Author

Inside PNG

Browsing
News

PNG Fashion Debut in Russia

By

PNG Fashion will be represented in Russia next month (October 3-5).

Ms Philma Kelegai, Founder and Managing Director of PNG Fashion Week, is attending the BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow.  BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

The global event, the largest of its kind for the emerging fashion markets, will bring together industry leaders, heads of fashion associations, manufacturers, designers, and experts from around the world to discuss the future of fashion.

PNG Fashion

The highlight of the Summit will be the International Exhibition ‘Heritage’.  It will showcase the powerful influence of national and cultural heritage of BRICS countries, as well as countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The founder of PNG Fashion Week will observe this event and make a presentation on ‘Heritage’.

It will also look at modern clothing design and reflect the global trend of embracing cultural codes in a contemporary context.

Ms Kelegai said, “As a leader in this space in PNG, I am excited to see how connections like this that foster collaboration and exchange can lead to massive returns on investment and invaluable reach not just fashion in PNG but brand PNG.”

She added, “PNG deserves to be seen on global platforms, its art, culture, story and rich history is undeniable and I am proud to represent PNG at this global forum.”

Following the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, Moscow Fashion Week will take center stage from October 4th to 9th, featuring talented designers from Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, Costa Rica and the UAE.

PHOTOS BY: PNG Fashion Week

Keep Reading
By
News

Papua New Guinea Reaffirms Commitment to Nuclear Disarmament at Global Meeting

By

Papua New Guinea is the latest state to ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).

The CTBT is an international treaty that aims to ban all nuclear explosions for both civilian and military purposes. The objective is to curb the development and spread of nuclear weapons by making it illegal for countries to conduct nuclear tests, thus contributing to global security.

The 11th meeting of the Friends of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) took place on 24 September 2024 on the margins of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at UN headquarters in New York.

The meeting brought together key international figures, including Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong and UN Under-Secretary General Izumi Nakamitsu, to discuss the future of nuclear safety and disarmament.

In his address, Foreign Affairs Minister for Papua New Guinea, Justin Tkatchenko, highlighted the pressing need for global cooperation in nuclear disarmament.

Tkatchenko says the participation of Papua New Guinea at the CTBT meeting is a vital effort towards ensuring peace and security for current and future generations reaffirming the country’s commitment to the CTBT having ratified the treaty on the 13th of March 2024. This step reflects the nation’s dedication to promoting safer and more controlled uses of nuclear technology for the benefit of humanity.

In his remarks, Tkatchenko addressed the historical and ongoing consequences of nuclear testing in the Pacific, pointing to events such as the Moruroa Atolls testing and the Fukushima nuclear disaster. He emphasized the need for a coordinated response to safeguard the region’s environment and the health of its communities. “Our region and ocean have been and continue to be on the receiving end of the consequences of actions we are neither a part of nor benefit from,” he stated.

Highlighting the unique challenges of the Pacific nations, Tkatchenko called for solidarity among Pacific neighbors yet to ratify the CTBT. He asserted that the region’s identity and sovereignty are linked to the ocean, which has faced threats not only from nuclear testing but also from pollution and industrial dumping.

To date, 187 countries have signed the treaty, and 178 have ratified it. However, for the CTBT to enter into force, it requires ratification by 44 specific countries that participated in the negotiations, known as Annex 2 states. As of October 2023, several key states of the Annex 2 countries, including the United States, China, India, and Pakistan, have not ratified the treaty.

Keep Reading
By
News

Air Niugini Launches Rebranded Loyalty Programs Amid Service Enhancements

By
Air Niugini officially launched its rebranded loyalty programs, Destinations Frequent Flyer and Air Niugini Kumul Club

PAPUA New Guinea’s National Airline, Air Niugini officially launched its rebranded loyalty programs, Destinations Frequent Flyer and Air Niugini Kumul Club, during a ceremony held in Port Moresby.

CEO Gary Seddon addressed the audience of management, staff, and partners, highlighting the evolution of the loyalty programs since their inception in August 2009.

With a current membership of 127,000 in the Destinations program and nearly 7,000 Kumul Club members, Seddon noted an impressive growth over the past 15 years, with 85% of members residing in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and 15% overseas.

He emphasized that the Destinations program remains free to join, offering members the opportunity to earn points on flights that can be redeemed for travel or partner goods and services.

Air Niugini CEO, Gary Seddon, standing at a podium with a mic in hand, speaking to attendees at the rebrand launch.
Air Niugini CEO, Gary Seddon, standing at a podium with a mic in hand, speaking to attendees at the rebrand launch.

The revamped Destinations program introduces three membership tiers: Silver, Gold, and Platinum, allowing members to accumulate status points based on flight frequency and spending. Enhanced benefits, such as added baggage allowance, priority check-in, and lounge access, will be available as members advance through the tiers.

For the Kumul Club, which operates on an annual subscription model, there are three options: Kumul Club Premium, Kumul Club Domestic, and Kumul Club Junior.

Seddon reassured attendees that there would be no changes to annual membership fees, and Premium members will continue to enjoy access to all international lounges in PNG and partner lounges abroad. The airline recently opened new lounges in Manus, Vanimo, and Kavieng, bringing the total to 12 lounges across PNG.

Looking ahead, Seddon announced further enhancements set to roll out later this month, including virtual cards, family memberships, and online features such as statement downloads and claims for missing points.

During his speech, Seddon also acknowledged the challenges faced by the airline in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, including supply chain disruptions, rising operational costs, and difficulties in attracting skilled personnel. He acknowledged the need for continuous improvement in customer service, stating, “We cannot accept mediocrity. We have to own that.”

To address these challenges, Air Niugini has invested over K5 million in customer service training for its staff over the past 18 months.

Seddon introduced Lisa Hill, the airline’s new Customer Engagement Manager, who brings extensive experience from the airline and hospitality industries. Hill will play a pivotal role in enhancing customer relations as the airline strives for excellence in service delivery.

As Air Niugini embarks on this new chapter, the introduction of a new fleet of 13 jet planes—expected to arrive within a year—promises to be a game changer for the airline, further elevating the travel experience for passengers.

[Pictures supplied by Air Niugini]

Keep Reading
By
News

Lieutenant Colonel Kagena Selected for Prestigious US-Pacific Rising Leaders Fellowship

By

Lieutenant Colonel Velmoore Kagena of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force has been selected as one of two representatives from Papua New Guinea to participate in the esteemed US-Pacific Rising Leaders Fellowship program. The program will take place in Washington, DC, from September 30 to October 18, 2024.

This fellowship, announced by the White House during the September 2022 U.S.–Pacific Island Country Summit, aims to empower mid-career public service professionals from Pacific Island nations.

The second cohort is set to welcome up to 32 participants to the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) for a three-week leadership development experience.

The fellowship is a collaborative effort between Johns Hopkins University and the U.S. Department of State.

Participants were chosen following a public call for applications and recommendations from regional governments and experts, with final selections made by a panel convened by Johns Hopkins University, in partnership with the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs and U.S. missions in the region.

Lt Col Kagena, who hails from Central Province, Gavuone Village in Abau, and Malati Village in Kanosia, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity.

“I decided to apply for the program after seeing the advertisement online,” he stated.

Currently serving as the Director of the Incident Response Group, he previously held the position of Officer Commanding of the Long Range Reconnaissance Unit. With 25-years of experience, he has excelled in various capacities in both training and operational roles, both domestically and internationally.

An accomplished military professional, Lt Col Kagena is a graduate of the Royal Military College of Australia.

His academic credentials include a Diploma of Personnel Management from the University of New South Wales, a Bachelor of Business and Management (Professional Studies) from the University of Papua New Guinea, and a Master of Military and Defence Studies from the Australian National University. He is also a recent alumnus of the Australian War College in Canberra and the Asia Pacific Centre for Strategic Studies in Hawaii.

Looking ahead, Lt Col Kagena is eager not only to explore Washington DC but also to enhance his professional military education and forge valuable connections with fellow participants, lecturers, and facilitators during the program.

This fellowship presents a unique opportunity for him to further his leadership skills and contribute to the development of effective public service in the Pacific region.

“Establishing networks and building mutual relationships with the other Fellows from the Pacific Islands countries to collaborate in addressing the complex security and development challenges faced by our respective countries in the Oceania region”, says Lt. Col Kagena.

As Papua New Guinea continues to strengthen its ties with global partners, Lt Col Kagena’s participation in this prestigious program underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering leadership and collaboration in the Pacific Island community.

Keep Reading
By
News

UK Maritime Security Support Boosts Pacific Regional Agencies

By

The British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, HE Anne Macro, participated in the launch of a technical workshop aimed at enhancing the management of the Ontong Java Plateau Extended Continental Shelf (ECS). This event saw the participation of senior officials and technical experts from the Pacific Community (SPC), the Federated States of Micronesia, the Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea.

This initiative is part of the UK’s broader commitment to bolster maritime security across the Pacific region. By supporting the SPC’s Integrated Ocean Management and Maritime Governance Program, the UK government aims to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific, while upholding the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

UK Maritime Security Support Boosts Pacific Regional Agencies.
British High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, HE Anne Macro speaking at the launch.

In her remarks, High Commissioner Macro emphasized the importance of aligning support with the Pacific’s own priorities. “It is particularly important for us to support the work of Pacific-led regional institutions to ensure that the priorities being supported are the Pacific’s priorities. This approach is vital to the resolution of maritime boundaries and zones in the Pacific,” she stated.

The workshop, which runs from September 18 to 20, 2024, in Port Moresby, will focus on the recommendations provided by the Commission on the Limits of Continental Shelf (CLCS) regarding the original ECS submission. It will also outline the next steps for future submissions concerning the Eauripik Rise and Mussau Ridge ECS.

Funding for this initiative is derived from the UK’s Integrated Security Fund Pacific Program, which has enabled the SPC to strengthen the application of international maritime laws and support the Pacific Women in Maritime Association. Over the past few years, this support has facilitated the progress of submissions from Fiji, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands for various marine regions, including the North Fiji Basin and the Melanesian Plateau.

Keep Reading
By
News

Youth Participation during Pope’s Visit Brings Hope to a Golden-ager

By
Anthon Kraip and family walked through bushes to see Pope Francis

Anthon Kraip, was among 1500 Parishioners from Mt Hagen Diocese that braved bush tracks to get to Port Moresby in time for Pope Francis’ visit.

The pilgrims arrived in different groups. Some walked through Gulf Province while others walked through Northern Province’s Kokoda track.

Kraip and 25 others walked through the Gulf Province before boarding Public Motor Vehicle’s to Port Moresby.

Each Parish funded only three representatives. These representatives were flown to Port Moresby.

Walking the bush tracks was the only hope for the other pilgrims who couldn’t afford airline tickets.

In his white shirt that had Pope Francis’ face printed on, matching his white beard, Kraip said it was only right for him to make this journey to welcome the head the Church.

“Mi wokabaut long displa longpla wokabaut blong wanem, displa ol lain ikisim tok blong God ikam long mipla. Katolik istap nambawan insait long kantri na wold, olsem na taim bikman blong sios ikam, mi tu laik kam lukim em na tok tenku long God Papa long ol wokman blong em ibringim gutnius ikam long PNG.”

(I took this journey because these are the people who brought Christianity to Papua New Guinea. Catholic remains the largest faith based organization in Papua New Guinea and the world and I wanted to see the Pope and acknowledge God for his servants that brought the gospel to PNG.)

The pilgrim arrived 3 weeks ahead of the Pope’s arrival. St John Parish in Tokara provided accommodation for pilgrims that arrived from Western Highlands.

Among the 1500 people that arrived in Port Moresby, many were young people.

A golden-ager, Kraip was pleased to see the involvement of youths from his province.

“Mi hamamas bikos, em tok i-kisim ol. Mi hamamas olsem ol tu laik lukim Pope olsem wokman blong God. Jisas em wokim sios blong em antap long Pita na makim maus blong Pita, em Pope ikam. Olsem na mi hamamas long lukim planti yangpla ikam.

“Nau tu mi strongim ol, yupla ol yangpla imas behainim ol wokman blong God ken na sanap strong long bilip.”

(I am happy that they have received the calling to take part in this pilgrim. I am happy that they want to see Pope as God’s servant. Jesus built his Church on Peter and the Pope now represents Peter as Christ’s mouthpiece. I am happy to see a lot of the youths participating and I would like to encourage them to follow the footsteps of these missionaries and be strong in their faith.)

Keep Reading
By
News

Hohola No.3 Community Celebrates PNG’s 49th Independence

By
Hohola No.3 Community Celebrate Independence

A Basketball court and a few raintrees provided the perfect venue and shade for the 49th Independence celebration at Hohola No.3 in the Moresby Northwest Electorate of the National Capital District.

In fact, it’s the 3rd year the residents of Casuarina Place who reside behind the Headquarters of PNG Power have enjoyed independence celebrations in their neighborhood.  Surrounding Hohola communities including Murray Barracks also joined in the festivities. 

This is the Basketball court area that was turned into an arena for the Independence celebrations..
East New Britain Dancers entering in the performance arena. This is the Basketball court area that was turned into an arena for the Independence celebrations..

The annual independence event is organized by the Native Youths Association made up of youths of Casuarina Place. Despite NCD Governor, Powes Parkop announcing K500,000 funding distribution to the three Electorates in NCD; Moresby South, Moresby Northwest and Moresby Northeast to conduct independence activities in their communities, this Hohola community received no funding.

President of Native Youths Association, John Sarwom said, “we haven’t had any support externally or from business houses but we managed to pull through, thanks to our families and Native Youths.”

Dance groups organized fundraising nights consisting of coffee and finger food sales leading up to the big day.  Funds raised enabled them to gather head-dresses, kundu drums, grass skirts and other accessories to complete their traditional attire.

Dancers as young as five-years-old, teenagers and young adults all took part; there were dance practices in the weeks leading up to September 16.  Parents and elders in the community ensured the children were well prepared to represent the various performing groups.

This year, 10 groups representing, Kairuku, Goilala and Rigo Districts in Central province, Kiwai Dancers of Western Province, Tawali of Milne Bay, Gulf province, East New Britain, West New Britain, East Sepik and Morobe province put on show; singing and story telling dances.  The Tawali dance group of Milne Bay explained that their dance told the story of the early days when a fisherman or gardener tends to court a woman but is rejected.

Little performer.
Kairuku cultural group.
Boys from East New Britain performing the whip dance for the 49th Independence day celebrations.
Whip dance from East New Britain.

Each group were also tasked to explain the make up of their traditional attire and the symbols on their provincial flags.  These gestures were educational for all participants and spectators, each learning another’s culture and tradition.

Organiser John Sarwom said, the idea to host Independence activities within the community is to avoid the risk of individuals and families being harmed by opportunists at other celebration venues. 

“We decided to host it here, so everyone can participate and enjoy the program, it’s been a success and we hope to do better next year.”

It was an enjoyable day for everyone.  Hohola Police Station were on the look out for any trouble makers while the community also had volunteers who controlled the movement of crowds.

Parents who rolled down their mats and brought chairs to sit on, had a fun filled day watching their children perform.

Keep Reading
By
News

Peace and Unity for Papua New Guineans this Independence

By

The words of Pope Francis still resonates in the Government almost a week after he left.

As Papua New Guinea celebrates its 49th year of Independence, Prime Minister James Marape echoes words of peace and unity for Papua New Guinea.

Marape called for forgiveness and reconciliation during the country’s 49th independence anniversary.

The Prime Minister said the Pope’s message was in line with the dreams and aspirations of the country’s Founding Fathers at Independence.

“I want us all to bear in mind and keep in our hearts the message by Pope Francis who visited us earlier this month. The Pontiff spoke of tolerance, forgiveness, empathy and unity. These are important as our country turns 49 years today.

“Despite our political differences, cultural and language diversity, we have remained united as a nation for 49 years. That is something we all must be proud of,” he said.

The Prime Minister in remembering the joyous events of 1975 and in honor of PNG’s Founding Fathers, appealed to all citizens to stay united as a nation for the next 49 years.

“We must find a common resolve to remain united, to heal the divides and to bridge the gaps that exist in our midst, and to ensure our people in spite of the differences of tribe, religion, colour of skin – so long as we call PNG home, we must make PNG a better place for all.

“We must do this as we near our 50th Independence anniversary next year 2025,” he said.

The Prime Minister was speaking at PNG’s 49th Independence Anniversary dinner on the night of Sunday, 15th September 2024 at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Konedobu.

The stadium is a significant part of PNG’s history as an Independent Nation. On the 16th of September 1975, the Australian flag was officially lowered at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium and the PNG flag raised for the first time.

Keep Reading
By
News

Call for Peace and Progress this Independence

By

Citizens across Papua New Guinea are celebrating the nation’s 49th Independence Anniversary.

During the flag lowering ceremony today at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby, the Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae called for peace and progress in his Independence anniversary address.

Reflecting on the nation’s journey, Sir Bob paid tribute to the brave individuals who fought for freedom during World War II and the leaders who laid the foundation for independence in 1975.

He emphasized the importance of the principles of freedom, unity, and peace that were embedded in the country’s Constitution.

Despite progress, Sir Bob acknowledged challenges that have hindered social and economic growth. He urged government departments to focus on achieving practical outcomes and work closely with the private sector and international partners to drive industrialization and economic development.

Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, giving his address at the Independence Day flag lowering ceremony at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Port Moresby.
Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, giving his address at the Independence Day flag lowering ceremony at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Port Moresby.

Sir Bob highlighted the need for a safe and stable environment for both citizens and investors. He stressed the importance of adhering to Christian values and the message of peace promoted during the recent visit by the Holy Father of the Catholic Church.

He addressed the ongoing issues of crime and lawlessness, urging communities to support law enforcement and work towards safer neighborhoods.

The Governor General encouraged Papua New Guineans to shift away from relying solely on government support, advocating for hard work, discipline, and self-reliance to achieve personal success and contribute to national prosperity.

As the nation looks forward to its 50th year of independence in 2025, Sir Bob called for renewed commitment to the values of freedom, unity, and peace.

“Happy 49th Independence Anniversary, Papua New Guinea!” he concluded, wishing blessings and guidance for the journey ahead.

Keep Reading
By
Sport

Yemini Pursues Kumuls Dream

By
Timon Yemeni

BRISBANE, Australia – Timon Yemini is a rising star of Papua New Guinea rugby league.

A young prospect carving his own path in the rugby league scene in Brisbane, Australia.

It is on the field that Yemini shines as the lock forward for Carina Tigers, a local club in the Brisbane Rugby League Competition.

Now 23, the Carina Tigers lock forward stands 180cm and tips the scale at 102kg; and with some serious pedigree in the sport, has begun to make some noise on the local rugby league scene in the game he so dearly loves.

In 2023, Yemini took to the field with the Kokomo Nines representing Papua New Guinea in the annual Queensland Pacific Cup which they won.

He impressed enough to earn a two-year rugby league contract with the Carina Tigers in the Brisbane Rugby League competition.

As the accomplishments stack up for Yemini, he’s inching closer to realizing his ultimate dream of playing for the Papua New Guinea Kumuls.

As a young boy growing up in Kaundaka village, Upper Mendi in the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea, Yemini has drawn inspiration from Kumuls players such as Wellington Albert to motivate him in his rugby league journey.

It was in Mendi that Yemini developed his love for the game we call rugby league.

From 2014 to 2017, the schoolboys rugby league competition in Mendi provided the exposure that Yemini needed to kick start his rugby league career.

And in 2019, Yemini impressed selectors during the Ipatas cup and was signed by Hela Wigmen but had to put on hold his rugby to complete his year 12 studies in 2021.

Yemini’s talents were sought after by rugby league franchises in Papua New Guinea who were eagerly awaiting his return to the field.

The young Kaundaka man did not disappoint the selectors with his performance in the Southern Highlands Provincial 9s rugby league competition while playing with the TNT Brothers in Mendi.

In 2021, Yemini was scouted by the Enga Mioks rugby league club and made his debut in the Digicel cup.

His rise in the national rugby league competition would see him play for the Port Moresby Vipers in 2022 for three months before moving to Brisbane.

The journey may be long but Yemini is putting in the work with the Carina Tigers and is determined to be eligible for the Papua New Guinea Kumuls in the coming years.

Written by: Mickey Kavera (Contributor)

Keep Reading
By
Pin It