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Rugby League

PM’s XIII 2023 to Include Junior Matches

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The infamous Prime Minister’s XIII rugby match between PNG Kumuls and Australian Kangeroos is expected to see Junior Kumuls and Junior Orchids taking on Australian school boys and girls in the two days of the rugby tournament.

Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) announced twelve teams will participate when the games are held in Port Moresby later this month.

PNGRFL CEO, Stanley Hondina, said the PNGRFL were delighted to see the game back in PNG after 5 years, and fans will be treated to a massive weekend of rugby league come the 23rd and 24th of September.

“For the first time in the history of the PM’s XIII matches, there will be 12 teams playing 6 games over 2 days, something that’s never been done before and we look forward to welcoming all our fans over the two days.” said Hondina.

The PM’s XIII concept is an initiative of both the PNG and Australian governments and since 2005, the matches were one event most Port Moresby residents look forward to annually.

The drawcard matches are on Saturday 23 September, while on Sunday 24th September, the fans will be treated to the up-and- coming stars of our game going head-to-head, with the Defence Men the final match of the day.

For ticket purchasing the ticket prices are priced accordingly and keeping in mind that the prices are consistent with the 2017 Rugby League World Cup and the 2019 Great Britain Lions Tour to PNG.

While the Corporate Boxes have all been allocated to the Game’s major sponsors and dignitaries, there are still opportunities for individuals and companies to be a part of a weekend of world class rugby league.

The schedule for the weekend is as follows;

  • Saturday 23rd September 2023
  • 12pm: Defence Women – PNGDF Vs ADF
  • 2pm: PM’s XIII Women
  • 4pm: PM’s XIII Men
  • Sunday 24th September 2023
  • 12pm: Junior Orchids Vs Australian School -Girls
  • 2pm: Junior Kumuls Vs Australia School Boys
  • 4pm: Defence Men – PNGDF Vs ADF

The ticket prices are as follows;

Saturday 23rd September 2023 Stands;

  • Grandstand K120
  • Western Wings K80
  • Eastern Stand K50
  • North & South K30

And Sunday 24th September 2023 Stands;
Grandstand K40
Western Wings K25
Eastern Stand K15
North & South K10

Tickets are on sale now from 6pm today Online at Tiketmastas.com, or you can buy over-the- counter this Friday at at selective normal outlets including;

  • Brian Bell Boroko
  • J-Mart Erima
  • Cool Stuff Rangeview

All games will be held at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

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News

Search for Pacific Musician

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Pacific Break

The search is on for the next best original musical talent from the Pacific and Timor-Leste.

The launch of the 2023 Pacific Break is set to kick off in Port Moresby come 21st September and a winner will be announced on 2nd November.

Pacific Break is considered the longest running music competition in the Pacific and was first hosted in 2008.

For this year, a free concert will be held at the Lamana Gold Club and will feature last year’s winner, Danielle and PNG-born Australian artist Ngaiire.

The winner of 2023 Pacific Break will be flown to Australia to attend its largest international music festival WOMADelaide in March 2024.

Pacific Break 2

Throughout this six-week campaign, (September to November) featured artists in the region will have their music and videos featured on ABC Radio-Australia and including ABC Pacific digital and social media forums.

With the entries set to close on 2nd November, a winner will be announced on ABC Radio- Australia’s morning show Nesia Daily on Thursday 9 November.

Judge’s for this year’s talent search will include Ngaiire, DJ Hau Latukefu, Sose Fuamoli, and Rick Howe.

Australia says it is proud to promote the growth of unsigned artists living in the Pacific and Timor-Leste through such career-changing opportunities.

For more information on about Pacific Break visit www.abc.net.au/pacificbreak.

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International

Marape Clears Statement

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West Papua

Prime Minister, James Marape says he wants to set the record straight on his meeting with Indonesian President Joko Widodo regarding the West Papua Issue.

Marape claims an earlier statement regarding PNG’s position to abstain from supporting West Papua United Liberation Movement (WPULM) for a full fleged membership in the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) was released without consent.

In an effort to rectify the misinformation and alleviate concerns raised within the MSG, Marape released another statement to address the inaccuracies.

PNG Prime Minister James Marape

“An earlier statement released without consent wrongfully said that at the recently-concluded MSG Leaders’ Summit in Port Vila, Vanuatu, I informed leaders of PNG’s abstaining from supporting the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) bid for full membership, plus a notation that human rights issues in West Papua are of no concern to PNG. I wish to clarify these misconstrued assertions.” said Marape.

Marape corrects that, “Papua New Guinea never abstained from West Papua matters at the MSG meeting, but rather, offered solutions that affirmed,” said Marape.

Marape made these comments during the bilateral meeting with President Widodo in Jakarta and stressed the respect PNG government has towards Indonesia’s sovereignty, territorial rights but Human Rights is a different issue.

“When matters concerning ULMWP’s application for membership was raised, I indicated that the presence of Indonesia on MSG as an Associate Member and ULMWP as observer is sufficient for the moment. MSG has placed a moratorium on new membership until the criteria for membership is reviewed,” Marape said

Marape said President Widodo has assured him that all is okay in the two Papuan provinces and invited senior government members to visit it’s Papua Province..”

West Papua
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Education

Supporting Adult Literacy

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Adult Literacy

A teacher with over 15 years of experience has found herself teaching adult basic literacy skills in her community in Southern Highlands Province.

Margaret Emmanuel from Ialibu had always wanted to be a changemaker in her community.

She said after seeing that adults lack basic literacy skills, she took on the challenge to help her people.

In 2022 Margaret completed a phonics training and a Level 1 Adult Literacy Teacher Training with the support of the Baptist Union of Papua New Guinea (BUPNG) church in Kompiam, Enga province and the Australian Government’s Church Partnership Program.

“People in my church struggled to read the Bible and understand the word of God. Since there were classroom buildings left vacant for many years, I combined the two and saw an opportunity to teach literacy”, said Margaret.

So far Margaret had taught three groups of people, one was combined group of students in Grade 8 to 12.

Margret says her approach encouraged parents to support their children to further by engaging more in their education aspirations.

Left: Margaret Emmanuel (Seated) with class participants
Right: Preparing class materials.

“Most parents don’t know how to read and write thus find it difficult to support their children. For example, they can’t read report cards, so they neglect participating in their children’s learning. [Through these literacy classes], parents and children can work together, and learning can be both ways.”

Margaret’s initiative is suppored by her family and church community.

She hopes to further this adult literacy trainings throughout her District.

“I believe that when I change someone, that person will [go out] and change the community. I want to build that foundation early in the community.” said Margaret.

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International

MSG Secretariat Condemns Japan’s Discharge of ALPS Water

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Japan has started the releasing of treated nuclear waste water (ALPS) into the Pacific Ocean as of 24th August, sparking different reactions from Asian and Pacific Island Countries.

Scientists including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have backed Japan’s plan to release treated nuclear water but China anounced it will not be importing Japanese sea food.

In the Pacific, Secretariat of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) said the health of the Pacific Ocean determines the survival of Pacific Islanders.

MSG Laumo ALPS Water
MSG, Director General, Leonard Louma

A statement released by MSG, Director General, Leonard Louma, states that the best proof that ALPS (treated water from Fukushima) is safe, is to discharge it into Japan’s own internal waterways and that no amount of justification, scientific or otherwise, will suffice.

“We in the Pacific are too well aware of the fallacy of the safety of nuclear activities, “said Louma.

The treated nuclear waste from Fukushima Nuclear Plant will be released into the Pacific Ocean over the next 30 years after the UN Nuclear watchdog approved the plan by the Japanese Government.

The discharge is seen as a key step in decommissioning the Fukushima Daiichi plant after it was destroyed by a tsunami in 2011.

The plant operator Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco) began releasing treated nuclear water at in August through an underground tunnel.

Back home, Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister James Marape had commented that it’s best the treated water is released in a controlled manner.

James Marape ALPS water
PNG Prime Minister James Marape

“For us in the Pacific our position has always been the same, a Nuclear free Pacific. But I also note that International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been working with the government of Japan to rigorously review the safety for waste water for release,” said Marape.

However MSG is of the view that, after reading the IAEA Assessment Report before the discharge, had given no comfort at all.

“The “qualified” words and “diplomatic” construction of language used in the Assessment Report suggests to us that even the IAEA is not sure of the safety of the discharge of the ALPS water into the Pacific Ocean,” said Louma.

Louma is concerned on how would one interprets the use of “consistent with” safety standards, the effects will be “negligible”, and “additional review” or checks will be done again when discharge takes place.

“So please forgive us if we are sceptical of this safety narrative that you have gone overdrive to have us believe that the ALPS water is safe. Excuse us if we appear naïve when we say science can be wrong. Our experience tells us to be cautious,” Louma added.

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Agriculture

Mekeo Farmers Call

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Agriculture

A local farmer in Mekeo says if agriculture has to work, implementing government agencies need to work together to see results.

Augustine Maino is a cocoa and vanilla farmer from Inaui village of Kairuku District who recently participated in a farmer’s workshop held in Mekeo.

Participants of the farmers workshop in Mekeo recently.
Augustine Maino speaking at the gathering in Mekeo recently.

“I believe that for Agriculture to work, three other bodies must also play out their functions and roles; the farmer, DAL and the Government. When these three bodies are aligned and doing their jobs, there is no excuse that Agriculture will move forward. This coupled with good managers who are honest and equipped will see a more smoother transition.” said Maino.

Michael Atuai Central Province’s Agriculture Projects Office supports the call by farmers for a joint effort from all government agencies.

“I note some of the points raised by the farmers, I thank you for this point and (Central ) Governor will be informed accordingly, I am happy when I see young leaders like Patrick Avi, its always good to see young people taking the lead in economic aspiration” said Mr. Atuai.

Michael Atuai – CentralProvince Agricultural Projects
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Crime

27 Surrendered to Police

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Aroma

A successful police operation led by ward councillors resulted in the surrender of twenty-nine suspects in Aroma, Central Province.

Central Police Commander, Chief Inspector Laimo Asi said the suspects are from Egala ‘auna village and Maopa villages.

Police say on 3rd September 2023, five men from Maopa village were in the process of robbing a Chinese operated shop at Egala ‘auna village when they were attacked and two were killed on 3rd September 2023.

When Maopa villagers heard of the death of the two men, they mobilized and ransacked the Chinese shop, wounded the Chinese man then burnt down the shop.

Of the five robbers, two were killed, two have surrendered to police while one is still on the run.

PPC Asi said since the deaths last Sunday police units visited the affected community and warned the people not to take the law into their own hands but to bring those suspects involved to police.

Central Police Commander, Chief Inspector Laimo Asi and his team visiting the affected communities.

“The 27 suspects are from Egala ‘auna who went in a group and fought with the five-armed criminals, and killed two while three escaped,” said PPC Asi.

He added that a shotgun that allegedly used in the robbery was also surrendered to police during the awareness yesterday.

The 29 suspects are now in police custody and had surrendered to police on 6th September 2023.

While the situation as has returned to normalcy, PPC Asi warned locals of Aroma not to take the law into their own hands.

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News

PNG’s Stand on WPULM’s Bid

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PNG Prime Minister James Marape, said PNG had abstained from supporting the West Papua United Liberation Movement (WPULM) full membership bid to join the MSG during the recently concluded Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leader’s Meeting in Vanuatu last month.

Marape made these comments in Jakarta yesterday, during his meeting with Indonesian President, Joko Widodo as a reciprocal visit by the Indonesian President to PNG in July.

Marape said West Papua ULM does not meet the requirements of a fully-fledged sovereign nation and Indonesia’s associate membership status also as a Melanesian country to the MSG suffices which cancels out West Papua ULM’s bid.

Marape went on to say the alleged human rights issues in West Papua the PNG Government had no moral grounds to comment on human rights issues outside of its own jurisdictions.

In response President Widodo said PNG Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, will be invited to visit Papua Province to see what development is taking place in that region of Indonesia.

Widodo spoke of Indonesia’s commitment to building trustful and cooperative relations with countries in the Indo-Pacific region and extended an invitation to Pacific Island Countries Leaders to attend the Archipelago Island States Forum this October.

Other discussions between the two leaders include;

  • Ratification and implementation of visa on arrival agreement for diplomatic and service passport holders, and agree that this be also extended to ordinary/private passport holders.
  • The establishment of travel routes of the direct air services/flight between Denpasar in Bali and Jacksons International airport in Port Moresby.
  • The opportunity for downstream processing gold from copper is immense which both leaders agreed to explore.
  • Increase number of Papua New Guinean students to study in Indonesia.

Prime Minister Marape is expected to fly off to France after his visit in Indonesia.

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Rugby

New Jerseys for Blue Heelers

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An exciting partnership has begun for the Blue Heelers Rugby Union Club and the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB), through the presentation of a set of remarkable new jerseys.

It marks the shared commitment between the club and NGCB, in supporting sports and fostering local community engagements.

NGCB CEO, Imelda Agon said the gesture signifies the alignment between the NCGB’s corporate social responsibility initiatives and the club’s dedication to promoting positive values through sports.

“The inspiring work that the club does with young individuals is truly remarkable. And our support is poised to enhance the value in their lives. We are truly honored to be a part of this collaboration, providing the Blue Heelers Rugby Union Club with jerseys that reflect our joint values of integrity and community engagement,” said Agon.

The jerseys were designed to represent the essence of the Blue Heelers Rugby Union Club. Showcasing a harmonious blend of the club’s identity and the NGCB’s social responsibility under the banner of its ‘give back program’ to promoting sports development in the country.

Blue Heelers Club President, Ase Boas said they are grateful for the support and generosity of the NGCB when presented the jerseys.

“These jerseys represent more than just a uniform. They embody the values of fair play, respect, and unity that are at the core of both our club and the NGCB’s mission.” Boas said

Other sponsors like The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), PNG Correctional Services, Pacific Tactical, Dream Maker Ventures and NYW Development. All were also acknowledged for this continued support.

Blue Heelers Womens
Blue Heelers U20
Ase Boas and NGCB CEO Imelda Agon presenting the Womens Division Jersey’s (Left) and Under 20’s (Right).

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International

PNG Opens Embassy in Jerusalem

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Israeli Embassy

Papua New Guinea opened it’s newest embassy in Jerusalem on Tuesday this week, becoming the first Pacific Island Country to do so.

This move makes PNG the fourth nation in the world to open a fully-fledged diplomatic mission in the Israeli capital.

“I thank Prime Minister Netanyahu and his Government for facilitating the establishment of the PNG Resident Embassy in Jerusalem as it will ensure smooth and practical flow of our relations to support our socio-economic development,” said Marape.

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu together unveil the plaque.

However back home, PNG Opposition Leader Joseph Lelang says Jerusalem is a disputed territory between Palestine and Israel and opening an embassy in a disputed area may not be a wise move.

” While the Government of the day has the authority to open our foreign mission there. There is a reason why the rest of the world have decided not to move their embassies from Tel Avi to Jerusalem,” said Lelang.

However the PNG Government said its decision to open an Embassy is a sovereign decision based on Papua New Guinea’s Christian principles and worldview that emanate from Israel’s Judaism religion which emphasizes respect, empathy, tolerance and acceptance for humankind.

“Papua New Guinea chose to join United States, Kosovo, Guatamala and Honduras in opening its Embassy in Jerusalem in acknowledgement of our Judeo-Christian worldview that Jerusalem is historically the headquarter of the nation and the people of Israel,” said Marape.

Marape added that Israel is no ordinary nation. From the Judeo-Christian worldview, it is the foundation nation in giving to the world many of the moral principles that we carry as Christians today.

“The value of Christianity is immeasurable. Character of nations are built by values and moral principles, and Christianity – which is deeply embedded in Israel’s faith of Judaism – gives to us our values and moral principles. Papua New Guinea finds its Christian heritage in this country, Israel; as we uphold these values and continue to believe in the God of Israel,” said Marape

The PNG Government will now be identifying a suitable land in Port Moresby for the establishment of a Israeli Embassy.

Related: https://insidepng.com/israeli-businesses-offered-land/

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