NCD Governor Powes Parkop has congratulated the PNG Barramundis for their impressive performance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier in Japan, held from May 8 to 18.Governor Parkop praised the team for their dedication, discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship, saying their achievements have brought pride to both Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea (PNG). “The PNG Barramundis have once again shown the strength of unity and commitment. Their achievement reflects what our country can accomplish when we work together with determination and purpose,” Governor Parkop said. He highlighted that many members of the Barramundis squad come from Port Moresby, especially the Motu Koita community and the coastal village of Hanuabada, widely regarded as the home of cricket in Papua New Guinea. Governor Parkop also acknowledged the outstanding achievement of Tony Ura, Lega Siaka, Sese Bau, and John Kariko, who were all named in the Tournament Best 12 — the highest number of selections from any team in the competition. “This achievement is not only a proud moment for Port Moresby but for the entire nation. It reflects the growth and potential of cricket in PNG, as well as the hard work and commitment of our players and the team as a whole,” he said. On behalf of the people of the National Capital District, Governor Parkop extended his congratulations to the players, coaching staff, Cricket PNG, supporters, and families who continue to support the national side. He said sport continues to play a powerful role in uniting the country and inspiring young Papua New Guineans to pursue excellence, discipline, and national pride. “As the Barramundis return home to Port Moresby, we warmly welcome them and thank them for representing Papua New Guinea with pride and distinction. Their success has brought excitement and joy to our people,” Governor Parkop stated. He also encouraged Papua New Guineans to continue supporting the Barramundis as they continue their journey toward the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Governor Parkop concluded by congratulating the team once again, saying the city and the nation proudly celebrate their success.

Papua New Guinea and the Republic of Korea are celebrating a historic milestone as they officially mark the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of their bilateral diplomatic relations.To commemorate this golden jubilee, Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkachenko extended his warmest greetings and heartfelt congratulations to his counterpart, Foreign Minister His Excellency Cho Hyun, as well as the Government and people of the Republic of Korea. This anniversary highlights a half-century of growing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties that have steadily evolved since the two nations first formalized their relationship. Reflecting on the enduring strength of this relationship, Minister Tkachenko stated, “Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1976, the Republic of Korea has remained a steadfast friend and valued partner for Papua New Guinea. Over the past five decades, our bilateral relations have flourished on the firm foundations of mutual respect, trust, friendship, and shared aspirations for peace, stability, and prosperity. The republic of Korea’s remarkable journey of economic transportation and national development continues to serve a source of inspiration for PNG’s own development aspirations.” This shared history has allowed both countries to collaborate on numerous fronts, establishing a reliable alliance in the Asia-Pacific region. A cornerstone of this bilateral success has been the consistent developmental aid and knowledge-sharing flowing from Seoul to Port Moresby. “As we commemorate this historic Golden Jubilee, I wish to convey our sincere appreciation for the Republic of Korea’s unwavering support and partnership, particularly through the valuable technical and financial assistance provided under the auspices of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and other bilateral cooperation frameworks. These contributions have played a significant role in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s human resource capacity, infrastructure development, and institutional resilience,” Minister Tkachenko noted, emphasizing how crucial this support has been for PNG's national growth. A major highlight of this milestone year is the physical return of South Korea's premier development agency to the PNG capital, signaling an era of even closer collaboration. In this regard, Minister Tkachenko added, “Papua New Guinea warmly welcomes the re-establishment of the KOICA Office in Port Moresby after fourteen years. This important milestone reflects the growing depth and dynamism of our bilateral cooperation, and I wish to assure Your Excellency of my Government’s full support and commitment towards facilitating KOICA’s meaningful engagement and development initiatives throughout our country.” This reopening is expected to streamline future aid, community projects, and infrastructure investments. Over the last half-century, the bilateral friendship has matured into a robust, forward-looking partnership characterized by expanding trade, investment, development cooperation, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges. Papua New Guinea regards the Republic of Korea not just as a trusted development partner, but also as an important strategic economic partner in advancing sustainable and inclusive regional growth. In his reciprocal congratulatory message, the ROK Foreign Minister, His Excellency Cho Hyun, praised both national maintaining steady, reliable relations over the past five decades and reaffirmed Seoul’s commitment to expanding ties. This mutual acknowledgment underscores the high level of respect shared between the two governments. Both nations view this 50-year mark not as a finish line, but as a launching pad for deeper diplomatic and economic integration. “As we mark our special anniversary, I look forward to our close collaboration to ensure that this milestone year serves as a springboard for an even stronger and broader partnership between our two countries in many areas of mutual interest over the next 50 years,” Minister Hyun stated. This sentiment reflects South Korea's broader foreign policy objectives of fostering deeper, mutually beneficial connections with Pacific Island nations. Looking ahead to the next fifty years, Papua New Guinea remains firmly committed to elevating and deepening bilateral relations to even greater heights. Both nations look forward to expanding strategic cooperation in emerging, and climate resilience, education, and innovation, ensuring that our partnership remains adaptive, resilient and responsive to evolving global opportunities and challenges. By focusing on these modern challenges, PNG and the Republic of Korea are ensuring their long-standing friendship remains highly relevant and impactful for future generations.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has reaffirmed its full commitment for the redevelopment of Buka Airport under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program (CADIP III), following high-level consultations held last week between the National Airports Corporation (NAC), and consultant engineers from Korea Engineering Consultants Corporation (KECC) of South Korea and Hauslain Design.The consultations focused on the proposed major redevelopment works for Buka Airport, which will include the construction of a new airport terminal and extension of the existing runway infrastructure under the CADIP III program. The redevelopment is expected to significantly strengthen Bougainville’s aviation capacity and improve regional connectivity by supporting economic growth and position Buka as a strategic transport gateway for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. “The Autonomous Bougainville Government fully supports the project and is committed to working collaboratively with NAC and all relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of the redevelopment program,” Mr. Nanei said. The Chief Secretary acknowledged that Bougainville had previously missed an earlier airport redevelopment opportunity in 2018 due to unresolved local issues and stressed that the region could not afford to lose another transformative infrastructure opportunity of this scale. Mr. Nanei further called on the people of Ieta and all customary landowning clans associated with the Buka Airport precinct to work collaboratively with the ABG and NAC to ensure there are no unnecessary hindrances to the implementation of the project. Mr. Nanei reiterated the ABG’s commitment to ensuring all necessary government coordination and stakeholder facilitation engagements are undertaken to progress the project efficiently under the CADIP III framework. Further updates on the project, including stakeholder consultations and implementation timelines, will be communicated as planning progresses. Photo caption: ABG Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei with representatives from NAC, KECC of South Korea, and Hauslain Design during consultations on the proposed Buka Airport redevelopment project under CADIP III.

Bougainville recently welcomed the New Zealand Police Commissioner, Richard Chambers, on his first official visit to the region this month.Commissioner Chambers and his delegation, including RPNGC Deputy Police Commissioner Specialist Operations Donald Yamasombi and Assistant Commissioner Policy & Planning Rigga Negie, were welcomed with a parade by the Bougainville Police Service. Commissioner Chambers thanked the Chief of the Bougainville Police Service and officers for the warm welcome and acknowledged the strong partnership and cooperation between Bougainville Police, the RPNGC and New Zealand Police.

An armed suspect involved in a robbery at Manu Cash and Carry in Port Moresby was shot during an attempted escape at around 2PM today.Police reports indicate the suspect was among three individuals allegedly involved in the robbery. The suspects attempted to flee after police units responded to the incident. According to updated police information, officers at the scene gave chase to the getaway vehicle while the wounded suspect attempted to escape on foot. The suspect was reportedly caught by members of the public and was struggling with those restraining him when his accomplices attempted to free him. During the confrontation, one of the armed men accidentally shot the suspect while trying to assist in the escape. Police also confirmed that two taxi drivers sustained injuries during the incident after being attacked by the armed suspects. Following the shooting, the suspects fled the scene in the waiting vehicle. The getaway vehicle was later recovered at Murray Barracks. Commander of the National Capital District and Central Province Benjamin Turi, confirmed the incident and commended officers for their swift response. He said investigations are continuing, with efforts underway to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects. “The others who are currently on the run will be apprehended soon once police interview the wounded suspect and review CCTV footage from the scene,” Turi said. Commander Turi also noted that armed robberies and vehicle theft incidents have increased in recent weeks across the city, according to police operational reports. He said police are intensifying intelligence-led operations to respond to criminal activity. “The police are stepping up intelligence gathering to ensure those involved in criminal activities are identified and dealt with accordingly,” he said. Commander Turi urged members of the public to allow police operational space during active pursuits. “When police are responding to such cases, the public must make way so officers can carry out their duties in hot pursuit.” He also warned that members of the public risk being caught in crossfire during armed confrontations involving armed criminals.

Senior Constable Jessline Ken has proudly served with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) for eleven years, now entering her twelfth.She is currently attached to the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) section, working evening shifts (4/12), while dedicating her days to academic pursuits.Jessline is currently in her second year studying Bachelor of Business in Information Technology at the University of Technology (UOT), and alongside her degree, she is also studying Mandarin (HSK-2) at the Confucius Institute.Her determination recently earned her a place among the top nine contestants in the Chinese Bridge Competition where she represented not only herself but also the Constabulary on a national stage.Reflecting on the experience, she shared: “It was truly a challenge.”“Standing up there, speaking a foreign language in front of a room full of native speakers was one of the greatest challenges of my life.”“But I was never truly standing alone. I owe it to my power meri, my powerful NCOs, my susa (sister) comrades, and my good Officer in Charge (OIC) for their unwavering support.”“I didn’t take the stage just to compete, I wanted everyone in the room to know that among the brilliant students of the University Confucius Institute, Police are also on the stage.”Jessline also spoke about the realities of her profession, stating that RPNGC is a male-dominated organization. “To stand strong, wear this uniform, and serve our country requires discipline, courage, and resilience.”“Hold yourself to the highest standard and be a shining example to our counterparts by showing them what a disciplined, dedicated woman can achieve.”“But most importantly, put God first in absolutely everything you do.”Her journey is supported by the love of her husband, her mother, and her children, whom she describes as her strongest foundation. Their encouragement has been vital in helping her balance the demands of service, study, and personal growth.Jessline’s story is one of resilience, faith, and inspiration. She stands as a role model for women in uniform, proving that with courage and determination, barriers can be broken, and new paths can be forged.

The Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNGEC) has commenced its nationwide Electoral Roll Display and Verification Exercise.In the Nation’s Capital, Provincial Electoral Awareness officials spent the weekend conducting public awareness on the Electoral Roll Update and Verification exercise.The actually exercise commenced on May 18, 2026, across various scheduled locations within Moresby North-East and North-West Electorates of National Capital District.PNG Electoral Commission has published detailed schedules on its official Facebook page. These updates outline the specific dates and locations within various Wards, allowing the general public, potential voters, and eligible citizens to know exactly when and where to present themselves.According to the PNGEC website, the electoral rolls will be displayed for the general public and eligible voters to physically check against their names and details in person, as well as making sure they are correct and in-order to prepare for the next phase of this program, and also to be eligible to vote in the coming 2027 National General Election (NGE).A wide range of individuals are expected to participate in this verification exercise. This includes existing voters already on the electoral roll, individuals transferring their registration from other areas, and new enrollees who are 18 years of age or older but have not yet registered. Additionally, young citizens who are 17 years old in 2026 but will turn 18 before the issue of writs for the 2027 National General Election are also eligible to participate.The PNG Electoral Commission has also stressed that participants of this exercise must be residents of that particular ward or location only and must have lived there for six months or more.Residents across the National Capital District (NCD), have been encouraged to check out the PNG Electoral Commission Facebook page to see the scheduled provided and visit the PNGEC officers who will be there on location.

Australia and Papua New Guinea have strengthened their cooperation on road planning, maintenance, and climate resilience following an Australian Government-supported study tour in Far North Queensland.The initiative brought seven senior officials from PNG’s Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) to the region to re-establish a historical twinning relationship with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR). This visit revitalized a long-term collaboration originally established under a 2012 Memorandum of Understanding that had formally lapsed in 2016. Led by TMR District Director for Far North Mr. Darryl Jones, the delegation engaged in technical briefings and field visits demonstrating how Queensland manages road networks in tropical environments, focusing on practical responses to extreme weather and challenging terrain. The officials also visited James Cook University to explore how emerging technologies, data analytics, and artificial intelligence can optimize infrastructure planning and climate resilience. Department of Works and Highways Secretary Gibson Holemba praised the initiative stating that the study tour gave the engineers direct exposure on how road systems operate in environments similar to Papua New Guinea. “The lessons and partnerships developed through this program will help us apply practical solutions that keep roads open and communities connected.” Furthermore, through these ongoing efforts, Australia remains committed to partnering with PNG to deliver climate-resilient transport infrastructure that improves vital access to services, markets, and economic opportunities.

A historic milestone was achieved last Friday May 15, 2026, as the people of Kandrian Gloucester District in West New Britain province, witnessed the official launching of MV Hiruoi, the first and largest vessel ever owned by a District Development Authority (DDA) in the country.The launching ceremony brought together national leaders, provincial executives, district officials, community leaders, and thousands of people from across the five Local Level Governments (LLGs) of Kandrian Gloucester District, including Kaliai Kove, Gasmata, Gloucester, Kandrian Inland, and Kandrian Coastal. The vessel was officially launched by Joseph Lelang, Minister for Rural and Economic Development, and Member for Kandrian Gloucester. Minister Lelang described the acquisition of MV Hiruoi as a long-term vision aimed at transforming the district’s economic future and improving service delivery to its people. Built in 2023 in Sibu, Malaysia, the MV Hiruoi is a 55-meter-long and 14-meter-wide vessel. Globally certified at 644 metric tons, it is capable of servicing international maritime routes, though its immediate priority remains a local development. The ship boasts an impressive capacity to carry up to one million litres of fuel and 60 twenty-foot containers: a scale unmatched by any other DDA in the country. “For too long, our people have struggled because of transportation and accessibility challenges,” said Minister Lelang. “Kandrian Gloucester is not a landlocked district with easy road connections. We are a coastal district, and the solution to our development challenges was not simply building roads, we needed a ship to move development.” The Minister revealed that the investment into securing the vessel took years of careful planning and sacrifice, especially during periods when funding support was limited while serving in Opposition. “I had a vision and a dream that one day our district would own a vessel. It took years of saving and planning to secure K7.6 million to purchase this ship for our people.” Although the vessel arrived in PNG from Malaysia in August last year, operations were delayed due to extensive compliance requirements from the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA). Minister Lelang emphasized that while the vessel is internationally certified as a 644-metric-ton vessel capable of servicing international maritime routes, priority has been placed on serving the people of PNG, particularly the people of Kandrian Gloucester District. The vessel’s maiden operations will focus on transporting copra and cocoa from Gasmata LLG through Kandoka to Kimbe, allowing local farmers and producers to access markets more efficiently. He confirmed that no freight charges will be imposed on the people of Kandrian Gloucester during the initial voyages. Upon its return, the vessel will transport machinery and heavy equipment to support the long-awaited Gasmata Ring Road Project and other major district infrastructure developments. Meanwhile, Governor of West New Britain Sasindran Muthuvel, praised the initiative and described MV Hiruoi as a game-changing investment for both Kandrian Gloucester and the province. “This vessel will strengthen the economy of Kandrian Gloucester and West New Britain by helping local farmers transport their cocoa and copra products to markets in Kimbe and beyond,” Governor Muthuvel said. The Governor also acknowledged the presence of Beldan Namah, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture and Member for Vanimo-Green, and noted that the launch could open doors for tourism development in the district. “Kandrian Gloucester is blessed with beautiful coastlines, culture, and tourism potential. This vessel can help unlock tourism opportunities and attract visitors and investors into the district,” he added. Minister Namah, who officially cut the ribbon, congratulated Minister Lelang for his foresight and determination. “God has blessed Minister Lelang with wisdom, and that wisdom has guided him toward this achievement,” Minister Namah stated. “This vessel has huge potential not only for transportation and trade but also for tourism development.” He urged local communities to maintain cleanliness, improve law and order, and work together to create a welcoming environment for future tourism investment. “With this vessel, local produce can now be transported in bulk. Development in Kandrian Gloucester will no longer come slowly, it will come in waves.” Minister Namah, accompanied by Minister Lelang, Governor Muthuvel, and invited delegates, were escorted onto the vessel where he was given the privilege of cutting the ribbon and officially launching MV Hiruoi. People from all corners of Kandrian Gloucester District gathered to witness the historic occasion, marking what many described as one of the district’s greatest milestones since PNG’s Independence. Also present was Chief Executive Officer of the Kandrian Gloucester District Development Authority (KGDDA) Dr. Steven Yennie, who described MV Hiruoi as a “beacon of change” for the district and the KGDDA administration. “This vessel will make the work of the KGDDA much easier. With many planned and long-awaited projects ahead of us, we are now ready to move forward aggressively and ensure development reaches our people,” Dr. Yennie said. He pledged to work closely with the presidents of the district’s five LLGs to address the concerns and development needs of local communities with urgency and efficiency. “Our people deserve visible change, and with the support of this vessel, we are now in a stronger position to deliver that change.” Dr. Yennie also extended his gratitude to former KGDDA board members, former CEOs, and past district leaders who contributed to the vision and eventual purchase of the vessel. He expressed how humble he was to be part of the historic launching and assured the people of Kandrian Gloucester that the district administration would work tirelessly to ensure that projects and services are delivered effectively and without delay.

Prime Minister James Marape has invited leading French investors and companies to look at doing business in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The prime minister is currently in France on his official trip and has invited leading French investors, financiers, infrastructure companies, and technology firms to partner PNG as the country enters a new era of economic growth driven by energy, infrastructure, industrial development, and regional connectivity. Prime Minister Marape made the call during a high-level meeting hosted by MEDEF International in Paris as part of his official visit to France. The meeting brought together representatives of major French companies and investors operating across the energy, finance, infrastructure, utilities, telecommunications, aviation logistics, healthcare, and industrial sectors. Companies represented included Global Sovereign Advisory, Matière, Veolia, BPCE, Flying Whales and international telecommunications company iBASIS. Prime Minister Marape said PNG, now celebrating its 50th anniversary of Independence, was positioning itself for the next phase of national economic transformation and international partnerships. “The next 20 years for Papua New Guinea will be about building roads, roads, roads and bridges,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We have major rivers, difficult terrain, and enormous infrastructure needs. We are open to innovative financing and strong private-sector partnerships.” The Prime Minister said Papua New Guinea was returning to a balanced budget next year for the first time since 2010, positioning the country for stronger investor confidence and disciplined long-term economic management.

The command of the Upper Highlands Special Operations has moved to clarify reports circulating on social media regarding an alleged incident involving police operations in the Western Highlands and other parts of the Highlands region.Assistant Commissioner of Police and Commander of Upper Highlands Special Operations Anthony Wagambie Jnr confirmed that initial checks were conducted in consultation with the Western Highlands Provincial Police Command and the Highlands Eastern End divisional command to verify the claims. ACP Wagambie said early assessments indicate that vehicles allegedly linked to the reported incident in Mt Hagen do not match any official vehicles assigned to the Upper Highlands Special Operations fleet. He said all operational movements under the command are strictly task-based and closely monitored. “All vehicle and personnel movements are task-oriented and monitored, and the vehicle descriptions provided do not match any vehicle in our fleet that may have been in Mt Hagen,” he said. He rejected claims of misconduct, stating that such behavior is not associated with disciplined forces operations. “Such behaviour is unbecoming, and no one in law enforcement is involved in or condones such acts.” He also stated that the Western Highlands Provincial Police Command, led by Chief Superintendent John Sagom, has been tasked to investigate the matter thoroughly and identify those responsible. “The PPC WHP has been asked to have his team investigate this quickly and thoroughly, identify the culprits, and deal with them. We are ready to assist if required.” ACP Wagambie also noted that intelligence had been received suggesting possible misinformation campaigns targeting special police operations in the Highlands region. He further stated that investigations are ongoing to determine whether the incident involves members of the disciplined forces or criminal impersonators. “Mt Hagen Police are investigating to determine whether members of the disciplined forces were involved, or whether this was the work of criminal impersonators acting with ulterior motives.” Meanwhile, police in Western Highlands continue to perform effectively under the leadership of Chief Superintendent John Sagom and maintain strong community cooperation. ACP Wagambie said police will continue to work with the provincial commands to establish facts and ensure those responsible are identified and dealt with under the law. Investigations are currently ongoing.

The Student Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Goroka (UOG) in Eastern Highlands province, has called on the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) and the Department of Education to reconsider the implementation of the new 2.8 Grade Point Average (GPA) requirement for teacher trainees.The Council argues that the policy has unfairly affected many students already enrolled in teacher-training institutions. In a recent media statement, SRC President Justin Muna stated that the newly introduced policy has resulted in uncertainty for many student teachers, particularly those in their second, third, and final years of study who entered the system under different requirements. The SRC expressed concern that there was no adequate nationwide awareness, consultation, or formal circular issued before the policy was enforced. President Muna stressed that students and their families have made significant financial and personal sacrifices with the expectation that they would graduate and serve as professional teachers in the country. He alongside the council, argued that policies of such significance should be implemented with transparency and proper transitional arrangements to protect students who were already enrolled before the new requirements took effect. In addition, the SRC has urged authorities to provide fair consideration to affected students and to ensure future policy changes are communicated early including at the secondary school level, so students can make informed decisions before entering teacher-training institutions. Furthermore, the SRC stands in solidarity with teacher trainees across the country and has called for a solution that safeguards the future of aspiring educators in Papua New Guinea.