PostCourier_2025.12.12

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PM Marape suggests contributions to sustain PNG Chiefs for NRL

BY MARCIA NEGRI

RUGBY league followers in Papua New Guinea will be asked to help sustain the cost of keeping the Chiefs playing in the National Rugby League (NRL) in Australia come 2028.

Prime Minister James Marape informed a press conference upon his return from the Sydney Investment Conference yesterday, with the plan to involve citizens and the private sector in a big way to provide support to the Australian Government assistance package of AUS$600 million to the PNG Chiefs’ entry into the NRL.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 4

EYES ON THE PRIZE! Prime Minister James Marape gazes at Penrith Panther’s trophy collection hoping one day the Chiefs can achieve similar. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Ideally located along Bava Street at Boroko, Section 39, Lot 23 and has a land area of approximately 1,480 sqm. Property consists of low-set buildings comprises of 6x 3-bedroom units having a total floor area of 422.40 sqm. Property is within close proximity of Boroko Commercial Centre and other services and public amenities with road frontage of Bava Street which connects to Bisini Parade and links to major arterial roads in the

STAGAJAH

Celebrates 10 years of music and milestones

PULSE: SEE PAGES 30-31

Sons keen to continue legacy

Dei and New Ireland by-elecion nominations closed

BY JEFFREY ELAPA

THE sons of the late Member for Dei and the Provincial Member for New Ireland have put their hands up to contest the seats their fathers left vacant when they passed on. They are among 35 candidates contesting the two by-elections of Dei Open and New Ireland Provincial. Jeremiah Pim, the son of the late Steven Pim, who passed away while in office in 2021, is vying for the seat his father vacated upon his passing. He is running under Richard Maru’s People First Party. Former Member for Namatanai Byron Chan, the son of late Sir Julius Chan, is now contesting the New Ireland Provincial Seat left

void after the death of his father. Chan is endorsed by the Peoples Progress Party, a party his father founded and led until his death.

In our recent political history, we had records of the sons of two MP who passed away while in office wining the seats their father occupied and left vacant.

The Porgera Paiela seat in the Enga Province, left vacant by the passing of late Maso Karipe, was won by his son Gidron Karipe, while Libert Kapris, the son of the late Gabriel Kapris won the Maprik Open seat in East Sepik, his father left vacant.

According to update from PNG Electoral Commission, Rhodie Paut-Nawara, a woman leader

in the New Ireland is contesting the New Ireland Provincial Seat, while the Dei Open seat, its all-men business with people like the former Commissioner General of Internal Revenue Commission Sam Koim and other prominent people like Thomas Nori and Nikints Tiptip, both who worked in the media in their earlier part of life.

As of the close of nomination at 4.06pm yesterday, a total of 25 men are contesting the Dei Open seat, while 10 candidates are contesting the New Ireland Provincial Seat.

The Dei Open Seat in the Western Highlands Province was left vacant after the passing of the incumbent, the late Stiven Pim while the New Ireland Provincial Seat was also left

Koim contesting as independent candidate

BY MAL TAIME

FORMER

IRC Commissioner

General Sam Koim has nominated to contest the Dei Open by-election.

Mr Koim is one of the 14 independent candidates who nominated to contest the by-election, including the son of former Dei Member of Parliament, Jeremiah Pim who nominated under Richard Maru People’s First Party political banner.

He was caught by surprise when media representatives entered the provincial election office to witness him pay the nomination fee.

Mr Koim said his resignation as Internal Revenue Commission Commissioner General came into effect on Tuesday and he nominated the following day (Wednesday).

“Over the weekend, I came home and discussed with my people and

tribesmen and we agreed so I paid the nomination fee to contest the byelection,” he said.

“I am an independent man so I will contest the by-election as an independent candidate.”

He said he resigned from his paid job and as things go into the process he would step down as board chairman for the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority and chancellor of the University of Technology because these were only volunteer positions.

“I just nominated to contest the Dei Open by-election, it’s a decision that is not easy and not a necessary decision but it is time for me to move on. So, I tendered my resignation to the Treasurer with the Prime Minister and my resignation came into effect on Tuesday and I nominated and the returning officer accepted my nomination,” Mr Koim

said.

He said the will belongs to the people of Dei Open and if they wanted him to represent them then he was willing to represent them to the best of his ability.

“I resigned from my paid job, while board chairman for Mt Hagen Health Authority and chancellor of the University of Technology is not a paid job and as I go along the way, I will step down,” he said.

Mr Koim said he had done a lot of work, the country has seen it and personally he had to deliver in various responsibilities.

He said in terms of public service he worked since 2009 and it was about 16 years of working.

“I do feel that there is seriousness to improve the quality of the laws that we are making, the quality of the laws determine the journey and country’s name,” he said.

vacant after the passing of one of the founding fathers of the nation, the late Sir Julius Chan.

Ms Vagi said after the close of nominations, the next step is the order of draws or candidate draw that will take place today.

She said since the nomination opened last Thursday, no incident has been reported and therefore called on all candidates and supporters to respect each other and complete the election process as the two by-elections takes place during the Christmas and New Year periods. She said democracy is having respect for one another, respecting rights of individuals and freely engaging in the decisionmaking process based on one’s own

Writs Issued/ Nominations

(Thursday 4 December, 2025)

Nominations close (Thursday 11 December, 2025)

Polling Starts (Saturday 17 January 2026)

Polling Ends (Friday 30 January 2026)

Counting Starts (Saturday 31 January, 2026)

Return of Writs (On/Before 20 February, 2026)

Nukundj returns to vie for seat

FORMER MP for Dei, Westly Nukundj nominated yesterday to contest the by-election.

Nukundj lost the seat to the late Steven Pim in the 2022 national election, but the seat became vacant when the member passed on in September 2023.

“Dei Open Electorate is known by other electorates including Jiwaka Province people as the back page district.

“Since I was elected in 2012, we concentrated our efforts on road, education and health infrastructures and Rural Electrification. Dei District can now be accessed by road transport except for Kurunga.

"We continued from 2017 to 2022. The physical stages of those infrastructures now speak for itself,” he said soon after his nomination.

Mr Nukundj said from 2022 to 2027, the district completed the rural electrification and started the rural housing project where everyone would live under a permanent

shelter. He said these programs would become his priorities.

“It's really up to the people of Dei to decide their future by electing a right leader to deliver goods and services. My motto is simple: “Vote me to serve you better” or Votim mi long kirapim gutpla sundaun blong yu yet,” he said.

Mr Nukundj’s nomination brings to six the total number of people that have nominated already to contest in the Dei by-election.

It’s really up to the people It’s up to the of Dei to decide their future by electing a right future a leader to deliver goods leader to deliver and services services.

Retired Internal Revenue Commission Commissioner General Sam Koim nominated at the provincial electoral office in Mt Hagen to contest the Dei Council by-election. PICTURE: MAL TAIME

Mr Nukunji shaking hands with Philip Telape, Election Manager Western Highlands, flanked by Ben Mark, ARO for Kotna Tiki (right) and Peter Kot, Aro for Kinjibi Mala and Westly Tiane, ARO for Gumanch on the left in Mt Hagen yesterday.

WESTLY NUKUNDJ

-PENGEE: thedrum@spp.com.pg

PRIVILEGE COMES RESPONSIBILITY

Even before a great and selfless man fully exited, Facebook antagonists are already plying their humourless antics, putting up their “appointment” of a new IRC Commissioner-General well ahead of the due and legitimate processes. This is disrespectful to the point of despicable, for all concerned, to say the least. While social media affords greater privilege to everyone with a smart phone, it is incumbent upon all of us to exercise it with restraint, respect and responsibility.

LAUGHTER IS GOOD MEDICINE

Back in 99’ when Divine Word went from institute to university, a senior student colleague solemnly told our group one evening, “I am HIV positive”. We were all shell shocked, and the seconds dragged into uncomfortable minutes.

Then he looked up, solemnly again, and said, “Guys what were you thinking? My hair is vanishing...Hair Is Vanishing (HIV)!” he repeated for emphasis. We didn’t know weather to laugh or cry then, but fast forward to today and the HIV-Aids situation is real and getting out of hand. Statistics point at a serious resurgence, with NCD taking the lead. With the festivities at hand, to be greeted with the usual over exuberance and inebriation, a word of caution to all of us to take heed, enjoy responsibly, and with our loved ones, preferably.

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SONE

A trend is well and truly settling into PNG politics for sons of late MPs to take the seat left vacant by their fathers passing. So far there are three young MPs sitting right now in this parliament and carrying on the work left off prematurely by their late dads. Another two sons have already raised their hands- one for Dei Open in Jiwaka Province and the other for the New Ireland Provincial Seat, left vacant after the passing of one of PNG’s founder fathers and political great- late Sir Julius Chan. If the emerging trend is anything to go by, popular votes carrying over from their father’s political legacies might carry them over the respective finishing lines, as well, and bring the tally up to five!

SPECIAL RANU

A Taxi driver new to Pom City, while dropping off a couple at Hanuabada Market, noticed that “water” was selling for K5 and K10. He mentioned to the couple that up in the Highlands, water was cheap and a ‘badol is worth a washer’ or K1. The tamana responded: ‘eh vava, this is special water’, and that he should ask his fellow maus gras wantok taxi drivers about the wonders of this special water.

The couple hurried off as the driver got out of the vehicle and headed towards the healer selling the juice. The poor driver was later arrested by police for erratic driving as a result of tasting HB’s famous 100 percent ‘paina’, a drink so powerful that even expatriates enjoy it in minute shots.

A HOODY SMACK

A hardworking man arrived home with a bag of goodies, and the wife, on seeing the North Pole bag looking heavy, called him over, and gave him a whack on his hand. “Where’s my hoodie?” Mama Mia demanded. Papa was shocked, as in their 30 years of a happy marriage, Mama had never smacked Papa, except a loving peck on his cheeks every day. Papa imagined that maybe the long wait since September had aroused Mama Mia’s moody!

MASALAI STROLL

A youthful lensman was dragged around the park during the Governor’s annual Unity walkabout in Amazing Port Moresby. A day later, the young fella awoke with aches and pains from the stroll with Parkop. He told a mate at work: “meri masalai mas paitim mi lon nait.” The lensman is still checking his gigabyte memory card for the picture of the meri masalai.

“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.”

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

Cyber crackdown to shield PNG children

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

Social media giants ordered to comply with Papua New Guinea safety laws

By MIRIAM ZARRIGA in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

PAPUA New Guinean’s children are the target of the country’s sweeping digital reforms, as the Government moves to hold global social media platforms accountable and tighten laws aimed at protecting minors from online harm.

As PNG deepens its digital footprint, the Government’s message is clear- “protect the children or risk being shut out of the country”.

The announcement came as PNG signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Queensland Government yesterday, establishing a partnership with the Queensland University of Technology to bolster training in digital governance, cybersecurity and service transformation.

Speaking after the signing, Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology Peter Tsiamalili Jr said the shift was long overdue, with children and teenagers increasingly targeted online.

“We are seeing young people fall victim to impersonation, predatory contact and coordinated scams,” Minister Tsiamalili

Jr said.

“If global platforms want to operate here, they must protect our people especially our children.”

Under the National Social Media Policy endorsed in August, platforms like Meta must now legally register in PNG, comply with a new Age-Appropriate Classification Framework, and face possible age restrictions on high-risk platforms used by minors.

Minister Tsiamalili Jr confirmed he will meet Meta representatives this afternoon to push compliance.

“This is the new chapter,” he said. “Digital platforms operating in PNG must be accountable within PNG.”

The Minister said scamming remains the nation’s most frequently reported digital threat, with fraudulent SMS campaigns and fake government accounts targeting vulnerable users including schoolchildren.

“From my position as Police Minister also, I can confirm the escalation of cyberenabled crimes,” he said.

“Our people are being attacked through their phones, their social media, and their personal data. Children are among the most

vulnerable.”

PNG’s cybersecurity standing has sharply improved, rising from Tier 5 to Tier 3 in the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index the biggest improvement in the Pacific.

“This is the result of the strong foundations we have built,” Minister Tsiamalili Jr said.

“We have established the National Cyber Security Centre, and we are rolling out emergency response capabilities across critical sectors.

“Our aim is to reach Tier 2.”

All reforms point toward SevisPass, the country’s sovereign digital ID system.

“This is about building a safer digital society for every Papua New Guinean,” Minister Tsiamalili Jr said.

“SevisPass will ensure that the systems we build today are secured, protected and sustained for our children tomorrow.”

He stressed that the goal is not only connectivity but responsibility.

“We must shield our children from digital harm,” he said.

“We must ensure that as they go online to learn and communicate, they are protected.”

Membership fees called to keep PNG Chiefs in NRL

FROM PAGE ONE

MARAPE announced that there will be a call-out for a membership fee of K100 per person and, for corporate companies, a minimum of K1 million.

“So, I’ll be launching this support team and I will get involved with the support for our teams. Those who want to be supporters of our Chiefs, K100 per person. It’s already up to K100 to support our team.

“If you are part of the team support, you will have access to the gate at discounted price and we’ll also look at other incentives.

“Like travelling out to watch the game, you will be given special consideration. Keep a look.

“It’s not the time to even say this, but the Australian Government is looking at special travel arrangements for NRLrelated trips.

“We are having progress as we speak, especially in relation to visas.

“They have not completed the work yet, but there’s a special consideration that allows for ease of movement in and out for our team.

“So Papua New Guineans who want to support their team, K100 per person — everyone is welcome. We want the team to

be membership-based.

“I did indicate to all the business houses attending the conference, all businesses out here who want to be part of the sponsorship family, minimum K1 million per company.

“Ordinary Papua New Guineans K100. Businesses, we roll it out – K1 million,” Mr Marape said.

“This is to make sure our team has enough money to sustain itself, because around $30 to $40, $50 million is needed to run a team professionally a year.

“We will ask everyone who wants to be part of the PNG Chiefs to contribute K100 and companies will pay K1 million.

“These will help foot the cost of running the PNG NRL franchise,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Mr Marape said it costs up to AUS$60 million to run a football club in Australia and it was important that Papua New Guineans and local companies came on board to ensure the PNG Chiefs’ sustainability going into the future.

“We will make the announcement soon, after the PNG Chiefs’ management finalise the plan. I urge all our people to support their team,” he said.

Also to be announced soon will be a new chief executive officer for the PNG Chiefs,

after the position was left vacant when Andrew Hill resigned in August 2025 to take up the role of chief executive officer for the Penrith Panthers Group, after successfully establishing the PNG franchise foundations for its 2028 NRL debut.

Rugby league followers in the country have been keenly following the developments, hoping for a new appointment to be made quickly because there is still a lot of work to be done.

The announcement by the Prime Minister comes a day after the PNG Chiefs’ board announced that 2026 will be a big year for the Chiefs.

He also said that Australia will announce special travel arrangements for NRLrelated travels, especially visas, among others.

“I have no involvement in the appointment of Chiefs CEO.

But the Board is at work. The Board is very important.

“Sooner or later the Board will pick a competent person who can run the team.

“They will be appointing a chief executive officer very soon. And when that is done, we will work with the CEO to put a structure in place.”

Bank to invest K1.2bn into upgrade

REPORTS By MIRIAM ZARRIGA in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

BANK South Pacific Financial Group Limited (BSP) will bankroll a massive K1.2 billion investment over the next couple of years to overhaul its technology, strengthen operational resilience and upskill its workforce.

It is part of its move to anchor its long-term growth across PNG and the Pacific, chief executive officer Mark Robinson told attendees at the

PNG Investment Week in Sydney.

Mr Robinson said BSP’s modernisation program is aimed at transforming how banking works for everyday Papua New Guineans from major urban centres to some of the most remote parts of the country.

He said BSP’s footprint gives the bank a unique vantage point over PNG’s economic challenges and opportunities.

“We have over 3600 staff in PNG and another 1500 outside the

country.

“We have the largest branch network in the Pacific, including more than 80 branches in PNG, of which 39 are in locations where we are the only bank.”

Robinson told delegates that the bank reaches and services 1.8 million customers and more than 50,000 businesses.

He said BSP also has a responsibility to its corporate and government clients to lead digital transformation and ensure financial

National minerals firm expands footprint, assets projected to swell to K14.5 billion

THE Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) is aggressively expanding its footprint in tourism and aviation, with its total assets under management now swelling to K14.5 billion.

In a major restructuring move, MRDC is now the majority shareholder of PNG Air, holding an 83 per cent stake following the completion of a credit scheme arrangement.

The MRDC deputy CEO, John Tuaim, told the PNG CORE Conference that the airline's fleet has already increased from eight to 11 aircraft this year.

"And to 17 airplanes next year with six of those planes owned by landowners," Mr Tuaim announced, signaling a major shift in landowner participation.

The company is also banking heavily on tourism to drive future growth. The "Heritage" brand of hotels is set to rollout across the Gulf and Highlands regions in early 2026.

The Kikori Heritage Hotel is scheduled to open in February 2026, followed by the Kerema Heritage Hotel in March and the Kutubu Heritage Hotel in April 13. A hotel in Hela is slated for a 2027 opening.

Tuaim stated this infrastructure drive is to "support our commitment towards tourism in the country," aligning with the airline expansion.

Furthermore, the Star Mountain Plaza precinct in Port Moresby will see the commencement of a new 3-star Hilton branded hotel and a larger retail mall in 2026.

Mineral Resources Development Company declares its accounting

AMIDST constant public scrutiny of StateOwned Enterprises, the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) has declared its books are clean.

The MRDC deputy CEO John Tuaim presented the company’s governance record at the PNG CORE Conference, stating that MRDC’s audits up to 2024 are unqualified. He further revealed that 81 per cent of the company's subsidiaries also returned unqualified audit opinions for the same period.

"Nearly all subsidiary boards are fully represented by landowner reps except for Gigira, Angore and Juha," Mr Tuaim said, emphasizing the inclusion of beneficiaries in the decision-making process.

Beyond governance, the company reported a spend of K40 million on community projects in 2025.

The flagship project for the year was the Waro Junior High School in Kutubu, completed at a cost of K14 million over two years.

The infrastructure includes 10 teachers' houses, four double classrooms, and three dormitories, officially opened on December 1. Mr Tuaim also highlighted MRDC’s role

in the recent CMCA (Community Mine Continuation Agreement) negotiations. For the first time, MRDC funded three independent law firms to assist landowners across eight regions, ensuring they could negotiate "on equal grounds".

The agreement was finally signed on November 4 after nine months of negotiations.

services remain accessible and reliable.

“We know the future of banking will be digital,” Mr Robinson emphasised. “So, we’re investing in digital services that make it simple, fast and easy for our customers to bank.”

He said BSP is also expanding agency banking to bring services into rural and remote areas, reducing the need for long travel distances just to pay bills, save money, apply for loans or access

insurance.

“This is how we bring prosperity to the South Pacific by making sure everyone can participate, no matter where they live,” he added.

The significant investment announcement drew strong interest from delegates, many noting that BSP’s digital ambitions could reshape how financial services are delivered across PNG especially as the country accelerates its shift toward modern payment systems and broader financial inclusion.

A STAGGERING K633 million in royalties and equity payments are still parked in trust accounts, and out of reach by landowners due to ongoing internal leadership and landownership disputes.

The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) revealed the figures during the PNG CORE Conference on Wednesday, highlighting the frustration of managing funds for beneficiaries who cannot agree among themselves.

significant portion of funds remains locked away.

The MRDC deputy CEO and chief investment officer John Tuaim confirmed that while payment is ongoing for cleared areas, a

"The others are yet to be paid because of their internal landownership disputes," Mr Tuaim said.

Of this outstanding amount, K230 million is specifically from PNG LNG royalties.

Participants at the summit.

Visitors to some of the stalls at the summit.

Delegates shared a game of golf to familiarise before the summit. PICTURES: PNGIW25/FB

Some of the delegate following the opening.

John Lewins, CEO of K92 Mining, told delegates at the PNG Leaders Investment Summit that the theme “Stronger Together, Investing for the Future” perfectly captures the company’s journey in Papua New Guinea.

Internet access to double in five years: Citizens to gain digital ID, online public services

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

PAPUA New Guinea’s digital transformation efforts are paying off for its citizens, with internet access doubling and major government services moving online, Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr announced this week.

Mr Tsiamalili said in 2020, only around 40 per cent of the population had mainly 3G internet access.

Today, that figure has doubled to 80 per cent, mostly driven by 4G connectivity and increased market competition.

He said his expanded connectivity is now fueling improved service delivery, stating that persons can now apply online for police clearance and visitors can lodge visa applications and arrival cards digitally.

He also mentioned that the Government's Integrated Financial

PNG opens digital doors

Minister declares end to infrastructure monopoly

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA

in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

PAPUA New Guinea has taken decisive regulatory action to open its digital economy and attract major investment, with the government formally regulating wholesale access to critical digital infrastructure and launching a sovereign digital identity system.

In a move to improve market efficiency and competition, Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr issued a Ministerial Declaration under the National ICT Act last week.

This declaration formally regulates wholesale access to undersea cables, domestic fibre, and cable landing stations.

"This reform introduces transparent, non-discriminatory, cost-based access to essential digital infrastructure—enabling competition, reducing duplication, and improving affordability for consumers and businesses," said the Minister.

He described the change as a "fundamental structural shift, signalling that PNG is serious about building an ICT sector aligned with global best practice".

The key incentive for investors, however, is the government's centre piece project: SevisPass, PNG’s sovereign digital identity system, built in alignment with the Digital ID Policy 2025.

The system, along with the SevisWallet App, has opened for "better testing".

The system will allow citizens to enrol, verify against authoritative data anchors, and be issued a SevisPass digital ID in under 10 minutes.

SevisPass is encrypted,

decentralised, device-bound, and governed by a citizen-controlled consent framework, meaning private and public organisations require explicit consent to access personal information.

This system becomes powerful through its integration with SevisDEx, the national secure data exchange. Through SevisDEx, identity attributes can be verified against authoritative registries without transferring or exposing underlying databases.

For the financial and digital sectors, this integration means: Access to millions of verified customers. Reduced onboarding costs. Stronger AML/CTF compliance. New opportunities across fintech, telecommunications, logistics, e-commerce, digital payments, and public service delivery.

"With SevisPass and SevisDEx, for the first time in Papua New Guinea’s history, a citizen will be able to have a digital ID and use that to access digital services and more broadly participate in the digital economy," the Minister confirmed.

Management System and government payroll are migrating to secure cloud environments, enhancing transparency in public finance. The cornerstone of the citizen-centric digital future is SevisPass, the sovereign digital identity system. Designed in alignment with the Digital ID Policy 2025, the system aims to grant individuals control over their own data.

The SevisWallet App will allow

citizens to enrol and have a verified SevisPass digital ID issued in less than 10 minutes.

This also ensure users maintain data sovereignty, as the ID is decentralised, encrypted, and devicebound. And no organisation—public or private—can access a citizen’s personal information without explicit consent.

The government is already piloting the system with MiBank for the ability to open a bank account and

make transactions within minutes using the SevisWallet App. SevisPass will anchor to critical registries, including the Passport Registry and Police Clearance Registry, to enable high-trust identity verification for travel, employment, and financial onboarding. This progress is not accidental, according to the Minister, but is guided by policies like the Digital Transformation Policy 2020 and the Digital Government Act 2022.

PNG to clamp down on cloud migration, social media

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

THE Papua New Guinea Government is enforcing new laws to secure its systems, combat rising cybercrime, and hold social media platforms accountable within its borders.

Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr. confirmed that scamming including fraudulent SMS campaigns and impersonation of government officials has become the most frequently reported digital threat in PNG.

In response, the government endorsed the National social media Policy in August, introducing three major requirements:

All major social media platforms must be legally registered in Papua New Guinea. Platforms will be subject to an AgeAppropriate Classification Framework to protect minors.

The policy paves the way for age restrictions on certain platforms deemed high-risk for young people.

The Minister confirmed he would meet with senior representatives from Meta to advance compliance. "Digital platforms operating in PNG must be accountable within PNG," he asserted.

The government has also made significant strides in securing its own operations, guided by the Digital Government Act 2022. Over 160 government agencies have begun migrating into the Government Cloud, standardising IP addressing and domain names as prescribed by the Government Cloud Policy.

Critical national financial and administrative systems—including the Government Payroll System and the Integrated Financial Management Systemare being migrated to enhance resilience, governance, and transparency.

The legal establishment of the National Cyber Security Centre in 2022 has improved the nation's cyber defence. PNG has since risen from Tier 5 to Tier 3 in the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index.

PNG strengthens regional digital ties with secure infrastructure

BY MIRIAM ZARRIGA in SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

PAPUA New Guinea is deepening its bilateral partnerships to accelerate its digital transformation, securing major infrastructure investment and launching a program to build a world-class public service workforce.

Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr. highlighted key cooperative initiatives saying thatunder the

Pukpuk Treaty, PNG and Australia are advancing an ambitious connectivity initiative valued at AUD $120 million. These include:

· The initiative will see the deployment of three new undersea cables.

· These cables are set to significantly expand PNG’s international bandwidth, improve redundancy, secure digital borders, and strengthen the resilience of

communications infrastructure.

A newly signed partnership with the Queensland Government formalises a connection between the PNG Government and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

This collaboration introduces the Digital Transformation Officer Capacity-Building Fellowship.

The program will elevate PNG’s public service workforce with world-class training in digital

governance, cybersecurity, cloud design, and service transformation.

The fellowship is crucial to ensuring that the new systems being built are sustained by skilled Papua New Guineans.

The focus on talent development is a critical part of the overall strategy.

Beyond the QUT Fellowship, the government is investing in Digital Transformation Officers across government and is sending off PNG’s first AI–Cloud engineering

cohort early next year.

The Minister stated that by strengthening these partnerships, PNG is "building a talent pipeline that will sustain and grow the systems you invest in". This strategic investment in infrastructure and people underpins the government's entire digital agenda, from policy foundations like the Digital Transformation Policy 2020 to the launch of the SevisPass digital identity system.

PETER Tsiamalili Jr addressing the PNG Investment Week Summit in Sydney.

PNG, Korea sign grant agreement

BY GORETHY KENNETH

FOREIGN Minister Justin Tkatchenko signed a Framework Agreement for Grant Aid with the Republic of Korea, marking a key step in re-establishing the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) office in Port Moresby after a 12-year absence.

The agreement paves the way for renewed development cooperation and aid between the two nations.

The signing will facilitate the re-establishment of the Korean International Cooperation Agency Office (KOICA) in Port Moresby and enable official Korean development finance and grant/aid assistance to be processed through it.

Development projects and grant assistance requests will be channelled through the Korean International Cooperation Agency here in PNG and vice versa, financing and grant/aid disbursements.

The KOICA office closed its doors in PNG around 2012.

It has taken four years of negotiations for the reestablishment of the office.

KOICA Country Director JeongEun Song, who visited PNG and met with Minister Tkatchenko at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Waigani in November 2025.

Speaking at the signing ceremony Minister Tkatchenko thanked his counterpart and acknowledged the quick response of the Korean government in concluding the agreement and underscored

Marape seals PNG-Qld deal

PRIME Minister James Marape and Queensland Premier David Crisafulli signed a landmark PNG-Queensland MoU, marking 50th independence anniversary milestone.

The agreement, covering economic, educational, cultural, and security cooperation, underscores deep ties between PNG and Queensland as they celebrate PNG’s 50th anniversary.

Mr Marape called it a “milestone in our shared history and future,” highlighting the partnership’s role in strengthening bilateral relations.

He described the signing as “an important milestone in our shared history and our shared future”, emphasising the unique and enduring connections between PNG and Queensland.

“Queensland is Papua New Guinea’s closest neighbour and one of our closest friends. Geography and history have placed us side by side, and this MoU ensures that our partnership continues to grow in depth, respect, and practical cooperation,” Mr Marape said. He expressed appreciation for Queensland’s exceptional recognition of PNG’s 50th independence anniversary, including parliamentary acknowledgements and the lighting of Brisbane’s iconic bridges in the colours of Papua New Guinea.

“We could not have asked for a more meaningful tribute. Queensland honoured PNG in a way that reflects our deep friendship, and today’s MoU strengthens that bond for the next 50 years,” he said.

A Framework for Strategic Cooperation the MoU establishes practical cooperation across three primary tiers – government-to government, business-to-business, and people-to-people – and opens pathways across multiple priority sectors including health, education, emergency services, agriculture, tourism, SME development, law

and justice, disaster resilience, and cultural and sporting exchange.

Mr Marape noted that the framework aligns closely with PNG’s strategic development priorities and Queensland’s emerging workforce and service needs.

Strengthening Workforce and Skills Mobility One of the central themes of today’s engagement was Queensland’s growing demand for skilled personnel across nursing, aged care, teaching, policing, emergency services, and technical sectors.

Mr Marape said PNG stands ready to contribute.

“PNG has a young, energetic population.

“If we train them to Australian standards, we can help Queensland fill its workforce shortages while strengthening our own capabilities when our citizens return home with new skills,” he said.

He reaffirmed PNG’s commitment to expanding education and vocational standards to align with Australian systems, ensuring mutual benefit in labour mobility.

Enhanced Security, Defence, and Emergency Cooperation, Mr Marape welcomed Queensland’s advancements in policing capability, including the roll-out of nextgeneration Taser 10 systems, noting the importance of shared training, interoperability, and frontline cooperation.

“Security in the Torres Strait region and northern Australia is linked directly to security in PNG. What happens in PNG affects Queensland, and what happens in Queensland affects PNG.

“It is only natural that we strengthen our cooperation,” he said.

Both leaders agreed to explore combined defence training pathways that recognise PNG’s large youth demographic and Australia’s future personnel needs.

the importance of the grant aid agreement for both countries.

The agreement highlights the general terms of development cooperation.

On the agreement, grant aid programs and related development financing pursued through subsidiary arrangements are mutually agreed to by both countries.

One of the key parts of this agreement is the implementation of Article 5, the establishment of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) in Papua New Guinea.

This is already underway and Minister Tkatchenko expressed the government's appreciation for the expeditious progress in the reestablishment effort.

Mr Tkatchenko acknowledged the presence of the KOICA PNG Country Director Jeong-Eun Song, who is already in Port Moresby, and further appreciated the work that has been done by the Korean government and Korean International Cooperation Agency to set-up the office.

He emphasised strong support of the PNG government to accord courtesies prescribed in Article 4 of the Framework Grant/Aid Agreement including the exemptions, privileges and immunities and related government support consistent also with the Vienna Convention on Privileges and Immunities.

While acknowledging Korea's plan to contribute to the Pacific

Resilience Facility, Mr Tkatchenko conveyed PNG's readiness to soon implement the visa on arrival for the diplomatic, official and ordinary passport holders of the Republic of Korea.

Mr Tkatchenko highlighted the huge potential in smart farming and invited investors in agriculture, forestry and fisheries especially, value adding to the timber and fisheries sectors among others as part of the government's effort in securing sustainable development of the country's natural resources. He also highlighted the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) impeding market access opportunities for PNG products and sought support for aid for trade assistance and support to enable the entry of PNG products into the Korean market. Mr Tkatchenko further highlighted the country's economic and security arrangements with partners and acknowledge Korea's strong bilateral relation with PNG as a key strategic partner for bilateral and regional programs and urged for the Korean International Cooperation Agency office in Port Moresby to be the KOICA hub for the Pacific regional development cooperation.

Mr Tkatchenko appreciates the establishment of Korean International Cooperation Agency office in Port Moresby and reaffirmed the government's commitment to support KOICA's development cooperation program in the country and the region going forward.

FOREIGN Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko and Republic of Korea country director jeong-Eun Song with the agreement. PICTURE: SUPPLIEd

Whitecember

BY ILEEN NAKRA

ENOUGH is enough, stand up, unite and act now to end human rights violations against women and children in Papua New Guinea, said National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop.

Speaking as the chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment, Mr Parkop is calling for a collaborative action from all stakeholders and GBV actors in the country.

The Governor made this call when commemorating the ’World Human Rights Day’ with city residents, including primary school children and youths in front of the parliament house in Port Moresby yesterday.

The 2025 global event’s celebration began with the Whitecember Walk

Walk:

National capital walks for peace, human rights

from Sir John Guise Stadium to the National Parliament house under the theme- ‘women and children have the right to safe and healthy lives’.

The walk symbolised an urgent need for equal and fair representations of Papua New Guinean women and children in the country.

“This short walk to Parliament is to symbolically raise awareness on the importance of human rights, but more so, the rights of our children and the rights of women and girls of our country,” Mr Parkop said.

“Today is an unprecedented day. It has not happened in the past where we mark this day, coming to the National Parliament, the centre of political power, the institution that defines our country, our people, our nation, Papua New Guinea. It is the first time we have come to

the Parliament to raise the banner of human rights. Importantly, to raise the banner of children's rights and women's rights. It is very important that we come here to remind leaders of our country to be leaders, to lead our people, including women and children, boys and girls.”

Mr Parkop emphasised the cruciality of integrating the values of human rights into the country’s development plans to capture the need for women, youth and children populace.

“Whether it's about our economy or all facets of development, human rights because the challenge of any nation and all nations is to convert all the economic gains that we get from exploitation or using our resources and the space that is in our country, to advance the social development of our people.

‘Respect everyone’s rights’

BY ILEEN NAKRA

LET the World Human Rights Day remind us about the status of women and girls in our country, said the National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop.

Also the chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment, Mr Parkop urged collective action to realise the fundamental rights of women and girls during the commemoration of the World Human Rights Day in Port Moresby yesterday.

Known as the 2025 Whitecember Walk, it is happening under the theme- ‘women and children have the right to safe and healthy lives’.

“Today, we must acknowledge those rights more, and importantly, take action to realise them. Today, too, it's important that we think about women and girls of our country. The recent census confirms that 49.8 per cent, almost 50 per cent of our people are women and girls. That's very significant,” he said.

“But in these 50 years, the space, the opportunity, the rights of women and girls are limited, and certainly continues to diminish

Parkop urges public to be mindful of each other’s rights

because of violence, killings, rape and intimidation. It goes on, sadly, too many times in our country.

“As we gather today, we are reminded of the status of women and girls in our country. I've said it before, and I will say it again.

Being born a woman or a girl in this country, it's a very risky life, very traumatic.

“And that's not a condition or situation or status that we should accept, and we should find normal. It's totally abnormal. It's totally not right.”

Governor Parkop said women and girls have the right and freedom too, so they must be respected in this country.

“Importantly, we must start to allow women and girls to equally benefit and have the space that they are entitled to in their country, the country of their ancestors, the country of their clans, the country of their tribe, the country of which they've become citizen if they are

not originally from our country.

“By becoming a citizen, they are entitled to full rights and freedom and benefit opportunity that is offered by their country, our country.

“In the political space, in the public space, the streets, the markets, the sporting fields, the cinemas, the restaurants, cafes, they are entitled to go there and enjoy their life fully, their moment fully.

In the economic space, in business, in markets, all our markets, predominantly a space for women must be maintained and expanded as a space for women. In the bureaucracy, must become also a space for women and girls.”

“In the schools, must equally become a space for women and girls. In higher education, the universities and colleges, and in everywhere in our country, including nowadays in cyberspace. The cyberspace doesn't belong to

only men and boys. It should not be dictated only by men and boys,” he said

“Women and girls have the right to go on cyberspace and speak their mind, express themselves, tell their story, be able to freely participate in the space. And we men and boys must recognise that it's their equal space.

“And this message must be amplified loud and clear for our country to redefine itself and reset itself for the next 50 years. We all need to reset ourselves from our behaviour, our mindset, our attitude, our values.

“Here Parliament must take the lead, must show leadership, must deal with gender-based violence, must deal with violence against women, violence against girls, that every day it happens, continues to happen, continue to undermine the potential of women and girls in our country, continue to restrict their life.

“We must end that. We must summon all that we can to create an even playing field, a conducive environment for women and girls to express themselves and be part and parcel of the entire equation of our country, Papua New Guinea.”

Children are national treasures: Parkop

BY ILEEN NAKRA

THE children are Papua New Guinea's greatest treasure and legacy, said National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop. Speaking as the chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Children and Youth, he said:

“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.

“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, they must be at the forefront of development, especially now looking towards the next 50 years.

“And our children's rights in the last 50 years, we have largely neglected or have not given it the dominance or significance that it deserves. It's very important that we elevate the rights of our children, the place of our children, also in all our development plans.”

Mr Parkop highlighted this in his remarks during the celebration of the World Human Rights Day in Port Moresby yesterday, emphasising on the significance of the 2025 Whitecember Walk’s theme: ‘Women and Children have the right to safe and healthy lives’.

“They are the responsibility of the parents, first and foremost, or their caregivers when the parents are no longer alive or living together. They are the responsibility of the clans and tribes,” he said.

He further elaborated on the function of the Lukautim Pikinini Act to protect children and urged care givers to be responsible.

“And I want to remind us that this responsibility or duty is incorporated in the law, in the Lukautim Pikinini Act,” he said.

“Yes, we have created health facilities for our children.

“We have created education facilities for our children.

“But our children are entitled to a good environment in which they are raised. They are entitled to good nutrition. They are entitled to good healthcare. They are entitled.”

SCHOOL children participating in the Whitecember Walk to mark the International Human Rights Day in Port Moresby yesterday. TARAMI LEGEI

Participants from the 2025 Whitecember Walk to mark the International Human Rights Day in Port Moresby yesterday. PICTURE: TARAMI LEGEI

One year ahead, no new health head

IT has been 13 to 14 months without a permanent Health Secretary, whilst the acting Secretary, Ken Wai has been operating for 27 days without a gazetted extension, says Dr James Naipao, President of the National Doctors Association.

According to a press release on 8 December, Dr Naipao said Mr Wai, a seasoned health administrator has been serving as acting secretary for two gazettal acting extensions, the second one had expired on 11 November of this year and it is the 27th day without a gazettal acting secretary while waiting for a permanent Health Department.

Dr Naipao said: “On 13 May, 2025, outgoing Secretary Dr Osborne Liko gave his parting performance report and it was indeed outstanding. Dr Liko’s hand-over-take-over hardworking Acting Secretary Ken Wai has performed very well.

This assessment of Mr Ken Wai can also be further ascertained by respective local and transglobal partners along with church services working with the Health Department and Including Health Worker.”

Responding to these concerns, Mr Wai briefly told the Post-Courier that as an industrial union the NDA has the right to express their concerns.

He said that fast-tracking for permanent secretary is good but must appoint the right person for the job and not anyone just because they applied. “Health is life and due care must be given,” Mr Wai said.

Dr Naipao said important decisions attached with this position are pending.

“Recent hospitals and media cries on the medical supplies issues warrants a permanent secretary to be appointed very soon.

““It is also imperative that a leaked short-listing that became a frenzy in the social media space needs to be investigated and the outcome known, and this investigation proceeding was assured by the government,” he said. “News has reached the National Doctors Association that Medical Supplies including medicines have a front-loading stock up to June 2026 on the much-needed medicines for Health Facilities in the country.”

He congratulated the government and stressed the need to be assured of this while the department takes in board measures to make sure the medical supplies reform has a cross-cutting applications inserted to control manufacturing, economics, tendering, distribution, storage and consumption.

Parkop opens bird sanctuary

BY ROBERT APALA UPNG Communication Journalism Student

A RARE blue Bird of Paradise (Paradisornis Rudolphi) was recently added to the Adventure Park at 14-Mile in the National Capital District as an added attraction for park visitors.

The park recently opened an aviary for the blue Bird of Paradise. The bird is common but is rarely seen in public. It is commonly found up in the mountains and highlands of the country.

There are many different kinds of Birds of Paradise found in PNG whose plumes are widely used by people as headdresses for singsings.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop acknowledged the hard work of the management and the staff for maintaining the park.

“The park has become a great hub with all the landscaping and ponds as well as the trees and plants and that speaks for itself,” he said.

‘Compliance necessary’ Opposition sets list to keep govt in check

THE Opposition under the leadership of James Nomane, a new scrutiny and accountability process, called the ESON Framework was announced.

Under the ESON Framework, the Opposition will enforce compliance and expose failures of governance.

A public dashboard will be launched later this week, enabling citizens to track Opposition performance on actionable outcomes.

Transparency will be demanded through the process of implementing the ESON Framework.

Mr Nomane said recently the government has passed a raft of laws that offend the Constitution, entrench executive overreach, reward cronyism, and weaken public institutions.

He said some of these laws have been identified under ESON and will be challenged.

The Opposition will take them to the Supreme Court, including the constitutionality of the Pukpuk Treaty.

He said the government has used its numerical strength to recklessly manipulate the Constitution and force through superfluous and pernicious amendments.

The Opposition must strive to ensure the rule of law prevails over political expediency.

He said the rot of corruption has seeped into critical institutions like Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), Royal PNG Constabulary (RPNGC), and Ombudsman Commission (OC), and therefore immediate intervention is required.

“Parliament Committees must rise to their oversight responsibilities, and MPs must commit to safeguarding these constitutional offices.

“The Opposition will shine a spotlight on malpractice and demand corrective action with the aim of achieving prosecution on the many criminals hiding behind the political veil,” he said.

“Every Minister and department head will be compelled to confirm their 2025 budgetary appropriations and expenditures down to provincial and district allocations.

Treasury, Finance and National Planning will be asked to comply with the Public Finance Management Act and publish expenditure and revenue reports.

State-Owned Enterprises will face scrutiny on the government’s dividend policies and chronic failures at PNG Power, Telikom PNG, and Post PNG.”

He said the Opposition’s website will serve as a platform for whistleblowers to expose corruption and impropriety.

This will be coupled with a national campaign to create awareness of the social contract between government and people and to highlight Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV) and Corruption.

“ESON is part of the Opposition’s strategy to defend democracy against draconian laws that border on totalitarianism.

“The Opposition is duty-bound to preserve civil liberties and uphold democratic tenets.

“While adopting a collaborative approach, the ESON Framework allows the government the chance to prove its commitment and genuineness to the people of Papua New Guinea.

“But if prevarication continues, the myths and falsehoods of the Prime Minister will be exposed as distractions in a bread-andcircuses (panem et circensis) playbook, akin to the gladiators entertaining the rowdy mob in the Roman Colosseum.

“The Opposition’s implementation of the ESON Framework will entail court cases, meetings with government and stakeholders, increased communication, advocacy that is far and wide, and visible results from effective strategy execution.

“I thank the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Moresby South MP Justin Tkatchenko, who started the whole thing. It is a privilege to open the sanctuary for the blue Bird of Paradise because it is the most endangered species.”

He said the Blue Bird of Paradise is a shy bird and keeps to itself. People hardly see them dancing or flipping their plumes. It is impossible to see how they mate during the mating season.

“Our people treasured this bird because they capture them and use the feathers for a lot of things and used it for exchange for bride price, ceremonies and during singsing time,” Mr Parkop said.

“I told Mr Tkatchenko who was the curator of the Adventure Park to at least look for one blue Bird of Paradise as it was at the risk of becoming extinct.”

He said the blue Bird of Paradise is a national treasure.

NATIONAL Capital District Governor Powes Parkop and Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko at the opening of the new aviary for the blue Bird of Paradise at Adventure Park in Port Moresby recently. PICTURE SUPPLIED

BY VELERIE BULUMARIS

Corrections officers’ families to relocate for electricity project Media team to retrace pioneer missionaries incursion

SEVEN families of Correctional Services officers will be relocated into new homes early next year to allow PNG-Power Limited to start a project.

On Friday, last week, new houses were opened at Buimo jail Barracks in Lae for seven families who are

currently living along a portion of PPL’s new project area.

A land portion 20-to-50 metres along the Bumbu River near the PPL base in East-Taraka was allocated as safety zone for the company to expend its project.

The new project involves PPL’s installation of a new high voltage transmission line that will carry

up to 132,000 volts into the city to improve its power supplies.

This relocation is to ensure nearby residences are safe before that new transmitter lines are installed.

Mamose regional operations manager, Albert Nanako said this project is being carried out to improve power supply issues in the citys.

Currently the company has only one high-voltage transmission line that supplies power throughout the city. He said the project will be commissioned next year once all its hazards are identified and safetyissues addressed.

“Once this project is commissioned, Lae will be supplied with reliable power,” Mr Nanako said.

Corrections lacks commissioner

BY VELERIE BULUMARIS

ACTING Corrections Service

Commissioner Bernard Nepo has been occupying the position for almost two years, as the National Executive Council continues delaying the appointment of a new commissioner.

Mr Nepo said he has been acting in that office since 2024.

He said he has not been able to do

much. Mr Nepo was appointed acting CS Commissioner in July 2024, replacing former commissioner Stephen Pokanis.

However, the temporary appointmentof three months has turned into a year,he said.

Mr Nepo proceeded to describe that pending appointment as nervewrecking and flawed.

“They should’ve appointed someone already according to

the law, but NEC still hasn’t done that yet — something is wrong somewhere in the system.

“The appointment rests on NEC, if they see another capable person for that role, so be it,” he said.

Furthermore CS has recently updated its overdue strategic plan 2025-2030, a five-year plan that the department has not reviewed and updated since 2022.

The CS updated strategic plan will

be launched next month to enable a pathway for the department’s functions.

Mr Nepo said there are important projects that needed improvement and funding but the appointment of a new CS commissioner was a mandatory requirement for its functionality.

“NEC should be working on appointing a capable candidate by now.”

By PISAI GUMAR

THE LAE media team will tackle the eight-hour Didi horse track at Arafab settlement, east of Nadzab airport to Gufin village in Boana coinciding with Gain-Kusip parishioners’ centennial celebrations honouring pioneer evangelists who settled at Gain village.

The celebration, scheduled for Christmas Day, December 25, will include Lae-based news reporters from NBC Morobe, the Post-Courier and freelance writers, who will trek the dense forest beginning on December 23.

A total of six mainstream media reporters and freelance writers , with the assistance of local tour guide, Jerry Lamu, will spend Christmas Eve camping along the dense forest track before arriving at Gain on Dec 25 to join the celebration.

He said the track has remained unexplored since the first European (Swiss) Lutheran Missionary, Reverend Gustav Bergmann, settled in Boana to establish the local mission station in 1932.

Mr Lamu said Rev Bergmann and local converts frequented the pathway to and from Boana to Gabmazung mission station in the Wampar plains to access mail and correspondence.

The Gabmazung mission station was established in 1910-1911, then an airstrip was built for small mission planes, which Rev Bergmann was accessing to conduct spiritual, socioeconomic and political businesses.

“This track has a significant meaning attached not only to Rev Bergmann but importantly, saw the dawn and transformation of civilisation; Boana was the hub of milk and honey.

“After establishing Boana station, the evangelists expanded their mission to Gain, whichwill be observed on Dec 25,” Mr Lamu said.

Mr Lamu said the Nawaeb district administrator, Buds Botike and his tourism unit are pleased to join the Lae media party to spend Christmas Eve in bush hiking for a worthy cause.

“We will dig into our own pockets to bring to light the significance of this historical trek that contributed to spiritual, political and spiritual growth in parts of Morobe and into the Highlands,” he said.

Lutheran church to host delegates on Siassi from Dec 18-23

By PISAI GUMAR

SIASSI district expects to host between 3000-4000 Lutheran delegates at the 35 ELC-PNG Synod at Bunsil station, Siassi Island, scheduled for 18-23 January, 2026. The synod theme “Stand Firm, We Are Free” extracted from the scripture in Galatians 5:1.

The Siassi district as the host will accommodate other 16 districts -- Mumeng, Boana, Yabim, Goroka, Chimbu, Hagen, Madang, Karkar, Jiwaka, Ukata, Kainantu, Emmanuel, East Simbu, Papua, Kote and New Guinea Island including overseas visitors and various government and partner church agencies.

ELCPNG General Secretary, Bernard Kaisom, in a statement, said the total delegation is 50 people per 17 districts.

The figure 50 comprises of 30 voting reps (18 males and 12 females)

and 20 observers (12 males and 8 females) totalling 850 people.

Of the 30 voting delegates, the group included primary and Sunday school teachers, youth and women reps apart from selected members of parishioners.

The remaining balance of the delegation will comprise visitors from the overseas church partners in Germany, America and Australia, administrations staff in various ELC-PNG units, other government and church agency reps, singsing and youth groups including host (Ass Paia) district.

Mr Kaisom urged each district to appoint and bring with them 3-5 advisers, especially people working in various professions who have vast background knowledge and experience in addressing church issues.

“Each district is to submit your resolutions and delegation name list to the Office of Church Secretary

including four-page summary report of activities each district has implemented within last two years,” he said.

“Most significantly are the statistics and spiritual activities (wok gutnius) in respective districts.

“The reports be submitted soon to church secretary to give ample time for printing into book format for presentation in the synod floor.”

The synod fee is K100 per person and includes both voting and observer, visitor, advisers and others, to pay through ELC Synod Account No.100156351, BSP-Lae and the receipt and name list sent to the secretary.

The transport fare includes LaeBunsil K440, Madang-Bunsil K468, Finschhafen-Bunsil K200 and WasuBunsil K300 (all both ways).

Mr Kaisom said the travelling schedule for delegation from Mumeng, Boana, Yabim, Goroka, Simbu, Hagen, national office and

station. While delegates for Madang, Karkar, Jiwaka and Kainantu

institutions depart Lae on Jan 13 to Bunsil

will sail from Madang on Jan 13 to Wasu, pick up Ukata delegation then sail across Vitiaz Strait to Bunsil station.

CORRECTIONS officers on parade in Lae.

History is our strength

By PATRICK LEVO

FOR the first time, political archrivals Peter O’Neill and James Marape have agreed on one thing - that is, that our history is our national identity.

It took the autobiography of a fellow Las Papua, former politician and businessman, and now author, Francis Awesa, to placate the bitter rivals to share an evening together on one subject – that without history, without a common bond, a tribe, clan, or family cannot survive.

Both were guest speakers at the launch of Kongu’s book titled Nina Inji, which means ‘My Life Story’ in the Lower Mendi dialect of Southern Highlands.

Mr Marape spoke via video link at the launch while former Prime

Minister O’Neill spent the evening with Mr Awesa and other special guests, including former Ialibu Pangia MP Roy Yaki.

The event was well attended by Southern Highlands tribesmen and women and friends of Mr Awesa.

SHP Governor William Powi did not attend but pledged K500,000 to buy enough copies of Nina Inji to supply all high schools in his province.

Mr Marape said PNG as a country is built on its shared history. He encouraged all Papua New Guineans to write down their history for the next generations.

Mr O’Neill said our history in the last 100 years was written down by foreigners.

He said as a result, a lot of our tumbuna history has been lost.

He said because borders are marred, and tumbuna family history is unclear, we have too many tribal disputes over land because there is no written evidence, only legends from people who are long dead.

He congratulated Mr Awesa for releasing his autobiography, which reveals not only his life story, but traces his family tree back four generations.

Southern Highlands, Hela and Enga provinces family linkages revealed in Nina Inji are not only fascinating but show how diverse our borders are, and how we are interrelated through trade, marriages and war, Mr O’Neill said.

Those interested in buying a copy can email francisawesa1@ gmail.com to order Nina Inji.

GG present King’s Independence anniversary medals

A TOTAL of 109 people from West New Britain have been recognised and awarded the 50th Independence Anniversary King’s Medal in Kimbe yesterday.

Governor General Sir Bob Dadae hosted an investiture ceremony and presented the King’s Medal to the recipient of West New Britain Province who have had made a great contribution to the development of the province and the country.

The investiture ceremony for the 50th Independence Anniversary King’s Medal was held at Sasindran Muthuvel Stadium in Kimbe yesterday in which 109 men and women were recognised by West New Britain provincial government for their outstanding contribution in the province in public service, politics, tourism and hospitality, business, health care, media, music and entertainment industry.

Among them were former Commissioner of Police Gari Baki, former West New Britain province Governor Peter Humphreys, owner of Walindi Plantation Resort Cecilie Benjamin, Dr Victor Golpak, Dr Blaise Tonar and famous NBC Radio announcer Daniel Endo.

Other notable recipients include long-serving teachers and health care workers that continue to serve in remote districts of West

FORMER governor for West New Britain Peter Humphreys who received his medal with West New Britain governor Sasindran Muthuvel at the 50th Independence Anniversary King’s Medal ceremony. PICTURE SUPPLIED

New Britain province as well as former police and military officers that served before and after independence.

Sir Bob travelled to Kimbe this week at the invitation of the West New Britain provincial government to present the King’s Medal to the people of West New Britain.

Sir Bob has since travelled to

and presented the King’s Medal in Enga and Gulf provinces. His Majesty King Charles III has approved this special award to coincide with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary this year, to be presented to Papua New Guineans who have contributed outstanding service to Papua New Guinea over 25 years.

Ialibu Pangia MP Peter O’Neill and author Francis Awesa launch his book Nina Inji last Thursday night at the Dynasty Restaurant in Port Moresby. Looking on is Roy Yaki. PICTURE GABRIEL ERNEST

YU TOK

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2025

WE’RE STARVING

The PNG Investment Conference in Sydney, Australia ended yesterday. Is this yet another talkfest?

We are informed a huge PNG delegation, including government officials and ministers were in Sydney for the four-day conference. This should cost the PNG tax payers some money.

Last year, another huge delegation was also in Sydney, for a similar conference. In fact, every year, the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy organise these conferences and hosted between PNG and Australia.

Big talk no impact Teachers’ issues

In all of these conference, the conversations have been around big numbers, big projects and promising outcomes, that have raised the hopes of the 10 million people in this country, every year with no fail.

The numbers came out again at this conference. Companies were promised that the corporate tax they are paying will be slashed when the PNG economy reached the K200 billion mark. We heard that by end of 2026 a Final Investment Decision will be made on the Papua LNG project – the riches LNG project yet for the country.

The talks have all painted a glowing picture for the country, going into the future but skeptics at home are calling it a talkfest, yes this is nothing but just loud noises. And we agree, we are spending huge amounts of money travelling to Australia (remember the value of the kina has dropped) for talkfests that have not materialised into any tangible results in the country.

A case in point is the lack of new investments in the country. The idea to take these conferences outside of PNG was to sell the country and invite investors in and so far, not many, if not, nil new investments in the last few years.

We want to see accountability from those who participated in these conferences, they must tell us what they have achieved from these meetings. While the intention to stage these conferences may be good, the outcomes are not visible, leaving the population disillusioned and betrayed. Plans, budgets, talks…they are all good but this must be followed up by action. We have to walk the talk.

Our people have been fed with grand plans, standing orations and promises and like always, living on false hopes. The talkfest has to stop sometimes.

LETTER OF THE DAY

THE education system plays a pivotal role in the development of any nation, and the teachers are at the forefront of shaping the future of young minds. However, in Papua New Guinea, this noble profession is facing a recurring issue that is hindering their ability to fulfill their duties effectively. Teachers are being unjustly removed from the payroll due to administrative oversights, underpayments, allowances not being paid, high taxation, and un-actioned variations. This not only affects the livelihoods of dedicated educators but also highlights a profound systemic failure in the country’s payroll system.

The consequences of these payroll discrepancies are farreaching and go beyond just financial implications. The human cost of these errors is immeasurable.

Like any working individual, teachers rely on their salaries to support their families, meet essential needs, and fulfill financial obligations. However, when their pay is disrupted or delayed, it creates a ripple effect of financial distress.

This leads to food insecurity, inability to pay for their own children’s school fees, and constant anxiety. Moreover,

these discrepancies not only affect the teachers’ personal lives but also their ability to perform their duty of educating the nation’s youth. Instead of focusing on their core mission, they are forced to navigate bureaucratic hurdles to address their rightful earnings and entitlements. This puts a significant strain on their mental and emotional wellbeing, making it challenging for them to provide quality education to their students. What makes this situation even more concerning is the lack of action taken by the relevant authorities.

Despite teachers raising their grievances and complaints, they are met with systematic brick walls due to the professional negligence of those in charge.

The perception that the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) and other authorities are either indifferent or incapable of managing basic payroll operations is a troubling message for the teaching fraternity. It creates a sense of disrespect and mistrust towards the system that they are an integral part of.

This systemic failure not only affects individual teachers, but it also has a

larger impact on the education system and the country’s development. Teachers are the backbone of any education system, and when they are not treated with the respect and fairness they deserve, it reflects poorly on the whole system. It is difficult for teachers to reconcile their vital role in national development with a system that continuously fails them. In conclusion, the recurring issue of teachers being unjustly treated regarding their pays (entitlements), allowances and being highly taxed in Papua New Guinea is a clear manifestation of a profound systemic failure. The consequences of these discrepancies not only affect the teachers’ personal and professional lives, but also have a larger impact on education and national development.

It is time for the relevant authorities to take urgent and transparent action to rectify these issues and ensure that teachers are given the respect and support they deserve. After all, investing in the wellbeing and rights of teachers is investing in the future of the nation.

PNG TEACHERS

IN the Old Testament, the ruling authority of the day was not determined merely by politics or the will of the people—it was God Himself who established kings, often through the voice of His prophets.

A king could only continue to reign if God allowed it, and the prophets stood as the moral and spiritual compass for the nation.

If we claim today to be a “Christian nation,” then it follows that the church and believers should play a vital role in shaping the destiny of our government. Yet, in reality, most churches have distanced themselves from matters of governance. Whether by choice or fear, they remain on the sidelines, silent while the nation suffers under poor leadership. When a bad government rules, citizens have the right to resist and demand change. But when every effort to bring reform fails, the church should rise as the last line of hope. Every Christian has a responsibility toward their nation, and when united in prayer, the church has far greater power than any opposition party struggling alone. Sadly, though churches are multiplying everywhere, their impact is not felt where it matters most.

Imagine the difference if believers put aside their denominational disputes and lifted one collective cry to God for deliverance and good governance. Scripture shows us that when God’s people unite in repentance and prayer, He can intervene to remove wicked rulers and heal nations.

Yet one cannot help but wonder: what exactly are churches praying for if not the welfare of the nation?

Understanding the effects of recentralisation

EQUALITY and participation in all forms of political, economic and social activities by the citizens of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is one of the Five National Goals and Directive Principles, stipulated under the Preamble of the National Constitution. It is reinforced under Section 55 of the National Constitution.

Section 25 of the National Constitution mandates every level of government and every person in a position of authority and decision making, to declare their loyalty and allegiance under Sections 7 and

8 to enforcing and implementing equality and participation, to ensure all citizens participate in all forms of activities to progress and develop PNG to becoming a prosperous and wealthy country. In practice, equality and participation was envisaged to be implemented through decentralisation of powers at the National and Provincial and Local Level Governments, which were respectively created under Part VI and Part VIA of the National Constitution. However, progress on

decentralisation stalled and regressed starting in 1997 when Parliament approved an Organic Law on the Provincial and Local Level Governments, which recentralised powers to the National Government comprising the Legislature (Parliament), Executive (NEC), and Legislature (Courts).

The objective of recentralisation of power in 1997, is to make the national government become too powerful to the point of misusing power, to benefit a few privilege and elite using public resources.

The critical point underlying the power recentralisation is to ensure that elected Members of Parliament (MPs) get their share of public resources and benefits, before the rest of the country can do so.

It explains why MPs now control significant public funds disbursed from Waigani under Provincial Services Improvement Programmes and District Services Improvement Programs (SIPS), and other public resources through corrupt means and ways.

Furthermore, recentralisation of power in Waigani resulted in

the failed State of PNG because of poor leadership, management and governance at all levels of government; and loss of creativity and innovation that are critical to the development of our country.

PNG is now lagging way behind its peers in social and economic development, with a substantial and unsustainable public debt since independence in 1975.

CONCERNED CITIZEN

TONY GUAN, Kondan Baundo

TOK

Vote in new MPs in 2027

POWER hungry and corrupt politicians at Waigani are only interested in what they can get during their term as members of Parliament (MPs).

To do so, they have to control the national budget, military, police, correctional service and the law to their fullest extent, while preventing public discontent under the guise of public disorder and national security.

The democratic principles of freedom of expression and movement in Parliament has been serious compromised by all of the MPs, through power and control and corruption.

Parliament has even gone to the extent of using its Parliamentary Private Business Committee and making amendments to Section 145 on vote of no-confidence (VNOC), to block freedom of expression and movement in that House. The use of Parliamentary Private Business Committee to block a VONOC motion is illegal because the National Constitution does not provide for it. Only the Speaker can introduce or remove a VNOC motion.

The amendment to Section 145 to prevent further introduction

of a VNOC is absurd and does not make any logical sense, because it violates the very democratic principles enshrined in the National Constitution. Therefore, the amendment is also illegal.

Our politicians at Waigani have been around for too long and have become absurd and corrupt, while our nation and its people are suffering from all sorts of economic and social problems and issues. The high cost of doing business has severely affected business and investment while the

Who will fix deteriorating health system?

THE statement by a former PM delivers a harsh critique of the government’s spending priorities, and it’s right on the money.

The government’s decision to borrow K1 billion while healthcare suffers is a glaring example of their skewed priorities.

The fact that they’re borrowing K1 billion while our healthcare system is on the brink of collapse is a stark reminder of their callous disregard for the welfare of Papua New Guineans.

The latest borrowing spree, including K600 million for the ‘politically convenient’ Connect PNG program, is a clear example of their misplaced priorities.

It’s unacceptable that doctors and nurses are being forced to work without essential medicines, while

billions of kina are being allocated to questionable projects.

The Prime Minister’s comments about ‘doing more with less’ are not only insensitive but also out of touch with the reality on the ground.

The people of Papua New Guinea are suffering, and they deserve better.

The constant shortages of medicines and medical supplies have become a norm in our hospitals, and it’s heartbreaking to see patients suffering due to the government’s negligence.

As a former PM his experience and leadership are evident in his unwavering commitment to holding this government accountable.

MESHACH RAMBAMINAI

TELL US WHAT YOU THINK

high population growth rate has contributed to high unemployment and law and order problems. Corruption and miss-appropriation of public resources by our MPs have contributed to the mountain of unsustainable public debt. Yet PNG continues to beg for more aid and loan money from donors and multilateral institutions, just to feed its MPs.

It is now time to vote out all our current MPs in the 2027 national election.

CONCERNED CITIZEN

QUICK THOUGHTS

PNGDF HOSPITAL

There is a growing concern among the troops and the public at large over the non - performance and operational ineffectiveness of the hospital command resulting in the closure of the Taurama Military Hospital. The Taurama facility is the only main referral hospital serving troops in all Defence Force establishments, hence it’s closure is a serious concern for the entire Defence Force community. For public attention and accountability, the facility has been closed indefinitely for the past 3 years, to date, affecting the troops and the surrounding communities who relied heavily on the facility for basic dental and medical treatments. The reasons as to why the hospital has been

IMPROVE SERVICE

Our Highway in the Sky - Air Niugini has a very long way to go in improving its air services to the travelling public. There are far too many delayed flights and aircrafts not running on schedule. What the hell is going on with our Bikpla Balus. PX was born around the same time as the country achieved its political Independence. The question that begs an immediate answer is whether it will take Air Niugini another 50 years for

closed must be investigated and reported to the troops through the normal chain of command as deemed appropriate. Be it known that service personnel and other responsible stakeholders are entitled to free dental and medical treatments as part of their general terms and conditions of service which can not be undermined or denied otherwise. The fact that the closure of the Taurama facility has been forcing many service personnel and their families to seek treatment else where other than through the normal system, which is too costly and is putting alot of strain on them especially during this very difficult and challenging times.

FRUSTRATED DIGGER PORT MORESBY

them to improve. The frequency of flight cancellation and delays is a joke and now synonymous with PX. Where then is the trust from the people. Yet amidst all these they are now embarking on an ambitious project to bring in a new fleet of aircrafts. That’s plain nonsense. From Air Niugini to PNG Power, the list goes on , truly nothing to be proud about.

NUMUTOKA MOHO

Despite billions spent to improve services, there’s no progress

WE hear about the billions of kina being spent across the country whether to pay our bloated public service or to ‘Connect PNG’.

Yet despite these record expenditures, our beloved home is broke.

Our hospitals go without medicine. Our schools go without teachers. Our roads crumble and our communities struggle because of a lack of infrastructure.

Our State Owned Enterprises are unable to provide the services that they are mandated to provide.

Our law and order is declining rapidly with women and girls attacked constantly.

Domestic violence, Sorcery Related Violence and Ethnic violence all rage across the country at levels never seen before.

And our Courts are doing nothing to stop it because our legal system

is ineffective.

So what are our leaders doing about it? Sadly not enough. They are either complicit or complacent. Either way, the decline of our country is moving at a pace never seen before.

We continue to see spending at record levels. We continue to see waste at record levels. We continue to see a lack of accountability at record levels.

We see corruption embedded at every level of society which will take generations to eliminate if we ever can. And we see hundreds of foreign conmen embedded within our leadership facilitating the decline.

Our leaders stand up and celebrate all the things they believe are important in the hope that we believe them too. Yet when we look at our livelihoods, we know that things should be

better.

PNG should be a wealthy, healthy and educated society. Every one of our people should have access to better services, better support and have better lives. Our country is blessed with endless resources that if managed well, would make us the envy of the world.

Instead, we keep proving that PNG is only for the elites and the few that can get hold of power and get hold of our money.

We need good leaders to stand up and start to put our country on the right footing.

When our country is wealthy, everyone is wealthy. When our country is healthy, everyone is healthy.

A wonderful PNG shouldn’t be for a few. It should be for all. Lets start to get it there.

JOE TAU

Civic curriculum signed

Set to empower students against corruption

BY JOMELEEN PARI

A COMPREHENSIVE civic education curriculum designed to empower students against corruption will soon be rolled out nationally, following the signing of a third Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) and the National Department of Education.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Arrianne Kassman highlighted that the School-Based Civic Education (SBCE) project is a direct realisation of TIPNG’s mission to promote integrity.

The curriculum targets students from Grades 3 to 12, aiming to fill a critical gap in formal knowledge regarding Papua New Guinea’s democratic systems and

constitution—a need identified during a 2014 survey of Grade 10 students.

“The SBCE is not just a textbook. It is a comprehensive, multi-format toolkit,” Kassman said.

The resources include teacher guides, illustrated storybooks, posters on citizen rights, and an innovative Android application that challenges users with ethical dilemmas.

Supported by the Australian Government, this new phase focuses on updating materials and training teachers.

The ultimate objective is to cultivate active citizens who can effectively participate in governance, ensuring state agencies remain transparent and accountable to the National Goals and Directive Principles.

TIPNG, Education dept partner to roll out school based civic curriculum

TRANSPARENCY International

PNG (TIPNG) and the Department of Education signed a memorandum of understanding yesterday to launch the updating and national roll-out of the School Based Civic Education (SBCE) Curriculum, supported by the Australia-Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ).

The signing, which takes place in recognition of International Anti-Corruption Day (December 9), directly champions this year’s theme of “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.”

TIPNG’s SBCE Curriculum is an initiative that directly supports PNG’s National Goals and Directive Principles, particularly Goal 2 of Equality and Participation and Goal 5 relating to PNG Ways by promoting integrity and accountability in all sectors.

TIPNG CEO, Arianne Kassman said: “TIPNG’s vision is to foster a country where all citizens operate within the rule of law and are free from corruption and we are committed to this vision through the development of the School Based Civic Education Curriculum. We want to cultivate a population that participates more effectively in governance so that state agencies are made accountable, act transparently and always use state resources in achieving greater levels of national development.”

This new MoU, spanning 20252028, initiates the critical phase of updating the materials and executing the full national roll-out of the School Based Civic Education (SBCE) Curriculum. This agreement is built upon a long-standing, phased partnership with the Department of Education. The department has been a committed partner since

1998, when TIPNG first embarked on its mission to promote civic education in PNG.

The two preceding MoUs focused specifically on the initial development and subsequent trialing of the SBCE materials, paving the way for the nationwide implementation now under way.

TIPNG acknowledges the Australian government, through APLJ, for its sustained support throughout the curriculum’s development, trialling, and updating phases. The partnership with the DoE and the Australian Government is crucial for the successful implementation and national reach of this vital education program.

“The signing of this MoU is a decisive step toward turning our successful School Based Civic Education Project into a national movement. This partnership,

solidified in recognition of International Anti-Corruption Day, is an investment in the young population.

We are placing the tools of active citizenship directly into the hands of our young people, teaching them not just what their rights are, but how to use them to ensure good governance.

We are raising a generation of a more transparent and accountable Papua New Guineans, one student at a time,” said Ms Kassman.

The SBCE curriculum, that has been trialled in several provinces, is a comprehensive, multi-format toolkit designed for Grades 3 through 12.

These resources, which include a Teacher Resource Book, an Android Application with ethical dilemmas, and posters on civic concepts, address topics such as human rights, active citizenship, conflict of interest, and democracy.

Erema FODE institution in Arawa hosts 5th graduation

BY PETERSON TSERAHA

EREMA FODE Centre, a private FODE (Flexible Open and Distance Education) institution in Arawa, Central Bougainville, hosted its 5th graduation ceremony on Tuesday December 9, at the Tupukas Primary School hall in Arawa.

Publicly described as one of Arawa’s success stories, when it comes to privately run schools, Erema Fode successfully graduated 112 Grade 12s, and 33 Grade 10 students and out of the 112 grade 12 students 62 received their offers straight on the spot.

With their motto “Educate all, leave no one behind”, and the theme “Building human resources for independent Bougainville”. Two very inspiring phrases which has now motivated young youths to enroll.

About four students got accepted into a flying school to become pilots, another two to become aircraft engineers and others got accepted into other tertiary institutions.

Present at the graduation ceremony was Henry Potabu, Minister for Lands and Physical Planning and member for North Nasioi where the school is located, Member for Ioro David Miringtoro, Blaise Nauvana school board chairman, Michael Otoroa from Kieta district, School coordinator Micah Tanis schools co-founder Gilbert Saike and special guest from

Pariwa aims to rebuild human resource capacity

GOVERNOR of Madang, Ramsey Pariwa has pledged his support to address the issues faced by the displaced Manam Islanders, starting with building their human resource capacity going forward.

The Governor said during the presentation of a K218,200 cheque to the new Fr Frank Zuccolo Memorial Manam High School at the Potsdam care centre in Bogia District of Madang over the weekend, He said due to their situation and unavailability of land, human resource would be the solution to empower the people of Manam and to improve their living standards.

“I am confident that human resource will bring Manam forward,” Pariwa said.

“With the current situation, we all know that there is no other way Manam people can sustain themselves, except through human resource and that can be achieved if we invest in the education of our children.

“I have realised that there is potential in our young generation because I’ve come across many educated Manam Islanders living and working in both PNG and abroad.“Many of them household names in Madang Town, Port Moresby and elsewhere.

“So, we will cultivate Human Resource for the people of Manam from today going forward in the next 50 years and beyond,” Pariwa said. Pariwa had made an undertaking to consider Manam students attending in tertiary institutions under the Provincial Government’s Sir Peter Barter Scholarship school fee subsidy scheme.

Board Chairman of the school, Mr Gabriel Sila, in a very moving speech, reminded Governor Pariwa of the hardships they have faced while trying to ensure that their children pursue education and make it in life.

the National FODE office in Port Moresby Herunu Kanina.

Mr Saike recalled the school’s founding days which was more than a challenge.

“Micah Tanis was a teacher at Arawa Secondary School I was teaching at Bana High School we decided to quit our teaching jobs, sacrifice ourselves and start Erema FODE Centre because we felt sorry for kids being kicked out by the system roaming around,” he said.

“We had no place to start a school and some how we found a place here at section 16 Arawa way back in 2021 and our school chairman Blaise Nauvana happens to be our landlord too and was very generous to us.

“How our students survived is a broken-hearted story, after classes they would go push wheel barrows at

the market place to get extra money for themselves its so sad but their sacrifices have now brought them this far.”Mr Kanina from FODE headquarters in Port Moresby, told the students failure is not an option as FODE is another alternative to further their studies.

“In a parable we can simply say two seeds get planted one in a good place and one in a rocky dump which one will grow? Certainly, the one that was planted in the rubbish dump and that is you right now graduating students.

“Students who were educated through the conventional system and went out to the work force have never experienced life and the toughness of life as students in FODE that toughness and your suffering will make to a productive

professional in the workforce,” he said.

Mr Potabu thanked the school founders and said that most times the government ignores private schools which he himself says is wrong.

“This school is in my constituency and as a member I cannot just sit down and watch but I have to do something,” Mr Potabu said.

He wasted no time but secured land for the new campus and also committed funds to the school and more importantly, he himself is the deputy chairman of central Bougainville DDA.

“As someone influential with the office of the member for Central Bougainville we will certainly assist with students school fees.” Mr Potabu said.

“As Chairman, what I am going to say is a sad story for us Manam people especially our children,” Sila said.“There was a situation that has happened and one of our kids lost his life and this has driven us to work towards what you see before you, a school of our own and we are so proud having come this far,” he said.“Even though we had no money, we has parents gave support in whatever little way we could and the Yabu Local Level Government stepped in and helped to build this school,” Sila said.

He concluded that they still need classrooms, teachers’ houses, clean drinking water and sanitation and electricity source to ensure effective operation of the new Manam High School.

Madang Provincial Education Director, Mr. Alphonse Igag, who also attended the program and took note of the school boards concern of registration, assured the board and management that the issue will be sorted out before school starts next year.

Former Madang Governor, James Yali, who accompanied Governor Pariwa to the program also stressed on the struggles of the Manam people since the eruption in 2004.

“Governor, in 2004 you were in secondary school when the eruption occurred and I know you understand their issue well,” Yali told Pariwa.

“Manam people are resilient and very intelligent because their cultural structure made them so.

“If we don’t sort out Manam issue, then we will still have problems as they have been disadvantaged for the past 20 plus years,” Yali said.

Ms. Kassman showing one of the participants workbook. PICTURE: JOMELEEN PARI

EREMA FODE Centre graduating students with teachers and invited guests after the ceremony.

Study tour deepens jail service partnership

PNG and Australia are strengthening cooperation in correctional services, with a recent study tour to New South Wales marking an important step in the long-standing partnership.

Over the course of a week, a delegation from PNG Correctional Services (PNGCS) stood side by side with their Australian counterparts in New South Wales (NSW), gaining practical insights to support safer, more resilient correctional institutions in PNG.

Supported through the Australia -- PNG Law and Justice Partnership

and hosted by Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW), the program strengthened professional networks and showcased Australian approaches to managing correctional facilities, detainee rehabilitation, staff development, and prison industries.

Participants visited a number of major sites in NSW that demonstrated how jail facilities can work to keep people safe while also treating inmates fairly, equipping them with job skills and routines, and supporting pathways for community

reintegration. Participants noted appreciation for the opportunity to learn from these diverse correctional models, and gain inspiration to strengthen PNGCS capability.

PNG acting Commissioner Bernard Nepo said: “Sometimes words can’t do justice to how valuable an experience is.

The study tour has given us new ideas, new confidence and a stronger connection with our Australian counterparts.”

The study tour reflects Australia’s commitment to supporting a

professional, resilient, and capable correctional service in PNG.

Australia is proud to support PNG Correctional Service officers.

These exchanges are helping lay the foundation for a long-term partnership that strengthens systems in both countries.

The visit forms part of a broader effort to establish a sustained partnership between PNGCS and CSNSW, including future staff exchanges, training and avenues for long-term joint capability development.

Xmas Under the Stars returns, strengthening Hilton’s support

THE much-loved Christmas Under the Stars for Charity is back on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel and Residences.

This is the event’s seventh year of bringing the community together for a night of festive spirit, music and giving.

This year, Hilton Port Moresby proudly continues its partnership with the WeCare Foundation, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the organisation’s lifechanging work with vulnerable communities across Port Moresby.

The decision to support WeCare for a second consecutive year follows Hilton’s involvement in several of the foundation’s outreach projects throughout 2025.

General manager of Hilton Port Moresby Ryan Mikkelson said that the festive evening has become more than just a Christmas evening it becomes a tradition of giving back.

“Our Christmas Under the Stars event has become more than a festive evening, it’s a tradition of giving back.

“We’ve seen the impact of WeCare’s work first-hand and it’s an honour to help them continue their mission of hope and empowerment,” he said.

THE Australian Government-funded Burnet Institute provides basic PNG sign language training for staff, partners, community leaders and parents of children living with a communication related disability. The sign language training was initiated by Burnet’s Western Province Disability Inclusion Champions, a group of staff volunteers across the organisation, many with lived experiences of disabilities. The initiative aims to ensure all members of the community are included in tuberculosis (TB) screening care and treatment by integrating sign language skills. Disability Inclusion Champions member Merlyn Siware, said PNG sign language is a crucial tool for disability inclusion, not only in Western Province but also across the country.

“Sign language is a unique form of communication that uses hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey letters, words, and sentences,” she said.

“To effectively communicate in sign language, both parties must understand it, which promotes inclusivity and better communication. Sign language allows people to fully exercise their freedom of expression and access information.”

Through skills development and awareness, the initiative improves TB care and empowers individuals, families, and the community to bridge communication gaps and build a more inclusive society for the future.

New Human Rights Day video highlights PNGs effort to stop SARV

A NEW five-minute video was released on December 10 – on Human Rights Day – that showcases how Papua New Guinean leaders, police, civil society organisations and communities, are working together to stop sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV), protect survivors, and bring perpetrators to justice.

supporting women, children, and people with special needs, those most vulnerable in the communities.

Over the years, WeCare has expanded its reach through programs provided such as educational support, early childhood learning, empowerment workshops, and special needs support.

The event will take place from 5pm to 8pm in the Hilton Banquet Halls and is open to the public.

Entry is by bringing donations in kind or purchasing K5 raffle tickets, with all proceeds going directly to the WeCare Foundation.

The evening will feature live choirs, local musicians, dance entertainment and a special visit from Santa Claus, making it a joyful celebration for all ages.

Over the past six years, Hilton’s Christmas Under the Stars has raised more than K100,000 for local charities, and this year promises to continue that legacy of giving and goodwill.

Hilton Port Moresby warmly invites everyone; families, local businesses and individuals to come together under the stars, for charity and from the heart.

Supported through the PNGAus Partnership, the video features powerful stories and footage drawn from recent SARV forums and leaders’ summits held across Bougainville, the Upper Highlands and the Lower Highlands. These events brought together frontline responders, law and justice agencies, survivor advocates, and political leaders who are driving practical, community-led solutions to this deadly form of violence in PNG.

In the Highlands, provincial and district leaders joined long-standing civil society organisations, including the Rural Women Development Foundation (RWDF), the Highlands Women’s Human Rights Defenders Movement, Kafe Urban Settlers Women’s Association (KUSWA) and Kup Women for Peace (KWP), to develop coordinated strategies to respond to SARV.

“SARV destroys lives, communities, and development. But with united leadership and community-driven solutions, we can stop its spread,” said Eriko Fufurefa, Director of KUSWA, who is featured in the video.

Through the PNGAus Partnership, new SARV and gender-based violence workstations were also handed over to police to improve case handling and survivor support.

PNG Correctional Service (PNGCS) Acting Commissioner Bernard Nepo (far-left) and New South Wales Correctional Service Commissioner Gary McMahon (secondleft) with other senior PNGCS officers during the study tour. PICTURE: AUSTRALIAN HIGH COMMISSION.

WeCare Foundation was founded in 2007 by Fr John Glyn, a Catholic priest and humanitarian. The foundation focuses on

THE sixth Christmas under the stars charity event last year at the Hilton Hotel Port Moresby. PICTURE: SUPPLIED

Planting seeds of faith

BY RAYMOND AARON

ADYNAMIC team of over 30 young people, including dedicated Volunteer in Action (VIA) Missionaries, local pastors, and ministers, started a transformative development effort at Dawadawa village in the Huhu Local Level Government area of Alotau District.

This project, rooted in the spirit of Total Member Involvement (TMI), focuses on establishing a significant cocoa and coconut plantation. The youth have been actively clearing the bush and setting the stage for what leaders’ hope will become a sustainable financial backbone for the Northern Milne Bay Mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA).

Dawadawa village, located at Dawadawa Ward, is the initial site for this ambitious agricultural plan, marking a strategic shift towards holistic empowerment and financial independence for the mission field, ensuring local resources support local gospel work.

The first major milestone has just been reached with the successful completion of the cocoa greenhouse.

The team proudly announced that they have strategically placed 2,360 poly bags in line within the newly finished nursery structure, preparing them for the delicate cocoa seedlings.

This critical infrastructure represents the future of the 10-hectare cocoa project planned for the Dawadawa land. In addition to the cocoa, the team has also arranged 1,000 coconut seedlings in an outdoor field nursery,

underscoring the project's dual focus on rehabilitating existing coconut plantations alongside developing the high-value cocoa crop. This physical labour by the youth demonstrates a powerful commitment, transforming mission strategy into tangible, on-the-ground reality, a clear illustration of TMI in action as the church membership works together to build a future.

Minister Wonern Hirodidi, the District Director of the Alotau District SDA Church of the Northern Milne Bay Mission (of the PNG Union Mission), shared his immense excitement during the interview, noting his 12 years of continuous service in the mission field. Minister Hirodidi confessed, "I am excited in every facet— physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually."

He clearly articulated that the core purpose of driving the Northern Milne Bay Mission is "Holistic sustainable empowerment and development." The decision to launch the Dawadawa plantation project, he explained, was a direct and necessary response to the financial situation facing the mission. By putting their hands to the plough and focusing on the rehabilitation of coconuts and the development of cocoa, the mission aims to create opportunities that empower both the church and the community, securing the long-term viability of the gospel outreach across the Northern Milne Bay Mission.

The vision championed by Minister Wonern Hirodidi is not restricted to Dawadawa’s borders. He confirmed that while the

initial strategic focus is on the 10 hectares of land in Dawadawa for the cocoa project, the mission is actively pursuing expansion through generous land donations from faithful church members and the community. "We are not only focusing on the Dawadawa cocoa project plantation," he said.

"People are giving land to the mission for cocoa and other projects." He specifically mentioned plans to develop other areas, citing the potential for projects like the 10 hectares of land in Gumini , 30 hectares in Abeu, and 200 hectares in Koiagaru. This shows a bold, regionwide plan to tap into agricultural development as a sustainable funding model, ensuring the gospel message has the necessary financial support to reach every corner of the vast Northern Milne Bay Mission field, making development a tool for evangelism.

Minister Hirodidi further clarified the phased development plan and the ultimate goal for mission sustainability. "Today our focus, we develop firstly Dawadawa, then next to Gumini, Abeu and Koiagaru" he stated, outlining a clear path forward. He emphasised that developing these agricultural opportunities serves a dual purpose: creating opportunities for community members and church members, and most critically, to sustain the mission itself.

He shared the exciting news that the revenue generated from these projects will allow the mission to employ God's workers, including the VIA, pastors, and ministers who tirelessly serve the Northern Milne Bay Mission. This self-

sustaining approach ensures that local resources finance local ministry, providing job security and enabling dedicated staff to focus on their spiritual duties without being constrained by unpredictable mission budgets.

Representing the local community's perspective and the practical implementation side, Mr. Lester Toukma, the Agriculturist Co-Ordinator of the Cocoa Project Plantation, elaborated on the current financial struggles and the strategic importance of Dawadawa.

He briefly but frankly stated that the Northern Milne Bay Mission is financially struggling, making the development of the Dawadawa land essential for mission survival. "Dawadawa is one project that will sustain the mission," he affirmed.

Mr. Toukma explained that the plan is for Dawadawa to change the mission's financial trajectory by becoming a consistent revenue stream through the rehabilitation of the coconut plantation and the extensive cocoa project. This commitment to developing and rehabilitating the land underscores the mission’s faith in agriculture as a long-term, viable solution, moving away from over-reliance on external funding and embedding a culture of self-support within the church structure.

Mr. Toukma passionately described how these agricultural opportunities and services will be extended to benefit both church members and the wider community. His vision is to actively encourage them to grow cocoa and develop their own portions of land. This empowerment is designed to

help families support themselves financially, which, in turn, will allow them to faithfully return their tithes and offerings to the church.

He highlighted the beautiful synergy: when community members thrive economically, the church's financial health also improves, creating a positive feedback loop that strengthens the entire local body of Christ.

He sees this project as a direct path to fulfilling the mission of the church by teaching practical skills that improve lives and support spiritual growth, demonstrating that good stewardship extends from the land to the church treasury.

Concluding his remarks, Mr. Toukma shared his goal to elevate Dawadawa beyond just a plantation—to transform it into a regional model of excellence. He plans to achieve this through comprehensive practical efforts, including conducting workshops, training sessions, and field management programs.

"My plan is Dawadawa will become a model," he stated firmly. These training initiatives will ensure that church members are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills for successful land development. The ultimate goal is for members to not only raise tithes and offerings but to become advocates for sustainable agriculture, thereby extending the mission work and influence of the Seventh-day Adventist Church across the entire Northern Milne Bay Mission territory, establishing a lasting legacy of economic empowerment and spiritual dedication.

Milne Bay’s future blooms! Over 30 youth, ministers, pastors and Volunteers in Action youths gather by their new cocoa greenhouse, symbolising a vibrant TMI project planting sustainability for the Mission and community.

David Dege: A teacher’s journey

AMAN'S determination and commitment to better himself has freed him from the rugged mountains of Sinesine district in Chimbu Province.

“I come from a very remote and rugged landscape of Silma village in the Kere tribe of Sinesine district, Chimbu Province. My people believe and value education as the main resource to change our living standards.”

These are words of David Dege after graduating from Papua New Guinea Education Institute with bachelor’s degree in School Leadership and Management on December 2, 2025.

The journey to reach this moment was not an easy one for David. He started grade one at Silma Community School in 1988 and completed grade six in 1996. He continued to Muaina High School, now secondary school where he started his grade 7.

“I was a day student I woke up 4am every morning and walked to school and returned home at 5pm every Monday to Friday. I could not be a boarding student due to school fees problem as my parents were subsistence farmers,” David recalled with sadness in his eyes.

Midway in Grade 7, David could not keep up with the routine and transferred to live with his maternal uncle and attended Gumine High School because his uncle’s village was close to the school. He completed grade 10 in 1997 and did not get any offer and went back to his village.

“I lived for some years in the village, but village life was so difficult, so I decided to leave the village and went to Lae to stay with my uncle and work as shopkeeper and earned K60 fortnight,” David said.

However, one day he had a disagreement with his uncle, and he was fired from the shop by his uncle and returned to Chimbu. While in the village David’s desire to continue his education grew more as he saw the hardship faced in the village.

“While in the village I was planning to repeat grade 10 so I asked my mother to sell one of her pigs. My amazing mother sold one of her pigs and gave me K600. I took the money and walked all the way from my village to Doliba High School in Karimui-Salt Nomane district to enroll myself in Grade 10,” he completed his schooling successfully and continued to do grade 11 and 12 at Yauwe Moses Secondary and graduated in 2004.

After Grade 12, David did not get any offer from the tertiary institutions he applied to. That was a setback for him, but his elder brother Tobby Kiage brought him to Port Moresby in 2005 to help him find employment and other study opportunities.

David worked as a security guard for an Asian company in 2006 and he never gave up on his dream of furthering his education, in 2007 his application to Holy Trinity Teacher’s College in Mt Hagen was successful and he left Port Moresby to pursue his dreams.

“My early education was struggles and challenges due to limited resources, but I had teachers who went the extra mile to make learning meaningful. Seeing their dedication made me understand the impact a teacher can have, and it motivated me to follow the same path and contribute positively to the next generation,” David said.

David still encountered tuition fee challenges, but he was able to pull through with little he saved from his security job and support from family members. He was grateful for living with Michael Miamel and his family while attending class as day student. David graduated with Diploma in Primary Teaching and secured a teaching position in Chimbu. He served there from 2010 to 2016 and transferred to Central Province in 2017.

David’s desire to further his qualification did not stop. In 2024 he received support from Central Provincial Government and was released from Central Provincial Division of Education to go for studies at PNG Education Institute.

“I wanted to improve my knowledge, skills, and professionalism so I could deliver better lessons and be more effective in the classroom. Studying while teaching allowed me to apply innovative ideas immediately and grow both academically and professionally,” David said.

David said the different education structures and changes happening meant all teachers must upgrade their qualifications to meet the changes. Now with a degree in hand, he feels his job is secure and it has given him greater confidence and deeper understanding of different teaching strategies.

His approach to lessons now is more creative and focused on student centred learning. It has also reaffirmed his belief and his community’s that education is indeed a powerful tool for prosperity.

DAVID Dege (second left) with fellow graduands from PNG Education Institute graduation on 2 December, 2025.

WHO drives awareness on AMR

THE consequences of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are a grave concern for the World Health Organisation (WHO), where medicines such as antibiotics, designed to kill bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites are no longer effective. This makes infections harder to treat, poses a major global public health threat, and can make common medical procedures more dangerous.

With that WHO promotes awareness of AMR, by holding annually, the AMR Awareness Week, held from November 18th – 24th emphasising on the key message that AMR is a huge threat, driven by the overuse/misuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and agriculture, requiring ‘One Health’ action from everyone.

In East New Britain Province (ENBP) the Nonga Provincial Hospital staff from the

‘Wok Bung Wantaim’ photos feature in photographic exhibition

THE Wok Bung Wantaim (working together) independence photographic exhibition has now opened at the Kokopo Museum (Historical Society of East New Britain), following its display at the National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG). It will be on display until February 2026.

Wok bung wantaim features 30 archival photographs from the National Archives of Australia (NAA) collection, capturing the spirit of independence celebrations and the path that led to it. The exhibition is a tribute to the architects of independence and the people of Papua New Guinea.

This exhibition is part of the Yumi Stap Wantaim campaign (we stand together), Australia’s contribution to celebrating PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence, honouring the close and enduring partnership between the two countries.

Kokopo Museum Curator, Rachel Nyohang said: “We’re delighted to bring Wok Bung Wantaim to Kokopo, sharing a story that not only honours the architects of independence but also invites audiences to reflect on the intertwined histories of Australia and Papua New Guinea.”

The National Archives of Australia’s (NAA) Curator of Public Programs, Dr Anna Edmundson shared the sentiment saying: “The exhibition celebrates the people, places, and moments that shaped Papua New Guinea's independence. It’s also a testament to the power of collaboration across institutions and borders.”

The photographs were jointly selected during a curatorial workshop with the NAA in May 2025, involving representatives from NMAG, the National Broadcasting Corporation, the Institute of Papua New Guinea Studies, the Office of Libraries and Archives. This collaborative process reflects the exhibition’s title -- working together -- and shared memory.

pharmacy and pathology sections, joined many around the world, commemorating the Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW). Laboratory manageress, Miriam Tololo, leading the team on the awareness, said that, more stress must be on awareness, about antibiotics becoming resistant due to the different factors involved. “We want to promote awareness of AMR to educate the public, health workers, and policy makers, about the threat of microbes becoming resistant to medicines, leading to untreatable infections,” she said. “The awareness is in line with WHO campaign on taking action on careful antibiotic

use, improving hygiene, and advocating for policy changes to combat AMR, which has become a growing global health crisis affecting humans, animals, and the environment.”

Mrs Tololo said, in ENBP, more effort is also placed on discouraging street sellers from selling antimicrobial drugs that accelerates antimicrobial resistance in the inappropriate use, incorrect dosages, and poorquality medicines.

“The street sellers are not medical trained and cannot prescribe medication.

NONGA hospital staff from the pharmacy and laboratory sections who were actively involved in the AMR Awareness. PICTURE SUPPLIED.

ENB moves to strengthen law and order

BY DIANNE WILSON

EAST New Britain Governor Michael Marum says the new RPNGC single quarters at Toguata Police Barracks will play a key role in improving policing services across the province.

Speaking during the opening on Tuesday, Mr Marum said the province was pushing forward with major investments that required a strong and well-supported police force.

The facility, delivered under the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership, includes nine rooms for female officers, with the male quarters to be completed next week. They form part of a K21 million national housing upgrade supporting the RPNGC’s rebuilding program.

He extended appreciation to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP), emphasising the importance of collaborative support.

“On behalf of the East New Britain Provincial Government and our people, I extend our heartfelt appreciation… This is a significant investment in strengthening law and order, and a strong reflection of the long-standing cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Australia.”

He said quality housing directly contributes to improved morale and performance among police officers.

“Today's opening marks more than just the completion of a building. It represents our commitment to improving the welfare, morale, and operational readiness of our hardworking police officers,” Governor Marum said. “Quality accommodation is an essential foundation that allows officers to

perform their duties confidently, safely and effectively.”

He highlighted the ENB Provincial Police Improvement Program as part of the government’s broader focus on supporting policing through infrastructure, logistics, community engagement and sector coordination.

“This new facility complements these efforts and strengthens the delivery of policing services from Gazelle to Pomio, from Rabaul to Kokopo.”

Mr Marum also praised Australia’s continued assistance to policing in PNG.

“I want to particularly acknowledge the PNG-Australia partnership… Projects like this reflect the deep and enduring friendship between our two countries.”

He issued a reminder of police personnel’s responsibility to safeguard the facility and uphold professionalism.

“I urge you to care for this new accommodation, uphold the highest standards of discipline, and continue to serve our people with pride and integrity.”

Mr Marum reiterated the province’s commitment to working with the RPNGC as the province experiences growth in tourism, business and infrastructure.

“We will continue working closely with RPNGC to ensure East New Britain is a safe and peaceful province,” he said.

Deputy Commander for NGI, Chief Inspector Gordon Magum, acknowledged ENB’s support, particularly the water tanks provided by Mr Marum’s office and the bore water project funded by Gazelle MP and Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong.

PNG-APP Commander Jamie Strauss (left) and Deputy Commander for NGI Chief Inspector Gordon Magum officially opening the new RPNGC Female Single quarters at the Toguata Police Barracks, Baliora on Tuesday. PICTURE BY DIANNE WILSON.

Police receive festive support from firm

BY ROBERT TIKI

POLICE in Mt Hagen Western Highlands Province have received timely support from CHEC, China Harbour Engineering Company, in preparation for their Christmas operations.

The management of CHEC presented cartons of soft

drinks, office desks and chairs, a printer, and other office equipment to the provincial police as a gesture of appreciation and to boost morale during the festive period.

Western Highlands Provincial Police Commander, Chief Superintendent John Sagom, expressed gratitude to CHEC

for recognising the efforts of the police.

“This is a timely donation as we prepare for our Christmas operations,” he said, noting that the office equipment will significantly assist in administrative tasks, including document printing and so on.

Chief Supt Sagom highlighted the collaborative relationship

between the police and development operators in the province.“We work closely with developers to ensure a safe and secure environment, facilitating development in our town and the province. Police are ready to support and safeguard potential investors seeking to conduct business in Mt Hagen.”

Rapa urges students to be vigilant after graduation

BY ROBERT TIKI

WESTERN Highlands Province

Governor Wai Rapa has urged students not to get involved in consuming alcohol and attend parties after the graduation.

Mr Rapa made the call during the 21st Grade 12 graduation and the opening of the 4-in-1 classroom at Mt Hagen Park Secondary School on Friday. He told 369 Grade 12 students to be vigilant and stay away from social gatherings that involve alcohol because because sometimes it turns nasty.Mr Rapa said students must stay with their parents after the graduation and help them with gardening and other

worthwhile things rather than roaming around doing nothing.

He also revealed that his government will build classrooms for secondary and high schools in the province.

Mr Rapa said the Western Highlands Provincial Government has carried out a pilot project by building a 4-1 classroom valued at cost of K500,000 for Hagen Park Secondary.”Similar classroom infrastructure will be built at other schools as well,” he said.

Mr Rapa said the Western Highlands Provincial Government has further outlined plans to develop new and improved infrastructure for Mt Hagen Secondary School,

Paglum Secondary School, and all other secondary and high schools in the province ensuring

Enga provincial treasurer penalised for defaming local MP

THE treasurer for Enga Province’s three-year sentence was suspended and a twoyear good behaviour bond was imposed on him with a K5000 fine to pay, for defaming Kompiam-Ambum MP Sir John Pundari.

Nathan Lapakio, 53, from Laiagam, Kompiam-Ambum district in Enga Province found to have written in a WhatsApp group that voters be cautious to “vote for senior statesman John Thomas Pundari, 25 years MP for Kompiam-Ambum. My district, my rules, no roads. I

will buy you cars, fight more, reduce the population, low living standards- at least you can survive, 2022 national elections”.

The National Court presided by Justice Laura Wawun-Kuvi ordered Lapakio should pay his fine within a month from December 10, 2025 (the day the order was made)“While freedom of speech is enshrined in the Constitution, citizens have a responsibility that their speech does not allow for the publication of untrue defamatory and scandalous

statements against others,” Justice Wawun-Kuvi said.

On March 18, 2022, Lapakio “intentionally posted defamatory material in the form of an image, similar to a campaign poster, on the Brothers’ Club WhatsApp Messenger application group”.

The image was a picture of Sir John surrounded by the words: “Vote for senior statesman John Thomas Pundari, 25 years MP for Kompiam-Ambum. My district, my rules, no roads. I will buy you cars, fight more, reduce the

long-term progress and better learning environments for every student.

population, low living standards- at least you can survive, 2022 national elections.”

He was found guilty of defamation following a trial.

He was convicted of cyber defamation the Cybercrime Code Act and later sentenced to 3 years imprisonment on December 10, 2025.

“Sir John suffered humiliation, shame and stress over the defamatory material, especially when it was made during the election period” Justice Wawun-Kuvi said.

Western Highlands Provincial Police Commander, Chief Superintendent John Sagom (Centre), with fellow officers, pose with CHEC staff in Mt Hagen following the donation presentation at the CHEC office (Mt Hagen) on Tuesday.PICTURE: ROBERT TIKI

The graduating grade 12 students of Hagen Park Secondary during the graduation on Friday. PICTURE : SUPPLIED

Gazelle district gives K50 000 towards Catholic Archdiocese of Rabaul

GAZELLE district in East New Britain Province came to the aid of the Catholic Archdiocese of Rabaul with K50,000.

The money was presented earlier this week to the Archbishop Rochus Tatamai, purposely for the sainthood celebration of St Peter Torot, which is currently under way in the province, from December 11-14, 2025.

Gazelle District Chief Executive Officer Hubert Wangun presented the money on behalf of Mr Wong, who is

also the National Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister.

When presenting the money, Mr Wangun said that Rakunai was the birthplace of St Peter Torot which is in Gazelle district and it was fitting to give to a greater cause.

He said the money is purposely to host the event and cater for more than 2000 visitors with Paparatava, Vunadidir and Napapar 2 parishes also hosting some of the visitors.

Archbishop Tatamai was grateful for the kind gesture,

labelling it as an investment and not a donation.

He said the money would go back to the people for vehicle and accommodation use and for food supplies.

He said the money would be given back to the people through such manner.

Bishop Tatamai commended Mr Wong for his thoughtfulness towards supporting the work of the church.

“We have 2000 people on record coming in for the event, which we have funded. However, we

have others who will come on their own. If they come, they have to stay somewhere, eat somewhere and travel to and from and this money would go towards assisting them.”

He said that it was good but also a challenge for the communities, who were urged to be prepared to receive the pilgrims on arrival.

Bishop Tatamai also assured the district that their financial department would produce an acquittal report on how the funds would be spent.

ABG signs Project Charter

THE Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has signed a project charter with the Government of Australia, through its Transport Sector Support Program (TSSP3), and the Department of Works and Highways (DOWH) to start major upgrades on the Bougainville Trunk Road.

The project will see the upgrade and sealing of the road from Irung Bridge to Ramazon Bridge, including drainage, pavement, surfacing, safety, and ancillary works. The signing was witnessed by representatives from the TSSP3 program, the Australian High Commission, the ABG Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei and the Secretary for the Department of Works and Highways Gibson Holemba.

Dr Cate Rogers, Minister Counsellor for Economics and Infrastructure at the Australian High Commission in PNG, reaffirmed Australia’s continued support to Bougainville’s infrastructure priorities.

“Today marks a practical step in progressing a commitment by the Australian Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Hon Pat Conray, and that was a commitment to upgrade and seal an 8.4km section of Bougainville trunk road. Since that announcement, Australia, the Department of Works and Highways and the ABG have worked closely to refine the arrangements for implementation,” Dr Rogers said.

“This investment moves beyond routine maintenance to upgrading the trunk road in line with national standards,

improving durability, safety, and long-term serviceability. It also aligns with the broader work being explored by Australia, national DOWH and the ABG to progressively improve remaining unsealed sections of the corridor overtime.”Mr Nanei welcomed the strengthened cooperation and emphasised the region’s priorities for improved connectivity through quality infrastructure. He thanked Australia for its longstanding partnership throughout Bougainville’s peace and development process.

Mr Nanei also acknowledged the contributions being made under the PNG Connect Program, adding: “The road will have transformational impact; it is something that will transform connectivity and accessibility

for people, farmers, business community.”

Mr Holemba also acknowledged the partnership between his department, the Government of Australia and the ABG, and described the charter as a critical framework guiding infrastructure delivery in Bougainville.

“The project charter is key in terms of how we want to administer projects in Bougainville in terms of the arrangements that we have now with the existing governance structure both the National Government and the ABG plus partners like TSSP,” he said.

Mr Holemba also acknowledged the ongoing challenge of road maintenance and thanked TSSP for its commitment through routine maintenance programs.

“This project charter is very key in how we want to administer projects in Bougainville in terms of the arrangements that we have now with the existing governance structure both the National Government and the ABG plus partners like TSSP.”

Mr Holemba also honoured the late Minister for Works, Hon. Solan Mirisim, describing him as a leader who “fought hard for Bougainville”, and announced that he had secured funds under the Connect PNG Program for Bougainville’s infrastructure projects.

“In the current budget he secured 0.5per cent of tax credit funding to specifically go to infrastructure projects for Bougainville so that’s in the Appropriation Act in the budget that was passed,” he said.

Regional workshops on bougainville’s Independence-readiness

A SERIES of regional workshops are being held across Bougainville to present findings on Bougainvilleans’ understanding of the independence-readiness benchmarks.

The Workshops led by the Nazareth Centre for Rehabilitation with support from UNFPA make up this initiative called the ‘Bougainville Voices’.

The workshops present consolidated findings collected through community dialogue sessions across all regions in Bougainville and are designed to assist planning and decisionmaking for the Bougainville leadership at both the political and administrative level.

ABG Secretary for Department of Bougainville Independence

Mission Implementation Ms.

Stephanie Elizah in giving an overview of the workshop held in Buka last week, acknowledged the ABG Members and the CG chairladies for making time to attend, adding that the presentation by Bougainville Voices is important and the information is collected based on the current parliamentary motion on ‘The Bougainville Independence Ready Mission Motion’.

“This is the first of three regional meetings that will take place in North, Central and South Bougainville and I thank you, our Honourable ABG Members and Community Government Chairladies for being present to receive this important information,” she said.The six independence-

readiness benchmarks set by the ABG for all constituencies are Law and Order, Governance, Social Services, Human Resource Development, Economic Development, Health and Standard of Living.

Ms Elizah said that the motion tasks Bougainvilleans with progressing these benchmarks.

In welcoming the Bougainville Voices to present their findings, she acknowledged the independent initiative taken in collecting data on what Bougainvilleans’ perspective of independence-readiness.

“For the first time, we have an independent, neutral factfinding feedback from our people to tell us the independence ready committees which is made up of the ward members and the constituency member, on how

we are performing, at the same time it is this feedback from Bougainville Voices that will help to identify where the issues are and how we each as leaders from each constituency can work around those challenges,” she said.According to the report, Bougainville Voices conducted a series of 26 participatory community dialogues across 13 districts of AROB, reaching 692 participants, nearly half of whom were women.

Rebecca Kessin, Program Coordinator for UNFPA Community Dialogues who is also an Advocacy Coordinator for NCFR (Gender Programs), when presenting the report emphasised that the presence of the leaders was important and the need for the findings to inform practical action.

(from L-R) Secretary for National Works & Highways Gibson Holemba; ABG Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei; Minister Counsellor for Economics and Infrastructure Australian High Commission in PNG Dr Cate Rogers; and TSSP3 Acting Team Leader Ashan Numa at the project charter signing at the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby

THE LONG THE WALK FOR A BOOK A

A little bit shy, but a very brave Shenien Tyson of Sebutuia village on Fergusson Island.

THE LONG WALK FOR A BOOK

BY SCHOLAR KASSAS

THE surroundings of the remote, mountainous Sebutuia village on Fergusson Island are quiet.

Here, in the Milne Bay province, the sounds of modern civilisation, the roar of cars, the hum of machinery, or the distant strum of a town are unheard.

Life is dictated by the rhythm of nature: waves crashing on the beach, the birds chirping in the canopy, and the steady rush of the nearby river and waterfall.

This is a place rich in natural abundance, surrounded by lush greenery, teeming ocean, and fertile soil that produces a surplus of food.

In the village where material possessions are few, clothing is often passed down from sibling to sibling.

Despite the lack of material wealth, 10-year-old Shenien Tyson holds a priceless ambition: the hope for a better education.

Shenien lives kilometres in the mountains from the main Sebutuia village.

To meet the True North Australian cruise ship tourists, she and her cousins, Shentel and Rebecca (who are also in Primary School), took a significant life journey.

They walked for hours, descending from their mountain village to the riverbank, drawn by a single, powerful desire.

Their aim was not for toys or sweets; it was for a simple reason –to find a reading book.

Shenien, a bright Grade 4 student, explained her simple request to the visitors from the cruise boat, True North: “We walked from our village in the mountains to see the tourist boat. We would love to have reading books if there are any to be given out.”

For Shenien, being able to read books at school only to return them

has never been satisfying. Her dream is to own one, a book that “will tie to her name,” a treasure she can bring home, reread, and hold onto as her very own.

How does one feel when a child in a remote village asks a tourist for a simple reading book?

How many more children like Shenien, Shentel and Rebecca are out there, in the bushes, listen to birds chirping, mimicking them, learning the silence of nature, growing with its sounds.

But inside them, they dream of reading the real true stories of the sound of silence.

Throughout the 40-minute trek up to the waterfall, Shenien, Shentel, and Rebecca proved to be invaluable guides to the True North tourists.

Their consistent assistance and cheerful spirit showed the best of their village.

These young girls offered help with a clear, honest heart, demonstrating that true value lies not in what one has, but in the dreams one holds.

Their courage in walking such a distance just to ask for the tool of learning deeply touched the visitors.

The encounter did not end without a promise. Inspired by the girls’ dedication, the True North team has committed to providing more than just a single book.

The boat’s next trip will include a delivery of school supplies to the local school.

Thanks to her determination, Shenien, Shentel, and Rebecca, along with all the other children of Sebutuia, will soon have access to new reading materials.

Shenien’s long walk for a single book became a beautiful, for children everywhere, the ability to read is the greatest adventure of all.

A little bit shy, but a very brave Shenien Tyson of Sebutuia village on Fergusson Island.

FROM PRIEST TO TEACHER

A journey of faith, resilience and chances

BY JOSHUA CHAD MARAIP DWU journalism student

AT 43, Aloysius Seduheya, from Normanby Island in Milne Bay Province, has a proud story to tell.

He hopes to inspire others that faith in God delivers all your dreams.

He recently graduated among 82 others during the Graduation Ceremony of St Peter Chanel Catholic College of Secondary Teacher Education.

Being the oldest, he received a degree that symbolised his faith, resilience, and determination.

Aloysius grew up in a humble family and lost both of his parents at a young age.

He is the seventh of eight siblings, three of whom have passed away.

He is the only one to reach the tertiary level of education.

“Since grade one, my family couldn’t support my schooling. My uncle took me in and helped me,” he said.

He began his education at St Joseph Community School, Mendana, (199297), before attending Sacred Heart High School, Hagita, from 1998 to 2001.

After Grade 10, he entered the seminary, studying at St John Vianney Minor Seminary, Vanimo (2002-03), and later completing philosophy and theology at St Charles Borromeo Major Seminary

(2004-12). He was ordained a priest on October 13, 2013.

After five years of priesthood, he stood down.

However, Emeritus Archbishop Francesco Panfilo encouraged him to continue his education.

“When he saw me back in Alotau, he cried and brought me here. He told me to continue because I still have a calling,” Aloysius said.

In 2022, he enrolled at St Peter Chanel Catholic College, intending to study Religious Education, but course changes required him to take science subjects instead.

He majored in biology and minored in chemistry, a major challenge for someone with a humanities background.

“Many times, I cried in class. Concepts were difficult, and I felt I couldn’t do it, but with the help of lecturers, classmates, and God, I made it through,” he said.

Financial struggles made his journey even harder. Tuition fees rose from K9000 to K11,500, and Aloysius was often the last to register.

“I sometimes registered a month after classes started. I also couldn’t go home for Christmas twice, because I had no ticket,” he said.

To survive, Aloysius sold betel nut and other goods around campus, using the earnings to buy food, data, and learning materials when the school Wi-Fi was down.

Despite the challenges, he remained positive. “I admire resilience and perseverance. Hardships made me stronger and will help me guide students facing similar struggles,” he said.

Now with a Bachelor of Education, Aloysius hopes to return to Milne Bay to promote education and inspire young people.

“Never give up. Every problem is a stepping stone. Trust God, work hard, and don’t rely only on others. Blessings come when you participate in God’s grace,” he said.

From the priesthood to now a graduate teacher, Aloysius’s journey shows that challenges can be turned into opportunities with faith, determination, and courage.

Many times, I cried in class. times, I cried in class. Concepts were difficult, were and I felt I couldn’t do I I it, but with the help of it, but with the of lecturers, classmates, and and God, I made I made it through. it

ALOYSIUS Seduheya pictured in front of the St Peter Chanel grotto. PICTURE: JOSHUA CHAD MARAIP.

ALOYSIUS SEDUHEYA

TRULY HEADING NORTH

Day 1: Setting sail from Kavieng on the True North

The True North embarks on three different Papua New Guinean adventures, and I had the privilege of being on board for its 10-night Adventure in Paradise cruise.

The journey took us through some of Papua New Guinea’s most captivating and culturally rich destinations.

With 28 guests on board, Scholar and I amongst them, the vessel carried us across five provinces in ten days. But unlike many of our fellow travellers, we were not simply there for the adventure.

We were here to work, uncovering stories from the communities along our route and documenting the meaningful ways the True North has supported the people who live on these remote islands.

Still, in true PNG spirit and as a travel journalist, work and adventure often dance closely together. And this trip promised no shortage of both.

We were the first to board the vessel in Kavieng at 10:20 am on November 19, greeted by the reassuring buzz of preparation as the crew readied the ship. By midnight pm, the other guests had joined us, filling the decks with fresh excitement.

Lunch was our first taste of onboard life; barefoot guests, carpet floors, white walls, warm hospitality, interesting conversations and a shared curiosity about what lay ahead.

Soon after, we gathered in the bar lounge for a vessel safety briefing, followed by snorkeling and diving instructions, essential for the fieldwork we would be doing.

Scholar and I then retreated to our cabin to unpack and settle in, trying to memorise the rhythm of the ship

that would be our home for the next ten nights.

At 5:00 pm, a call over the PA summoned everyone back to the bar lounge for a helicopter safety briefing by Tom, the helicopter pilot. When he asked if anyone had never been on a helicopter before, my hand shot up instinctively, only to realise I was the only one.

A burst of laughter filled the room, but it quickly turned into cheers and encouragement.

“You’ll get your chance!” someone called out, and for the first time that day, the possibility of adventure fluttered through me.

That evening, after a beautiful dinner dotted with lively conversations and new friendships forming, I slipped back into our cabin. Lying on my bed, I found my mind drifting to the communities ahead: the people, the stories, the history we would soon step into.

And yes, somewhere tucked between thoughts was the quiet hope that I might finally get that helicopter experience.

As the ship gently swayed beneath me, I wondered about the days to come; the blend of work, discovery and unexpected joy that would define this journey.

That night, the True North slipped away from Kavieng, sailing for 12 hours toward the storied town of Rabaul.

Under the Pacific sky, our adventure had officially begun; part assignment, part exploration and an entirely unforgettable journey of a lifetime onboard the True North.

Stay tuned for part two on the next Weekender Edition

Sailing towards the storied town of Rabaul

True North Captain Jayden Blinco introducing his crew to the guests

A seafarers history

True North docked at the Kavieng Port

athletes

By PISAI GUMAR

AYAWA SUPPORTS BUIMO YAWA ATHLETES WIN MEDALS

YOUNG Biangai businessman has given a group of Lae-based athletes hope for the future.

While visiting Buimo Jail, Nina Yawa heard of the Lae Warden Excel Athletics Club (LWEAC), which needed assistance to participate in the National track and field athletics championships at the National Sports Institute in Goroka, from Dec 4-7, 2025. He generously sponsored their trip with K5000. The LWEAC, which was initiated by US-based PNG star Sharon Kwarula, returned the honour with two medals, a silver and bronze, in the under-14 track event.

Among other community projects was the initiative to build two church structures for Biangai and Wau Town Lutheran believers, respectively.

As his offering from many blessings received from God, Ninga Yawa is funding new Wau Lutheran church structure to open this Christmas.

Earlier, Yawa funded the construction of a permanent Lutheran church structure for his local Biangai village opened on January 25, 2025.

He also stepped in to assist various community and youth initiatives in and around the Wau Rural area, strengthening and encouraging a better prosperous society.

“God is the source of everything, including our human life, and it is right to extend God’s abundant blessings wherever there is a need when identified,” Yawa said.

Then, Yawa spent a moment visiting Buimo prison to see for himself how CS officers and families live in unison with inmates, both males and females.

On November 27, Yawa drove into Buimo, where he was received by prison commander, Chief Superintendent, Michael Wundia, and his officers.

“I have personally desired ever since to visit Buimo to find out how best I may contribute as a citizen to strengthen the end process, knowing most of my youths from Wau-Waria are part of the Buimo community,”

Yawa said.

Yawa forked out K10,000 and offered to Chief Supt Wundia to support Buimo prison’s Christmas function.

“It is all about forging relationships with government agencies and communities to ensure collaborative efforts to build a better society for our future generations to embrace and live peacefully,” Yawa said.

Yawa’s assistance to young LWEAC athletes reaped the fruition of two medals in the U-14 category at the national track and field athletics championships.

Head coach, Vanessa Waro Sagere, told Post-Courier that Katter Dama won a Silver Medal and Shekinah Ikara won a Bronze Medal in U-14.

“Yawa’s assistance was a blessing and first-ever assistance to LWEAC first ever participation in a national event, winning two first-ever medals in our club record,” Sagere said.

Lae Warden Excel Athletic Club members at NSI Goroka to participate in national track and field athletics championships from Dec 4-7, 2025. PICTURES: SUPPLIED

Katter Dama and Shekinah Ikara with their spoils. Dama won Silver and Ikara won Bronze in U-14 category last weekend at NSI, Goroka.

Award-winning PNG music group

Stagajah will celebrate its 10th anniversary on December 19 at The Cosmopolitan, marking a decade of growth, national recognition and major contributions to the country’s contemporary music scene.

Frontman Gaix (Gaigo Mao) said the milestone is both personal and professional for the four-man ensemble.

“Reaching 10 years feels like a blessing,” he said. “It reminds us of where we started four boys with a dream and a microphone. Hitting this mark shows that consistency and unity in our craft really do pay off.”

The band also acknowledged Yumi FM for its role in elevating the group from its early days to becoming one of PNG’s most recognised music acts.

“Yumi FM has been one of the biggest pillars in our journey,”

Jay Ray said. “They were the first to put our songs on heavy rotation and the first to recognise our work. Having them sponsor our 10th anniversary means a lot because they’ve walked this whole road with us.”

Stagajah formed in mid-2014 and quickly distinguished itself through a sound that blends PNG’s local rhythms with reggae, R&B, Afrobeat and Pacific pop.

The group made up of producer Statz (Liberty Chapman), rapper Gaix (Gaigo Mao), and vocalists

Jay Ray and Stonky (Jerome Isom) has produced multiple regional hits, including Go Back, Hategu, Raona’Au, Yu Nau and My Sweet Home.

The band has dominated the Yumi FM PNG Music Awards over the years, securing titles such as Best Duo/Group of the Year and Listener’s Choice across several seasons.

Reflecting on their decadelong journey, Jay Ray said one

As families, friends and employers begin to wind down the year, hoteliers, restaurants and entertainment hubs are in full throttle gearing up their venues to take in the bookings and reservations for the festive period. One of the go-to venues, Alibi Bar & Grill in Downtown Moresby prepares to roll out one of its biggest and most vibrant holiday programs yet. They are transforming its venue into a Christmas wonderland, complete with sparkling lights, themed décor, colourful gift displays, and a warm, familyfriendly atmosphere that has become a signature part of the Alibi experience.

of their proudest achievements was performing during Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations this year.

“Being part of our country’s Golden Jubilee program was a huge honour,” he said. “To perform in front of thousands during a historic national milestone reminded us how far our music has come and how deeply it connects with our people.”

Their 12 nights of Christmas beginning on Saturday, the 13th of December starts with the Peroveta singing for the first 2 days. Days 3 & 4 will be ‘Carols by the Sea’ with a Live performance by the ‘Melody Band’ on Wednesday followed by Carols by the Sea again on Thursday. Day 7 will see the Junior Poly Dance crew dazzling the patrons along the deck area accompanied by the soulful peroveta singers on Friday evening.

Beyond their music, Stagajah has built a reputation for giving back to communities, donating instruments to schools, disability service organisations, and supporting youth groups and local sports teams.

The band has also hosted fundraising concerts for persons with disabilities.

Looking ahead, the group says the next decade will focus on growth, collaboration and broader

regional impact.

“Fans can expect more original PNG-flavoured sounds, bigger collaborations and projects that push our music into new spaces,” Jay Ray said. “We’ll continue giving back to the communities that shaped us.”

The 10th anniversary concert is expected to draw fans from across Port Moresby as Stagajah celebrates a defining chapter in its musical journey.

One of the major highlights is the Movie schedule set to entertain the children and the return of Santa at Alibi for the 5 nights to make it twelve

nights of great memories. 5 Nights of Christmas movies will premiere from the 20th to the 24th of December for the family to enjoy.

With the current downpour of rain experienced in Port Moresby, the program depends entirely if the weather permits. The screening times begin at 7pm, so get in early for a good spot and get your popcorn, snacks and drinks ready for the movie; They start off the movie nights with ‘Home Alone’ on the 20th of December followed by ‘The Santa Clause’ on the 21st of December. ‘The Grinch’ is next on Monday evening, the 22nd of December with ‘Deck Halls’

on Tuesday with ‘Home Alone 2’ to end the movie schedule on Wednesday, the 24th of December. Children will again have the chance to meet Santa, and if you are one of those older children that missed out as a child, you can pose for festive photos on Alibi’s iconic green lounge, and take-home small gifts and treats. From toddlers to older children; every young visitor can expect a magical moment captured with Santa in a beautifully decorated setting. Get ready!!Christmas 2025 at Alibi Bar & Grill promises more magic, more memories and more moments that bring our community together.

The inaugural Goroka Film Festival has been launched, marking a major step in reviving and preserving Papua New Guinea’s filmmaking heritage in the province long regarded as the birthplace of cinema in the country.

The launch, held at Pacific Gardens Hotel in Goroka, was led by local film organisation Baru Piksa with major funding from the Goroka District Development Authority (DDA). MSD, Ruiti Trading Ltd, Pacific Gardens Hotel, and VONZ Gifts & Accessories provided additional support.

Although the festival is based in Goroka, organisers say it will operate across all districts in Eastern Highlands Province (EHP). Festival Director Michelle Baru said the team plans to take smartphone filmmaking workshops to communities throughout the province, giving villagers the chance to capture their own stories.

“We firmly believe our stories matter,” she said. “These workshops will empower people in every district to produce films based on issues and experiences they care about. The best films from these local screenings will qualify for our official Short Film Competition.” At the launch, 23 films were screened, four by Baru

Piksa and 19 by participants from the organisation’s 2025 smartphone filmmaking training.

Many firsttime filmmakers used their projects to highlight social, cultural, and community issues.

The festival also premiered entries from the first Short Film Competition, which attracted three submissions. Jessy Ken was awarded first place (K1,500), followed by Bunesito Thaross (K1,000) and Barakowe Renagi (K700). The competition was fully funded by the Goroka DDA.

The Acting Director of the National Film Institute, Miss Jogere, also addressed the audience. She emphasised the influence of screen media on public perception and national identity.

“Film is a powerful medium for storytelling. The way we portray ourselves and our country whether in film or on social media, can either damage our reputation or attract goodness. Papua New Guineans believe what we see more than what we read.

Through film we preserve our stories, learn about who we are, and understand others. Film sparks conversation, safeguards

culture, reflects our society, shapes public attitudes, and can drive meaningful change.”

Although the Minister for Culture, Arts and Tourism was scheduled to officiate, parliamentary commitments kept him in Port Moresby.

The ribbon was instead cut by Goroka District Administrator Benson Imara, who highlighted film’s role in communication, development, unity, and cultural

preservation.

The festival’s theme, “Our Stories Matter,” has been adopted as its guiding message.

Since the launch, Baru Piksa has begun travelling to districts across EHP to screen the films in local communities.

This week the team visited Kainantu at the invitation of Kainantu Youth Arise. Next week, they will continue to Aiyura (Obura-Wonenara District) and

Nupaha (Goroka District).

Organisers hope the festival will grow into an annual three-day event held in the lead-up to the Goroka Show, celebrating both local and national films. With strong backing from the DDA and rising interest from communities, they believe the festival will strengthen the province’s filmmaking legacy and inspire a new generation of Papua New Guinean storytellers.

BuzzWolf Brands Studio has signed rising Papua New Guinean musician and actor Chris Cobb, securing a major partnership to accelerate his growing career across Australia and abroad. The agreement, announced this week by BuzzWolf Brands director Nyssa Berryman, will give the Sunshine Coast–based artist stronger national exposure through a targeted PR strategy, brand development, and high-level talent management throughout 2026. Cobb earned national attention

during his 2025 season on The Voice, building a loyal following with his contemporary country sound, grounded storytelling, and increasing presence in screen productions. His steady rise and connection to regional audiences have made him one of Queensland’s most promising emerging talents.

Berryman said welcoming Cobb to the BuzzWolf roster was a natural step for the studio.

“Chris has discipline, charm, and authenticity. His music is honest and his energy is real. We’re excited to support his next chapter and secure opportunities

that elevate him on the national stage,” she said.

With more than two decades of experience, Berryman has worked with high-profile talent including Kate Beckinsale, Michael Sheen, Laurie Lawrence, John Jarratt, and television personalities from the WIN Network and Nine. Her career spans international actors, TV favourites, influencers, and new talent across Australia.

Under the partnership, BuzzWolf Brands will activate a national media campaign, refresh Cobb’s brand profile, and manage bookings for corporate events, festivals, private

shows, hospitality venues, and commercial partnerships.

Influenced by his PNG upbringing and deep cultural roots, Cobb’s warm tone and storyteller style have positioned him strongly in the evolving Australian country and acoustic scene.

Speaking from his Sunshine Coast home, where he is currently writing new music, Cobb said the partnership opens new doors.

“My journey has been shaped by real people who showed up and believed in me. Joining BuzzWolf Brands gives me the support to reach more audiences and take

my music further. I’m excited for the year ahead.” Cobb is now available for New Year’s Eve performances and limited January dates, and will appear at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Bookings for 2025 and 2026 will be handled directly by BuzzWolf Brands Studio.

The signing underscores BuzzWolf’s expansion since evolving from The Buzz PR into a full-scale strategy and creative studio delivering national PR representation, brand building, and media outcomes for talent across Australia.

Chris Cobb singing during The Voice Australia.

St Paul’s Primary School bloods, era 2010 — reunited with a few friends after 15 years. The day was filled with warm smiles, shared memories, and the kind of laughter we hadn’t heard in years. It was a gentle reminder of how special those childhood days were, and how good it feels to reconnect with people who knew us long before life got busy. ‘Good friends are like stars — you don’t always see them, but you know they’re always there’.

Ivan Mou,Iam good to communicate with one band.

Hey. Where are you going little one.

Public Service Information Centre Team take time out to smile for the camera.

WNB Governor Sasindran Muthuvel, PM James Marape, Mr Sarb Rana and Rajeev Sharma at the 2025 Tamil Deepa VizhaTamil Nite at APEC.w

Tony Tauraki, Steven Pyui, Joel Tom eyes on the viehicles at Konedobu. Ginigolo students.

UPNGMotu-Koitabu Student Association end of year closing function at Fisherman Island.

Giilimo, Ivan and Joe enjoying a coffee break.

No Visit only on visiting hours, Kiri Kilori standing guard at POMGH.

Make it to the Stadium.

Golden moments, timeless memories.

Blue Heelers - Old Guns, cleanathon in front of Kerepia CIS Barracks.

Capturing moment of the bride price event with family.

Ol mangi Kavieng kam wan spin long Kimbe.

2025 Grand Final winners - Junior Watchdogs, SO League. Thank you true yah.

One-on-one cue battle.

Sharing the Word of God through singing all night - Youths of Matairuka.More than a payment, it is a token of appreciation and commitment (Milky Way).

Rev. Karo Ila & family witnessing LMS Island night at Hanuabada village. Right man, exposing himself under hot weather.

Wanigela team arrives at SHMS.

Enjoying every moment with brothers is all that matters.

Kila Mahuru SDA AYM Investiture Day.

Yay - more money for our party.

Star Office Works officially kicked off its 2025 Christmas Promotion, bringing festive cheer, unbeatable discounts and fun activities for families and customers across Port Moresby.

Star Office Works Promotions and Marketing Officer, Gwaibo Gwaibo said the showroom is buzzing with excitement as the team rolls out one of its biggest festive campaigns yet.

“As the showroom’s promotions and marketing officer, my job is to create and run all our specialevent promotions; whether on social media, in the newspapers, or in-store,” he said. “We aim to reach the right customers with the right offers, while also strengthening our company image and the brands we carry.”

Gwaibo explained that the Christmas promotion is centered around the true spirit of the festive season: family, joy and celebration of the birth of Christ.

“To share the joy with our customers, we have put a wide range of showroom items on 40% discount so people can afford quality products at the best price this season.”

Star Office Works did not just stop at discounts, for this year, the team added a lineup of fun Christmas activities designed to bring excitement to every shopping experience.

Customers who shop this festive season can enjoy bonus gifts based on the value of their purchases: K100 and above: Free printed photo from the Christmas photo booth; K150 and above: Free Queen Emma chocolate; K200 and above: A chance to play the Mystery Bowl surprise game, where every ball guarantees a prize.

Gifts range from stationery to electronics and many more assorted

give-away items, ensuring every customer walks away with a surprise.

“We want our customers to feel happy, joyful and appreciated this Christmas, that is why we will make our promotion all about sharing the fun,” Gwaibo said.

Star Office Works remains committed to growing its visibility and customer base through creative promotions and strong product offerings.

“We know the competition is strong, but we are pushing harder. We want people to see that Star Officeworks is also a one-stop stationery shop with great products and great deals,” he said.

With over 20 years of service in PNG, Star Office Works has continued to grow and provide stationeries, computer products and IT services. Today, it operates two showrooms: Main showroom located at Vision City; and Mini outlet at Gordon HR Hype Mart.

“With Christmas being a time for family reunion and celebration, we invite everyone to come to our showroom and see what we’ve prepared,” Gwaibo said.

He highlighted the popular “Santa Peak” section, where mystery gifts wrapped and ready for purchase range from K10 to K50, perfect for family fun.

“Come and celebrate with us. Bring your family, enjoy the activities, grab your Christmas gifts and be part of the Star Office Works festive experience.”

Gwaibo shared that Star Office Works carries a trusted range of brands and affordable, high-quality products.

“We don’t just promote our company; we promote the brands and products we carry. When customers buy from us, they are getting trusted items at the best prices,” he said.

Star Office Works’ Christmas Promotion is now on. Visit their Vision City showroom or RH outlet to enjoy massive discounts, festive fun and guaranteed giveaways this holiday season.

Report warns Fiji facing deepening health workforce crisis Bushfires burn in Kenwick, Aust

AUSTRALIA: LIVES and homes are under threat in Perth’s southeastern suburbs and in the city’s north-east as two fast-moving bushfires reach emergency warning level.

Residents in parts of Kenwick, Wattle Grove, Maddington and Beckenham have been told to leave, as have those in parts of Upper Swan and Bullsbrook, on the city’s eastern fringe.

The total area under threat is about 50 hectares, and a Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) spokesman said it was believed some “outside structures” had been lost.

The bushfire is moving in an easterly direction, and DFES says homes on Bickley and Boundary Roads are under threat.

Infernos could be seen flaring up in bushland near powerlines across the road from homes and other buildings, with fires sparking just metres away from vehicles.

Aerial support planes and helicopters flew through over the area to aid firefighting efforts, contending with thick plumes of smoke blanketing the sky.

The fire area has since been expanded to include two Watch and Act areas, one in Orange Grove and the other in Beckenham, on opposite sides of the emergency

warning area.

A number of roads in the area are closed including Wanaping Road and Bickley Road.

The temperature in Perth had reached 30 degrees Celsius by midday today, with a high fire danger forecast. Aerial support has been sent to the fire, which was first reported at 12.12pm.

The ABC understands Rehoboth Christian College is being evacuated, with the fire burning in the adjacent Kenwick Wetlands. Rehoboth, and the adjacent East

Kenwick Primary School, are both within the emergency warning area. The area is a mix of semirural properties, suburban homes and businesses.

The fire is impacting traffic on Roe Highway and Tonkin Highway, and is being fanned by south-westerly winds. Plumes of thick smoke and walls of flame could be seen from an aerial view of the fire captured via helicopter.

Perth Airport, which is nearby, confirmed no flights had been impacted at this stage. - ABCNEWS

NADI: THE Australia Institute says labour mobility schemes are worsening the health workforce crisis in the Pacific, with registered nurses and other skilled workers leaving for lower-skilled personal care jobs in Australia and New Zealand.

The report says “labour mobility is a significant contributor to Pacific Islands’ economies,” but warns the expansion of temporary migration schemes into aged care has led to the loss of skilled health workers from Pacific Island countries.

It says workers on temporary visas “are vulnerable to being underpaid and exploited, due to their visa status” and calls for reform of labour migration systems and stronger consultation with workers.

Fiji continues to face major labour market pressures.

The report notes the country’s population of about 930,000 is growing and has potential for economic gain, but unemployment and participation rates show deep gender gaps.

Women’s labour force participation is 36 percent compared to 77 percent for men, and one in five young people are not in employment, education or training. The minimum wage rose to FJ$5 (US$2.50) per hour in 2025, but over 40 percent of employment remains informal.

The report says Fiji underinvests in health care, especially primary health care. It highlights high levels of non-communicable diseases, which caused 68 percent of deaths in 2021, and notes that “access to quality health care is a serious problem.”

Fiji meets the WHO minimum threshold of skilled health workers, but the report says this may underestimate what is actually needed. Between 2018 and August 2023, about 80,000 Fijians left the country “for better employment opportunities and emigration.” The government estimates more than 50,000 left between July 2022 and December 2023 alone.

The number of Fijians in Australia jumped from 13,470 in 2022 to 22,599 in 2023, with work visas doubling. In 2023, remittances were 9.2 percent of Fiji’s GDP.

Participation in the PALM scheme grew sharply after COVID-19. In July 2025, there were 5,340 Fijian workers in Australia under the scheme, mostly in agriculture and meat processing.

Just 4 per cent were in health care and social assistance.

Student visa numbers also rose. In 2024, 5665 Fijian students were studying in Australia.

To cope with the exodus of skilled staff, Fiji increased the retirement age twice, extending the service period for specialists in scarce skills areas. Health workers and unions told researchers that public hospitals are losing staff to emigration and to private hospitals within Fiji.

They say this is undermining patient access and confidence in the public system.

Workers report rundown facilities, shortages of trained staff, and a lack of equipment or training to operate new equipment. - PACNEWS

Homes and lives in the area are under threat by the fire. (ABC News: Kenith Png)

Goa nightclub owners held over deadly fire

DELHI: TWO brothers wanted in connection with a deadly fire at their nightclub in India’s Goa state, which killed 25 people, have been detained in Thailand, India’s ambassador to Thailand, Nagesh Singh, told the BBC.

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, who own Birch By Romeo Lane club, fled to Phuket, shortly after the incident earlier this week.

“They will be sent back [to India],” Mr Singh said on Thursday, a day after a court in Delhi refused to grant them protection from arrest and the Goa government approached India’s external affairs ministry to revoke their passports.

The brothers have not made any public statements, but their lawyer told the court that they were being made victims of a “witch hunt”.

The incident took place early on Sunday, when a deadly blaze broke out at the club in a busy nightlife area of the tourist state.

Investigators believe the fire was triggered by fireworks being set off inside the venue.

Most of the victims were staff members, while five were tourists.

Investigators say they raided the brothers’ Delhi home hours after the fire but found they had fled the country. Police then sought Interpol’s help to track them.

Saurabh Luthra, whose social media identifies him as the chairman of the company which operates the club, posted a statement on social media on Monday expressing “profound grief”.

“The management stands in unwavering solidarity with the families of the deceased as well as those injured,” he wrote, adding that the nightclub’s management would provide “assistance, support and cooperation to the bereaved”.

On Wednesday, Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the police has arrested six persons in connection with the incident so far, adding that “more arrests will be made soon”.

Goa is a former Portuguese colony on the Arabian Sea. Its nightlife, sandy beaches, and resorts attract millions of tourists annually. - BBCNEWS

Hundreds get car driving licences suspended

JAPAN: JAPANESE police have suspended the car driving licences of nearly 900 cyclists after they were caught riding bicycles under the influence of alcohol, local media report.

Authorities deemed that the offenders were “likely to pose a significant danger when driving a car”.

The number of suspended car driving licenses from January to September rose sharply compared to last year, as Japan imposed new traffic laws that imposed stricter penalties on cyclists.

Under the new rules introduced in November last year, those who cycle while under the influence of alcohol can face up to three years in jail or a maximum fine of 500,000 yen ($3,200).

The threshold for punishing tipsy cyclists was also lowered. Cyclists can be penalised if a breath alochol test detects 0.15 milligrams per litre or higher. Before the new rules, offenders were largely penalised only if they could not operate the bicycles properly.

Penalties may also apply to people who offer alcohol to cyclists, or offer bicycles to someone who may ride it drunk. - BBCNEWS

Air strike hits hospital

MYANMAR: AT least 34 people have died and dozens more are injured after air strikes from Myanmar’s military hit a hospital in the country’s west on Wednesday night, according to ground sources.

The hospital is located in Mrauk-U town in Rakhine state, an area controlled by the Arakan Army - one of the strongest ethnic armies fighting the country’s military regime.

Thousands have died and millions have been displaced since the military seized power in a coup in 2021 and triggered

a civil war.

In recent months, the military has intensified air strikes to take back territory from ethnic armies. It has also deployed paragliders to drop bombs on its enemies.

The Myanmar military has not commented on the strikes, which come as the country prepares to vote later this month in its first election since the coup.

However, pro-military accounts on Telegram claim the strikes this week were not aimed at civilians.

Khaing Thukha, a spokesperson

for the Arakan Army, told the BBC that most of the casualties were patients at the hospital.

“This is the latest vicious attack by the terrorist military targeting civilian places,” he said, adding that the military “must take responsibility” for bombing civilians.

The Arakan Army health department said the strike, which occurred at around 21:00 (14:30 GMT), killed 10 patients on the spot and injured many others.

Photos believed to be from the scene have been circulating on

social media showing missing roofs across parts of the building complex, broken hospital beds and debris strewn across the ground.

The junta has been locked in a years-long bloody conflict with ethnic militias, at one point losing control of more than half the country.

But recent influx of technology and equipment from China and Russia seems to have helped it turn the tide. The junta has made significant gains through a campaign of airstrikes and heavy bombardment. -BBCNEWS

A deadly blaze at Goa’s Birch By Romeo Lane on Sunday killed 25 people.

Congo rebels enter strategic town as peace deal crumbles

KIGALI: Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have entered the eastern Congo town of Uvira, near the Burundian border, in the biggest escalation in months of the long-running war, sources told Reuters on Wednesday.

Uvira, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, has served as the headquarters of the Kinshasaappointed government in South Kivu province and its regional military base since the provincial capital, Bukavu, fell to M23 in February. Control of Uvira could open the way for the rebels to advance beyond South Kivu.

The latest breakthrough in M23’s advance through the mineral-rich region comes less than a week after Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame met with President Donald Trump in Washington and affirmed their commitment to a U.S.-brokered peace deal.

Since then, Congo and Rwanda have accused each other of violating that agreement. Congo’s foreign minister has urged Washington to expand targeted sanctions against Rwanda to “restore the credibility” of its mediation efforts. Rwanda, which denies backing M23, has blamed Congolese forces and Burundi for the renewed fighting.

The violence in Uvira shows that merely signing deals in Washington is “not enough to ensure the safety of civilians in eastern Congo”, said Lewis Mudge, Central Africa director for Human Rights Watch.

The United Nations says some 200,000 people have fled their homes in recent days and scores of civilians have been killed. REUTERS

Trump launches $1m gold card

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump has launched a scheme offering fast-tracked US visas to wealthy foreigners who can pay at least $1m (£750,000).

The card will give buyers a “direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people. SO EXCITING!

Our Great American Companies can finally keep their invaluable Talent,” Trump said on social media on Wednesday.

The Trump Gold Card, which was first announced earlier this year, is a US visa awarded to those who can demonstrate they will provide a “substantial benefit” to the country, according to the scheme’s official website.

It comes as Washington intensifies its immigration crackdown, including raising work visa fees and deporting undocumented migrants.

The Gold Card scheme promises US residency in “record time” and will require a $1m fee which is “evidence that the individual will substantially benefit the United States”, the programme’s website said.

Businesses sponsoring employees are required to pay $2m, along with additional fees. A “platinum” version of the card that offers special tax breaks will also be available soon for $5m, the website said.

Extra fees to the government may be charged depending on each applicant’s circumstances, the site said.

Sanctioned oil tanker seized by US

Venezuela accuses US of “blatant theft”, described seizure as “an act of international piracy”.

WASHINGTON: The US has seized a sanctioned oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, President Donald Trump said on Wednesday, a move that sent oil prices higher and sharply escalated tensions between Washington and Caracas.

“We’ve just seized a tanker on the coast of Venezuela, large tanker, very large, largest one ever, actually, and other things are happening,” said Trump, who has been pressuring Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down.

Asked what would happen with the oil, Trump said: “We keep it, I guess.”

In response, the Venezuelan government in a statement accused the US of “blatant theft” and described the seizure as “an act of international piracy”. It said it would denounce the incident before international bodies.

Trump has repeatedly raised the possibility of US military intervention in Venezuela. The seizure is the first of a Venezuelan oil cargo amid US sanctions that have been in force since 2019. It is also the Trump administration’s first known action against a Venezuela-related tanker since he ordered a massive military buildup in the region.

The US has already carried out several strikes against suspected

drug vessels, which has raised concerns among lawmakers and legal experts.

US Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X that the FBI, Homeland Security and Coast Guard, along with support from the US military, carried out a seizure warrant for a crude tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran.

A 45-second video posted by Bondi

showed two helicopters approaching a vessel and armed individuals in camouflage rappelling onto it.

Trump administration officials did not name the vessel or disclose its location at the time of the seizure.

British maritime risk management group Vanguard said the very large crude carrier (VLCC) Skipper was believed to have been seized off Venezuela early on Wednesday. The US has imposed sanctions on the tanker for what it says was involvement in Iranian oil trading when the vessel was called the Adisa.

The Skipper left Venezuela’s main oil port of Jose between December 4 and 5 after loading some 1.8 million barrels of Venezuela’s Merey heavy crude. It transferred about 200,000 barrels near Curacao to the Panamaflagged Neptune 6 bound for Cuba before the seizure, according to satellite information analyzed by TankerTrackers.com and internal data from Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA.

Guyana’s maritime authority said Skipper was falsely flying the country’s flag. The vessel had transported Venezuelan oil to Asia between 2021 and 2022, the PDVSA data showed.

Maduro on Wednesday spoke at a march, without addressing reports of the seizure.

REUTERS

US bombers join Japanese jets in show of force after China–Russia drills, Tokyo says

TOKYO: US nuclear-capable bombers flew over the Sea of Japan alongside Japanese fighter jets on Wednesday, Tokyo said, in a show of force following Chinese and Russian drills in the skies and seas around Japan and South Korea.

Japan and the US “reaffirmed their strong resolve to prevent any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force and confirmed the readiness posture of both the Self-Defence Forces (SDF) and US forces,” Japan’s defence ministry said in a statement on Thursday.

The flight of two US B-52 strategic bombers with three Japanese F-35 stealth fighters and three F-15 airsuperiority jets was the first time the US had asserted its military presence since China began military exercises in the region last week.

The display follows a joint flight of Chinese and Russian strategic bombers in the East China Sea and western Pacific on Tuesday and separate Chinese aircraft carrier drills that prompted Japan to scramble jets that Tokyo said were targeted by radar beams.

The carrier aircraft encounter drew criticism from Washington, which said the incident was “not conducive to regional peace and stability” and reaffirmed that its alliance with Japan was “unwavering”.

Both Japan and South Korea host US forces, with Japan home to the biggest concentration of American

this handout picture taken by Japan Air Self-Defence Force and on December 10, 2025.

military power overseas, including an aircraft carrier strike group and a US Marine expeditionary force.

Japan’s Chief of Staff, Joint Staff General Hiroaki Uchikura, said the Chinese and Russian joint bomber flight was clearly a show of force directed at Japan.

“We consider it a grave concern from the standpoint of Japan’s security,” Uchikura, the country’s top uniformed military officer, said

ORACLE ON STOCKS

Stocks slid on Thursday after disappointing earnings at U.S. cloud computing giant Oracle sounded a warning for AI profitability, while bonds were firm and the dollar nursed losses after the Federal Reserve cut US interest rates. Oracle (ORCL.N), opens new tab shares tumbled more than 11% after hours, dragging S&P 500 futures 0.9% lower and Nasdaq 100 futures down 1.3% in Asia trade. AI-related stocks were the biggest losers in Tokyo, as Oracle’s profit and revenue outlook missed forecasts and executives flagged higher spendinga sign infrastructure outlays are not turning profits as quickly as investors had hoped.

FOILED BENIN COUP

The alleged leader of a failed coup in Benin has sought refuge in neighbouring Togo, two Beninese government officials told Reuters on Wednesday, demanding his immediate extradition. A dispute between the two small West African nations over Colonel Pascal Tigri and his alleged accomplices would risk deepening diplomatic divisions in West Africa, which has struggled to respond in a uniform way to a spate of coups in recent years.

BUILDING COLLAPSE

At least 22 people were killed and 16 others injured overnight when two adjacent buildings collapsed in Fez, one of Morocco’s oldest cities, the prosecutor said on Wednesday. One building was unoccupied, while the second was hosting an Aqiqah, a traditional Muslim celebration marking the birth of a child, the Fez prosecutor said in a statement. The prosecutor said the death toll was preliminary and that an investigation has been opened.

TRADE BILL

A US House committee on Wednesday approved a bill that would renew for another three years Washington’s preferential trade programme for Africa, and there was no immediate mention of excluding South Africa as the U.S. trade envoy had said was possible. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a law first enacted in 2000 to provide duty-free access to the U.S. market for eligible Sub-Saharan countries and products, expired in September and hundreds of thousands of African jobs are estimated to depend on it.

HEALTH SERVICES

Britain has promised the United States that spending on National Health Service (NHS) medicines will rise by 1.5 billion pounds ($2 billion) over the next three years, the Financial Times said on Thursday. The pledge is part of a deal to win exemption from drug import levies threatened by US President Donald Trump, that aims to boost such spending to 0.35% of GDP from 0.3% by the end of 2028.

GULF STOCKS

at a regular press briefing.

China denied Tokyo’s accusation, saying Japanese jets flying near the carrier had endangered its air operations south of Japan.

South Korea’s military said it also scrambled fighter jets when the Chinese and Russian aircraft entered its air defence identification zone on Tuesday, an area that extends beyond its airspace and is used for early warning.

– BBC

Most stock markets in the Gulf ended higher on Wednesday as investors awaited remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell for policy clues. As of Wednesday, markets are almost fully pricing in a 25-basispoint interest rate cut following the US central bank’s two-day Federal Open Market Committee meeting, despite the committee being more divided than it has been in years.

TARIFF HIKES

Mexico’s Senate on Wednesday approved tariff hikes of up to 50% next year on imports from China and several other Asian countries, aiming to bolster local industry despite opposition from business groups. The proposal, passed earlier by the lower house, will raise or impose new duties of up to 50% from 2026.

The 6th Air Wing of Japan Air Self-Defence Force’s F-15 fighters hold a joint military drill with the U.S. B-52 bomber over Sea of Japan, in

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

Fed lowers interest rates, but future cuts uncertain

WASHINGTON: THE US Federal Reserve has lowered interest rates for the third time this year, even as internal divisions create uncertainty about additional cuts in the coming months.

The central bank said on Wednesday it was lowering the target for its key lending rate by 0.25 percentage points, putting it in a range of 3.50 per cent to 3.75 per cent - its lowest level in three years. But policymakers disagree about how the Fed should balance competing priorities: a weakening job market on the one hand, and rising prices on the other.

The Fed’s economic projections released on Wednesday suggest one rate cut will take place next year, although new data could change this.

Fed chair Jerome Powell said central bankers needed time to see how the Fed’s three cuts this year work their way through the

Bolivian former leader Arce detained in embezzlement probe

LA PAZ: Bolivian ex-President Luis Arce, who left office last month, was detained by police on Wednesday and will likely face trial as part of an investigation into alleged embezzlement, Bolivia’s Attorney General Roger Mariaca confirmed at a press conference.

Mariaca said Arce will face a regular trial as the alleged acts of embezzlement he is being held for were reportedly committed during his tenure as economy minister and not while he served as President of the South American nation.

“We are going to bring this person who is currently in custody before a judicial authority and he will be charged at a later date,” the attorney general said.

“A judge will then decide whether or not he will be allowed to defend himself while still remaining free,” he added.

Earlier, Bolivia’s Ministry of Government also confirmed Arce’s arrest in connection with a corruption probe.

The investigation focuses on alleged irregular disbursements from a fund intended to finance projects for Indigenous communities during Arce’s term as economy minister under former President Evo Morales.

Local media, citing investigators, reported that evidence presented in the case links Arce to the misappropriation of public funds. If standard police procedures are followed, Arce is expected to remain in detention overnight and appear before a precautionary measures judge on Thursday.

The arrest comes less than two months after centrist candidate Rodrigo Paz won the October runoff election, ending nearly two decades of dominance by the leftist MAS party that Arce represented.

Paz has pledged to tackle corruption within state institutions. – REUTERS

US economy. Policymakers will examine incoming data closely ahead of the Fed’s next meeting in January, he added.

“We are well-positioned to wait to see how the economy evolves,”

Powell told reporters.

Those hoping for interest rates to keep coming down, including President Donald Trump, might have to wait.

The Fed is facing a “very challenging situation” as it confronts risks of rising inflation and unemployment, Powell said, adding: “You can’t do two things at once”.

The decision to lower rates on Wednesday was not unanimous, suggesting widening divisions among central bankers over the outlook for the US economy.

Three Fed officials broke ranks and officially dissented.

Stephen Miran, who is on leave from his post leading Trump’s

Council of Economic Advisers, voted for a larger 0.5 percentage point cut. Austan Goolsbee, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and Jeffrey Schmid, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, voted to hold rates steady.

Trump, who has repeatedly urged Powell to lower rates, said after the meeting on Wednesday that the Fed’s cut could have been “at least doubled”.

“Our rates should be much lower,” he said at a roundtable at the White House. “We should have the lowest rates in the world.”

A data blackout during the longestever US government shutdown, which ended in November, has left policymakers partially in the dark about the state of the economy. But concerns about a slowing job market continue to outweigh inflation fears, at least for now.

The unemployment rate ticked up from 4.3 per cent to 4.4 per cent

in September, Labour Department figures showed in a delayed report released last month. Cutting interest rates is aimed at stimulating the job market by creating lower borrowing costs for businesses.

Inflation is still above the Fed’s 2 per cent target. In September, it hit 3 per cent for the first time since January.

But while tariffs appear to be boosting some consumer prices, recent milder-than-expected inflation readings have allowed the Fed to focus on boosting the labour market by lowering rates, analysts said.

Colleen McHugh, consultant to investment platform Wealthify, said higher-than-target inflation made it trickier for the Fed to cut rates, but the jobs market appeared to have nudged them in that direction.

She expects one to two more rate cuts next year. – BBC

Rolling Stones finally approve Fatboy Slim sample after 25 years

LONDON: One of the world’s most bootlegged recordings - Fatboy Slim’s Satisfaction Skank - is finally being released, after the Rolling Stones gave belated approval for the song’s pivotal sample.

Fatboy Slim, real name Norman Cook, created the track 25 years ago by grafting the riff from the Stones’ Satisfaction onto his platinumselling single The Rockafeller Skank, after he grew “bored” of playing the original.

“It was my secret weapon,” he told BBC News. “I had this tune that nobody else had, and it was a really good encore.”

In the 2000s, the song spread like wildfire on file-sharing sites like Napster and Kazaa but, until now, The Stones had refused to clear it

for commercial release.

Even Cook bought bootleg copies of the song, some of which had been taped off his live sets on BBC Radio 1 and pressed to vinyl.

Over the years, there have been several attempts to get the sample approved.

“I got a call from Mick Jagger and he said he’d heard it and he liked the mix,” recalled Cook.

“But his management was just like, ‘No, not even negotiable’.”

Later, the Stones asked Cook to remix their 1968 single Sympathy For The Devil. Satisfaction Skank was due to be the b-side - but the deal ultimately fell apart.

“We’ve had a pretty flat ‘no’ for 20 years,” said Cook. “I think we asked four times, and I wouldn’t have

G20 MEET

The US will convene a meeting of officials from the Group of 20 major economies starting on Monday to kick off planning for next year, when it holds the group’s rotating presidency, sources familiar with the plans said. South Africa, this year’s host country, was not invited to join the meeting of the G20 deputy sherpas, the sources said on condition of anonymity. The US on Monday assumed the 12-month presidency of the G20 amid a bitter feud with South Africa and has said it will not invite Africa’s biggest economy to participate in next year’s G20 events.

BULGARIA PROTESTS

Thousands of Bulgarians rallied on Wednesday evening against the country’s minority government and what they say is its failure to tackle endemic corruption in the European Union’s poorest member state. The protests in the capital Sofia and dozens of other towns and cities across the Black Sea nation are the latest in a series of rolling demonstrations and come as Bulgaria prepares to adopt the euro on January 1.

DENMARK

Denmark’s government said on Wednesday it had reached an agreement in parliament to provide individual compensation to Greenlandic women who were victims of a decades-long involuntary birth control campaign. The case is one of several that have emerged in recent years concerning allegations of misconduct by Danish authorities against the people of Greenland, now a semi-autonomous Danish territory.

ISRAEL VISIT

Taiwan’s high-profile Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Wu made a previously unpublicised visit to Israel recently, three sources familiar with the trip told Reuters, at a time when Taiwan is looking to the country for defence cooperation. Taiwan has few formal diplomatic ties due to pressure from Beijing, which views the island as one of its provinces and not a country. Like most other countries, Israel only officially recognises Beijing and not Taipei, and while senior Taiwanese diplomats do travel abroad, trips to countries such as Israel are rare.

TERRORISM RELATED

Trump administration officials have held advanced discussions on hitting U.N. Palestinian refugee agency UNRWA with terrorism-related sanctions, said two sources with direct knowledge of the matter, prompting serious legal and humanitarian concerns inside the State Department. The United Nations agency operates in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria, providing aid, schooling, healthcare, social services and shelter to millions of Palestinians.

US-TURKEY TALKS

dared to ask them again.”

Instead, the initiative came from the Stones’ side. They even gave Cook their master tapes, so he could create a higher-quality version of the original mix. It’s a sign of how the band have become more relaxed about the reuse and re-contextualisation of their songs in recent years.

In 2019, they even signed over their publishing stake in The Verve’s Bittersweet Symphony.

Previously, writer Richard Ashcroft had been forced to surrender all his royalties from the song, due to its sample of an orchestral cover of the Rolling Stones’ The Last Time. He called the reversal “life-affirming”.

– BBC

The U.S. is in discussions with Turkey regarding Ankara’s rejoining the F-35 fighter jet programme and Washington hopes that talks will yield a breakthrough in the coming months, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey said on Wednesday. Washington removed Ankara from Lockheed Martin’s <LMT.N, opens new tab> advanced F-35 programme and imposed the sanctions in 2020 over its acquisition of Russian S-400 air defence systems.

ICELAND BOYCOTT

Iceland will not take part in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, the country’s public broadcaster RUV said on Wednesday, after organiser the European Broadcasting Union last week cleared Israel’s participation. The decision to allow Israel to take part in the next Eurovision, which will be held in Vienna in May, earlier prompted Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia to withdraw.

Norman Cook and Mick Jagger, pictured together at a David Bowie after-party in London, 1999

MARKET SNAPSHOT

Private

BY GRACE AUKA-SALMANG in Sydney

PAPUA New Guinea’s transition to a low-carbon economy will be powered overwhelmingly by private capital, with 90 percent of global climate investment today coming from the private sector, according to Mr. Moinesh Prasad of the Bank of Papua New Guinea’s Green Finance Centre.

Speaking at PNG Investment Week’s financial resilience discussions, Mr Prasad said the statistic underscores a profound

EXCHANGE RATE

Taylor calls for climate investment to assist PNG

BY GRACE AUKA-SALMANG in Sydney

DAME Meg Taylor has called for climate investments that secure PNG's future.

“Our priority must not be just to secure a return, but to secure the future of coming generations," she said.

She urged all investors, policy makers and partners to look beyond immediate gains and ask a crucial question: "Does each investment being made help secure the future of coming generations?"

Her message reinforced that climate investment must go beyond profitability, it must strengthen the ability of PNG's communities to thrive amid escalating climate pressures.

Dame Meg's call positioned the summit as a commitment to intergenerational responsibility, tying directly to PNG's 50-year legacy and its aspirations for the next 50 years.

During PNG Investment Week 2025, the historic inaugural PNG Climate Investment Summit was highlighted as a defining moment in placing climate at the centre of PNG's investment strategy for the next 50 years. The summit underscored that climate risk is no longer a peripheral issue but a core investment lens guiding national policy, green financing and climate aligned lending across energy, infrastructure, land use and resilience projects.

Their discussions stressed that future investment decisions must be assessed not only on financial returns but also on long

K92

mining

IN 2025, K92 Mining paid K407 million in corporate tax, invested K800 million in capital projects, and delivered K37 million in royalties and levies by October.

The mine also injected K500-K600 million in local expenditure and paid K120 million to landownerbacked joint ventures, ensuring wealth retention within PNG’s economy.

“This is money that stays in PNG, building businesses and human capital capabilities,” says K92 Mining Ltd CEO John Lewins.

term community resilience and environmental sustainability.

Dame Meg set the tone for the inaugural PNG Climate Investment Summit, urging leaders, investors, and development partners to redefine how Papua New Guinea approaches economic growth in an era of escalating climate risks.

Speaking at the centrepiece of PNG Investment Week 2025, she reminded the nation and its partners that the decisions made today—on energy, infrastructure, land use, and financing—will

determine whether communities can withstand the accelerating impacts of climate change.

The Climate Investment Summit brought together global and national experts including Professor Tim Henry, Australia’s Ambassador for Climate Change Will Lander-Curbis, and PNG climate leaders Deborah Sungi and Roland Maketa, who outlined how science, diplomacy, and green finance can transform climate risk into a pipeline of bankable, climate-aligned projects. Their presentations showed how

climate-smart investments can power PNG’s economic future while protecting the country’s people, forests, and coastlines.

The summit marked a historic shift in PNG’s investment landscape— placing climate at the heart of national development strategy for the next 50 years. It served as a reminder that the nation’s greatest resources are not only beneath the ground, but in the resilience of its communities and the strength of its partnerships with allies across the region and the world.

remains PNG’s largest exploration investor, says CEO John Lewins

“When done right, mining strengthens communities and creates opportunities that endure beyond the life of the mine.”

Speaking during the PNG Leaders Investment Summit panel discussion on “Stronger Together -Minerals Investing for the Future”, Mr Lewins said the theme reflects the foundation of K92’s journey.

“It is our investment in exploration and capital development -- ‘The Future’ -- and the strength of our partnerships that has enabled K92 to grow from a modest, or rather failed

mine, into the fastest-growing gold producer in the country and one of the lowest-cost emerging mid-tier gold producers globally.” Mr Lewins said since recommissioning the Kainantu Gold Mine in 2016, K92 has reinvested every kina of cash flow back into operations, expansions, training, and community development rather than paying dividends. Over the past 24 months alone, the company invested K1.4 billion in capital, culminating in the inauguration of the Stage 3 Process Plant in October,

delivered under budget and in partnership with government, provincial leaders, and landowners. “K92 is now PNG’s largest explorer, responsible for about 50 per cent of total mineral exploration investment in the country. In 2025, the company spent K69 million on exploration, advancing worldclass deposits like Kora, Judd, and Arakompa, which underpin its transition to a Tier-1 mid-tier producer with projected output of 300,000-400,000 ounces annually,” he said.

shift in how climate solutions are being funded around the world— and what it means for PNG’s own climate finance ambitions.

“Only 10 percent of climate financing globally is coming from governments and donor partners.

“If you remove China from the equation, that private-sector share rises to 95 percent.

"The message is clear: investment in climate resilience, renewable energy and sustainable industries will be driven by private finance," he said.

Mr Prasad said this global trend

is the main reason the Central Bank has moved aggressively into shaping a national green finance framework.

He said to PNG’s newly launched green taxonomy, its Green Finance Centre, and upcoming refinancing and guarantee facilities as tools designed to lower risk and make green lending more attractive for commercial banks and investors.

He also highlighted the barriers that still restrict green lending in PNG—customary land issues, technology uncertainty, lack of incentives, and higher lending

risks—and explained how the new facilities aim to ease those constraints.

“With 80 percent of our population unbanked, K12 billion circulating in the informal sector, and only 17 percent of households connected to electricity, private investment in renewable energy, clean transport, agriculture and climate-aligned projects is not just desirable—it is essential,” he said.

Mr Prasad emphasised that strong governance will be central to unlocking this investment. A multi-agency steering committee,

including Treasury, CCDA and the Bank of PNG, has been established to ensure transparency and attract serious investors such as IFC, ADB and other climate financiers.

He called on banks and investors to view climate investment not as development assistance but as a long-term commercial opportunity, noting the surge in global capital seeking credible, green-aligned projects.

“Investors are ready. The money is there.

“Our job is to ensure PNG has the policies, governance, and financial

Dame Meg Taylor speaking at the PNG Investment Week Summit in Sydney, Australia yesterday. PICTURE BY PNGCORE

Harmony Gold remains committed to investing in PNG

HARMONY Gold Mine has invested

so far $748 million at Hidden Valley, says Chief Operating Officer Jaco Boshoff.

Speaking at the PNG Leaders Investment Summit during PNG Investment Week yesterday, he reaffirmed the company’s longterm commitment to Papua New Guinea, highlighting its significant investments and plans for future growth.

“We are proud to be part of Papua New Guinea and to operate with technical excellence while investing in our people and communities,” Mr Boshoff said.

He said Harmony, a global gold

producer with 74 years of mining experience and 12 operating units worldwide, has maintained a strong presence in PNG for over three decades.

Its flagship operation, the Hidden Valley Mine in Morobe Province, has become a cornerstone of Harmony’s regional strategy.

Since acquiring full ownership in 2016, Harmony has invested heavily in capital development, safety, and sustainability, transforming Hidden Valley into one of the company’s best-performing assets.

“To date, Harmony has invested US$748 million at Hidden Valley and US$463 million at Wafi-Golpu,

Green finance good for PNG

BY GRACE AUKA-SALMANG in Sydney

THE Bank of Papua New Guinea says its new Green Finance Policy and national green taxonomy will be pivotal in unlocking climate investment, as global data shows 90 per cent of all climate finance now comes from the private sector, not governments or donors.

Speaking at the PNG Investment Week 2025, Bank of PNG’s Green Finance Centre Acting Manager Moinesh Prasad said the international trend is unmistakable—and PNG must urgently align its financial system to tap into this capital.

“Only 10 per cent of climate financing comes from public sources,” he said.

“If you remove China from the data, the private-sector share rises to 95 per cent.

“That is why the Central Bank is moving aggressively to build the frameworks that will attract serious climate investors to Papua New Guinea.”

Mr Prasad highlighted that PNG is now the first country in the Pacific and ahead of Australia and New Zealand to launch a national green taxonomy, a technical guideline that defines exactly what qualifies as a “green” investment.

“The taxonomy prevents greenwashing and gives banks, investors, and project developers a clear threshold for renewable energy, agriculture, clean transport, marine resources, and sustainable land use.

It tells the world that PNG is serious about credible climate financing," he said.

The taxonomy underpins the Central Bank’s newly established Green Finance Centre, launched 16 months ago, which now coordinates a national shift toward low-carbon lending across the financial sector.

According to Mr Prasad, the reason why banks have not been lending green is that based on the Central Bank’s diagnostic study, several structural constraints have held back green lending in PNG:

high risks and uncertainty in emerging technologies

lack of collateral due to customary land

no previous incentives for banks to lend in the green space

reflecting its confidence in PNG’s mining potential,” he said.

The company recently secured a mining license renewal for Hidden Valley through 2040, paving the way for life-of-mine extension projects that will sustain operations and local employment for years to come.

Mr Boshoff emphasised that these investments are not just about production but about creating lasting benefits for communities, including infrastructure upgrades, housing improvements, and sustainable initiatives such as coffee and cocoa farming.

Hidden Valley has also achieved notable milestones, including two

consecutive years as Harmony’s best-performing mine globally for safety, profitability, and sustainability.

The mine successfully navigated the challenges of COVID-19 and continued to deliver strong results.

Looking ahead, Harmony plans to leverage its PNG footprint to support future projects like WafiGolpu and expand its regional copper production, following its first shipment of copper earlier this year.

“We lead with responsibility, driving sustainable practices that benefit all stakeholders,” Mr Boshoff said.

“Our success is not just measured in ounces of gold or copper—it’s about how we mine, how we live our values, and how we create opportunities for communities.”

limited scientific thresholds to prevent greenwashing

“These barriers are not unique to PNG—they are global challenges. But they are solvable, and we are now solving them,” he said.

To address these barriers, BPNG is rolling out two new climate finance facilities:

1. Green Refinancing Facility – providing liquidity to banks so they can issue green loans at more affordable interest rates.

2. Green Guarantee Facility – helping banks de-risk loans, especially for MSMEs, farmers, and informal-sector enterprises that lack collateral.

“These are game-changing instruments and they improve accessibility and affordability of green loans, while giving banks the confidence to lend," he said.

The facilities are supported by the French Development Bank (AFD) and being structured to attract major investors such as IFC and ADB.

Prasad said the urgency for climate finance is underscored by the country’s economic realities: are 80 per cent of Papua New Guineans remain unbanked, K12 billion circulates in the informal sector only 17 per cent of the population has electricity access, warming oceans threaten 80 per cent of potential fisheries output.

“These are not just development challenges—they are investment opportunities,” he said.

Addressing industry leaders, Prasad said climate finance is not a threat to mining and petroleum but a pathway to decarbonising operations, increasing efficiency, and staying globally competitive.

“There is no need to reinvent the wheel—investors are already looking for credible green projects.

PNG now has the governance, the taxonomy, and the institutional arrangements to attract them,” he said.

Mr Prasad said the Central Bank’s climate finance ecosystem—policy, taxonomy, green finance centre, ESG guidelines, and new facilities— is designed to position PNG as a regional leader in sustainable finance.

“Our goal is simple: to green the financial system and to ensure the benefits flow to MSMEs, farmers, and households across the country,” he said.

ExxonMobil reinforces long-term commitment

BY GRACE AUKA-SALMANG in Sydney

EXXONMOBIL PNG Ltd has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to investing in Papua New Guinea, highlighting the country’s growing economic potential during Day 2 of the PNG Investment Week Conference in Sydney.

Chairman and Managing Director Dinesh Sivasamboo told investors and regional leaders that PNG is entering a new era of opportunity, driven by strong partnerships between government, industry, and local communities.

Mr Sivasamboo acknowledged the support of Prime Minister James Marape and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, saying their shared vision for the country’s economic future continues to strengthen investor confidence.

As PNG marks its 50th anniversary, Mr Sivasamboo reflected on the milestones achieved since independence, noting that

the lessons learned in resource development have positioned the nation to leverage its natural gas sector for broader economic growth.

“PNG is truly ready to take its place as the engine of economic growth and development, not only for PNG but for the Pacific region— and LNG will fuel its economy.”

Mr Sivasamboo outlined three key observations shaping ExxonMobil’s ongoing presence in the country:

1. Strong Investment Potential

He highlighted the PNG LNG Project as a landmark achievement, representing the largest foreign direct investment in the Pacific region and proof of PNG’s capacity to host globally competitive resource ventures.

2. Power of Collaboration

He credited successful project delivery to cooperation between political leaders, commercial partners, and landowner communities.

“We delivered this project with

the nation, with each of you,” he said, emphasising that sustained collaboration remains essential to unlocking PNG’s full LNG potential.

3. Shared Economic Vision

He praised the Marape government’s target of building a K200 billion economy by 2030, reaffirming ExxonMobil’s readiness to help drive that ambition.

“Together we will continue to achieve great things in Papua New Guinea,” Mr Sivasamboo said. Looking ahead, he urged investors to remain confident in PNG as an emerging regional hub for energy development, saying the country offers “significant opportunity” for those willing to partner in its longterm growth.

ExxonMobil PNG said it will continue strengthening relationships, creating shared value, and contributing to sustainable development as it expands its footprint in the country.

NPA takes charge as PNG pushes Papua LNG toward 2026

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.

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.

On Papua LNG, Mr Maladina reported strong alignment between

developer TotalEnergies, the State and landowners. Environmental permits have been granted, marketing arrangements between State entities have been signed, and revised project licences were submitted to the NPA on 4 December.

“The project is progressing with clear momentum towards FID in 2026,” Mr Maladina said, confirming that Development Forum consultations will resume in early 2026. He also stressed that new fiscal terms under the upcoming Production Sharing Contract (PSC) regime will be globally competitive while guaranteeing the State around 55 per cent of total project value.

“Our direction is steady, our reforms are progressing, our projects are strong,” he said.

Participants at the 2025 PNG Investment Week Summit in Sydney, Australia. PICTURE BY PNGCORE.

Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina.

Global demand drives Papua LNG

Government support and global LNG demand has driven Papua LNG toward execution phase

STRONG government backing, rising Asian LNG demand and coordinated progress across marketing, financing and permitting have positioned the Papua LNG project for a major development phase in 2026.

This is according to TotalEnergies

Country Chair Arnaud Berthet who highlighted the decisive role of Prime Minister James Marape, Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina, and regulatory agencies including the National Petroleum Authority and Conservation and Environment Protection Authority in advancing critical approvals.

A major milestone was reached in September 2025 with the granting of the Level 3 environmental permit for upstream. Landowner mapping and

benefits identification have also been completed or updated, with development licence applications now lodged.

Meanwhile, Asia’s appetite for reliable, lower-emission LNG continues to grow, creating a favourable commercial environment.

“Papua LNG is perfectly positioned to serve Asia’s expanding LNG market.

The project is designed to be one of the lowest-emitting globally -a strategic advantage as buyers demand cleaner energy,” he said.

In October, TotalEnergies, Kumul Petroleum and MRDC executed joint marketing agreements representing more than half the project’s output.

LNG Sales and Purchase Agreements are currently in the final stages.

International financing momentum also remains strong.

Despite concerns about European banks exiting fossil fuel lending.

Mr Berthet said the project continues to engage seven ECAs and more than 30 commercial banks, with due diligence close to completion and lenders providing “excellent feedback” following recent site visits.

“Papua LNG is a symbol of partnership and purpose.

“Together with our co-venturers and the Government of Papua New Guinea, we are building the energy future of the nation,” he said.

Investing in PNG’s banking system for future

BANK South Pacific Financial Group Limited (BSP) has joined more than 30 sponsors and 2000 delegates converging on Sydney this week for the highly anticipated PNG Investment Week (PNGIW25), hosted by PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNGCORE).

Aligning with the PNGIW25 theme, "Stronger Together – Investing in the Future," BSP's commitment underscores its deep-rooted dedication to fostering Papua New Guinea's thriving business and investment landscape.

Speaking at Finance Forum on Wednesday (Dec 10, 2025), BSP Group chief executive officer Mark Robinson, spoke about the bank’s modernising for growth program and how it is powering BSP’s purpose to champion prosperity for PNG and the South Pacific.

At the forefront of banking in PNG and the Pacific, BSP’s Modernising for Growth is a K1.2billion (A$450m) investment over several years, in technology, digital channels, and operational resilience, aimed to prepare PNG’s banking system for the future, and ultimately support the PNG financial system.

“These investments in technology, systems and our people are also helping to unlock financial inclusion at scale.

“We know that when people can pay, save, and borrow with confidence, livelihoods change and local economies strengthen,” he said. BSP’s Gold Level sponsorship emphasises the belief that collaborative efforts are essential to cultivating the unified stability needed to champion prosperity not

just for PNG, but for the entire South Pacific region.

With almost 2000 delegates in Sydney this week to attend PNG Investment Week there has never been more genuine interest or more well-founded optimism about PNG’s economic future.

The strength of the PNG-Australia relationship has also been on show

with historic addresses by both Prime Minister Marape and Prime Minister Albanese.

BSP also had a fantastic presence at our booth in the exhibition hall with our amazing staff from branches across PNG, engaging with our customers from large corporate clients to our valued retail customers.

Investment week delivers million kina deals, investor confidence

PNG CORE Senior Vice President

Mr Richard Kassman at the official closing of the PNG Investment Week 2025 in Sydney, Australia. PICTURE BY PNGCORE

Papua New Guinea’s largest investment forum to date, PNG Investment Week 2025, has closed with landmark agreements and a clear message - investor confidence in PNG is stronger than ever.

The event drew almost 2,000 delegates, 90 speakers, and more than 90 exhibitors from 21 countries, marking a historic moment as the Prime Ministers of Papua New Guinea and Australia jointly addressed the summit.

Their presence underscored a shared commitment to regional prosperity and stability as PNG celebrates its 50th independence anniversary.

Beyond the conference halls, sideline negotiations translated into tangible results valued at over K160 million, with additional agreements

under discussion expected to push the total significantly higher.

Among the major outcomes was RD Tuna Cannery’s K160 million joint ventures under the Madang Integrated Special Economic Zone, which will create 5,000 jobs and drive downstream processing.

Pacific Lime & Cement signed a development agreement with the Ministry of Trade and Investment to advance the Central Lime and Cement Project, while Frieda River Limited secured six environmental permits for its copper-gold project and associated infrastructure, including a 600MW hydroelectric facility. ExxonMobil PNG renewed its sponsorship for the PNG Kumuls and the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and signed a power project agreement with the Hela Government.

TISA Bank introduced a new banking product tailored for landowner companies, and Nasfund entered discussions on investment opportunities in Special Economic

Investor confidence was a recurring theme throughout the week.

In a LinkedIn post, BSP Financial Group Limited CEO Mark Robinson described the atmosphere as one of “genuine interest and well-founded optimism about PNG’s economic future.” Robinson announced BSP’s K1.2 billion investment under its Modernising for Growth program, aimed at creating PNG’s banking system of the future and unlocking financial inclusion at scale.

Santos reaffirmed its long-term commitment to PNG, highlighting a predictable approvals process and strong leadership as critical factors for stability.

The company paid K1.8 billion in corporate taxes in 2025 and continues to progress major projects such as Papua LNG and the Agogo Processing Facility tiein. K92 Mining also demonstrated confidence through reinvestment,

Australia reaffirms support to PNG

BY HEZRON KISNG

AUSTRALIA has reaffirmed its support in terms of continued economic support for Papua New Guinea’s economic, investment and infrastructure development going forward.

PNG Investment Week Summit is an event that showcases not only Papua New Guinea’s economic promise but also the strength of the partnerships that support stability and growth throughout the Pacific, an Australian official has stated. Australian High Commissioner to PNG and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs, Ewen McDonald’s mention this during the PNG Investment Week 2025 in Sydney Australia.

Mr McDonald emphasis on the importance of the event that has been strongly supported by both Prime Ministers; Papua New Guinea’s James Marape and Australia’s Anthony Albanese.

“This event brings together government, small and big businesses, entrepreneurs and investors from Australia and Papua New Guinea to explore pathways for sustainable growth, strengthen trade and investment ties, and unlock the immense potential of PNG’s vibrant economy,” Mr McDonal said.

reporting K1.4 billion in capital investment over the past two years and plans for expansions that will transform Kainantu into a Tier-1 mid-tier gold producer.

Corporate engagement was evident across the exhibition hall, with financial institutions, government departments, business houses and industry partners showcasing their presence and connecting customers from large corporate clients to valued retail customers.

These interactions reinforced the strong role of PNG’s financial sector in supporting inclusive growth.

Charity initiatives added a human touch to the week, with K350,000 raised for Mt. Hagen Hospital’s pediatric ward and AUD 60,600 (PGK 171,080) pledged for the Conjoined Twins Fund.

PNG CORE Senior Vice President, Ricard Kassman, said, “PNGIW25 was not just about dialogue; it was about action.

“I want to reaffirm to you, Australia’s commitment and dedication to Papua New Guinea. As Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, we are allies in prosperity, our commitment is unwavering and enduring.

He pointed out that for decades, Australia have invested in infrastructure, trade, people and communities. These elements combined drive economic growth and build a trusted enabling environment for businesses to thrive. Australia pledged A$600 million (K1.7 billion) deal to establish a PNG NRL team and to start in the competition from 2028”.

“You can count on Australia’s continued presence in PNG to support improved economic progress, security and regional development Australia’s efforts create lasting benefits for investors, businesses, and communities for future generations.

As Prime Minister Marape best put it, in his historic address to Australia’s Parliament last year, Australia and PNG are ‘joined at the hip.’

Zones.

TotalEnergies Country Chair Arnaud Berthet. PICTURE SUPPLIED

BSP Group CEO Mark Robinson (left) and BSP Team at the PNG Investment Week 2025 in Sydney.

BY DOLLY PALEK

United Finance Limited (UFL) reaffirmed its commitment to community service and women’s empowerment with a K10,000 cheque presentation to the Miss Bird Paradise (MBOP) organization during a ceremony held on Wednesday at the company’s head office in Port Moresby.

The presentation was witnessed by executives of United Finance Limited, the MBOP PNG committee and the newly crowned Miss Bird of Paradise PNG, Iampela Popena marking a significant partnership aimed at supporting charitable initiatives for children living with disabilities across Papua New Guinea.

Speaking on behalf of United Finance, Senior Human Resource Officer Peter Hombunaka highlighted the company’s longstanding dedication to serving Papua New Guineans through its 24 branches located nationwide.

He described United Finance Limited as a proudly local, Hagenfounded institution built on the values of giving back, creating employment and supporting

vulnerable communities. UFL media team leader Jenet Thomas also emphasized that UFL’s support extends beyond financial assistance. “Wherever Miss PNG goes, United Finance is there. If she visits any province for charity work, our branches will stand ready to assist,” the UFL media Team leader said. She added that the K10,000 contribution is dedicated specifically to the MBOP charity program and reflects UFL’s continued commitment to “serving humanity”.

Chairlady of the Miss Bird of Paradise PNG pageant, Anna Bais expressed heartfelt gratitude to United Finance for its trust and partnership. She praised the organization for recognizing the potential of Ms. Popena early on and for supporting her journey to the national crown.

Bais reiterated that the funds would support nationwide outreach programs focusing on children with disabilities; a key advocacy pillar of MBOP. “Many of these children have dreams, but education and opportunities remain their biggest barriers.

This support will help our

Queen travel to provinces, visit disability organizations and bring attention to children who are often overlooked,” Bais said.

Miss Bird of Paradise PNG for 2025 to 2026, Iampela Popena also spoke

at the event, acknowledging UFL as a strong pillar in her journey.

She said the support from United Finance Limited, especially from the Western Highlands branch, gave her confidence and a sense of

belonging. “Even though they are a big company, they came down to my level to support and encourage me. This crown is not only my achievement, it is everyone’s crown,” she said.

The last thing any Aries is happy about doing is leaving things up to others. It makes no difference if the situation in question involves minor details or potentially crucial matters. At the moment, however, you’re not only urged to seek others’ advice, they’re better informed than you, so they’ll make wise decisions.

LEO JUL 22 - AUG 22

Judging by Friday’s link between your ruler the Sun and Uranus, the planet of innovation, which indicates thrilling if unsettling events, the less fixed your arrangements are, the better. Keeping things loose may take discipline now. But when those sudden changes arise, in a few days, you’ll be glad you did.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 - DEC 20

If there are all sorts endings and beginnings in your life, it’s no surprise. Powerful planetary activity

GIANT CROSSWORD

On one hand, you’ve been reorganising elements of your own way of living and working and, equally, those of others. However, you’re battling certain changes you regard as undesirable. Pause and review this decision. Not only are the changes in question timely, they’re a first step to vital shifts in elements of your life. DR changes

VIRGO AUG 23 - SEP 22

It’s not that you’ve argued with one particular individual as much as unspoken tensions have begun to overshadow almost every discussion. Yet, obviously, you’re reluctant to raise the issue in question. Despite that, mention it, but in a casual way. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to put those tensions behind you.

CAPRICORN DEC 21 - JAN 19

As a Capricorn, you rightly pride yourself on keeping close track of your commitments, and the time you have to devote to them. Yet, currently, it seems you’ve lost your usual knack for sensing what’s

and what

You haven’t lost your touch. The actual timing of the circumstances is shifting.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUNE 20

Having assumed that recent changes dealt with both the practical side of things and any issues involving others, you’ve turned your attention to certain equally pressing personal matters. Don’t be surprised, however, if yet more sudden developments lead to the need to rethink, if not reorganise, what you’ve only just planned.

LIBRA SEP 23- OCT 22

Every sign is influenced by Mercury’s retrograde cycle and the accompanying confusion. But because communication with others is of such importance to you, even minor errors can be a source of real concern, at least initially. Ultimately, however, what you learn while resolving them will justify any temporary upset, issues or inconvenience.

AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 17

It’s worth noting that, with Mercury retrograde, even the simplest of plans are likely to need to be rethought if not altered. Ironically, this may give you a chance to review certain arrangements that have become an increasing source of concern, and while you can still make the necessary changes without unnecessary drama.

CANCER JUN 21 - JUL 21

Although the period when Mercury is retrograde has a reputation for triggering problems, usually any errors are minor and, even more, will often highlight misunderstandings or practical matters that need attention. While these may not be interesting the process is bound to be informative.

SCORPIO OCT 23 - NOV 21

You’re a careful planner, although you don’t always recognise that. This is mostly because things don’t always go as you hope or intend. Reflect and you’ll realise that often those plans which seemed to go wrong worked out better than those you’d first organised. That’s likely to be the case now.

PISCES FEB 18 - MAR 19

While you’re amazingly tolerant, and so are able to accept and deal with others’ quirks, even those that are very annoying, you must draw the line with certain individuals. Still, irritating as one in particular may be, what they have to say or offer isn’t just interesting, it could be life-changing.

PUZZLE #0196

CROSSWORD: 131583

SOLUTION NO. 131582

ACROSS: 2 Fallacy,7 Cacao,9 Hero,11 Browbeaten,14 Harem,16 Heat,17 Matadors,18 All,20 Sit,21 Layer,22 Eel,23 Finns,26 Ass

28 Try,30 Eloquent,32 Ream,33 Speak,34 Abhorrence,36 Reed,37 Level,38 Referee

DOWN: 1 Salami,2 Formal,3 Liberal,4 Chat,5 Yet,6 Con,8 Abet,10 Reel,12 Wholesome,13 Easy,15 Ratify,18 Arcane,19 Less,20 Sent

22 Enlarge,24 Ne’er,25 Muscle,27 Stared,29 Robe,31 Epee,32 Rode,34 Arc,35 Her

POSITION VACANT

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INTERNAL REVENUE COMMISSION PNG

VACANCY

The Internal Revenue Commission PNG Act 2014 establishes the IRC as a Statutory Authority and the “Commission” consisting of the Commissioner General and the Commissioners, as the governing body of the IRC. The Internal Revenue Commission PNG is responsible for the collection of most of PNG’s Tax Revenue.

The Internal Revenue Commission PNG (IRC) Act 2014 established the IRC as a Statutory Authority. the “Commission” consist of the Commissioner General and the Commissioners, as the governing body. The IRC is responsible for the collection of most of PNG’s Tax Revenue.

The Internal Revenue Commission PNG is looking for experienced, skilled and knowledgeable individuals who are enthusiastic and motivated to contribute towards achieving the revenue collection goals of the Internal Revenue Commission PNG. There are 20x vacant Tax Payments & Returns Processing roles, job opening available in our Services & Processing Division located at the headquarters in Port Moresby. 20x TAX PAYMENTS & RETURNS PROCESSING OFFICER

IRC is a dynamic and is the most progressive government agency which plays a critical role in raising75% of the National government’s funds which the government utilises to fund its economic development initiatives such as infrastructure development education, health services and other nation-building programmes that support the growth and progress of Papua New Guinea.

The Internal Revenue Commission is seeking highly motivated suitably experienced and skilled/qualified individuals who are enthusiastic and highly motivated individuals to contribute towards achieving the Governments’ revenue collection goals. IRC has immediate vacancies at its Head Office located in Port Moresby.

Purpose: To process tax payments, returns and issues tax receipts to taxpayers in a timely manner in compliance with the Taxation Laws, tax administration processes and procedures and Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

IRC’s employment conditions/benefits include;

Key Responsibilities:

• To effectively and efficiently process tax returns in a timely manner in compliance with the Taxation Laws, tax administration processes and procedures.

Staff Home ownership Scheme – Opportunity to participate in IRC’s Home Ownership Scheme with equity assistance of up to K80 thousand & Mortgage Repayment

• To effectively and efficiently process tax payment in a timely manner in compliance with the Taxation Laws, tax administration processes and procedures.

• Effectively & efficiently process both tax payments and returns.

• Issue payments and Notice of assessment to taxpayers promptly.

• Promptly responding to taxpayers through emails and phone calls.

• Promptly attending to other processing tasks required within the Services & Processing Division.

Requirements:

• Minimum Bachelor Degree in Accounting, Business Management, Finance or Commerce is required.

• 3 + years

•

•

•

Forfurtherinformationand/orjobdescriptionsarerequiredinterestedcandidatesmaycontactthe

tax administration processes and procedures.

• To effectively and efficiently process tax payment in a timely manner in compliance with the

tax administration processes and procedures.

• Effectively & efficiently process both tax payments and returns.

• Issue payments and Notice of assessment to taxpayers promptly.

• Promptly responding to taxpayers through emails and phone calls.

• Promptly attending to other processing tasks required within the Services & Processing Division.

Requirements:

• Minimum Bachelor Degree in Accounting, Business Management, Finance or Commerce is required.

• 3 + years of relevant experience Payment Processing or similar.

• Basic knowledge of Accounting standards and methodology.

• Some experience in the use of computerized tax administration systems/software.

• Good interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to collaborate with others.

• Well-developed analytical ability.

• Ability to portray empathy, trustworthiness, ethics, transparency and impartiality.

If you are ready to take your career to the next level and be part of a dynamic team, apply now for the Tax payment and returns processing officer role!

For further information and/or job descriptions are required interested candidates may contact the Recruitment Team at recruitmentofficer@irc.gov.pg and/or Phone 307 7095/307 7102/3077117/3226958.

For applications submitted on emailed, ensure the position you are applying for is stated on the email subject as well as the cover letter subject for ease of reference.

Closing Date: Friday 3rd May 2024

Interested candidates should apply with a covering letter, along with an updated copy of resume (spelling out work experience and 3x referees) and copies of educational attainments. You may hand deliver your application to Bogan Gapo Building Level 3, HR Department or submit by post to:

The Manager Recruitment Internal Revenue Commission PNG PO Box 777, Port Moresby, NCD Phone 307 7095/307 7102/307 7117/3226958 Or Email to: recruitmentofficer@irc.gov.pg

*ONLY SHORTLISTED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED.

Authorised by: MR SAM KOIM, OBE Commissioner General Internal Revenue Commission PNG

To be a Robust, Modern, and Efficient Tax Administration

No half measures

RUGBY LEAGUE: Dolphins fiveeighth Kodi Nikorima is hoping to build on what was arguably his career-best form in 2025 to help form “one of the best halves pairings in the game” with halfback Isaiya Katoa.

The dynamic duo have been building their combination nicely over the past few seasons with Nikorima previously speaking about the freedom Katoa’s control gives him to play his style of football.

“I think for us, we want to be one of the best halves pairings in the game and that starts out here in the training paddock,” Nikorima said.

“One of the key things that I want to work on this pre-season is my fitness levels and obviously building on what I did last year.

“I got some more growth in my attack and (I want to) continue to work on my defence too, so, although I am happy with how I performed last year, I still believe I can hopefully go to another level next year.”

Entering his 13th NRL preseason, Nikorima said his main goal for next year however was to help lift the Dolphins to a maiden finals appearance, with the team just missing out again in 2025 after multiple long-term injuries derailed their promising start to the season.

“Obviously we want to continue to build on what we’ve built on for the last couple of years,” Nikorima said.

“That’s one of the goals I think every year, but more so now this

TENDER

year, especially with our squad that we have.

“If we can stay injury free, I believe we have a team here that can do something special in the finals.

“But I guess we don’t want to look too far ahead, I think we’ve got to take it week-by-week and that starts when we first started back.

“Not thinking too far ahead to Round 1, making sure we get through and enough out of this preseason, get ourselves fit and strong

Nikorima looks to level up in st for finals

As Nikorima looks to level up in quest for fi

and come (back) in January ready to go.”

In the team’s favour is the positive injury news for a number of key forwards, including Thomas Fleger who is targeting a remarkable Round 1 return, as well as representative duo Tom Gilbert and Daniel Saifiti.

The club’s 2024 player of year Max Plath is also recovering from his ACL injury, with star back Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who missed the Pacific Championships with an

MCL injury, set to return for the season opener

“For myself, it creates excitement knowing that I can play off th back of these forwards … that dearly missed last year and ju fell short,” Nikorima said.

“Maybe if we had one or two of them last year, things could have been different, but I guess s that is what it is, we’re moving forward now

“I just hope they can all come back injury free and get through the season.”

Nikorima was also excited to see the presence of former Broncos back Selwyn Cobbo in Dolphins’ colours. Set to start on the wing to start next season with 2024 NRL Rookie of the Year Jack Bostock not expected back from his ACL injury until Round 10, Cobbo was looking fit and firing in his opening stint at training.

“He’s a freak of nature, Selwyn,” Nikorima said.

“He’s one of those players that you give them the ball and they can do something from it

“I’m glad he’s in our team now. Obviously, we have someone like Hammer, Herbie [Farnworth], and then you’re throwing in a Selwyn Cobbo, so there’s going to be strike all over the park ”

Selwyn Cobbo at Dolphins pre-season training.©ROWAN CLARK / DOLPHINS MEDIA

www.postcourier.com.pg

Kodi Nikorima

Sweet Stars have nothing to lose

Just looking to enjoy the Firelight 7s

RUGBY UNION

THEY are called the Sweet Stars, but there is nothing fancy or sweet about them.

And don’t get carried away by their smiles and the way they carry on. These are a bunch of serious young ladies.

They were all sworn enemies all season playing for different clubs in the Niu Power Capital Rugby Union Women’s Open’s competition, and have now decided to combine their energy and enthusiasm to play together and participate in

this weekend’s second edition of the Larkin Ad Focus Entertainment sponsored Gerehu Firelight Sevens tournament.

The team is made up of players from the Juggernauts, Novettes and Harlequins clubs.

They will participate in the U20 category.

The Sweet Stars are participating for the first time as a team and they are not expecting to stake a claim, but rather see themselves as ‘new kids on the block’ who are keen to make a first up impression.

They have been trying to get to

know each other better for the past several weeks, and as part of their progress engaged themselves in a community service program, by doing a general clean-up at Ela Beach.

To register the team, a father of one the girls, Brian Barreng stepped in to assist.

Members of the Sweet Stars team are: Abaga Andrew, Chantelle Yariyari, Catherne Stack, Shannette Yariyari, Hannah Aikelave, Lynette Barreng, Gewada Jimmy, MysticalRose Pangkatana, Peta Pangkatana, Maryanne Philemon, Lina Rova, .Grace Stack, Uvau Veavu and Elizabeth Wally.

RUGBY LEAGUE BY JOHN

PANGKATANA

MOMENTUM for the staging of the 2025 NCD Governors Cup is progressing well for both the traditional rugby league and the second edition of the soccer.

NCD Governor’s Cup Director Billy Aki said interest for both sports has picked up over the past week, as they have just secured venues at the Kone Tigers Oval, Ipi Park and the UPNG oval for the rugby league, while for the soccer they have the one oval at UPNG and one at Gerehu Secondary School.

Aki said: “With the deadline moved to this Sunday December 14, the number of men’s teams for the rugby league is now 45 and for the women its eight.

“While for the soccer, we have 33 men’s teams and 10 women’s teams,” he added.

Aki further confirmed that the official launch will take place on December 16 and the competition for both the rugby league and soccer will start on December 19.

He further confirmed that those still wishing to register should front up at the Kone Tigers oval.

This year the prize-money for the rugby league has gone up with the Cup winner set to walk away with K100,000, the Cup runner-up with K50,000, the Plate winner K30,000 and Plate runner-up K20,000,

K20,000 is up for grabs in the Hiritano Super Rugby League Nines tourney slated for this weekend in Bereina, Kairuku, Central province.

30 teams are set to vie for the prize money that will be shared amongst winners in the cup, plate and bowl fixtures of the tournament, that begins on Friday December, 12, 2025 and ends with grand final berths on Sunday 15, December, 2025.

It has been four years in the making and the rugby league 9s tourney this year will be a bumper, according to president Rolf Maino.

Maino says,” the aim of the tournament was initially staged to encourage youths promote social development, foster community unity and identify raw talents along the Hiritano highway to make an exit into bigger Port Moresby competitions in the nation’s capital.”

He says the Hiritano Super Nines

FROM THE BACK PAGE

amongst other prize-money on offer. Aki further acknowledged the efforts of NCD Governor Powes Parkop towards providing this initiative to keep city residents busy during the festive period.

programme was an inspiration to many youths who got involved and the outcome was satisfying, after witnessing Bartholomew Evi, a product of the 9s program who won the the rookie of the year in 2024, whilst playing for the Central Dabaris.

He says the Hiritano Super Nines is the brain child of the now Dabaris team manager Don Pio, that has see HSN growth of the program that continues to enrich youths with their focus and endeavours in rugby league.

With that determination, HSN has grown into a self sustaining 10 person committee with Clement Pio Avaisa and himself ( Maino) as president, whilst Paul Aluofo appointed as tournament director, a position suited in his capacity as the Kairuku district administration sports coordinator based in Bereina station.

THE SP PNG Hunters has announce an expanded partnership with K92 Mining Limited.

K92 Mining has been a valued partner of the Hunters for several years, and this upgraded agreement represents a significant enhancement of its support.

The expanded partnership will directly contribute to the Hunters’ high-performance program, community engagement initiatives, and player development systems that continue to produce elite PNG talent for the Hostplus Cup, the PNG Kumuls, and international rugby league teams.

K92 Mining Chief Executive Officer John Lewins said the company is honoured to deepen its association with one of the nation’s most iconic sporting teams.

“The PNG Hunters embody

resilience, hard work and national pride — values that reflect the spirit of Papua New Guinea and align with K92 Mining’s commitment to building long-term opportunities for local people.

We are proud to strengthen our support for the Hunters and, through sport, help create pathways that inspire communities across the country.”

As one of the largest employers and investors in the country, K92 Mining continues to demonstrate its belief in Papua New Guinea’s potential.

Beyond its mining operations, the company has invested heavily in local workforce development, training programs, infrastructure, and community partnerships — with sport playing a central role in bringing people together.

Hunters Chief Executive Officer Scott Barker welcomed the expand-

ed partnership and acknowledged the positive impact it will have across the organisation.

“K92 Mining has been an outstanding supporter of our club and our vision for developing Papua New Guinean rugby league talent. Their increased investment ensures we can continue to elevate our high-performance standards, strengthen our pathways, and inspire the next generation of Hunters and Kumuls players.

We deeply value partners who share our commitment to nationbuilding through sport.”

The expanded partnership further strengthens the Hunters’ commercial foundations ahead of the 2025 Hostplus Cup season and reinforces the important role that corporate leaders such as K92 Mining play in supporting PNG’s sporting, cultural, and economic growth.

For these young men, rugby is a passion, no matter the current scenario which has no future with Rugby PNG still lifeless, they like a host of others taking part in this tournament, play the game for the love of the game. They are not a team of former representative players, but a team that was borne out of necessity to keep the bond of mateship intact more than anything else.

And no Monaka is not a Central name, it stands for the three streets at East Boroko or China Town, Mo stands for Moru Street, Na stands for Namo Street and Ka is Karu Street - thus Monaka, where the majority of the players reside.

The players come from a mixture of clubs in the Capital Rugby Union competition, and were basically drawn to each other as they were left out of their club teams when the sevens program kicks in.

With a bunch of no-names, they are slowly but surely getting into the rhythm of things falling short to last years winners Creek Rhinos

in the Cup semi-final, won the Bowl in the Sports Tok 7s earlier this year and were competitive during the two legs of the Firelight 7s leading up to this one.

This year they also welcome their U20 team, a sure sign of growth and trust in the club culture that is attracting others to join.

This will be their biggest test of character, as the seasoned players look to raise the bar a little higher in their quest for glory.

Nothing is impossible for this bunch of misfits, who only want to be recognised amongst the cream of the crop. Their Open Men’s team for this weekend: Clyde Lome, Timothy

RUGBY LEAGUE

Mayum, Abraham Makit, Mordecai Jakis (VC), Noel Kuri, Daniel Kulit, Kingsley Gegeyo ( C ), Eddie Masi, Ricky Gure, Johannes Pangkatana, Alex Gule, Lloyd Masi, Annanias Gairo.

The obvious favourites at this stage look to be the title holders Creek Rhinos from Gerehu Stage Two, Mantas, PC Ravens, Bialla Suaras and the Kimbe Pirates.

NCD Governor;s Cup director Billy Aki.

The Sweet Stars making their debut in the Gerehu Firelight 7s.

Nothing is impossible

Dream is to represent PNG for hearing impaired LCTA Open winger

TOUCH FOOTBALL BY SIMON KESLEP IN LAE

HE is branded the racing car for Lae Corporate Touch Association (LCTA) Open men’s team.

Since childhood and growing up, watching touch footy on the sideline lured him to develop the interest and passion for the sport.

This is how hearing-impaired LCTA Open men’s winger Jesse Manasseh continues to defy his disabilities to compete and hoping to one day represent PNG.

Guiding him throughout his touch footy upbringing in Lae is his two elder brothers, Sam and Ian Manasseh.

The 30-year-old who prefers playing on the wing, was inspired by his elder brother Sam to actively take up the sport. Starting his touch footy career at the age of 15 with Nomads touch footy club back in 2015, it was a brother in arms combination that the trio formed when they

stepped onto the field to compete.

“For us the family, we are always happy because we have a person with disability taking part.”

“Every time when we go to the touch footy field back then, he always make sign language to us that he wants to play…that is why our elder brother (Ian) and I feel like it is not fair to live him out so we always play alongside him because we know how to communicate with him.”

“When we see him playing for another club, we feel worried because we are not there to play alongside him,” said Ian Manasseh after interpreting with Jesse.

In defence, Jesse has an excellent defensive IQ because he understands how oppositions will dictate play and quickly moves in to shut them down. On the other hand when attacking, Jesse is a handful to contain given his speed and quick footwork.

Teams vying for spots in the finals

TOUCH FOOTBALL

BY SIMON KESLEP IN LAE

FINALS fever is expected to arrive early today and tomorrow in the National Touch Championship.

Tapping off Day 3 of competition today, tournament favourites like Corporate Touch Port Moresby, Popondetta Touch, Lae Corporate Touch and Ijivitari will likely stamp their mark in the respective divisions’ finals playoffs.

“Those are the teams that survive some of the touch games so far in the tournament.”

“We are also seeing Madang, Kainantu and Owan giving champion teams are good run for their money…we will see how Day 3 (today) unfold.”

“We are also thankful to all the sponsors for supporting TFPNG,” said TFPNG Coaching Director Ari Peter who is assisting in technically

“When he defends, he waves his hand to the inside defenders to slide and match up with the opposition.”

“At times, he can commit up to two or three touches before we finish the touches.”

“In defence for us able people, we call out touch ref but for him, he raises his hand and then his teammates call out to the referee to indicate touch,” said Ian.

The Manasseh brothers together have played seven grand finals for Nomads touch club, four grand finals during Lae district games and two recent grand final appearances with Dulux touch footy club. “He does not give up.”

“He tells us that his goal is to continue playing until he gets the opportunity to wear the national jersey.”

“He tells us that if given the opportunity, he will run on the wing and when he receives the ball, he will score a try,” said Ian.

Guiding him also is the

organizing the tournament games.

He said the presence of JJ Ship Equip Agencies as well as Lae Biscuit Company managing director John Chow including the support staff on the ground and venue management of Scrum oval has really boosted the championship.

“Thank you to Robin Tarere and Scrum oval for allowing us to host the championship at the venue.”

“We welcome everyone to attend and be mindful of the gate fees like K1 (children), K2 (adults) and K10 (vehicles)…you are most welcome to come and support your teams.”

“We are expected to run knock out finals on Saturday and grand final on Sunday,” said Peter.

current Lae Corporate Touch Association head coach Vidler Artang.

“Our current coach (Artang) was once our Nomads coach, so he understands what play to execute.”

“If any opponent gives him space, he is like our team’s racing car…one video went viral of him was back during the National Championship in Popondetta.”

“His advice to other person living with disability is to come out of their comfort zone and why not try athletics,” said Ian.

uc dle ang ach lay s y cia nas of on ch er g) h, y ation sseh, f the nship.

Lae Corporate Touch Association Open men’s player, Jesse Manasseh, in action during day two of the National Touch Championship.

Post Courier, Friday, December 12, 2025

(From left-right) Clement Maim, Jacob Nappa, Ian Manasseh, Jesse Manasseh, Jeremy Yangis, coach Vidler Artang.

Jesse Manasseh interpreting responses to his elder brother, Ian (second from left).

Lae Corperate Touch Association player dives to make a touch as the opposing player goes in for a touch down.

PICTURE: SIMON KESLEP

NATIONAL TOUCH FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS PICTORIAL

Popondetta Touch Association open mix player Joseph Uduru taking on the NCD Touch Association defensive line.

Team Gateway Touch senior mix.

Lae Corporate Touch senior mix.

Lae Biscuit Company managing director John Chow (second from left) and two TFPNG executives presenting the LBC products to Popondetta Touch Association representatives

NCD Touch Association senior mix player Jenny Peter comes up with a show and go trick play.

Touch Federation of PNG executives receiving shirt merchandise for referees proudly sponsored by JJ Ship Equip Agencies.

Parrapella touch club duo and PNG reps Kele Lessy (left) and Ravu Ravu dictating a play for Corporate Touch Port Moresby open men’s team

14-year-old Laban Berry (right) playing for Ijivitari touch association Under 18 team

TFPNG referee director Michael Imo awarding a try.

Former PNG men’s basketball player Dia Muri (second from right) with friends at the Scrum Oval yesterday.

jpangkatana@spp.com.pg

STORY PAGE 59

RUGBY UNION

BY JOHN PANGKATANA

UNKNOWN talents Monaka, made up of youths from around the East Boroko area are gunning to test the renowned teams from West New Britain, East New Britain, the classy PC Ravens from Morobe, the

stylish Gerehu Natives, reigning champs Creek Rhinos - and a host of Port Moresby sides vying for the K50,000 Cup winners prizemoney on offer - has set the stage for the much anticipated Larkin Ad Focus Entertainment Gerehu Firelight Sevens starting today at the Bava Park. CONTINUE ON PAGE 57

Monaka on the attack against Unitech Reds earlier this year during the Sports Tok 7s. The underdogs from East Boroko are amongst 24 teams taking part in this weekend’s Gerehu Firelight 7s.