat of communities”, noting that their willingness to respond in challenging moments is what drives real change.

“International Volunteer Day recognises people who give their time, energy and skills to make a difference,” Ms Bradley said. “That spirit is strong in Papua New Guinea, from human rights advocacy to community development and good governance.”

She also acknowledged Magna Carta PNG Inc. and partner organisations for coordinating the event and bringing young volunteers together.

A group photo with Australian High Commission representatives concluded the formalities before volunteers moved into interactive training sessions.

Call for funding and provincial support for Callan Inclusive Education Institute

BY DIANNE WILSON

THE Callan Inclusive Education Institute (CIEI) is handicapped.

The institute used its recent graduation ceremony to draw attention to its hardships with a call for stronger government and provincial support as it continues to operate under severe financial and staffing pressures.

Seventy teachers completed their Applied Diploma in Special Education, though only 19 attended the ceremony in Kokopo, with most graduating in absentia due to CIEI’s decentralised operations across three regional campuses.

Principal Wilfred Baambu said the event marked dedication and resilience but also underlined the strain faced by the institution tasked with preparing teachers to support children with diverse learning needs.

He said CIEI remains without its own lecture rooms, dormitories or dining facilities.

“CIEI does not have its own infrastructures as in lecture rooms, student accommodation, dining facilities,” he said, adding that the institute is still relying on resource centres because the development promised under earlier National Education Board decisions has not fully materialised.

He highlighted that CIEI operates on K50,000 per year, split among four regions, and that this year’s allocation was even lower.

“This year we received a little

above K10,000 which is way below survival but again we managed to operate till the end hosting this graduation ceremony.”

He thanked the East Sepik and East New Britain provincial governments for recent support but stressed that the burden cannot fall on only two provinces.

“If only all 22 provinces are supporting this unique institution with a portion of their budget, ‘No child will definitely be left behind’.”

Staffing is also stretched. The institute was originally meant to grow to 31 TSC positions, but currently only has 13 lecturers and one ancillary staff member, most on part-time arrangements.

Despite these challenges, Mr Baambu said CIEI has recorded important gains, including increased enrolment, more provinces accessing training, and a K5 million infrastructure grant for development.

He urged leaders to recognise the importance of inclusive teaching in lifting national education standards.

“We need your support… so that we all can raise the Educational Standard in our schools, provinces and country as a whole,” he said.

To the graduates, he offered a final reminder of their responsibility to the children they will serve.

“Finally, together we can make a difference in someone’s life. Our actions or lack of actions make the greatest impact on other people’s lives! ‘IT TAKES A BIG HEART TO SHAPE LITTLE MINDS’.”

AFP Commander Jamie Strauss officially hands over dummy key of the new single quarters to Deputy Commander for New Guinea Islands, Chief Inspector Gordon Magum while ENB Provincial leaders look on during the opening ceremony on Tuesday. PICTURE: DIANNE WILSON

New volunteers of Magna Carta PNG at their induction.

Family services to have mini library

THE National Office for Child and Family Services (NOCFS) will now have a dedicated mini library for its clients and staff to use.

This new initiative is to ensure that anyone who comes to visit the NOCFS’s office is able to relax and read books while waiting to be served.

The mini library or book section will be dedicated to children and parents who come to seek services at the Office.

This will be made possible after the NOCFS bought some cartons of books from the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church Literature Distribution Ministry (LDM) last week to have the library established.

The books cost around K16,000 and include children’s books, Bibles, health, hygiene and positive lifestyle books, education books, Christian books and positive parenting books.

The books were delivered to the NOCFS last Wednesday by representatives from the LDM.

NOCFS chief executive officer

Jerry Wap, when receiving the books, said his office was very happy to partner with the SDA LDM because the ministry has a wide array of books on children, family, health and positive living, which are things that the office is continuously encouraging and stands for.

“These books are not just reading

materials; they are store-houses of knowledge and wisdom for positive living for our citizens,” Mr Wap said.

“The books contain insights, researches, advices and steps on how to live good and healthy lives that are rewarding and purposeful, not only for children, but for adults as well. The work we do in this office is not only about the social development of our people but also about spiritual and ethical development.

\“We’ve noticed that parents who come to our office to seek our services with their children often have a difficult time controlling the children who wonder around. Now, with this new mini library, the children can pass the time read books while their parents can have their cases attended to.

“This library will also be used by our officers to expand their knowledge on subjects of interests or for research purposes.”

He said the NOCFS will purchase some more books and have a fullyledged mini library operating starting next year (2026).

Meanwhile, Joylene Kuvai, spokesperson for the LDM said it was their first time to supply books to the NOCFS and they are happy with the newfound partnership.

Ms Kuvai said they have been

operating for more than 50-years in the country and have been distributing books of various topics and subjects to individuals and organisations.“The books that we’ve supplied to the NOCFS are mostly children’s characterbuilding resource books designed

Teacher housing required for new schools: Kombra

BY JOMELEEN PARI

THE Education Department is enforcing a policy requiring all new schools to provide accommodation before they can be registered.

Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra announced the directive yesterday, stating that teachers housing has been elevated to a formal condition of employment for the 2026 academic year and beyond.

Speaking at the 2025 exam online results launching, Dr Kombra declared that the era of establishing schools without supporting infrastructure is over. Under the

new guidelines, infrastructure must match staffing levels explicitly.

“The Department of Education has now made it very clear that no school will be registered unless, if there are 10 positions, there must be 10 teachers' houses built first,” he said.

He admitted that in the past, authorities often tried to avoid this obligation by claiming housing was solely the responsibility of school boards. However, the Secretary emphasized that the welfare of educators is now paramount.

“We are putting this very seriously... We care about teachers.

Teachers are the most important people we have in our education system,” Dr Kombra said.

This policy shift follows a directive from Education Minister Lucas Dekena and the Teaching Service Commission.

It aims to address the chronic shortage of housing that often deters qualified teachers from accepting posts in newly established institutions.

The department believes that securing accommodation upfront will improve teacher retention and ensure stability in the delivery of education in PNG.

Dame Sandra Lau urges graduands to become educators, not just teachers

DWU JOURNALISM STUDENT

BY JOSHUA CHAD MARAIP

MANAGING Director and owner of Tropicana Ltd, Dame Sandra Lau, has called on graduating students of St Peter Chanel College of Secondary Teacher Education in Kokopo to rise as “educators rather than teachers”, emphasising the crucial role they will play in shaping Papua New Guinea’s future.

Speaking during the college’s graduation ceremony last Friday, Dame Sandra said the country needs committed and values driven educators who can bring out the best in their students.

She delivered a message from the late Bishop Panfilo, founder of the college, who reminded graduates that while teachers deliver lessons, true educators “bring forth the best from their pupils”.

Dame Sandra said the importance of education, saying it remains the strongest foundation for a better society.

She said the institution owes much of its progress to Bishop Panfilo’s determination and vision, and encouraged the staff, students, and leaders to continue strengthening the college to become one of the leading teacher-training institutions in PNG.

She also urged students to uphold strong moral and spiritual values, noting that the college had molded them in an extraordinary manner by combining academic knowledge with the Love of God.

“You are taught that to succeed in life, academic excellence is not enough, but believing in God, who always looks upon us, is a factor that enhances your knowledge and

makes you a better person,” she said.

Dame Sandra said that faith, good character, and discipline are essential for success, especially at a time when law and order issues continue to challenge the country.

Dame Sandra encouraged graduates to be peace-loving, responsible, and grateful for the sacrifices their families made for their education.

Reflecting on her own life, she said a stable, loving family is key to a successful career, acknowledging her husband John as her greatest support.

“When you have no peace in the family, you can’t work.

You’ve got to have a happy family.

You’ve got to have a loving wife and a loving husband to support you.”

to strengthen families and guide children toward positive growth and purposeful living,” she said.Ms Kuvai said the books are grouped into three major categories— health, education and spiritual development series.

“Our primary target group is

children from birth to 16 years—a period of life that is most critical for learning and character development. We believe that early education, rooted in moral and spiritual principles, can transform lives and strengthen the moral foundation of our nation,” she said.

Pomio student wins governor’s award

BY JOSHUA CHAD MARAIP DWU JOURNALISM STUDENT

A THIRTY-year-old man from Sali Village in the Pomio District of East New Britain Province has received the Governor’s Award during the 9th Graduation Ceremony of St Peter Chanel College of Secondary Teacher Education last Friday, recognising him as one of the province’s top academic performers.

Paul Galiuko, who entered the college in 2021, received the Governor’s Award; a new 2025 initiative of the East New Britain Provincial Government, with Chanel College among the first schools to present it.

Before attending Chanel College, Galiuko completed his education in Pomio, starting at Sali Elementary, then Pomio Primary, and graduating from Palmalmal Secondary.

In 2016, he was selected to study Mathematics and Computer Science (MCS) at Divine Word University but withdrew in 2017 due to financial constraints and uncertainty about the course. He later married and lived in

the village for three years before applying to St Peter Chanel in 2021. His studies faced another setback when he was suspended in his first semester for alcoholrelated disciplinary issues.

Galiuko returned home for the remainder of the year before being readmitted in 2022 and joining the batch that graduated this year. He described the suspension as a turning point that forced him to change.

“I am truly happy I came to Chanel because the school has shaped me with the good values of the institution and also the Christian values,” he said.

“If we want to do well, discipline is very important. If we master it, it will help us in the long run, especially to achieve our dreams.”

He credited his success to God, his parents, and support from the Government’s HELP Loan Scheme, TESAS scholarships, the Pomio district administration and the East New Britain Provincial Government.Now graduating as a trained teacher, he hopes to give back to the community by teaching his favourite subject, Mathematics.

NOCFS chief executive officer Mr Jerry Wap (Seated, fifth from left) with his officers and the SDA Literature Distribution Ministry officials proudly showing the newly purchased books for the mini library. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

A proud Paul Galiuko after the graduation ceremony in Kokopo last week. PICTURE : SUPPLIED

Kerema Hospital gets help

THE University of Papua New Guinea’s Gulf Student Union (UPNGGSU) has delivered its firstever medical donation to Kerema hospital, marking a strong show of youth leadership and community commitment.

The students transported the supplies from Port Moresby to Kerema, personally handing them over to hospital management, who expressed deep appreciation and

Opa warn LLG ward development committee

MINISTER for Finance and Kerema MP Thomas Opa urged Taure Lakekamu councillors to introduce Ward Development Committee to work with Kerema District Development Authority.

Mr Opa said this after the double classroom opening at St Theresa Primary School at Heavala village He appealed to the 26 councillors to establish Ward Development Committee and plan to acquire funding from KDDA of K10,000.

The local MP said without committee it will be complicated for ward plans delivery.

The biggest challenge is for the councilors to collect NID, update common rolls and censuses for their respective wards with correct population, he warned.

"This should be your priorities and we can make it happen as you belong here without delays" he said.

The Minister said in place Ward Development Plan from respective councillors.

He said councillors receive monthly allowance to support them in their duties and responsibilities.

Taure Lakekamu LLG president Herbert Pokana added that he represent the 26 councillors at Kerema District Development Authority and Gulf Provincial Executive Committee to come through him.

Mr Pokana said we must all work together as a team as we represent the people of Taure Lakekamu who trusted and mandated us.

He said we are now servants of the people and to serve them without fear or favour for equal distribution and service delivery.

highlighted ongoing challenges across the province’s health system.

UPNGGSU President Sebastian Peter said the initiative was driven by growing concerns over deteriorating rural health services in Gulf Province, where shortages of staff and basic medical essentials continue to impact communities.

“This initiative is more than a donation, it’s about raising

awareness,” Mr Peter said.

“We want to highlight the realities faced by our people and show that change can begin with young people.

“We hope this effort sends a message to policymakers to prioritise healthcare funding and improve management.”

A spokesperson for Kerema hospital described the donation as timely and significant, noting that

the support will directly benefit mothers, children, and patients who rely on the already stretched facility. He added that the hospital hopes to see the initiative grow into an annual project and inspire other groups to support rural health services.

UPNGGSU says the donation drive is only the beginning, with plans to maintain and expand the project in the coming years.

Makerupu Primary sets new grade 8 record

MAKERUPU Primary School in the Rigo Coast Local Level Government of Rigo district in Central Province has recorded its strongest Grade 8 academic performance to date, with 21 out of 24 students selected to advance to Grade 9, an unprecedented achievement for the school.

The announcement was made during the school’s 4th Grade 8 graduation and lower grades recognition ceremony, held on Thursday, December 4. Hundreds of parents, students and community members gathered at the school grounds to witness the event.

Despite facing major challenges throughout the year—including

limited teachers, scarce learning materials, and inadequate classroom resources—the 2025 Grade 8 cohort maintained consistent effort from the start of the school year in January through to the national examinations.

During the ceremony, awards were first presented to students from Grades 1 to 7 across categories such as Most Improved and First Place. The crowd responded with loud cheers as parents celebrated with small giveaways and traditional displays of joy.

The highlight of the program was the announcement of the Grade 8 internal and external academic awards. The top performers for 2025

were: Dux of the School: Agatha Tsiperau

Runner-Up: Shamma Kema

Third Place (Tie): Noah Andrew & Greg Veapi

According to school records, the number of students selected for Grade 9 this year marks a significant improvement from previous years, where only a few students progressed.

Teachers and community leaders described the results as a major milestone for the school and a positive reflection of the students’ resilience. The 2025 Grade 8 cohort is now being recognised as the most successful group in the school’s recent history.

Kairuku District councillors sworn in

BY MARK TALIA

THE 51 ward councillors of Kairuku district were recently sworn in at Bereina by Central Provincial Magistrate Alex Palangi and assisted by Central Provincial legal officer Kila Maino.

Present to witness the the occasion were the three new elected presidents: Terence Rau Kairuku LLG, Eddie Kekele Mekeo LLG and Ignatius Aida Aua Kuni LLG plus guests from the Central Provincial Government and member for Kairuku and Minister for Energy Peter Isoaimo and people of Kairuku.

Mr Isoaimo encouraged the ward councillors to work with the people in the village and truthfully discharge their duties to serve the people in the community

He said: “When you took the oath, you already knew you were going to serve the people truthfully and honestly. “The next step to take is for all you 51 wards councillors have to go back to your villages and call a meeting and let the village people identify the projects that they want as your ward plan.

“Step two is when your president calls the first assembly meeting here in Bereina, you councillors can forward all your ward projects that must be endorsed and incorporated into your Rural Local Level Government 5-year envelopment plan.

“That is the process and so after the first meeting your presidents will take this plan forward, one copy to me a your Kairuku District Development Authority Chairman and another copy will be handed to the Central Governor.”

Mr Isoaimo emphasised that the same document can also be used to source funding from the National Government or Donor agencies. Do not wait for anybody as you are leaders in your own rights. The district itself has had a lot of law and order problems and the councillors will now be the frontliners to solving some of these problems which means any issues that arises in the wards is the responsibility of the councillors to alert the Bereina Police Station Commander. “Today you have taken the oath to take the burden for us as the village government and be the first contact in the village for any issues that arises,” he said.

“Let us all collectively serve our people as it is not a one man show as collectively, we can make things happen and so from observation I have seen in the last couple of years at least two former presidents have seen fit to live in Tubusereia and both thought they could administer the Vanapa Brown RLLG from there and also some of the presidents in Kairuku district administered the LLGs in Port Moresby and that is wrong as the Presidents should be based in Bereina or in the district.

“I am very happy with the two young energetic presidents plus the clergy man become president to Kuni LLG as they will have to shoulder and carry some of the burden with me and also, I feel more relieved and I trust that they can discharge some of the designated tasks given.” Mr Isoaimo also echoed on the law that gives power to the Minister for Provincial and Local Level government to dismiss any ward councillor who is consistently absent from his or her ward for more that six months

“So, bear in mind if you are not in the village for six months, you will be dismissed by the Minister and a by-election to be called.

Staff and representatives of Kerema hospital receive medical items from UPNG Gulf Student Union President Sebastian Peter and student members. PICTURE COURTESY OF UPNGGSU

PERSONS LIVING WITH DISABILITIES AIDED

Court sets key 2026 hearing in Lagaip Open election dispute

THE legal battle over the Lagaip Open seat is set to intensify in early 2026, with the National Court confirming two critical hearings in the ongoing election petition.

A Substantive Review of the case has been scheduled for 9.30am on March, 23, 2026, to be heard before a five-man bench.

This major hearing will address the core legal questions surrounding the disputed Lagaip Open election results and determine whether earlier decisions will be upheld or overturned.

In the lead-up to that, the court will hear a Stay Application at 11am on February, 10, 2026 before a single judge.

The stay will determine whether any previous orders or rulings should be temporarily halted while the review progresses.

With tensions simmering among supporters, former Lagaip MP Aimos Joseph Akem has appealed for calm and unity as the case proceeds through the judicial process.

He urged communities to respect the rule of law and avoid actions that could disrupt peace in the electorate.

He also calls for patience and unity amongst supporters of both leaders and embrace peace and harmony during this Christmas Akem also extended Merry Christmas greetings and wished his supporters, families, and the people of Lagaip a prosperous 2026, encouraging them to remain hopeful and supportive during the festive season.

Authority bans street vending

BY MAL TAIME

THE Mt Hagen City Commission has enforced the banning of all street vending in Mt Hagen City. The ban came into effect this week and those that are arrested for breaching the City Commission enforcement law and will pay K1000 spot fine and appear before the court or three to six months imprisonment depending on their charges.

Mt Hagen City manager Jim Pena said yesterday (Wednesday) that banning of street vending came into effect after the launch of the Mt Hagen City Commission but due to some uncertain circumstances the people took advantage of the situation and did the street vending.

He said an awareness was carried out within the vicinity of Mt Hagen this week and would stop at the end of this week.

Mr Pena said Mt Hagen City was the central hub of the entire Highlands region, especially people from the upper Highlands provinces came into Mt Hagen regularly to do business and spend money in Mt Hagen.

He said thus that Mt Hagen looked

unhealthy because there were so many people carrying out street vending claiming to sustain their living.

Mr Pena said it was everybody’s initiative to keep Mt Hagen clean because it was a commissioned city and the general public must not pass the buck back to the authority to keep the city clean.

He said police also joined and assisted them to do the awareness and warned the people to control their rubbish and refrain from taking part in street vending.

Mr Pena also warned the Asians operating shops not to give any goods to the street vendors to sell on the streets because they were dumping a lot of rubbish on the streets that were not collected.

He said the betel nut sellers must take extra precautions and be wary of hiding their betelnuts in the bags and selling them illegally within the vicinity of Mt Hagen City.

Mr Pena said they were thinking of selling the betel nuts and make an income but at the same time they must know that they were creating rubbish in Mt Hagen

City.

He said the betelnuts have their own boundaries and those who wanted to trade with betelnut must confine themselves at the betelnuts selling zones.

Mr Pena said spitting of betelnut stains had painted a bad picture.

“We are imposing a K1000 spot fine for those street vendors and chewing of betelnuts because we carried out the same awareness for many years and yet the people do not want to obey the city rules and comply with it.

“Its frustrating for us to see people chewing betelnut within the vicinity of Mt Hagen City so they will have to pay K1000 spot fine and appear before the court to fight for their fine money.

“They will explain in the court and the court will decide on the offence they committed and will decide for their spot fine money,” Mr Pena said.

He said at this point in time the public is urged to comply with the city rules and avoid taking part in the street vending and chew betelnut in Mt Hagen City.

Kune elected new president of Suai LLG in Chimbu

BY MICHAEL KOMA

CHIMBU’S Suai Local Level Government now has a new president in Jonathan Kune, a 45-year-old entrepreneur.

Mr Kune secured 12 votes to emerge victor while his rival Simon Kapia (ward 11 member) secured 11 votes from 23 ward members that formed the Suai LLG.

Suai, which covers Koge, GiuEmai, Konoma, Kagul, Kuima, Sigima, Kebil, Ubanidiawa and Du-Silma is one of SinesineYongomugl’s three rural LLGs. Provincial LLG Officer Richard Gendua has formally declared Mr Kune’s victory after an oath-taking ceremony and presidential election at the Kundiawa police station on Monday.

After the declaration the presidentelect was tossed into a vehicle with the 12 councillors and travelled to Koge village, 25km out of Kundiawa, where jubilant supporters hosted a reception.

Mr Kune thanked the ward members for the mandate and vowed to lead the (Suai) LLG transparently for the benefit of the populace.

Ward six (Kere Komine) member Derek Kume told the crowd he would push for policies and bylaws to eliminate consumption of illicit substances by youths and promotion of income-generating projects.

Suai LLG serves the Kebai, Dinga, Kere, Dom, Guna and Nimai tribespeople.

Former president Joe Miul lost his seat in the recent (LLG) election. President for Tabare LLG, also in Sinesine, Tultul Ere was ousted by retired police officer Joe Bulage.

Mr Ere successfully retained his ward seven seat in the recent election but fell short of the required numbers to maintain his hold on the presidential post.

Former president Samson Baklain has successfully retained his presidential seat in the neighbouring Yongomugl LLG.

Local MP Kerenga Kua has applauded the newly-elected presidents saying he was looking forward to welcome them (presidents) into the District Development Authority (DDA) board.

In another development, the district has a new district administrator in Jack Atte.

Mr Atte from Sinesine’s Dumun village, was attached to the education department for more than two decades before his elevation to the district’s top administrative post.

LLG president elections expected to conclude this week

BY NELSON JOE

THE Eastern Highlands province looks forward to concluding the nationwide Local Level Government Elections 2025 this week with the elections of presidents in the eight districts.

The Unggai-Bena is the second last district undergoing this stage of the election process that saw ward three member, Michael Lienama, elected unopposed as the president of the Unggai LLG, while the process for the upper and lower Bena LLGs continued, as at this report yesterday.

Mr Lienama was the only seconded nominee, while three other nominees were not seconded.

His election brought the number of presidents elected to 19 out of 25 LLGs in the province.

Out of the elected presidents, those of the Minamalo LLG in Goroka district and East Okapa LLG of Okapa district were through a draw.

“Ward 11 member elect, Nelson Yawani and ward five member elect, Kenya Kakabu for East Okapa LLG were tight on eight votes each, with one abstaining,” said the provincial district and LLG affairs advisor, James Sipa, who is presiding over the president election stage of the election process at Muriso Haus in Goroka where ward members from Henganofi, Lufa, Goroka, UnggaiBena and Daulo, all with three LLGs and Okapa with two LLGs, gathered

to elected their presidents since last week.

“They were still even after two adjournment that saw them go to draw under the standing order 10.

“Their district’s chief executive officer was given the honour to draw their names. Ward five member, Kenya Kakabu’s name was pulled out and he was sworn-in as the president elect for East Okapa LLG.”

He said the tight vote for the Minamalo LLG went through the same process. The Obura-Wonenara and Kainantu districts with four LLGs each had their presidents declared in Kainantu, according to Mr Sipa. Kafetina, Dunantina and Fayantina LLGs of Henganofi district elected

theirs last week. For Lufa district, the Unavi, Mt Michael and Yelia LLGs their presidents elected on Monday.

As for Goroka, president election for Gahuku and Minamalo LLGs have been declared, except for the Goroka Urban LLG, with lobbying intensifying as the process for the other LLGs is being underway. Mr Sipa said they look forward to completing the LLG president elections with the Daulo’s upper and lower Asaro and Watabung LLGs, after Unggai-Bena.

All the while, the police have been maintaining their visibility on the ground, while carrying out their routine patrol throughout the town and the province.

Cheque being presented to Hagen Central Persons Living with Disabilities by Mr Kerowa and Mr Mamb. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Former Lagaip MP Aimos Akem. PICTURE SUPPLIED

Former teacher calls for schools audit in province

BY REINHARD MINONG

A FORMER teacher in New Ireland province has called for all schools in the province to be audited following the shocking discovery of more than K1.04 million allegedly stolen from New Hanover Secondary School’s Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS) funds.

Long serving teacher Jonathan Mesulam said the corruption uncovered by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) at New Hanover is “only the tip of the iceberg” and represents what many teachers have witnessed for years.

Mr Mesulam returned to New Ireland in 2010 after teaching outside the province and went on to serve at Namatanai Secondary (2011), Madina Secondary (2013), Mangai Secondary (2014) and NASCO High School (2015).

He said the decline he found was alarming.

“When I came back after 10 years away, nothing had improved. The schools were run down, infrastructure had fallen apart, and teachers were complaining about how the administration was operating,” he said.

In 2011, frustrated teachers and students at Namatanai Secondary staged a protest over deteriorating facilities and the lack of visible improvement despite Tuition Fee Free (TFF), now GTFS, funds supposedly supporting the school.

He faced the same issues when he moved to Madina Secondary in 2013.

“We changed the approach. Instead of protesting, we sat with the administration and wrote proposals for funding. We got support from the Department of Education to fix some buildings,” he said.

But during a recent visit to

Madina, he found development had stalled completely after Newcrest ceased funding support, despite government allocations intended to sustain infrastructure under the School Learning Improvement Plan (SLIP).

“My question is: where is the infrastructure money going? Under SLIP, infrastructure is one of six key components, and schools in New Ireland have been receiving money.

In 2015, many schools received more than K500,000 each. But when you visit them, there’s nothing to show for it,” Mr Mesulam said.

ICAC’s investigation into New Hanover reinforces his concerns.

According to the agency, school principal Fredrick Mahisu, working with provincial GTFS coordinator Apollo Pangasa, falsified enrolment numbers to inflate subsidy payments between 2021 and 2025.

Funds were allegedly diverted for

private use, including four vehicles for Mr Mahisu’s personal and business activities. Kickbacks were reportedly paid to Mr Pangasa, and funds traced to Benson Apelis, the provincial CEO for Social Services.

ICAC has charged Mr Mahisu, his wife Shirley Perry, Mr Pangasa and Mr Apelis with misappropriation, official corruption, conspiracy to defraud, and dealing with criminal property.

Mr Mesulam urged that similar investigations must now be carried out across the province.

“A lot of schools receive substantial funding, but development isn’t happening. As a former teacher, I know the money is there it's not being used for its intended purpose,” he said.

“If New Hanover was exposed, it means there could be more. Our children suffer when money meant for them is stolen.”

B’ville Voice X-plosion celebrate as flagship youth empowerment

KUDOS to Paddingstone Ilevi from Saposa Island, Kunua district, North Bougainville, for being crowned the winner of the 2025 Bougainville Voice X-plosion (BVX).

Mr Ilevi was among six finalists chosen from region-wide heats who competed in an exciting final held at Christmas Park, Arawa, November, 13-14, 2025.

Accepting the crown, he said: “Winning this competition is a game-changer and a definite pathway to pursue my passion for music.”

Now in its fourth season of competition, the BVX has evolved from a local talent showcase into the region’s premier youth and cultural development event.

The BVX was planned and delivered by the Bougainville Youth

Federation (BYF) as its flagship youth empowerment initiative with support from Australia and New Zealand in partnership with the Bougainville Government’s Department of Community Development.

The Bougainville Government Minister for Community Development, Melvin Wilolopa, at the official launch of the BVX finals, praised the event organisers for fostering a positive environment where young people can explore their potential, gain confidence, and make meaningful contributions to community development.

Bougainville has a rich musical culture rooted in its traditional songs, bamboo instruments, and ancestral chanting. In recent years, this local heritage

has increasingly intersected with international music via crosscultural collaborations and youthfocused initiatives, such as the BVX.

The theme for this year’s event, “Pairapim nek, stretim rot blong tomoro”, which means “Raise your voice, shaping the pathway for tomorrow,” captures the vision of empowering Bougainvillean youths to speak up and take ownership of their future.

“On the island, BVX is recognised as a beacon of youth empowerment through music,” said BVX Technical Committee chair Tsarlize Iamu.

“BVX possesses a unique quality of uniting young people in a way that strengthens the BYF, creating a more resilient and connected generation of youth ready to lead Bougainville into the future.”

BY REINHARD MINONG

MALAKOEN United Church in Tatau Ward, Kavieng district is preparing to bring its coastal communities together through a three-day walk-a-thon scheduled for December 26-28.

The 22-kilometre journey from Mapua to Malakoen (Tatau village) is aimed at strengthening unity between Ward 4 and Ward 2 while promoting fellowship and healthy living.

The walk-a-thon will begin at 8am on Friday, December 26, from Tsibar, with participants walking through Mangawur on their way to Malakoen United Church for the closing ceremony on December 28. Malakoen church congregation chairman Mission Maliu described the event as a meaningful way to reconnect families and youth during the festive period, when communities often look for safe and positive activities.

Mr Maliu said the initiative is as much about community identity as it is about physical activity.

“We invite all members of the community to participate in this unique opportunity to promote unity, fellowship, and community engagement while showcasing the beauty of Tatau Ward,” he said.

Planning is already in place for accommodation, meals, water stations, and emergency response support along the route.

The walk will take participants through familiar coastal and inland terrain, offering a reflective and shared experience across the ward.

Since 2022, BVX finalists have been mentored by Australian First Nations father-son duo, Tjupurru and Jake Fabila, and the Wantok recording label to produce a new song and accompanying video.

This year they were mentored by former winner and current BVX Technical director, Michael Dave. Mr Ilevi and the finalists of the 2025 BVX will now have the opportunity to record in a professional production environment and collaborate with both local and international artists.

Australia and New Zealand’s partnership with ABG’s Department of Community Development reflects a shared commitment to empowering young Bougainvilleans, strengthen communities and fostering cultural and economic opportunities across the region.

THE luxury tourist ship True North, based in Kimberley, Western Australia, has docked in Bougainville for its seventh visit, kicking off a 10-day exploration of the region's pristine waters with 36 new passengers boarding. Arriving first in Central Bougainville before reaching Buka in North Bougainville on Tuesday, the vessel is set to embark on an itinerary with Northern Tours that includes stops at Nissan, Nuguria and the Carterets Islands, before returning to Pokpok Island in Central Bougainville and continuing to Milne Bay province.

Speaking to the Post-Courier, Zhon Miriona, director of Bougainville Experience Tours, highlighted the ship's charitable contributions: 20 bags of cement and several bags of rice will be donated to the islands visited, alongside support for schools in Central Bougainville, including a teachers' house at Piruana Primary School and aid to Uruna Elementary.

The previous group of 26 passengers, who had toured from Milne Bay to Bougainville, departed via a charter flight from Buka Airport back to Cairns. The incoming 36 passengers will enjoy a 10-day voyage from Bougainville's seas to Alotau. This marks the annual visits by True North, which has now completed seven trips to Bougainville's shores, fostering tourism and community support in the region.

Paddingstone Ilevi winner of the Bougainville Voice-Xplosion 2025 receiving his prize from Community Government Secretary Belinda-Maree Lanbong. PICTURE: AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION

Acteus PNG Ltd, a fully owned subsidiary of Acteus Group, was established to address the growing need for high-quality Jet A-1 products, aviation equipment, and specialized technical services in Papua New Guinea.

Leveraging the Group’s longstanding expertise across APAC, Acteus PNG has been operating with a clear mandate: bring worldclass aviation fuel technology, safety culture, and technical competency into the PNG market while building strong local capability for long-term industry sustainability.

We supply an extensive portfolio of Jet A-1–related equipment and consumables and represent several of the sector’s leading international manufacturers. On the services side, Acteus PNG leads the market by delivering advanced technical support, from high-end electronic systems integration to state-ofthe-art maintenance programs for refueling assets and aviation ground support equipment.

A core part of our mission is capability development. Acteus PNG actively contributes to upskilling the local workforce through certified aviation training, OEM-aligned maintenance programs, and specialist consultancy covering SOC Part 144 compliance, SOP development, quality control processes, HSE audits, and operational readiness for new or upgraded facilities, aligned with ICAO, JIG and best-practice standards.

Our long-term vision is to position Papua New Guinea as a regional technical powerhouse, developing talent locally and ultimately exporting PNG expertise across the wider APAC aviation and energy sectors.

One of our main challenges is the complex logistics environment in Papua New Guinea, combined with the stringent compliance requirements associated with Jet A-1 products and aviation fuel operations.

The remoteness of many sites, variable infrastructure, and long supply chains demand precise planning, robust quality controls, and continuous technical vigilance.

To address these challenges, Acteus PNG has invested heavily in advanced monitoring systems, rigorous product traceability processes, and strict adherence to international standards such as ICAO, JIG, and OEM maintenance specifications. Our teams continuously update their technical knowledge to remain fully aligned with evolving safety and compliance expectations.

By maintaining best-in-class operational discipline, implementing strong QA/QC protocols, and deploying highly trained technicians, we ensure that our customers receive consistently clean, dry and on-spec fuel, delivered safely, reliably, and in full compliance with regulatory and industry requirements.

Papua New Guinea and across the broader APAC region.

Acteus PNG has been selected to support and deliver major aviation fuel infrastructure and technical service projects, many of which will redefine the Jet A-1 supply chain and operational standards in PNG and the Pacific in the coming years.

Our involvement in these highimpact projects demonstrates our capability in managing complex technical requirements, deploying advanced maintenance and compliance frameworks, and delivering solutions that meet or exceed international standards.

These accomplishments have strengthened our credibility, expanded our technical footprint, and positioned Acteus PNG as a key partner for operators seeking longterm reliability and expertise.

By consistently delivering successful outcomes, we have built a strong reputation that fuels business growth, attracts new partnerships, and reinforces our strategic role in shaping the future of the region’s aviation fuel sector.

Yes. Acteus PNG is actively expanding and elevating its service offering to meet the growing technical and operational needs of the aviation fuel sector in the country.

We are increasing our workforce and investing heavily in structured training programs to develop highly skilled PNG technicians capable of delivering state-of-theart maintenance, calibration, and compliance services aligned with ICAO, JIG, and OEM standards.

This includes advanced training in electronics, fuel quality management, refuelling asset maintenance, and safety systems integration.

One of our most significant achievements has been earning the trust of leading operators both within

In parallel, we are broadening our portfolio to include enhanced technical support packages, onsite operational audits, expanded aviation training modules, and new predictive maintenance capabilities. These developments will allow Acteus PNG to deliver even higher levels of reliability, safety, and operational readiness, supporting both current customers and the next generation of aviation infrastructure projects in the country.

Hon.Solan Mirisim

09. 10. 1978

02. 12. 2025

Member Tel Wo 78 25

ns rict and Sandaun urning fe Od lefomin O ork n M fomin ks and

The Nation joins our people of Telefomin district and Sandaun province in mourning and paying tribute to the life and legacy of our Member for Telefomin Open and Minister for Works and Highways, late Hon. Solan Mirism.

PRIME Minister James Marape has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of Hon. Solan Mirisim, Member for Telefomin and Minister for Works and Highways, who passed away in the early hours of yesterday morning.

Mr Marape said he was personally informed at 12:30am and again at 1:30am before travelling to PIH, where he witnessed doctors formally certify the late Minister’s passing.

“I stood beside a colleague and brother who had just left us,” Mr Marape said.

“It was a deeply painful moment — one that no leader ever wishes to experience. I then accompanied the family to their home as they prepared for the body to be transported to the funeral home. My thoughts are completely with them at this tragic time.”

Mr Marape confirmed he has directed doctors to conduct a complete coronial assessment and postmortem to determine the cause of death.

He described late Minister Mirisim as a strong, hardworking, and committed leader whose heart was always with the people of Telefomin.

“He travelled constantly between Port Moresby and Telefomin. He fought for roads, services, and development. The Kiunga–Telefomin road and many other projects bear testimony to his commitment to modernising the district,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“He was a young leader with much more to give our country. His passing is a great loss to the Telefomin people, the people of West Sepik, and Papua New Guinea.”

Mr Marape reflected on his own childhood connection to the district.“I spent my Grade One and Grade Two years in Telefomin.

Those were years that shaped my early life, and I have always held the people of Telefomin close to my heart,” he said. “Losing their leader.a man who served them tirelessly, is a pain I share with them.

The Prime Minister also announced that Parliament will convene today briefly to honour the late Minister’s lifetime of service.

“Caucus has agreed that Parliament will sit today to pay respect to him and acknowledge the work he has done,” Prime Minister Marape said. “After we formally convey condolences on the floor of Parliament, we will proceed to pass the Budget, and then the House will rise so that we may give full attention to the funeral process of our late brother.”

Mr Marape extended his deepest condolences to the Mirisim family, the people of Telefomin, friends, colleagues, and supporters across the country.

“To his wife, children, relatives, and the entire Telefomin community, I offer our government’s heartfelt sympathies. May the Lord bring comfort, healing, and strength during this time of immense loss,” he said.

“Papua New Guinea has lost a dedicated servant of the people. We mourn together.”

On behalf of the Deputy Speaker Hon. Koni Iguan, OBE, MP and the staff and management of the Parliamentary Service, I convey with deep sorrow our heartfelt condolences on the passing of the late Hon. Solan Mirisim, Member for Telefomin Open and Minister for Works and Highways.

The late Hon. Mirisim was born on October 9th, 1978 in Telefomin, West Sepik province, and rose from humble beginnings to become a respected leader of his people. From his early education in Telefomin to his studies in Business Management at the Commercial Training College in Lae, he demonstrated commitment, discipline, and a deep desire to serve.

Before entering public life, he was an entrepreneur whose business supported local families and strengthened the economic foundations of Telefomin. His passion for community development and the well-being of his people led him to national politics, where he was first elected to the 9th National Parliament in 2012. Over three consecutive terms, the late Hon. Mirisim became a prominent figure in Parliament and in government, serving with distinction in various ministerial portfolios, including Defence, Forests, and most recently Works and Highways.

Throughout his parliamentary career, he contributed meaningfully to national development, infrastructure progress, and public service improvement. His leadership, dedication, and tireless advocacy for the people of Telefomin and West Sepik province will be long remembered. His passing leaves a profound void in Parliament, his electorate, and the nation.

To his wife, children, relatives, and the people of Telefomin, may you find comfort and peace in knowing that he served with honor and left behind a legacy of commitment and service to Papua New Guinea.

May his soul rest in peace.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” - Isaiah 41: 10.

It is with great sadness that I write this tribute to a former Minister for Forest late Hon. Solan Mirisim. He was a great leader who supported very well the work of the Papua New Guinea Forest Authority (PNGFA) and the National Forest Board.

Late Hon. Mirisim first took up the Forest portfolio in June 2019 and held the post until December 2020 when he left. In January 2022, he returned to Forestry where I was already the Managing Director. He then left in August 2022 to take up the Ministry of Works and Highways.

Vale

Under his leadership, Forestry saw transformational changes. We began changing the face of forestry for the better. Corporate Governance is very important in any organization.

To restore the Forestry is not an easy task, however under his leadership, we addressed work place complacency and systematic corruption by senior officers. With his support, PNGFA initiated organizational reforms and new policy initiatives to eradicate complacency and corruption in the management of the country’s forest resources.

Still under his leadership, the

OBITUARY Hon.Solan Mirisim

Timber Legality Standards (TLS) was developed to strengthen monitoring and to dispel the perception of illegal logging in the country.

Review of the 1991 Forestry Act also began under him, to include emerging issues such as carbon trade.

Through the late Minister and the Board, PNGFA created a position (Coordinator – Connect PNG) to work closely with the Department of Works and Highways, Prime Minister’s Department and Transport, to connect all logging roads and align them to become PNG’s economic corridors, as part of

the Connect PNG Programme.

I am satisfied that the road project I promised him during a farewell dinner for him at APEC Haus on 29th April, 2022, before the General Elections, has been delivered. As part of the Connect PNG Programme, Telefomin station is now connected by road and also to Tabubil, Western Province.

“My officers have been to Telefomin and it will be one of the first projects that we will look at as part of the Connect PNG Programme, to construct a road to connect Telefomin and Tabubil.” I had said then. And it has become a reality, and late

Minister played a pivotal role in making this happen, for his people.

Late Minister Mirisim fully supported the creation of a State Marketing Agency which has resulted in the formation of PNG Diwai Holdings.

Thank you Hon. Mirisim for your leadership and support whilst you were the Minister for Forest.

May you Rest in Peace!

John Mosoro Managing Director Png Forest Authority

Papua New Guinea lost a champion nationalistic leader and public servant who was committed to nation building and connecting rural communities to markets for easier access to government services with better road and bridge connectivity.

The Department of Works & Highways is shocked with mixed emotions by the untimely passing of our Late Minister Hon. Solan Mirisim, MP and Member for Telefomin.

Works Secretary Gibson Holemba said that it is with a heavy heart he relays the painful message to the management and staff of the Department of the sad news that the Minister has passed on. Mr. Holemba made these official remarks after social media was flooded with messages of tribute and condolence to our late Minister. I would like to quote a Bible text to give comfort to all staff, family members, and the people of Telefomin during this bereavement period, from the book of Job 1:21 –“The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord.”

As soon as I received the message in the early hours of the morning that the Minister was rushed to the hospital, I made my way there to confirm, and present were our Prime Minister Hon. James Marape and Minister for Tourism Hon. Beldan Namah, MP and Member for Vanimo Green.

Mr. Mirisim was 47 years old at his untimely passing after being rushed by Saint John Ambulance

Vale OBITUARY Hon.Solan Mirisim

to Port Moresby International Hospital in the early hours of this morning around 1am (December 2nd, 2025) and was pronounced dead on arrival. It is with deep and profound sadness that we mourn the passing of a distinguished leader and a three-term serving Member of the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea. He passed away early this morning after a brief illness, leaving behind his wife, children, and his people of Telefomin District. Late Mr. Mirisim entered

Parliament in 2012 and quickly rose to prominence as a hardworking and influential leader among his colleagues and fellow leaders. He represented the Telefomin District in West Sepik Province and served the nation with unwavering commitment and dedication for almost two decades, or 15 years. First entering the 9th Parliament in 2012, he was re-elected into the 10th Parliament in 2017 and now the 11th Parliament after winning the 2022 National General Elections. He held several key ministerial

portfolios, including Minister for Forestry, Minister for Defence, and most recently Minister for Works and Highways under the Marape–Rosso Government.

Throughout his political career, Hon. Mirisim contributed immensely at different levels, capacities, and portfolios he was tasked to take charge of as a State Minister, serving faithfully until his untimely demise.

His most notable contribution to nation building was being the champion behind infrastructure development and connectivity projects that transformed rural communities in Papua New Guinea over the last four years as Minister for Works & Highways (2022–2025).

Under his leadership, the Connect PNG Program advanced road infrastructure reforms, strengthened administrative transitions, implemented major national highways and missing link roads and bridge programs, and improved access for many Papua New Guineans in rural areas that had no road connectivity for the last 50 years since Independence.

The famous missing link projects that became a rural testimony elevated him to be the true champion for rural people in landlocked areas in some of the remotest parts of PNG. The road projects were the Teleformin–Tabubil Highway, the extended Magi Highway from Port Moresby to Alotau, and the Trans–National Highway connecting Morobe to Gulf and Port Moresby. He was also instrumental in delivering landmark projects and

policy implementations such as the country’s longest footbridge at Papa–Lealea, and he played a pivotal role in forestry reforms promoting downstream processing and sustainable forestry practices, and the push to increase the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme infrastructure development threshold percentage from 2% to 3%, which is to be passed into law by Parliament. He was born and raised in Telefomin, and he completed his education locally before earning a Certificate in Business Management from Lae Business College. Prior to entering politics, he was a successful businessman and community advocate. His passing is a profound loss to Papua New Guinea. He will be remembered for his vision, leadership, and tireless efforts to improve the lives of his people. One thing is certain—he never gave up on his people of Telefomin, the most remote district in PNG; he connected them by road and brought light into their lives. He wanted to replicate the success of his district with other road infrastructure projects, only to succumb to the fate of his demise. However, his legacy will live on for generations to come. His people will surely miss his leadership and drive to make Telefomin Station a better and modern model district in PNG despite being landlocked for almost 50 years.

State funeral arrangements and official statements from the Government will be announced in due course.

CR7 Restaurant has over the years created a name for itself and has fast become a favourite spot for travellers, families and locals looking for a warm meal and a welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant is ideally located in the centre of Mt. Hagen town, along Hagen Drive. It is one of Chetty’s many popular restaurant’s locations, established across the upper Highlands of Papua New Guinea.

‘CR7’, initials for Chetty’s Restaurant Number Seven, is known for its generous servings and signature favours such as; its hearty mumu-style pork, the famous cream-braised chicken, and not forgetting its much loved highlands beef stew.

Chetty’s Restaurants are owned and run by Lawrance Packiam and his family and are renowned for the accustomed ‘Highlander hospitality’ and unique food; a mix of Indian flavours and tasty local Papua New Guinean traditional dishes.

Apart from Mt. Hagen’s CR7, you can also find Chetty’s in other locations. They have a restaurant

at the Kuri Lodge in Mt. Hagen, another in Banz, Jiwaka Province, and two in Enga province at Wabag town and Porgera.

With numerous locations in the Highlands region, traveling and dining at Chetty’s restaurants in Jiwaka, Enga, or Western Highlands province will always be an ease.

Chetty’s also offers catering services for big groups, easily handling catering for events with more than 200 people.

You pay for the food and catering services and Chetty’s offers free conference rooms at the Chetty’s Restaurant at Kuri Lodge to host your events.

With Chetty’s diverse menu that is also very considerate of kids, your children will definitely not miss out when you are out with the family for a dine-out. In addition, there is always the option of ordering classic Indian dishes or any other contemporary fusion dishes of your liking. For bookings or to place you orders, contact: Phone: 542 2002 or Email:lawrance.packiam@gmail. com

During a recent trip I had to Kimbe, West New Britain Province, I had the opportunity to visit their main market, and truly it is a sight to see.

Right in the heart of Kimbe town lies a proof to what a public space can be. Stepping into the new Kimbe Main Market for the first time was truly remarkable.

For anyone familiar with normal everyday market scenes in Papua New Guinea, the sight is almost unbelievable - a marketplace that is not only clean and well maintained but also well organized. Adding to this well organised atmosphere, the market employees were noticeably well-groomed, orderly and well-mannered. “How many markets in PNG can claim to be clean and organized, much less managed with such care?” This transformation is the vision and achievement of the market’s manageress, Dianne Mandui Mirio, whose leadership has been the driving force of this outstanding success.

The market was officially opened on September 21, 2023, yet it did not open to the general public and vendors until three months later, on December 18, 2023. This delay was intentional, giving much needed time for something very important the installation and testing of a pioneering ticketing system. Kimbe Main Market is the only main market in PNG that utilizes such a system, a change that ensures transparency and organization. This system registers much needed details like: the vendors’ names; category of goods; allocated selling space;

and their specific table number. Starting with just two ticketing printers, the management, under the leadership of Dianne Mandui Mirio, carefully tested the system by first allowing only fresh produce and cooked food vendors to enter the main market and sell. The ticketing system is more than just a booking tool, it is the foundation of a comprehensive vendor support structure. The market provides 700 tables for vendors based on a careful survey that was done at the old market. Booking a ticket allows a vendor to secure their table, automatically guaranteeing that if they do not book the spot, the table is freed up for another vendor; maintaining the principle that everyone must have the opportunity to sell.

Seasonal vendors who come and go do not need identification cards, only permanent vendors are issued an ID upon registration (with a K20 annual renewal).

This brings significant spin off benefits such as:

assists them in booking tickets smoothly; offers discounts on training fees, purchase of airline tickets, and helps them with identification to open bank accounts; provides a discounted rate for using the market bathroomK1.50 instead of K2; fuels an award system where vendors who consistently book tickets are rewarded with shopping vouchers after four months rewarding consistent vendors.Furthermore, the market provides a muchneeded service, which is secure

overnight storage for vendors’ produces; K2 per night for other items and betelnut is priced at K5.

The dedication to quality is reflected in the market’s workforce, with a total of 110 staff running the operations.

The management also made a significant development to establish Kimbe Main Market as the only market in PNG that pays staff the minimum wage of K5, since 2023.

To ensure a high standard of public interaction, all staff went through public relations, communications, and conflict resolution training. These short courses were aimed to equip them with the knowledge

to handle the general public and vendors professionally. Initially, there were challenges, vendors brought complaints every day in the beginning. However, the management established a clear structure for resolving issues, vendors first approach their Vendor Representative, and only if no solution are found then they will bring the issue to the market manager.

Everything within the market is grouped by category, making navigation easy. Even the wheelbarrow operators who pay K10 daily to use the market space for transporting items are a part of the organized system, charging K5 per load. Notably, betel nut

is the biggest income earner for the market, highlighting the success of combining traditional commerce into a modern, balanced environment.

Security checks are maintained by local security firms’ scanners, used at the gate to check people entering the premises. The first year was undoubtedly rough as people adjusted, but over time, vendors and the public have come to adjust to the market’s rules and regulations.

This success story has done more than just create a clean market it has significantly raised the bar for West New Britain province, showcasing the cleanliness of the main market of Kimbe town.

Trump criticises ‘decaying’ European countries, ‘weak’ leaders

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has criticised European leaders as “weak” and suggested the US could scale back support for Ukraine.

In a wide-ranging interview with Politico, he said “decaying” European countries had failed to control migration or take decisive action to end Ukraine’s war with Russia, accusing them of letting Kyiv fight “until they drop”.

European leaders have made attempts to carve out a role in the US-led efforts to end the war, which

they fear will undercut the longterm interests of the continent in favour of a quick resolution.

In response, the UK’s Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said all she saw in Europe was “strength”, citing investment in defence as well as funding for Kyiv.

She added two presidents were “working for peace” – referring to Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky – and “one president – President Putin – has so far simply sought to escalate the conflict with further drone and

missile attacks”. Trump continued to increase pressure on Zelensky to agree to a peace deal, and urged him to “play ball” by ceding territory to Moscow. Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Zelensky said Ukraine and Europe were working actively on “all components of potential steps toward ending the war”, that the Ukrainian and European elements of the plan were now more developed. He then told reporters he believed the plans would be submitted to the

US on Wednesday. Trump’s latest public criticism of Europe comes a day after European leaders came together in London to discuss their continued joint efforts to stop the fighting in Ukraine.

Asked whether Europe could help end the war, Trump said: “They talk but they don’t produce. And the war just keeps going on and on.”

US officials have held separate talks with Ukrainian and Russian officials in recent weeks in an attempt to broker an end to the war. – BBC

New Ukraine peace plan set

KYIV: Ukraine and its European partners will soon present the US with “refined documents” on a peace plan to end the war with Russia, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday, following days of highstakes diplomacy.

Kyiv is under pressure from the White House to secure a quick peace but is pushing back on a US-backed plan proposed last month that many see as favourable to Moscow.

Ukrainian officials are also seeking strong security guarantees from partners, in the event of a deal, to prevent Russia from attacking again in the future.

In a statement, Zelenskiy said new components of the deal hashed out with the British, French and German leaders in London on Monday are ready for US review.

“The Ukrainian and European components are now more developed, and we are ready to present them to our partners in the US,” he wrote on X. “Together with the American side, we expect to swiftly make the potential steps as doable as possible.”

Finnish President Alexander Stubb said on Tuesday that allies worked on three separate documents, including a 20-point framework, a set of security guarantees and a reconstruction plan.

“I think we are closer to a peace agreement than we have been at any time since the war began,” he said at an event in Helsinki.

Stubb spoke as US President Donald Trump piled new pressure on Zelenskiy to secure a deal that could involve painful concessions,

US backs Japan in dispute with China over radar incident

WASHINGTON/TOKYO: The United States has for the first time criticised China for aiming radars at Japanese military aircraft during a training exercise last week, incidents that the Asian neighbours have given differing accounts of amid escalating tensions.

The run-in near Japan’s Okinawa islands comes after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi triggered a dispute with Beijing last month with her remarks on how Tokyo might react to a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan.

China claims democratically governed Taiwan and has not ruled out using force to take control of the island, which sits just over 100 km (62 miles) from Japanese territory and is surrounded by sea lanes that Tokyo relies on.

“China’s actions are not conducive to regional peace and stability,” a State Department spokesperson said late Tuesday, referring to the radar incident. – REUTERS

citing Russia’s “upper hand” as it advances on the battlefield.

Among other demands, Russian

President Vladimir Putin has said Ukraine must hand over its entire eastern Donbas region before Russia stops fighting, something which Zelenskiy has consistently rejected.

“They’re much bigger.

“They’re much stronger in that sense,” Trump said in an interview with Politico.

He added that Zelenskiy would “have to get on the ball and start... accepting things.”

At a UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine, Deputy US Ambassador Jennifer Locetta said the United States is working to bridge the divide between Moscow and Kyiv. She said the aim is to secure a permanent ceasefire and “a mutually agreed peace deal that leaves Ukraine sovereign and independent and with an opportunity for real prosperity.”

Russia’s UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said “what we have on the table are fairly realistic proposals for long-term, lasting settlement of Ukrainian conflict, something that our US colleagues are diligently working on.”

“History relentlessly demonstrates that every new proposal being put before Ukraine is less favorable to it than the last,” he told the council.

“Russia will achieve the objectives of its special military operation in any event.

The only question is will we do this militarily or diplomatically? We reiterate that we prefer the latter course.”

– REUTERS

Honduran election turmoil grows as president decries ‘electoral coup’

TEGUCIGALPA: Honduran

President Xiomara Castro on Tuesday denounced what she called an “electoral coup” unfolding amid a chaotic vote count from the November 30 presidential election, as hundreds of protesters gathered in the streets of the capital Tegucigalpa to demand clarity over the vote count. The election has been marked by

technical failures, unsubstantiated fraud claims and a shadow cast by US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to withdraw funding for the Central American nation if his preferred candidate is not successful.

“We are seeing a process marked by threats, coercion, manipulation of the TREP (vote transmission system) and adulteration of the

popular will,” Castro, who is from the leftist LIBRE party and set to leave office in January, told a press conference. She also condemned Trump’s intervention in the race on behalf of conservative Nasry Asfura of the National Party.

“These actions constitute an electoral coup that is under way and we will denounce them,” she said.

– REUTERS

Nobel officials unsure when Peace Prize winner will arrive

CARACAS: A press conference by María Corina Machado (pictured) – the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who is currently in-hiding – was cancelled on Tuesday, with the Nobel Institute saying they are “in the dark” about her whereabouts.

Machado is Venezuela’s opposition leader and has been in hiding since the country’s disputed 2024 election, which she and her supporters say was stolen. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize

for efforts to bring democracy to Venezuela, and was expected to formally collect it in a ceremony on Wednesday.

Although Machado regularly gives social media video updates, usually against a neutral white wall, her current whereabouts are unknown.

The Nobel Institute had previously said she would attend the event in person,

RELEASE APPROVED

A US judge on Tuesday cleared the Justice Department to release grand jury documents in the criminal case against Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who is in prison for sex trafficking underage girls with the deceased financier. US District Judge Paul Engelmayer in New York granted the Justice Department’s request to unseal the records under a new law requiring the Attorney General to release all unclassified files related to its investigations of Epstein and Maxwell. A Florida judge issued a similar order in Epstein’s case last week.

WAR CRIMES

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has sentenced a Sudanese militia leader to 20 years in prison for atrocities committed during a civil war more than two decades ago. Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman had been convicted in October on 27 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Darfur region. Known as Ali Kushayb, he was one of the leaders of the Janjaweed, a government-backed group that terrorised Darfur, killing hundreds of thousands of people.

BRAZIL CHAOS

Brazil’s parliament descended into chaos on Tuesday as conservative lawmakers continued to push a law which would reduce the prison sentence of former president Jair Bolsonaro. One left-wing lawmaker was forcibly removed by police after trying to disrupt proceedings, while footage showed scuffles breaking out as security tried to restore order. Bolsonaro began a 27-year jail term in November for attempting to plot a coup following his 2022 election defeat.

NEYMAR SURGERY

Neymar is set to have knee surgery after playing in pain to help boyhood club Santos avoid relegation from Brazil’s Serie A. The 33-year-old played the full 90 minutes as Santos claimed a 3-0 win over Cruzeiro on Sunday to avoid an immediate return to the second tier after promotion last season. He did not give any any details on his expected recovery, adding: “I need to rest and then I will have this knee surgery.”

X BANS EC

X has blocked the European Commission from making adverts on its platform - a move which comes a few days after it fined Elon Musk’s site €120m (£105m) over its blue tick badges. Nikita Bier, who has a senior role at the social media site, accused the European Union (EU) regulator of trying to “take advantage” of “an exploit” in its advertising system to promote its post about the fine on Friday. “It seems you believe that the rules should not apply to your account,” he said. “Your ad account has been terminated.”

DEFECTIVE SPERM

however on Tuesday it said in a statement: “María Corina Machado has herself stated in interviews how challenging the journey to Oslo, Norway will be. We therefore cannot at this point provide any further information about when and how she will arrive for the Nobel peace prize ceremony.”

Machado’s family are already in Oslo.

Venezuela’s government has said that if she left Venezuela, Machado would be considered a “fugitive” by the authorities. – BBC

A sperm donor who unknowingly harboured a genetic mutation that dramatically raises the risk of cancer has fathered at least 197 children across Europe, a major investigation has revealed. Some children have already died and only a minority who inherit the mutation will escape cancer in their lifetimes. The sperm was not sold to UK clinics, but the BBC can confirm a “very small” number of British families, who have been informed, used the donor’s sperm while having fertility treatment in Denmark.

3YO KILLED

A three-year-old girl was killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, according to local sources inside the Palestinian territory. Ahed Tareq al-Bayouk was reportedly playing near her family’s tent in Mawasi, Rafah, southern Gaza, when she was shot. – Agencies

On Monday Zelensky held talks with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. PICTURE: BBC

US trade deal with Indonesia at risk of collapse, US official says WASHINGTON, Dec 9 (Reuters) - A U.S. trade agreement reached with Indonesia in July is at risk of collapsing because Jakarta has backtracked on several commitments it made as part of the deal, a U.S. official said on Tuesday.“They’re reneging on what we agreed to in July,” said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, giving no details about which specific commitments Indonesia was now questioning. Asked about the comments, Indonesian officials said on Wednesday

Frieda River mine granted environmental permit

FRIEDA River Limited (Frieda)

has confirmed in a statement yesterday (Wednesday) that Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) has granted six (6) environmental permits for the Frieda River Project (FRP), following a rigorous and comprehensive assessment process.

The approvals mark a significant milestone for the project and follows a comprehensive program of environmental studies, the development of environmental management programs, and a detailed consultation process with communities and government.

FRP director Phil McCormack said the decision by CEPA reflects the strength of Frieda River’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

“The work to secure these permits has involved extensive expertise across mining and engineering, as well as thorough consultation with landowners and surrounding communities,” said Mr McCormack.

“We thank CEPA for the time and attention dedicated to the rigorous review process, which included the authority conducting its own consultation with surrounding communities and engaging their own independent experts to undertake peer reviews of our Environmental Impact Statement.”

The permits are for the Frieda River Copper-Gold Project, Sepik Power Grid Project, Frieda River Hydroelectric Project, Sepik Infrastructure Project Road, Green River Airport and Vanimo Ocean Port.

All permits are subject to strict environmental conditions, including continuous water quality monitoring to ensure the Sepik River and its tributaries remain healthy and vibrant so it can continue to play its economic

and cultural role in the lives of Sepik communities. Frieda River Limited reiterates its unwavering commitment to compliance with these conditions.

A Transformational, Responsible Investment for PNG, The Frieda River Project, also known as the Sepik Development Project, represents one of the most significant investments in Papua New Guinea. The Project will unlock long-term economic value, deliver sustainable infrastructure and empower local communities through genuine partnerships with landowners.

Mr McCormack said a

foundational aspect of the project is environmental protection and sustainability.

“The Project is designed to the highest environmental standards, incorporating advanced tailings and waste management techniques to the minimise impact to surrounding communities and the Sepik River,” he said.

“Frieda River Limited has invested more than a decade in undertaking comprehensive environmental, socio-economic and cultural heritage studies, supported by extensive stakeholder engagement.

The project includes 600 megawatts installed capacity hydroelectric

dam, which will power the mine and provide clean, renewable energy to the Sepik region, making Frieda River one of the lowest-emission mining projects globally.

“We continue to invest collaboratively in the communities surrounding the Project and we are proud of the strong, respectful relationships we have with East Sepik and West Sepik provincial administrations, and host landowners, including through the regular Community Leaders Forum, which brings together the seven landowning communities of the Frieda River Copper-Gold Project.”

NCSL supports home seekers during Atlas Steel Open House Day

NATIONAL Superannuation Fund

Limited (Nasfund) Contributors

Savings and Loan Society (NCSL) was at the Atlas Steel PNGBaruni during its Open House Day showcasing its financial solutions to interested home-owners on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

NCSL’s dedicated Business

Relations team was on-site to share detailed information about its savings and loan products, focusing on its flexible personal lending products that help members finance home purchases even without a dedicated home loan product. Through higher ratio loans such as 1:2 and 1:5, members can maximise

THE Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Air Niugini Limited (Air Niugini) have signed a US$35.8 million (K153.66million) financing package to help modernise the fleet of Papua New Guinea’s national airline, improving its efficiency and further raising safety standards. This initiative will enhance PNG’s domestic and international connectivity and contribute to the island nation’s social and economic growth.

The package includes a $19 million (K81.5 million) loan from ADB’s capital resources and a $16.8 million

(K72.12 million) loan administered by ADB from the Leading Asia’s Private Sector Infrastructure Fund 2 (LEAP 2).

The funds will finance the purchase of six Airbus A220-00 aircraft, replacing older models with more reliable, fuel-efficient planes.

“This project highlights ADB’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development in PNG,” said Officer-in-Charge of ADB’s PNG Resident Mission Soon Chan Hong. By supporting Air Niugini’s fleet renewal, we aim to improve

the country’s connectivity, boost economic growth, and enhance air travel safety in the Pacific region.”

Air travel is crucial for PNG’s economy, as the country’s challenging terrain limits land transport options.

Air Niugini plays a central role in connecting communities both domestically and internationally. The new aircraft are expected to be 20 per cent more fuel-efficient than older models, reducing costs and environmental impact.

LEAP 2 is an ADB-managed fund with a $1.5 billion (K6.43 billion)

their savings to access funding for major expenses, including housing.

Several non-member visitors also ended up registering their membership to NCSL via the Wokabaut Tablet and MyNCSL member online.

These new members received their membership numbers and had their accounts opened instantly marking the beginning of their financial journey with NCSL.

commitment from the Japan International Cooperation Agency. It focuses on sustainable private sector infrastructure projects that reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and provide affordable health care, education, and communication services to ADB’s developing member countries. Founded in 1973, Air Niugini is PNG’s national airline and a wholly state-owned enterprise, operating an extensive domestic network and international routes to Australia, Asia, and the Pacific. The airline is committed to safe,

Among NCSL were other corporate entities like the National Superannuation Fund, National Banking Corporation Ltd, Bank South Pacific Ltd, Nambawan Supa Ltd and few others.

reliable, and efficient service, supporting PNG’s economic and social development.

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet.

Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members -- 50 from the region.

A river system with thick tropical rainforest in Ambunti-Drekikier District in East Sepik Province near where the Frieda River Mine site is located. PICTURES HEZRON KISING.

Santos celebrates local workforce

BY GRACE AUKA-SALMANG in Sydney

SANTOS has reaffirmed its commitment to developing Papua New Guinea’s national workforce and strengthening community partnerships, unveiling new localisation milestones and social impact initiatives during PNG Investment Week in Sydney.

Vice president for PNG Operations Rhys Ward said 2025 had been a pivotal year for national talent development, with over 90 percent of roles in PNG now held by citizens and 80 percent of leadership positions occupied by Papua New Guineans.

Since 2024, the company has recruited 150 new PNG nationals, including apprentices and graduates.

Mr Ward spotlighted long-serving employees such as Veronica Tiki, a payroll officer with 35 years of service, who he described as “a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry” and a role model for women in the energy sector.

A key highlight was the expansion of the Santos Global Support Centre in Port Moresby, launched in 2024.

The centre has grown from 6 to 20 national employees, now offering maintenance planning, engineering, and new Geographic Information

Systems support.

The new Global Support Centre Academy welcomed its first Papua New Guinean graduates this year.

Mr Ward also announced the launch of an Operations Exchange Program, with PNG Maintenance Execution manager Michael Morong taking up a six- to ninemonth placement in Australia to enhance cross-border operational expertise.

“Michael’s leadership and technical capability are widely respected across PNG operations, and this exchange will strengthen our capability across the region,” he said.

Santos’ community investment efforts were also in focus. The company continues to support education, health, and local enterprise development, including tertiary scholarships, landowner business diversification, and conservation programs such as the Santos 50th PNG Independence Anniversary Orchid Garden at Port Moresby Nature Park.

The Santos Foundation funded with K40 million annually after taxes—was recently recognised at the 2025 Industry Awards for its Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Cervical Cancer Screening and Treatment Program, which saves up

to 90 percent of HPV-positive women treated at Mendi General Hospital.

The Foundation also supports the Hela and Southern Highlands Provincial Health Authorities, both ranked among the top three in the country.

Ward said PNG’s future lies in its people.

“Our success is driven by a motivated local workforce aspiring to build a better future.

“We are committed to investing in them, supporting communities, and contributing to a stable, secure operating environment,” he said.

Developer signals major growth plans for PNG

BY GRACE AUKA-SALMANG in Sydney

SANTOS has outlined a major program of new investments and operational expansions in Papua New Guinea, as the company used PNG Investment Week in Sydney to reaffirm its long-term commitment to the country’s energy sector.

Speaking for the first time at the forum as Vice President for PNG Operations, Rhys Ward said the company’s vision for 2026 and beyond includes a strengthened LNG supply base, enhanced reliability, and deeper collaboration with government and regulators.

Mr Ward highlighted the success of Santos’ operated assets, noting that the Kutubu crude export system has now completed 1,053 uninterrupted shipments since 1992, with shipment number 1,054 scheduled for December.

He said this performance demonstrates the strength of longstanding partnerships with joint venture partners, landowners, and the State.

Santos is preparing for a 2026 Infill Drilling Campaign designed to deliver an estimated 8mmboe of additional reserves and up to 3,000 barrels of oil per day from deeper

horizons, building on the success of the 2024 to 2025 drilling programs.

The company is working closely with the National Petroleum Authority to secure regulatory approvals.

The company also reported strong progress on the Kutubu Pipeline System Floating Storage and Offtake (FSO) Project, which would modernise the country’s liquids export infrastructure.

Ward said project assessments had confirmed the strategic importance of transitioning to an FSO to support long-term export resilience.

On gas expansion, Mr Ward confirmed that the Agogo Production Facility Tie-In Project is nearing completion of FEED engineering and will supply 0.8 trillion cubic feet of gas to PNG LNG, reinforcing long-term LNG export capacity.

Long-lead pipeline materials are already en route to Lae as the project moves toward execution.

Mr Ward said these projects collectively underscore Santos’ confidence in PNG’s energy outlook and its role in supporting projects such as Papua LNG.

“PNG continues to demonstrate its potential as a reliable and attractive destination for global energy investment,” he said.

Papua LNG closer to investment decision after successful cost reset

PAPUA LNG project is now firmly back on track toward a Final Investment Decision (FID) after completing a major rebid process that significantly reduced project costs and restored long-term economic value.

TotalEnergies Country Chair and Managing Director Arnaud Berthet told delegates at PNG Investment Week that the company had spent much of the past year reshaping the project following “unacceptable” initial cost estimates that emerged at the end of the Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED)

phase in early 2024.

“The first offers we received were far above expectations and created no value for the country, the people, or the co-venturers.

“We had no choice but to optimise and rebid,” he said.

The rebid process focused on two pillars: optimising the development concept and expanding competition to a wider pool of Asian EPC contractors, including increasingly capable Chinese firms.

Key design adjustments such as reducing the gas pipeline diameter from 40 to 30 inches and rerouting

condensate to a new offshore FSO helped streamline the project.

Mr Berthet confirmed that new bids have now been received and show “much more reasonable costs with final negotiations scheduled in the coming months.

He also reported strong progress on LNG marketing, with joint marketing agreements signed between TotalEnergies, Kumul Petroleum and MRDC, and LNG Sale and Purchase Agreements now nearing completion.

International lenders remain fully engaged, with seven Export

Credit Agencies and more than 30 commercial banks participating in due diligence, despite media reports of European banks withdrawing financing for fossil fuel projects.

With environmental permits secured, landowner identification completed and the Field Development Plan under review, TotalEnergies expects government licensing processes to advance ahead of the 2026 Development Forum.

“Papua LNG is steadily overcoming its challenges and progressing toward FID,” Mr Berthet said.

Papua LNG worlds lowest emissions LNG projects

GRACE-AUKA SALMANG in Sydney

TOTALENERGIES has declared that the Papua LNG project will be among the lowest-emitting LNG developments globally, backed by a full suite of biodiversity protection, community development and climate-aligned initiatives designed to redefine energy development standards in Papua New Guinea.

Presenting at PNG Investment Week, TotalEnergies EP PNG Managing Director Arnaud Berthet said the project’s environmental strategy goes beyond compliance, aiming for Zero Net Deforestation and Biodiversity Net Gain.

“Our commitment to sustainability is unwavering.

“We are implementing programs to avoid, minimise, restore and offset impacts — from mangrove rehabilitation to the monitoring of rare and even newly discovered species,” he said.

He said Papua LNG will create 6,000 local jobs at peak construction, backed by investments in TVET training, local supplier engagement, and a K11.5 million scholarship program supporting 461 students.

A comprehensive Community Development Plan is also underway, delivering health, education, gender-based violence prevention and essential services across Gulf Province, including NID access expansion and strengthened landowner company participation.

As of 2025, TotalEnergies has already spent PGK 2.6 billion incountry, supporting local supply chains and demonstrating what Berthet called the tangible, early benefits of the project.

“Our vision aligns with PNG Vision 2050.

“Papua LNG is not just an energy project as it is a catalyst for social, economic and environmental progress,” he said.

Santos vice president for PNG Operations Rhys Ward.

Key speakers from yesterday’s conference in PNG Investment Week 2025. PICTURES: PNGCORE

Ideally positioned along Kermadec Street on Touaguba Hill, Kwila Kermadec Apartments offers a peaceful and spacious family-oriented living environment within the heart of Port Moresby. The executive residential complex features 32 modern units designed to provide comfort, community, and a genuine homely atmosphere.

Established in the 80s by Kwila Properties, the development was part of the company’s vision to deliver high-quality residential housing within the Downtown CBD. Today, it remains one of Kwila’s flagship properties, trusted by corporate clients, expatriates, and local families for its secure and convenient lifestyle. The complex comprises eight blocks with a mix of 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom units, all recently refurbished to modern standards. Kwila Property Manager, Nao Hekwa, said “the upgrade has been a major milestone, attracting strong positive feedback from tenants and corporate partners.”

The refurbishment introduced generous open-plan living spaces, fully equipped kitchens, built-in wardrobes, ensuite bathrooms, and access to family-friendly amenities, including a swimming pool, gym, and BBQ area creating a warm, comfortable setting ideal for both small and large families.

Security

Kermadec Apartments provides 24hour security (Back swan Security firm) supported by electric perimeter fencing, and secure parking. Reliable backup power and water systems ensure uninterrupted living at all times. “These measures ensure residents enjoy a safe and peaceful living environment,” Mr. Hekwa said.

Developments

Kwila continues to enhance the property, with plans underway for exterior improvements and the conversion of selected 3-bedroom units into 2-bedroom apartments to cater to long- and short-term tenants, including individual travelers, as Kwila sees the demand for 1- & 2-bedroom units are rising. Whether for families seeking a secure long-term home or professionals looking for modern executive accommodation, Kwila Kermadec Apartments delivers an exceptional blend of space, comfort, and lifestyle.

‘Flights delay at Christmas normal’

Air Niugini chairman says flights delay normal at this time

AIR Niugini says it will meet the busy Christmas peak travel demand by using its new planes.

Air Niugini chairman Karl Yalo said this yesterday when responding to Opposition MP James Donald’s concerns over cancelled flights at the peak period.

Mr Yalo said: “A very important and positive change is the introduction of new aircraft that are taking the pressure off the current aging fleet of Fokker and Dash 8 planes.

“A new Airbus A220-300 has been

introduced to service already, with two more arriving in the coming week. Over time, these aircraft will replace the Fokkers, but over this Christmas, they are sharing the load.

A new Dash 8-400 has also been brought into the fleet to take on some of the load on the Dash 8 Classic aircraft.”

Mr Yalo said Mr Donald's frustration over the cancellations and delays on flights two weeks ago was understandable; however, Air Niugini has a strong safety

record and must work according to internationally recognised safety standards.

He said: “Above all else, Air Niugini will always put safety first, and we know our passengers would rather travel safely, and our staff will do their very best to get flights away on time.

“I am not here to make excuses, but to put the delays into the context of current airport and fleet capacity, and to offer our understanding and compassion in dealing with these frustrations.”

Government to move forward with PPL privatisation, says minister Duma

MOVING forward with the partial privatisation of PNG Power Limited (PPL), State Owned Enterprise Ministers William Duma has directed all parties to continue working together.

Minister Duma said: the government is moving forward with the partial privatisation of PNG Power Limited, and considering options that will provide the best outcomes for the benefit of customers and investors, while serving the interests of the nation.

He made the point that, the process of privatising an essential state-owned service is complicated and must be done properly and transparently.

“The National Government has restructuring scenarios proposed for the scheme of arrangement outlined by KordaMentha, which will form the basis of discussions and negotiations,” Mr Duma confirmed.

“It has taken a lot of work and co-ordination to advance to this point, and I look forward to this effort continuing now that we have a roadmap, and all parties must continue to make their contribution to negotiations.

“The proposed scenarios consider elements of PPL’s operations that could feasibly be privatised alongside potential timeframes involved.

“PPLs operations cover a range of grids from large down to micro levels, so there may not be a standardised approach to each of these networks.”

Minister Duma said it is no secret that PPL is a liability to the State, but as a commercial operation has significant potential, and these are the matters being discussed by the National Executive Council (NEC).

The NEC has approved the 20242026 PPL Corporate Plan and directed that tender be prepared consistent with the decision on partial privatisation.

“This year, the National Executive Council approved the PPL Privatisation Road Map, from which KCH engaged professional consultants to assist with stabilisation and privatisation.

“These included reports that covered stabilisation plans, solvency tests, legal review and valuation and information memorandum for privatisation.

“Looking at the specifics of these reports, a significant part of the

findings were consistent with previous market analysis.

“A short-term stabilisation plan to improve PPL's financial performance and cashflow in preparation of partial privatisation.

“The current solvency position of PPL is clear that a transition to partial privatisation shareholder contributions required to maintain operations.

“Further, creditors and other factors such as current court claims, should generally be attended in order to prevent delays in the process.”

He made the point that there can be no more delays in moving towards the partial privatisation of PPL.

“For many years there have been a lot of talk, but no action in relation to the privatisation of PPL.

“The Marape-Rosso Government will deliver PPLs partial privatisation with due consideration of the range of issues involved, and in the interests of Papua New Guinea and investors.”

RETRACTION

THE Post Courier sincerely apologises for a typing error (typo) in the surname of PNG Forest Authority (PNGFA) managing director John Mosoro in its Tuesday’s (9-12-25) publication on page 27. The correct spelling is Mosoro and not Moroso as was reported in the paper. The Post Courier apologises for any inconvenience caused and clarify that it was not intentional.

PNG-Australia partnership champions inclusive workplaces

CONGRATULATIONS to the 39 jobseekers with a disability who recently completed the EmployAbility Training Program.

THE Australian government is partnering with the PNG Assembly of Disabled Persons (PNGADP), the Business Council of PNG, and the Lae Chamber of Commerce, to prepare people with disability for the workforce and empower businesses to build inclusive workplaces to recruit and retain people with disability.

Training participants Kerry Kawowo and Hezron Gam, found the training journey transformative.

Ms Kawowo gained practical skills, including email communication and CV writing, which fuelled her confidence and led to a life-changing internship and permanent employment at the Hilton Hotel.

“Opportunities like this play an important role in helping me

prepare for my journey,” she said.

Mr Gam had the opportunity to host a midday radio program on Lutheran Church Christian Radio, broadcasting to all 18 districts in Morobe Province.

“This opportunity is a miracle,” he said.

“I am now able to reach people and places I have never met or seen and inspire them through news, information, and music.”

His co-host, Jeremiah Moat, described Mr Gam’s extraordinary memory and attention to detail as invaluable to their team, saying,

“It’s been truly rewarding working alongside him.”

Central to these success stories is the EmployAbility Toolkit -- a practical guide for employers, detailing inclusive recruitment processes, accessibility and workplace adjustments.

Businesses adopting the Toolkit can also apply for the Employer Grant Scheme to receiving funding

Passengers disembarking the new Air Niugini A220 at Jackson International Airport on its first inaugural flight to Nadzab International Airport in Huon Gulf District in Morobe. PICTURE: MAYSON LUIS

Kerry Kawowo (right) is pictured alongside fellow intern Sadrick Willie (centre) and Sinead Mulders-Jones from the Australian High Commission at the launch of the EmployAbility Toolkit and Employer Grant Scheme in Port Moresby.

State Owned Enterprise Minister William Duma.

NMSA warns small boat owners

THE National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) has strongly warned small boat owners and operators to be more cautious and practice safety first at sea especially during this festive season.

NMSA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Paul Unas has issued this warning in light of the recent tragic boat incident in Port Moresby.

He said small boat owners, operators and passengers in the maritime provinces must exercise some responsibility and comply with sea safety measures.

NMSA encourage the public to be smart and be prepared before heading out to the sea.

Ensure that you check your local weather report, inform your family and friends where you are going, let you family know how long the trip will take, always wear life jackets, and ensure you take extra fuel, drinking water and food.

NMSA also stressed on ensuring that you get on the boat where the outboard motor is working properly and have spare parts and tools, avoid overloaded boats and those boats with operators and passengers that are under the influence of alcohol.

Mr Unas strongly emphasised on these safety measures because “no matter what laws and standards are put in place, people will continue to be lost at sea if dinghies continue

to be overloaded, run out of fuel, travel in bad weather, and there is consumption of alcohol by boat operators and passengers.”

He noted that “those bad decisions that directly cause loss of life at sea are not made by remote government officials, but by the operators of the dinghies and the passengers who decide to travel with them.”

NMSA reminds provincial governments of the 15 maritime provinces of their responsibilities to ensure high-level maritime safety is enforced on people who rely on the sea for their livelihood and sustenance.

“The maritime provinces have that responsibility under the law and for practical purposes. Each maritime province has different circumstances and needs that require local solutions.

“Therefore, it is appropriate and right that it is the maritime provinces that tailor maritime safety and regulation solutions that are suitable for their communities and waters,” Mr. Unas said.

These provinces must take full responsibility and ownership to ensure the Small Craft Act (SCA) 2011 is effectively implemented and administrated to improve and promote sea safety for small boat owners, operators and passengers, especially those who use the sea as

their main way of transportation.

“These apply to all boat owners, operators and passengers. If anyone is caught breaching this Act, necessary penalties will be applied accordingly,” Mr. Unas warned.

He further encouraged everyone in the maritime provinces to embrace maritime safety and practise sea safety before anything else when going out to sea especially during this period.

Coffee export drops despite market price hike

BY MAYSON LUIS

PAPUA New Guinea’s coffee export in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025 took a 23 per cent slump despite surge in international market price, according to a report.

The report shows that coffee export in first quarter was 9700 tonnes, posing a significant drop of 23 per cent compared to the same export period in previous years.

While the surge in coffee price is deemed an advantage to the local coffee growers in rural PNG, the production decline overtime (yearon-year) tells a different story as the farmers continue to suffer - a loss to the economy.

The Westpac Economic Outlook (for November) notes, “Despite this global rally, PNG has yet to benefit.

“(The) coffee exports in first quarter 2025 totalled 9700 tonnes, down 23 per cent year-on-year,” the report reads.

“Reforming agriculture” has been an ongoing discussion, as rural farmers lived on agriculture crops (garden, coffee and cocoa). This implies that the sector is in need of a reform (such as commercialisation) for the beneficial of farmers and the economy.

“Most coffee is grown by smallholders, yet there is significant

potential for commercialisation and industrialisation, particularly given arabica’s premium pricing.

“Policy reforms and investment in infrastructure and human capital are critical for PNG to leverage its natural advantages,” the report reads.

Highlands Smart Farmers Association (HSFA) President, Wilson Thompson, also told the PostCourierrecently that major reforms is needed in the agriculture sector, to possibly lift the production, productivity and export of key agriculture commodities.

“We need drastic reform and

activities right at the ward levels in the farms and gardens.

“There must be more planting and rehabilitation and clearing the gardens that will change the agriculture statistics,” said Mr Thompson.

The Westpac Economic Outlook notes that global markets for both coffee and cocoa have move in separate direction – coffee prices have surged while cocoa remains subdued.

According to Trading Economics, coffee arabica has been doing well than robusta, however, both prices have remained the same in international market with a price per pound (0.45kg) of K17.00 (about $4.1).

Arabica is likely to surge further while robusta to remain the same.

Meanwhile, the National Coffee Bill 2025 is expected to leverage coffee industry in the country.

The bill aims to improve market access, quality control, export management, research, and extension services, positioning PNG to capture greater value from global coffee markets.

The global coffee rally is a result of 50 per cent tariff imposed on Brazil (largest producer and exporter of coffee), thus cutting down its coffee export.

Goodman Fielder PNG rewards five students at Hahela

BY NICOLLETTE HIRIATS

GOODMAN Fielder PNG will sponsor the top five students of Hahela Primary School in Buka, through its Skel Rice School Program, next year.

With support from school headmaster John Matiha, GFI sponsored K3000 to help five students to pay Grade Nine tuition fees in 2026 academic year.

The dux of the year also received K500 as the Skel school dux award recipient in Hahela Primary School. The top five students, ranked from

5th to 1st based on internal and external exam marks, are: 5th: Sahin Djamilla, 4th: Samo Joshane; 3rd: Edenara Jarmalh; 2nd: Leilani Tukana and 1st (Dux): Chaves Junior Kora.

Junior Kora scored the highest in the school and region, with a perfect 50/50 in maths in the national exam.

NGI Regional Manager Brandon Basse said this is not a one-off event.

The Skel Rice promotion will continue in 2026 and expand to other schools in Bougainville and the rest of the New Guinea Islands Region.

Hahela Primary is the first school

in the region to benefit.

He said, GFI plans to partner with more schools in supporting students.

This is the company’s first initiative in the NGI Region and shows its ongoing commitment.

Mr Matiha thanked Goodman Fielders and PNG Vodafone for their generous support of the students.

He said he could not thank them enough, adding that the assistance will greatly benefit the students in their current academic year and inspire upcoming students to work hard in the following school year.

Mr. Unas points out that NMSA Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre (MRCC) is on standby 24/7 to assist in times of distress but also urging the boat operators to always remember that the success of the team’s response depends on complying to the basic safety requirements. He added that it is absolutely crucial to save their lives and their loved ones in case of emergency situation at sea.

NMSA urge the public if they encounter any emergency to contact MRCC on toll-free number 7351 7017 or email address mrcc@nmsa.gov. pg or PNGMRCC@nmsa.gov.pg

New Ireland Savings and Loan Society committed to reaching remote areas

THE New Ireland Savings and Loan Society (NISLS) has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to reaching remote communities, announcing plans to open a new agency in Danu village, West Coast Madak.

New Ireland Savings and Loan Society CEO, John Maradangoi made the announcement recently during the opening of the new WaSH facility and community hall at the West Coast Development Foundation Centre (WCDFC).

He said that the Danu agency is part of the society’s ongoing strategy to expand financial access across the province.

“New Ireland Savings and Loan Society was established in 1995. The society is 30 years old now, and in these 30 years we have grown to 10 branches and agencies,” Maradangoi told the audience.

He highlighted NISLS’ presence across New Ireland, its main office in Kavieng, sub-branches in Konos, Namatanai and Lihir, and agencies in Mussau, Umbukul, Tigak, Djaul and Manga.

The upcoming Danu agency, he said, is the next step in continuing this outreach and is expected to

open in the first quarter of 2026. Mr Maradangoi said he first learned about the WCDFC initiative in 2020, and assured the founder that NISLS would partner with the centre to bring services closer to the people.

To formalise that commitment, he presented K2000 towards the construction of the agency office within the WCDFC area.

“When we talk development in rural areas, we often expect the government to do everything. But no, development happens when we work together in partnership,” he said.

He also commended the National Fisheries Authority for conducting training programs at the centre, adding that NISLS is prepared to support local fishermen by providing financial services that can help strengthen their livelihoods.

“We New Ireland Savings and Loan will support them financially as well,” he said.

For West Coast communities, the planned agency is a continuation of NISLS’ broader mission ensuring that even the most remote parts of New Ireland are not left out.

A family travelling from Muliama, in Namatanai, to Anir Island, a two-hour boat ride outside the mainland of Namatanai, New Ireland province. PICTURE: GREGORY WESLY

New Ireland Savings and Loan Society team leader marketing officer Janet Ngur Jee (right) presenting the K2000 contribution to WCDFC chief executive officer Jonathan Mesulam. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

HSFA president, Wilson Thompson

STARS

As an Aries and a fire sign, you enjoy change and the challenges it brings. But also, because your ruling planet Mars moves into a new sign and into a different portion of your chart, every six weeks, you’ll adapt swiftly to its recent shift to accent jointly held financial or business matters.

LEO JUL 22 - AUG 22

Obviously, you can’t plan ahead for the unexpected. But you can take into account the likelihood of surprise twists and turns, so organise things in such a way that you can easily rethink things. This may be more complicated in the short term but, over the coming weeks, will make life far easier.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 - DEC 20

You’re brilliant at dealing with sudden, if intriguing ideas and offers. Despite that, even you

and

View this as if it were an

but

which is still unfolding. Any decisions can, and should,

GIANT CROSSWORD

Being told there’s disappointment in your stars may not seem promising. But you already sensed there was something amiss in one particular situation, so this discovery isn’t as much a surprise as it is a confirmation of what you suspected. Now that you know what’s what, you can consider your next step.

VIRGO AUG 23 - SEP 22

While every sign is influenced by the confusion typical of Mercury’s retrograde cycle, because it’s your ruling planet, you tend to take any issues or problems more seriously than others. Now, however, what seem disruptive events are worth exploring. They may, in fact, be thrilling ideas or offers, but in disguise.

CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 19

Although you probably sense change is in the air, what it is or how is unclear. That’s no surprise. On the 20th, your ruler Saturn returns to your sign for the first time in nearly thirty years. While you’ve hints of what’s ending, you’re unlikely to discover what’s coming until next week.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUNE 20

Achieving an agreement or making arrangements everybody is happy with can be challenging at the best of times. But with your ruler Mercury retrograde, you’ve been juggling the unexpected twists so typical of this cycle. Disruptive as these are, in this particular case they’re not only welcome, they’re exactly what’s needed.

LIBRA SEP 23- OCT 22

As December began, your ruler Venus moved into the most inquisitive portion of your chart, triggering a cycle of questioning and exploration. While you’ve already delved into several of these matters, many will be a surprise and some so unexpected, you’ve no idea what to think. Take it slowly. There’s no rush.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 17

The opposition or setbacks you’ve been facing have been frustrating but, as you’re about to discover, have also been informative. In fact, the current powerful and positive links between both Mercury and the Sun to your ruler Uranus mean you’ll finally be able to take full advantage of those valuable insights.

CANCER JUN 21 - JUL 21

Planning ahead may be a virtue and be reassuring. But during periods of transition, such as this is, you’re encouraged to regard even crucial plans as a bit of an experiment. This ensures you both keep the actual arrangements you make flexible but, even more continue to explore every option that comes your way.

SCORPIO OCT 23 - NOV 21

On 22 October Mars moved into the relationship-minded Libra, triggering a cycle of review, discussion and growth with those closest, personally and out in the world. You’ve been discussing potential changes and made a few. Now that Mars has shifted into Scorpio, you’ll focus on changes of a more personal nature.

PISCES FEB 18 - MAR 19

During the past six weeks or so, while Mars has been accenting practical, business or financial matters, you’ve had to concentrate on the issues to hand. True, you’ve accomplished a great deal. Still, you’ll be delighted to learn that Mars’s move into a new position shifts the focus to broadening your horizons.

PUZZLE #0195

CROSSWORD: 131582

SOLUTION NO. 131581

ACROSS: 2 Embe,6 Oval,9 Capri,10 Lucre,11 Until,12 Area,14 Romps,16 Certain,17 Abattoir,19 Rat,20 Moths,23 Pester,26 Sonata

27 Steal,28 Bid,29 Forebear,32 General,34 Rinse,35 Iron,36 Texas,37 Other,38 Tomes,39 Lens,40 Dozen

DOWN: 11 Jacob,2 Erupt,3 Minstrel,4 Elicit,5 Ruler,6 Oration,7 Vera,8 Lean,13 Eight,14 Rasps,15 Manse,18 Oar,20 Moderate

21 Taken,22 Sabre,24 Ether,25 Talents,26 Sir,28 Bolero,29 Fated,30 Bison,31 Askew,32 Girl,33 Noon

SUDOKU MINI

Breakout year has Willison charging

Into 2026 with lofty expectations

RUGBY LEAGUE: A slightly nervous Xavier Willison walked into preseason on November 1, 2024 unsure what to expect.

The emerging Broncos forward had heard the stories of gut-busting Michael Maguire training sessions and had a sense of trepidation about what was to come.

One year on, Willison knows exactly what to expect from his second pre-season under Maguire. But he also knows the rewards that can follow in the new year.

Having capped a breakout 2025 with an NRL premiership and a Test debut during New Zealand’s victorious Pacific Championships campaign, the 23-year-old is aiming high for 2026. Willison is desperate to help Brisbane defend their title before playing a key role in the Kiwis’ quest to hoist the Rugby League World Cup.

They are lofty goals and it all starts with a gruelling summer training block. “I know what’s going to come this time,” Willison said.

“I’ve just got to put my best foot forward and do everything I can during pre-season. I have to cherish it, everyone might hate pre-season but you never know how many pre-seasons you’re going to get. “It was special to get the win with the Kiwis. I’m focused on doing my job next year for the Broncos and then hopefully I get picked in the squad for the World Cup.”

TENDER

Willison made his NRL debut in 2021 but didn’t become a regular first-grader until 2024, where he played 19 games in the top flight.

The forward took his game to the next level last season, featuring in 21 matches and playing a key role in Brisbane’s charge to the title.

Willison ran for 111 metres a game and made 39 tackle busts, and even a broken arm suffered in Round 22 couldn’t stop him from getting back on the field in time for the preliminary final.

After learning the ropes from Payne Haas and Pat Carrigan, the youngster has also developed into a mentor for an emerging crop of talented Broncos.

Brisbane coach Michael Maguire has long been a supporter of Willison and challenged the forward to continue raising the bar in 2026 and beyond.

“I was a big fan of X prior to taking on the coaching role,” Maguire told NRL.com. “I’ve always seen in X he wants to improve not only on the field but off the field. He’s developing as a leader and continually working in that space and he got the rewards off the back of the work he’s done.

“Now he needs to have the commitment to keep doing what he’s doing. He’s at the start of his career, the great Kiwis players have been doing it consistently for years.

“Xavier’s got the ability to put himself in that space, now he’s got

to build the consistency to keep performing at the highest level.”

While Willison’s immediate focus is on helping the Broncos defend their NRL title, he has one eye on the 2026 World Cup at the end of the season.

The prop made his Test debut in New Zealand’s dominant win over Tonga, before adding a second cap in the Pacific Cup final win over Samoa.

Willison is a member of the next generation of Kiwis forwards and combined with Erin Clark and

Naufahu Whyte to bring the impact off the bench.

The trio is set to play an even bigger role at next year’s World Cup as New Zealand look to hoist the trophy for the first time since 2008.

Willison spent his time in camp learning from Kiwis veterans James Fisher-Harris, Moses Leota and Joe Tapine, and is eager to build on their legacy in the future.

“Growing up in New Zealand you work your whole life to get to this point,” Willison said. “Playing for the Kiwis is the pinnacle of New

Zealand rugby league. “It was a bit daunting being in this squad at the start. I knew Fish from Mori [All Stars] and Moses was my roommate. They’re down-to-earth people, they helped whenever I needed it and they’re good humans.

“Then Taps is a different beast. I haven’t seen a middle like him so it’s good to play with him. I’ve seen what these guys have done over the last few years, it’s even better to see what they do on and off the field and learn off them directly.”

Rising Brisbane Broncos ‘bull’ Xavier Willison set to make an impression in 2026

Eels make long-term call in No.1 jersey

RUGBY LEAGUE: Parramatta have locked in Isaiah Iongi as their longterm fullback, making him the first player at the club signed through until the start of next decade.

Already contracted until 2027, Iongi on Wednesday confirmed a new three-year extension that will keep him at the Eels until the end of 2030.

The move ensures he will be a key fixture of Jason Ryles’ tenure at the club, after Parramatta released Clint Gutherson last summer to make way for Iongi at No.1.

The 22-year-old was then Parramatta’s rookie of the year with eight tries in 2025, prompting the latest extension.

“This past year has been surreal, I came to Parramatta for an opportunity and now it’s become home,” Iongi said.

“I’ve built a great connection with Jason Ryles, the coaching staff, my teammates, and everyone at the club, and I’m grateful for the faith they’ve shown in me.

“We’ve grown so much as a team over the past year, and I can’t wait to keep building our future together at this club.”

Iongi’s new deal makes him the longest-signed player on the Eels’ roster, taking him past Mitch Moses and Tallyn da Silva, who are signed until 2029.

After debuting at Penrith, Iongi was one of the first signings the Eels made in 2024 after announcing

Ryles would take charge of the club last season.

He grew in confidence as the year went on, busting more than four tackles per game and laying on 12 tries before debuting for Tonga in the Pacific Cup.

“Isaiah has developed into an important member of the team and has settled into the club and our environment very well since he arrived last year,” Eels football boss

Mark O’Neill said.

“With his positive mindset, strong work ethic and desire to improve, we see him as a long-term leader at the Eels.

“Jason, the coaches and the rest of the club are incredibly excited to see him continue to evolve over the coming years.”

Elsewhere, Melbourne have lured second-rower Oryn Keeley away from the Dolphins, signing him on a two-year deal for 2027 and 2028.

Keeley could have replaced Eliesa Katoa in 2026, following his surgery for bleeding on the brain after three head knocks with Tonga, but the Storm have confirmed he will only arrive for 2027.

“Oryn is a talented young player who has already made a strong impression at first-grade level, demonstrating both skill and hard work,” football boss Frank Ponissi said.

“We’re excited to welcome Oryn and his family to Melbourne for the 2027 season.”

‘They know me, I know them’: Afridi

to bring the Heat

CRICKET: MITCHELL Starc can take some of the credit as Shaheen Afridi arrives in Australia among a starstudded Pakistan contingent to lead the Brisbane Heat’s depleted attack.

The towering left-armer is already a hardened three-format international at just 25, and was taken with the first pick by the Heat in June’s Big Bash League draft.

A season-ending injury to Spencer Johnson and Michael Neser’s Test duties mean Johan Botha’s side will be leaning heavily on the man who recently took over as Pakistan’s ODI captain.

“They’re experienced bowlers for this team and I hope I play my role, that’s why I’m here,” Afridi said on Wednesday.

“In all three (disciplines) ... fielding, and if I need, chipping in batting as well, I’ll give my best.

“It’s not a small league and wellrenowned as the best league and ... the best cricket with the best players.”

Cummins return sets Aussies up for fresh Ashes record

CRICKET: PAT Cummins is officially back in Australia’s Test squad, with his return from back pain setting the hosts up for a shot at the quickest retention of the Ashes in more than a century.

Selectors on Wednesday made Cummins the one new addition to Australia’s squad for next week’s third Test, allowing them to keep all options open for Adelaide. Cummins’ back has progressed to the point where he is certain to play and captain the side barring any late mishaps, while Nathan Lyon will also return after his shock Gabba omission.

It was only two years ago in the 2023 Ashes that Australia squandered a 2-0 lead, with a washout and losses at Headingley and The Oval leaving the series drawn.But this series is trending in the complete opposite direction with Cummins’ return. Where Australia lost Lyon to a calf injury during the second Test at Lord’s in 2023, they will instead welcome he and Cummins back for the second half of this series. England’s poor batting, combined with Australia’s level of bowling,

has allowed the hosts to win the first two Tests in a combined six days.

A win before the end of day four in Adelaide next week would ensure the urn is secured within 10 days, eclipsing Australia’s 11-day efforts in 2001 and 2002-03.

Not since the 1921 Ashes has an Ashes series been decided quicker, with Australia going 3-0 up inside eight days that year with Tests limited to three days each.

“The way that we’ve started the series has been good but still, lots of ways to improve,” Australia’s wicketkeeper Alex Carey said.

“But to come into Adelaide 2-0 is a good position to be in, the series is definitely not over and we understand that.

“We know that England are a very good cricket team.

“We also understand we’re in a position like this two years ago over in England, and we weren’t able to win that series, we were good enough to retain the Ashes.

“So for us, we’re really excited for the opportunity we’ve got but also understand we’ve got to continue to play good cricket.”Cummins will

enter next Wednesday in Adelaide without a match under his belt since first noticing discomfort in his back during Australia’s 3-0 series sweep of West Indies in July.

But he was able to get through a full load of Test match bowling in the nets last week in Brisbane, after narrowly missing out on a Gabba return.“It looks like he’s moving really well,” Carey said.

“He’s been around the group the whole time with lots of energy.

“But it’s been great to see the guys that haven’t played as much Test cricket come in and do a fantastic job.”Cummins and Lyon’s returns mean Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser are likely to miss.

The pair have every chance of playing in Melbourne or Sydney, given tight turnarounds and Josh Hazlewood being ruled out of the series this week.

Jhye Richardson could also come into the frame, after taking 4-35 for Australia A against the England Lions last week. He will train alongside the Test squad, as he completes his recovery from shoulder surgery earlier this year.

The other question mark for Adelaide surrounds Usman Khawaja, who has now overcome back spasms in a bid to reclaim his spot in the side.Travis Head made scores of 33 and 22 opening alongside Jake Weatherald in Brisbane, following the South Australian’s heroic fourth-innings century in the first Test.

Australia coach Andrew McDonald has floated the option of Khawaja batting in the middle order, if he is brought back into the XI at all.

AUSTRALIA’S SQUAD FOR THIRD ASHES TEST:

Pat Cummins (capt), Steve Smith, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster

New deal keeps Bulldogs behemoth out of Bears’ clutches

RUGBY LEAGUE: Canterbury have kept Viliame Kikau out of the Perth Bears’ clutches by signing the second-rower to a new two-year deal. Kikau had been one of the highestquality forwards on the market for 2027, when the Bears enter the competition, and had been free to negotiate with rivals since November. But the new deal will keep the dual

premiership winner at the Bulldogs until at least the end of 2028, by which time he will be 33.

Kikau has become prized by coach Cameron Ciraldo for his leadership qualities, filling in as captain when Stephen Crichton was unavailable in 2025.

He notably refused to have scans on a facial injury in September to remain available for the Bulldogs’ finals campaign, which ended with

a semi-final loss to his former club Penrith.

“I’m very happy to be staying at the Bulldogs,” Kikau said.

“I love being part of what we’re building here. We’ve made great progress over the past couple of years, but we want to achieve more - I want to help this club win its next premiership.”

Kikau has played 54 games for the Bulldogs since arriving for an

injury-plagued first season in 2023 and was the club’s player of the year the following season.

He has become known for his high-quality ball-running and effort areas, especially charge-downs, across 177 NRL games.

Kikau’s deal looms as yet another blow at the recruitment table for the Bears, who are yet to land a marquee on-field signing for their 2027 debut.

Scott Sorensen, Siua Wong, Keaon

Afridi will line up against the Melbourne Renegades in his BBL debut on Monday against the man he replaced as Pakistan’s white-ball skipper, Mohammad Rizwan.

Babar Azam (Sydney Sixers), Hasan Ali (Adelaide Strikers), Haris Rauf (Melbourne Stars) and Shadab Khan (Sydney Thunder) will also feature in the tournament, which begins on Sunday.

“First game against Rizzy ... a world-quality player, and Babar’s here as well,” Afridi said.

“They know me, I know them. Hopefully we play some good cricket here.

“And we’re really hopeful we get the Pakistani support, and the Asian community as a whole.”

Afridi has taken 126 wickets and gone for less than eight runs an over in 96 T20 internationals, while his Test average (27) and strike rate (52) are world-class.

Starc’s 414th Test wicket at the Gabba last week saw him overtake Afridi’s compatriot Wasim Akram as the most lethal left-armer in Test history.

“The greats are always great,” Afridi said of Akram.

But Afridi says exposure to Starc, 10 years his senior, on his first international tour as a 16-year-old played a huge part in his own story.

Afridi, whose older brother Riaz had already played Test cricket for Pakistan, was plucked from the country’s popular tape-ball circuit for a development tour of Australia, and played Test cricket himself barely three years later.

“He’s a legend and last time when we chatted I told him I watched his 2015 (World Cup) bowling spell and that’s why I bowled fuller to the batsman,” Afridi said of Starc.

“I can say he’s a role model for any youngster ... he’s been the best for Australia for many years.”

Australian Associated Press

Koloamatangi and Angus Crichton are among other top-line forwards without deals beyond 2026. Kikau’s former Bulldogs teammate Toby Sexton will join the Bears for their first season after a one-year stint in the Super League.

The Bulldogs have welcomed former Newcastle prop Leo Thompson to the club for 2027 as they look to improve on this season’s third-placed finish.

Isaiah Iongi has signed a new deal and will wear blue and gold until at least the end of 2030. PHOTO: JOEL CARRETT/AAP PHOTOS

POM prepares for Gerehu Firelight 7s POM prepares for Gerehu 7s

teams promoting

RUGBY UNION

BY FIDELIS WASARI

EXCITEMENT is building in the nation’s capital as the captains of the 24 open men’s, 24 U20 men’s, and women’s teams gathered today in Port Moresby for team photo shoots and a crucial briefing.

This marks the official prelude to

the third leg of the Larkin Ad Focus Entertainment Gerehu Firelight 7s tournament.

The highly anticipated tournament will feature rugby union powerhouses known for their outside centres, including the Kimbe Pirates, PC Ravens, Matupit Diggers, and Bialla Suaras.

The action is set to kick off this

LB Logistics get naming rights for Super 5 comp

LB Logistics have come on board to sponsor the Super 5 competition that has been staged at the Defence Bowling Club for the last two months.

LB Logistics yesterday handed over K3000 to assist in running the competition, that includes eight teams.

All teams paid K500 to register, said Games Director John Pokatou.

“The last round will be played

tomorrow (today) at the Bisini Lawn Bowling Club,” added Pokatou.

He further confirmed the competiton is now called the LB Logistics Super 5.

On hand to receive the donation (pictured below) from Lucy of LB Logistics was Vela Vele from the Defence Bowing Club, while Secretary Bowls PNG Kila Kalana, Senior Vice President Defence Bowling Club Orea Boino and Freddie Koesen from the Bisini Lawn Bowling Club look on.

Friday, ending on Sunday, at Bava Park, widely recognised as the home of Rugby Union in Port Moresby.

Friday: The U20 men’s division will open the tournament.

Saturday & Sunday: The women’s and open men’s divisions will take the field. A total of 48 teams, 24 open men’s and 24 U20 men’s, are confirmed to participate

in the competition, with all games scheduled to be played at Bava Park.

Tournament organiser, Rawali Bokuik, extended his gratitude to the key sponsor, Larkin Ad Focus, for their continued commitment.

“It’s exciting that we have them on board, and thank you for believing in our tournament,” Bokuik said.

“We are hopeful to make them happy and become more involved next year as they are following it.”

Despite the positive backing, the tournament faced a challenge due to sponsorship pull-outs. As a result, the Cup winner’s prize money has been reduced to K25,000.00. However, the prize money for all other placings will remain unchanged.

Ume battles through multiple cuts in gritty lightweight clash

BOXING

IN the 63.5 kg lightweight division, Papua New Guinea’s John Ume delivered a courageous performance against Israel’s Ahmad Shtiwi, despite a series of cuts that heavily influenced the contest.

Both fighters began cautiously, but Ume—still managing a cut from his previous bout—suffered an early head clash that reopened the wound and forced him onto the defensive.

While the judges favored Shtiwi in the opening round, Ume showed determination by staying composed under pressure. The second round saw Ume shift gears, adopting a more assertive approach even after sustaining a new cut under the eye. He created better openings, pressed the action, and showed clear intent to take control, but the round narrowly slipped away on the cards, 4–1 for the Israeli.

In the final round, Ume pushed forward with heart, trying everything he could despite the accumulation of cuts. His effort and resilience were unmistakable, even against the more experienced Shtiwi. The judges ultimately awarded the round to the Israeli, who advanced to the next stage. Though the result didn’t go his way, Ume’s grit and willingness to fight through adversity were the true highlights of the bout.

LAWN BOWLS

Men’s

the tournament yesterday.

Papua New Guinea’s John Ume (right) in action against Israel’s Ahmad Shtiwi at the World Championships.

Player profile

Compiled by Simon Keslep

Name: Alex Rolkerea

Age: 27 years old

Weight: 62 kg

Height: 165 cm

Place of Origin: West Sepik (Vanimo) and East New Britain (Pomio)

Number of siblings in the family: Seven (Two boys, five girls)

Current place of residence: Works Quarters, Popondetta town

Year started playing touch football: 2012

Local association:

Ijivitari Touch Association

Role model in touch football-Albert Goroka

What have you gained fromplaying touch football:

“I learnt a lot of positive things since playing touch footy as the sport gave me the first opportunity to attend a representative training trial back in 2019.”

“I did not make it through (selection for PNG touch team) but I returned back and continued playing because my aim is to continue giving my best until I achieve what I am aiming for.”

Popondetta in Lae to make a statement

TOUCH FOOTBALL

ORO, ORO!

Popondetta Touch Association represented by their respective division teams are not just in Lae to make up the numbers.

Traveling by boat from Northern province and into the coastal waters of Morobe province, the 6 to 7 hours of travel gives players another added motivation to put their body on the line during the championship and repay the debts of their hard work and commitments all for the love of touch footy.

Guided by one of their touch footy icon, Farapo Makura, they will not be taking any teams lightly.

It’s a nation building partnership: Ewen McDonald

FROM BACK PAGE

MARAPE further reminded the investors that the PNG Chiefs belong to the eight million people of Papua New Guinea

“That’s one million Papua New Guinean’s at K100 each.

“The PNG Chiefs are a unity strategy — one nation, one people, one team.”

His remarks came as Australia confirmed their historic K1.6 billion (A$600 million) commitment.

Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald addressing the same forum, made the announcement that the Chiefs are guaranteed for 2028.

“Australia and Papua New Guinea have taken historic steps as alliance partners.

“Our relationship continues to grow from strength to strength.”

McDonald said the project is more than about sport, it is a nation-building partnership that will reshape pathways for young people across PNG and the Pacific.

NRL Chairman Peter V’landys described PNG as the most passionate rugby league nation on earth.

“You know, it’s a religion over there,” he said.

“The more of a religion it becomes, the bigger it will be. This will be the single most significant development in rugby league’s history.”

He recalled the day the project first began.

“Prime Minister Marape rang me during a Commission meeting. I thought someone was having a lend. But the more I thought about it, the more sense it made.”

Mr V’landys said the greatest impact would come off the field… through education.

“If we take players into schools, childen will turn up.

“Education changes everything and that will change PNG forever,” he said.

Marape agreed, saying the PNG Chiefs was designed from the start as a “national transformation program.”

“This team will help change behaviour, change communities and change our nation,” he said.

The Government is already planning:

A new 20–25,000-seat stadium, A future 40,000-seat national stadium,

“I am happy to take part in this championship again as an athlete and PNG rep.”

“Representing my province (Oro) and bringing the team to the championship.”

“We are vying to defend the Mixed Open title and runners-up for the championship.”

“We want to make sure we play again in the finals and win the titles,” said Makura.

His influence on the young touch footy players back in Popondetta has seen most of the youngsters now claiming their spot in the Open men’s team. Being the only most capped player in terms of touch footy representative both at the national championship and for

PNG, Makura will be banking on other notable key players in the team to help him.

Players like Joseph Uduru, Lenon Aruva, youngsters like Steven Yaleva, Ross and Timmy will be the other notable go to option to guide the team. “I believe this championship will be another competitive one with teams from Lae, Port Moresby and other centres. Every year, each association change their style of play so our goal is raise the standard for our young players.”

“We also want to make sure that our players prove themselves to be selected into PNG touch footy teams.”

“I am still happy to continue playing because age is just a number,

physically I am still strong and my game is still ok,” said Makura. He said they are only bringing along the Open men’s and Mixed Open divisions including the Under 18 boys.

“It took us two months to prepare given players were training with their respective clubs prior to our association’s grand finals back in early last month…so it took us like two months of preparation. We hope to give our best performance and we thank our association patron and provincial administrator Trevor Magei for always standing with us in driving sports and also sponsoring our travel, thank you to our local MP Richard Masere for supporting as well,” said Makura.

Safe, modern, livable urban settings around match venues, Tourism and hospitality expansion,

And a regional rugby league hub linking Fiji, Samoa and the Cook Islands.

Marape dismissed criticism that funds could be used elsewhere, saying that the money wasn’t there before.

“It does not compromise any of our other investments.

The Chiefs will contribute 1 percent to GDP from 2028… that is the data.”

McDonald further chimed in to describe the Chiefs as a symbol of a maturing alliance.

“This is a historic step. PNG will not walk this journey alone,” he said.

BY SIMON KESLEP IN LAE

Alex Rolkerea powers up ruck against Kainantu in the open men’s division match. PICTURE: SIMON KESLEP

Popondetta Touch Association open men’s team upon arrival by boat at Lae went straight into their opening match of the championships.

High intensity action: National Championships, a show pleaser at SCRUM Oval

TOUCH FOOTBALL

BY SIMON KESLEP IN LAE

DAY one of competition for the National Touch championship saw high intensity footy on show.

One of the exciting matches yesterday at the Scrum oval was in the open men's division between Lae Corporate Touch and Popondetta Touch. The Farapo Makura Popondetta led side despite arriving on game day and switching straight into game mode, they delivered a quality footy to draw 8-all against Lae.

It was also a tough and entertaining test for the PNG representatives in the likes of Makura and Joseph Uduru (Popondetta) and Andrew Turlom (Lae) who led a side of upcoming talents. Both teams went head-to-head with sleeky and quick

foot work to wear off each other’s defensive line and scoring tries.

Despite several attempts to score tries, but teams manage to hold off the match in a tight contest right up until the full-time siren.

There were also several forfeits against Sohe Touch and Beli Touch who did not arrive yesterday but expected to set foot in Lae today.

Another drawn match in the open men’s saw Kainantu holding off Ijivitari to a 4-all full time score. In the open women’s, Corporate touch Port Moresby which is dominated by PNG representatives went on a try scoring spree against Madang. They (CTPM) defeated Madang, 9-1 and also had a similar big winning margin with a 9-5 score in the open mix division.

Today will see outstanding matches from yesterday to be played

out before Day 2 draw is rolled out with teams expected to play two matches.

Meanwhile the seniors division also kept spectators on their toes and cheering from all corners of the oval. From former representative players to the familiar big name players of TFPNG fraternity, they all put in their best performance on game day.

Day one of competition also saw each respective associations receiving Lae Biscuit Company products which included the Pawa energy drinks.

Other sponsors who also turn up to support with setting up their products include Warrior Industries with their water tanks, Trukai Rice presenting rice bags and Lae Biscuit Company also providing sample tasting to players and the

Gateway make second appearance

TOUCH FOOTBALL

BY SIMON KESLEP IN LAE

GATEWAY Touch of Eastern Highlands province is making their second appearance in the National Touch championship.

Using touch footy to change the youths' lifestyle and gaining much exposure, coach Philip Unjisi is happy that they are also testing themselves against other tournament favourites.

“I’m really excited to take up the role (head coach).”

“Most of our players are new and they are also excited because they are willing to learn and we share our knowledge of the game with them.”

“Gateway Touch was formed last year, we broke away from Kainantu Corporate Touch and we formed this association and we got together players who had the interest to participate,” said Unjisi.

This year, the association lured together eight clubs to participate in their season proper and elected office bearers to be in charge of their administration.

“We only had two divisions in our competition (Gateway Touch Association) and this includes only men’s and women’s.”

“Kainantu is the founding place for touch footy into the Highlands region and we have a history for that, so a lot of people are interested in joining us.”

“We have some talented players, they have the skills, abilities and they are learning the rules.”

“We only need more exposure and having them taking part in national championship gives them the experience to feel the intensity of touch footy.”

“We want to also lift the game standard of the players,” said Unjisi.

In terms of financial support,

Five-day action gets underway

TOUCH FOOTBALL

BY MARISHA BULUNGOL - DWU

JOURNALISM STUDENT

THE 2025 Touch championship got underway in Lae at the SCRUM oval with eight teams on the ground gearing up for heavy schedule ahead.

The national championship is set for various categories including Men’s Open, Women’s Open, Mixed Open, Senior men’s open, Senior women’s open and Junior categories (U20, U18, U15, U12).

Among these eight teams are two teams from the Eastern Highlands - Owan from Obura Wonenara District and Kainantu Corporate.

Jasmine Tepi who plays centre for the Owan women’s team expressed her gratitude to the Touch Federation for giving them

the opportunity to come and be part of the tournament.

She highlighted that this will be a good opportunity for them to showcase their talents and to show other teams that they can also play.

“Our main purpose to come is to show that we can play representing the Highlands, and to display our talents,” she said.

She added that the tournament will help them in gaining more experience.

“Not many of us can talk, but with this game it will allow us to lead our players to step out of our comfort zone,” she said.

This has not been the first time the team has travelled representing their province, they have been travelling to other provinces since 2017 including Port Moresby, Popondetta and Lae last December.

Unjisi said it was quite tough to secure sponsorships. They managed to levy the players and officials.

“We wrote and sent out sponsorship assistance but business houses did not support.”

“Kainantu Book Makers only supported us with K1000…our aim is to go back and look for more support,” he said.

Touch footy is also playing an integral part in transforming the lifestyle of the players. Unjisi said they emphasised to the players to refrain from drugs and alcohol.

“We are thankful towards the support by some of the parents who also travelled with us to the championship.”

“One of the reasons behind us creating this association is that we want to emphasise to the players that there is life besided engaging in smoking marijuana and alcohol,” he said.

Try time at the SCRUM oval yesterday. PICTURE SIMON KESLEP

Gateway Touch Association open men’s team is making their second appearance in the National Touch Championship. The team consists of newbies who have a big interest in learning more about the sport. PICTURE: SIMON KESLEP

Ijivitari Touch Under 18 girls team(inset) Ijivitari’s Alex Rolkerea rucking the ball.

Corporate Touch Port Moresby open mix team.

Madang touch open mix team.

Owan Touch open men’s player David Oiko sizing up two opponents in a line break.

MARAPE ASKS BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT PNG FRANCHISE

PRIME Minister James Marape wants 1 Million each from Papua New Guinea’s 100 biggest companies to support the endeavours of the PNG Chiefs franchise entering the NRL in 2028. Standing before Pacific and global investors at the PNG Investment Week in Sydney, Marape raised more than just an eye-brow, as he didn’t mince his words when he threw down the challenge.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 46

RUGBY LEAGUE

Prime Minister James Marape calls for business houses to make commitment to the PNG Chiefs