The Deputy Chairperson of Nambawan Super, Dame Meg Taylor, yesterday announced that in 2021 the Fund has grown its net asset value to K8.82 billion, earning a net profit of K526 million that has been distributed to more than 208,000 members through applying a crediting rate of 6.5% to their accounts. Dame Taylor said that the Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) Board and Management had worked tirelessly to overcome the challenges of the Coronavirus Pandemic to deliver good returns for their members and they were pleased with the overall performance of the Fund in 2021. “It is pleasing that we will be kicking off 2022 with news of a good result from last year. As 2022 also marks Nambawan Super’s 60th Anniversary of service to our members, builing better futures, throughout PNG”, Dame Taylor said. “As a profit-to-members fund, generating profits that we can return to members is our highest priority and we are proud to have been doing this for 60 years, cementing Nambawan Super as PNG’s best superannuation fund over the long-term.” “After a tumultuous year in 2020, we were determined to overcome the challenges of the Pandemic and continue to deliver satisfactory results for our members.” “Over the past 10 years our Asset base has more than doubled,” Dame Taylor reiteriated “Our Asset base is our Members’ savings which means the wealth of members has doubled over the past decade.” “Nambawan Super’s compound average returns over the past 10 years are 7%, almost a full 2% over the national CPI for the period, which means real returns to members”, Dame Taylor explained. “We hope that members will also be pleased by these results when they see the interest payments credited into their accounts over the next few days.” Dame Taylor explained that 2021 has not been without its challenges and the Fund had to work hard to achieve these results. She added, “The Pandemic is still here and we expect these tough global economic conditions to continue, however, we have been working hard to adapt our approach to investments and operations to ensure that we are continuing to deliver for our members regardless of the challenges faced.” “The positive results of 2021 can be attributed to our continued efforts to diversify our investment portfolio to improve on our risk/return ratio. This means that we are spreading our investments over several local and international bonds and equities, as well as in properties and domestic cash to ensure that we continue to generate returns even when some investments are not performing as well as expected”. Dame Taylor pointed out that NSL uses an effective investment strategy, aligned to the prudential standards of the Superannuation (General Provisions) Act 2000, to manage the risk of adverse outcomes for individual investments. “Compared to 2020, our investment performance was stronger across all asset classes. Fifty million kina increases in both interest and dividend payments have provided cash for the fund to reinvest”, Dame Taylor added. “BSP performed very well – returning 80 million kina for our members. Part payment of rental arrears owed by the State in 2021 also has had a positive impact on 2021 results. In particular – compared to 2020 – valuation has rebounded, from a 225.4 loss last year, to 61.5 million kina gain in 2021.” Dame Taylor stated that outside of financial returns for members, the Fund has also delivered several achievements for members in 2021. These achievements include: The Fund received K50 million from the State in December 2021, in partial payment of their outstanding rental arrears. NSL continues to work with the State and has again called on the State in early 2022 to meet its obligations before entering the election period. New Branch opened in Maprik to provide better access to services for this growing East Sepik township. The Fund retained 5,584 members through Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA) with K192 million in funds, which is a rise of 12% in membership and a 17.5% increase in RSA Funds Under Management. NSL’s Financial Literacy Training was built and rolled out to 351 members in 2021, with more members already being trained in 2022. There was a notable improvement in State Share payments, including the State prepaying some members' contributions, which enables them to seamlessly exit the fund. NSL appointed two very capable Papua New Guineans in Mr. David Kitchnoge and Mr. Pochon Lili to the positions of Chief Investment Officer and Chief Financial Officer, respectively. Dame Taylor also spoke about the Funds outlook for 2022 and outlined some of the challenges it expects to encounter. A key challenge that the Fund is mindful of is the intention of the State to impose unfavourable tax reforms which will diminish returns to members including a possible Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and the already legislated Market Concentration Levy. Dame Taylor explained, “The CGT would be unfavourable for Superannuation contributers if special concessions aren’t applied for Super Funds.” “We have already called on the Government to repeal the Market Concentration Levy to be imposed on the Banking and Telecommunications sectors, as it would lead to all super fund members losing over K317 million in asset values and reduced dividends, in just the first year”. “After considering the immediate impact on BSP’s price to earnings ratio and the resulting value erosion, it is estimated that in the first year alone, the members’ crediting rate may be reduced by as much as 2% which translates to about a K160 million loss of members’ returns.” “Nambawan Super already pays substantial taxes and many of our investment business are also already highly taxed. We are not looking for special treatment, we are simply asking for fairness in protecting our members retirement savings.” “Nambawan Super will continue to work with key stakeholders and industry players to advocate for the protection of our members' savings as our highest priority.” Dame Taylor went on to say that the Fund is expecting many more challenges ahead but also just as many opportunities in 2022 and further. “We are aware that the current economic environment is producing higher inflation and lowering interest rates which makes it more challenging to generate real returns for members”, she continued. “However, we are optimistic that with Superannuation and Life Insurance reforms due soon, which may result in positive changes for the Fund, in particular in areas where we have advocated such as making super available for everyone and favourable taxation, especially on Retirement Saving Account members.” In closing, Dame Taylor thanked Nambawan Super’s Board, including Directors who retireed from the Board in 2021, Executive, Management and especially the NSL staff for their hard work and contribution to the 2021 results. “Finally, I would like to once again encourage our members and all Papua New Guineans to continue prioritising saving for your future as it is the first and most important step in securing a more comfortable and happy life after retirement.” “I also thank our members for trusting us with your savings and working with us to grow your wealth over the last 60 years, we are proud to have helped build better futures for our members and aim to continue doing so long into the future”, Dame Taylor concluded. Key figures: 2021 net asset value was K8.82 billion and had rose by 8.4% equating to a K680 million increase. The Fund recorded a record net profit of K526 million which climbed by K437 million from 2020. The 6.5% return is excellent in challenging economic conditions. The management expense ratio remained at 1% Total contributions for 2021 were K935 million which is an increase of K134 million. Total member payouts were K778 million, an increase of K337 million. K88 million paid to members in Housing Advances which rose by K48 million since 2020. Members contributed K37 million voluntarily in 2021 and membership grew to 30,391 members with voluntary Funds Under Management totalling K244 million

The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (“ICCC”) wishes to announce to relevant stakeholders and the general public that it has approved for Dye & Durham Corporation (“D&D”) to proceed with its proposal to acquire all of the shares in PNG Registries Pty Limited (“PNG Registries”). ICCC Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Brian Ivosa said, “after taking into consideration D&D’s Clearance Application and its submission including comments from relevant stakeholders and other available information, the ICCC has concluded that the proposed acquisition will not have, and will not be likely to have the effect of substantially lessening competition in any markets in PNG.” The ICCC formed the following conclusions in its assessment of the application: · D&D has no business operations anywhere in PNG and the Proposed Acquisition would only change the ownership of PNG Registries (as a result of the Transaction involving D&D and the ultimate parent company of PNG Registries). The current structure of the market will remain the same including the level of competition post-acquisition. · The ICCC also considered that the acquisition will not remove PNG Registries in the provision of registry services in PNG. As noted, D&D is only acquiring the ultimate parent company of PNG Registries; hence will indirectly own PNG Registries post-acquisition. The number of players in the market will remain the same. · The ICCC considered that the barriers to entry in the provision of share registry services are high due to the high startup costs and the limited or low volume of publicly listed companies and their share transactions. Whilst appreciating the existence of these barriers to entry, the ICCC considered that the Proposed Acquisition will not in any way affect the current level of barriers to entry in the market by either enhancing or decreasing them. · Due to the nature of the registry services market, the ICCC considered that it is unlikely for a third competitor to be a viable entrant due to the market reaching its maximum efficient scale. Mr. Ivosa also explained the requirements of the law governing the Clearance process. “The ICCC Act requires that if the ICCC is satisfied that a proposed acquisition which is subject of a Clearance application would not have, or would not be likely to have, the effect of substantially lessening competition in a relevant market, the ICCC must give a clearance; and vice versa.” “In this case, the ICCC was satisfied that the acquisition of PNG Registries by D&D is not likely to result in substantial lessening of competition in any markets in PNG. Basically, D&D has passed the Clearance Test; hence the acquisition must be approved.” A copy of the Determination is available and can be provided upon request through this email: wtondop@iccc.gov.pg or can be accessed on the ICCC’s website: www.iccc.gov.pg All queries relating to this matter should be directed to Mr. Steven Sugl, Executive Manager, Competitive Markets & Fair-Trade Division on telephone 312 4600 or e-mail to: ssugl@iccc.gov.pg .

Vendors and communities of Wabag District and nearby areas in Enga Province now have improved market facilities to engage in commerce and trade of their products and produce. The new market complex funded by the Papua New Guinea-Australia Partnership together with the Wabag District Development Authority opened in Wabag Town on Monday 28 March. The new complex includes 139 stalls, vendor transit accommodation, a women’s business administration centre, male and female ablution blocks, first aid facilities and a cafeteria. The market complex is specifically designed to cater for women’s groups, vendors and those who buy and sell at the market to ensure their needs are met through improved accessibility, safety, hygiene standards and economic opportunity. Australian Deputy High Commissioner Dr Joanne Loundes joined Enga Governor, Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas, Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources and Wabag MP, Dr Lino Tom, and representatives from UN Women to open the facility. In her address, Dr Loundes stated that markets everywhere in PNG are at the centre of everyday life across the country, and play a critical role in driving economic activities, maintaining and improving food security, and increasing livelihoods for vendors, patrons, and small business enterprises. “I am pleased to see that the market will not only support the women’s groups and vendors who will be the primary users and custodians of this market complex, but also showcase the high-quality fresh produce that Enga province is known for, she added.” UN Women has been working closely with women’s representative groups from Wabag District to institutionalise the governance and management framework for the market complex, which will be run by a women’s association. Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources and Member for Wabag, Dr Lino Tom, stated that the project can deliver wide benefits for the community and is part of the DDA’s policy focus on development small to medium enterprises in the agricultural sector. “This policy is inclusive and allows for those who fall out of the formal education pathway to go back to their land and pursue opportunities in the agriculture sector”, Dr Tom said. He continued “We also want to encourage and empower our women who are heavily involved in the agriculture sector and so, this new market complex offers a great opportunity for our women led agri-businesses to drive economic growth and thrive in this sector.” Dr Tom added that the people of Wabag District and the broader Enga province are extremely grateful to the Australian Government and people of Australia for this critical infrastructure project. The PNG-Australia Partnership is proud to invest in improved market spaces, economic growth and empowerment of women in remote and regional places across PNG

Nasfund Contributors Savings and Loan Society (ncsl) members find ncsl’s online and e-services to be very helpful, especially during the times such as COVID-19. Many have testified the services were very convenient as members were not required to visit the branch for queries and they were able to manage their loans and savings easily using the various electronic channels. A member, Ms. Genesis Ketan said the online portal was so convenient, she was able to access her ncsl accounts from anywhere. “I now use the online portal all the time as it is so convenient that I can check my account information from my laptop or phone from the comfort of my office or home” she said. “Even when your teams were working in shifts during COVID-19, turnaround time and response time was exceptional. Such convenience and accessibility was aided a lot by your online services, thank you ncsl,” Ms. Ketan added. Another member, Ishamel Hinae said the services were very impressive, providing flexibility for him to use his phone and laptop to access his banking needs. He shared that he was able to check his balance, apply for loans, acquire his statement and access other service without visiting the branch. ncsl CEO Mr. Vari Lahui said the services which included SMS alerts, SMS Banking, Biometric Identification System, Member portal and new member registration via the website, played a significant role in the Society’s business continuity during the second and third wave of COVID-19. “COVID-19 was a big challenge for us. We were reduced to a skeleton staff at the peak however that did not affect our service delivery. Our services channeled through the electronic platforms enabled our members to access services during that time,” the CEO said. Members who wish to access online services or e-services can utilize the website to self-register. ncsl will continue to review these service delivery channels to ensure that they remain efficient and deliver on the expectations of our valued members.

The Papua New Guinea Tribal Foundation is excited to now partner with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) who are generously supporting the Senisim Pasin campaign in selected high schools in Port Moresby. Senisim Pasin is a campaign built around a film of the same name and tailored around the advocacy against Gender Based Violence (GBV) and Sorcery Related Accusation Violence (SARV). The program includes the film screening then open dialogue of the issues surrounding GBV and SARV such as Communication and Gender Appreciation and most importantly discussing solutions in the fight against violence. The partnership between PwC and the PNG Tribal Foundation involves program sessions at ten high schools with student leaders in attendance. It was launched at De La Salle Secondary School followed by Gordons Secondary School, Don Bosco Technological Institute, Marianville Secondary School, and Port Moresby International School to date. "PwC values diversity and inclusion and we believe that one way of creating a gender equal community is by ending gender-based violence. That's why we've partnered with the PNG Tribal Foundation to run its Senisim Pasin program," says PwC's Managing Partner Jonathan Seeto. "By bringing the program to secondary school students, we aim to help shape the mindset and behaviour of our youths, which could help us end gender-based violence in our community," he explains. Student participation and feedback has been tremendously positive. Senisim Pasin creates a safe space for students to openly discuss the issues surrounding GBV, SARV and how they as individuals can sign a pledge and join the Senisim Pasin Call to Action to say they will not tolerate all forms of violence and be a beacon of change in their homes, schools, families, and communities. “I was emotional, touched, taught me how to treat our mothers and sisters” – POMIS Student Leader “I felt so emotional, and I know that I can be a catalyst for change in my peer group, family, school and community” – Marianville Student Leader “I feel sad as I witness GBV in my community, but I want to change that by warning people about GBV and calling on relevant authorities to arrest perpetrators” – De La Salle Student Leader “Women are important in our everyday life. Beating them should stop” – Gordons Student Leader Launched in 2015, Senisim Pasin has been screened in over fifty schools and communities throughout Papua New Guinea and impacted more than 100, 000 people in up to seventeen provinces. The reception from the school administrations is overwhelming. “One day you will be fathers. It is time you learn good values from programs like this so that it prepares you to be good fathers and better citizens of your community and country” – Brother Anthony Samy Pancras, FSC, Principal, De La Salle Secondary School “This program is a game changer. Identifying strategic audience can enable more change such as having student leaders be part of the program” – Ms Elileen A’afa, Marianville Secondary School PwC and its partnership with PNG Tribal Foundation is just one example of corporate leadership that will have impacted over five hundred high school students to become Gender Appreciation champions by sharing the importance of valuing and respecting one another within their peers and their community

A rural Primary School in Markham District of Morobe Province received a timely donation of school resources after 20 years lack of proper student and teacher resources. Zumin Primary School established in the late 1980s were the proud recipients of student and teacher’s resources from Brisbane, Australia. Thanks to the efforts of a Non-Profit Organization, Yumi Project based in Australia who collected the items, and shipped them to Lae. The donation was received on Thursday 24th March 2022 and presentation of the items were done on Friday 25th March 2022 at the school witnessed by students, teaching staff, board members and the surrounding community. The items included, desks, teacher’s tables, chairs, filing cabinets, books, sporting uniforms, teacher’s resources and reading books. Liaison Officer for Zumin Primary and Morobe Governors Press Officer Mr Benny Geteng who facilitated the application on behalf of the school said this is a timely initiative and support of Yumi Project to empower schools in Morobe Province. “I would like to thank the efforts of Yumi Project Team and all volunteers from Australia and Papua New Guinea who helped to ensure the materials came safely to Lae and to the school.” “Further appreciation to the efforts of Morobe Governor Hon Ginson Saonu for supporting communications for safe delivery of items.” Mr Geteng said he had seen open applications for Yumi Project for schools in Morobe Province on LinkedIn Social Network and decided to apply for the school back in 2021. The items were collected from Brian Bell Lae Depot and was logistically supported by Sir Brian Bell Foundation from Brisbane to Lae. Zumin Primary Head teacher Mr Isom Ambrias said the donation is timely since the school has broken desks, and teachers use desks for table and have no filing cabinets for student records.” “I am very grateful for Yumi Project and Sir Brian Bell Foundation for the safe arrival of all school equipment for my school.” “The items were transported from Lae to the school on Friday with the support of Zumin Primary School Board Chairman Daniel Buma, Senior Teacher Mr Simpson Phillip, Treasurer Robert Wanar and Benny Geteng.” Mr Ambrias said the donation will enhance reading and learning skills for the students and will also motivate teaching environment for the teachers. Morobe Governor Hon Ginson Saonu further expressed his gratitude for the support and made clear that Morobe Provincial Government is keen to partner with such organizations to enrich student and teacher learning across all schools in Morobe Province. Zumin Primary School in its 42 years of operation serves the following communities of: Zumin 1, Zumin 2, Antiragen and Naruzaniang and is a ten-minute drive from Mutzing Station in Markham District.

Moresby North West MP Lohia Boe Samuel was granted K10, 000 bail by the National Court on Friday (25/03/22)evening. Bail is the discretion of the Court. The MP and his co accused were released on bail, however, police will still pursue the charges filed against the MP for murder. The MP was arrested and charged based on evidence. I warn any person, regardless of who ever it may be, to abstain from interfering with the State witnesses. Police will not hesitate to arrest anyone who does so. CCTV IN FUSION 2 RESTAURANT I understand there is file photo of the interior of the restaurant posted on social media showing where CCTV cameras are located. The current owners took over ownership of the restaurant around 2019. The cameras are not working and have not been operational for over a year, according to the owners. CCTV was one of the first things checked by CID Investigators who arrived at the scene a few minutes after the crime was reported. A thorough check was made and the CCTV cameras were found to be dysfunctional. Photographs were taken of the equipment on site at the time of the incident. The owners of the restaurant are community oriented people and have been involved in alot of charitable work over many years. They did not ask to be in this situation. It just happened. They have cooperated very well with Police at the start of the investigation. When this tragic incident happened they immediately called the Police and Ambulance. Other customers were also in the restaurant at the time of this shooting. POLICE INVESTIGATIONS The public is urged to be more sensitive in this situation. Police investigations were carried out and the Member of Parliament and his staff were consequently arrested and charged for this crime. They were both arrested and charged for Murder. I assure everyone and especially the family of the deceased that Police Investigators have the full support and backing to ensure that this matter goes to trial. For now, let us allow the Court process to take its course without any interference. If anyone has more information about the incident, please pass it on to Police CID Homicide Investigators. A life was lost in this very unfortunate incident, and therefore it is only fair for Justice to be dispensed within the preambles of the law. No further comments on the investigation file at hand will be made, as this is now before Court.

Will Smith slapped Chris Rock in the face on stage at the Oscars after the comic made a joke about the actor's wife Jada Pinkett Smith. "Jada, can't wait for GI Jane 2," he said, in an apparent reference to her shaved hairdo - a result of the hair loss condition alopecia. Smith walked on stage and struck Rock before returning to his seat and shouting: "Keep my wife's name out of your [expletive] mouth." He later apologised to the Academy. In a tearful acceptance speech for best actor, he also said he wanted to apologise to all his fellow nominees. There was no specific apology for Rock. The star picked up the first Oscar of his career for playing the father of tennis legends Venus and Serena Williams in King Richard. "Art imitates life," he said. "I look like the crazy father, just like they said about Richard Williams. But love will make you do crazy things." The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which organises the Oscars, tweeted that it "does not condone violence of any form". Rock's joke referred to 1997 film GI Jane, in which Demi Moore played the title role with a severe buzzcut. Pinkett Smith rolled her eyes at the comment, while Smith appeared to initially laugh and clap his hands before he was seen on stage, walking up to Rock. The comedian looked stunned in the immediate aftermath of the incident, but told the audience: "That was the greatest night in the history of television." He is yet to comment further on what happened. The Los Angeles Police Department later told Variety that Rock had "declined to file a police report" following the event. [caption id="attachment_20133" align="aligncenter" width="880"] Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith later attended the Vanity Fair Oscar party with their children[/caption] After the incident, Rock handed over the best documentary prize, which was the reason he was on stage. According to The Hollywood Reporter's Scott Feinberg, a tearful Smith needed to be "pulled aside and comforted" by Denzel Washington and Tyler Perry. The trio could be seen talking just in front of the stage during an advert break, with Washington and Perry putting their hands on his shoulders. A Star is Born actor Bradley Cooper was also seen standing with Smith and appearing to reassure him. Presenting the next section, Sean "Diddy" Combs said: "Will and Chris, we're going to solve that like family. Right now we're moving on with love." Fresh Prince of Bel Air actor Smith later wrote on Instagram: "You can't invite people from Philly or Baltimore nowhere!!" - referring to his birthplace Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Baltimore, Maryland, where his wife of 24 years is from. [caption id="attachment_20134" align="aligncenter" width="847"] Smith with Denzel Washington and Tyler Perry after the incident[/caption] Smith attended the Vanity Fair Oscar party with sons Trey and Jaden, daughter Willow and his wife - smiling for photographers and posing with his award on the red carpet. Other guests at the party reacted to the incident, with filmmaker David Furnish saying he tells his sons with Elton John "don't hit anybody... under any circumstance". But actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish defended Smith, saying he had been standing up for his wife. Jaden Smith tweeted after his father hit Rock: "And that's how we do it." Other members of the film industry criticised Smith, with The Last Samurai producer Marshall Herskovitz calling on the Academy to take disciplinary action against him and Star Wars actor Mark Hamill calling it "the ugliest Oscar moment ever". He added: "Stand-up comics are very adept at handling hecklers. Violent physical assault... not so much." Comedian and actress Kathy Griffin said she now feared for the safety of comedy performers. "Let me tell you something, it's a very bad practice to walk up on stage and physically assault a comedian," she said. "Now we all have to worry about who wants to be the Will Smith in comedy clubs and theatres." Backstage shock By Steven McIntosh, entertainment reporter at the Oscars Here in the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, there was a shocked reaction from journalists. Reporters had been taking part in the traditional backstage press conference, but attention suddenly turned to the overhead screens and what was going on at the ceremony. At first, it had seemed like some kind of set-up. Smith even appeared to laugh at first after Rock delivered his line about his wife looking like GI Jane. Jada looked annoyed, but at this point it was still assumed this was all part of some kind of pre-planned routine. Doubt began to creep in when Smith rose from his seat and hit Rock on the stage. Of course, these guys are veterans of film and television, and would know how to carry out a fake stage slap. Except, everyone was starting to think, it didn't look that fake. By the time Smith was sitting back in his seat and shouting to Rock to "keep my wife's name out your [expletive] mouth", it was clear this was no sketch. A professional like Smith would know better than to drop the F-bomb on stage during a live TV broadcast. Much like previous Oscars that were defined by their viral moments - such as Ellen's group selfie or the best picture winner mix-up in 2017 - this will now forever be the Oscars where Will Smith punched Chris Rock. Pinkett Smith first talked about her hair loss struggle in an episode of her Facebook chat show, Red Table Talk, back in 2018. She said: "I've been having issues with hair loss. And it was terrifying when it first started." [caption id="attachment_20136" align="aligncenter" width="871"] The couple had been all smiles earlier in the evening on the red carpet[/caption] The Girls Trip star said she first suspected she had alopecia after "handfuls of hair" came loose in the shower. "I was just like, 'Oh my God, am I going bald?' It was one of those times in my life where I was literally shaking with fear," she explained. "That's why I cut my hair and continue to cut it." It was not the first time Rock has made a joke about Pinkett Smith at the Academy Awards. He hosted the 2016 event, when she was among the stars who boycotted the ceremony due to a lack of diversity in the nominations. That year, he said: "Jada Pinkett Smith boycotting the Oscars is like me boycotting Rihanna's panties - I wasn't invited!" Other winners at Sunday's ceremony included Jessica Chastain, who picked up best actress for The Eyes of Tammy Faye; Jane Campion, who won best director for The Power of the Dog; and Apple TV film Coda, which was named best picture. Best supporting actress went to Ariana DeBose for West Side Story, while Troy Kotsur won best supporting actor for Coda, which also picked up best adapted screenplay. Sci-fi epic Dune won six awards in total including technical categories for best visual effects and best cinematography. Will Smith's best actor acceptance speech [caption id="attachment_20137" align="aligncenter" width="854"] Smith became tearful during his acceptance speech[/caption] Smith took to the stage twice during the Oscars ceremony - once to take issue with what Rock had said about his wife, and then less than an hour later, to accept his first Academy Award. Accepting the Oscar for best actor for King Richard, he said Richard Williams was a "fierce defender of his family" and that he himself was "being called on" in his life "to love people and to protect people". He ended it saying he hoped the Academy would invite him back. SOURCE: BBC NEWS

Lohia Boe Samuel will remain as a Member of Parliament under the Constitution and perform his functions despite being recently charged for a murder case that is before the courts. Mr Samuel who was initially detained by police was released on a K10, 000 court bail in his second bail application last Friday by the National Court. The Office of the Parliamentary Counsel confirmed that he is still a member of Parliament, unless disqualified under Section 103 and 104 of the Constitution. It said, an example would be of one being 'sentenced for an offence with an imprisonment term of 9 months and more.’ In Mr Samuel’s case, he has been charged and is out on bail. The National Court who refused his first bail application granted the bail after Samuel’s alleged co-accused Fabian Hera voluntarily submitted his statement stating it was not Mr Samuel who accidently shot the deceased late Jerry Robert. Justice Theresa Berrigan who made the ruling said the contents of the statement is a matter for the trial however the statement submitted in the bail application intends to remove the weapon used from the hands of Samuel and this has reduced the strength of the case to continue his detention. Meanwhile, his next committal court hearing date is set for April 10, 2022.

Businesses and Corporate organizations in the country are urged to support the Trukai Fun Run Auctions scheduled to be held in Lae on 24th March 2022 at the Lae Yacht Club and in Port Moresby on 31st March 2022 at the APEC Haus. The Trukai Fun Run Auctions is one of two major fundraising events for the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) held annually to raise funds for Team PNG to participate at international sporting events such as the Pacific, Commonwealth and Olympic games. All funds raised this year will enable Team PNG to attend the Pacific Mini Games in Northern Marianas in June and the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July. PNGOC President Sir John Dawanincura urges the Business Community to get behind this year’s Trukai Fun Run Auctions by purchasing Trukai Fun Run Shirts in Lae and Port Moresby. While acknowledging the great support from the Business Community in the many Trukai Fun Run Auctions held in the past, this year will be no exception. “The last auctions were held in 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic and we’re very excited to bring back the auctions after an absence of two years. The auctions are a great opportunity for the business community to come out to support Team PNG by purchasing Fun Run shirts and at the same time donate these shirts to schools. Both auction events are approved by the Controller’s Office and we’ll ensure Niupela Pasin protocols are adhered,” said Sir John. He further stated that the support shown by the country through such fundraising drives gives confidence to PNGOC to offer the best possibilities for our athletes and our country. “This year we have 50,000 shirts to sell and we are encouraging all Papua New Guineans to get behind Team PNG by purchasing a shirt each at K15.00”. “I thank Trukai Industries for its continued sponsorship of this annual event and I acknowledge our long standing partnership of 23 years”. Shirts bought and donated to schools by Businesses and Corporate Organisations can be resold by the schools at a price not exceeding K15, with proceeds kept by the schools to fund their respective school projects. Interested organizations wanting more information on how to purchase Trukai Fun Run T-Shirts can contact Ms. Sangiawi Singut, Marketing & Events Coordinator at the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee on 323 1499, 325 1411 or e-mail events@pngoc.org.pg.

Majority of the population in PNG live outside urban areas with limited access to basic infrastructure like banking services, transport, electricity and affordable access to nearest towns. Despite these challenges and tough economic situations, most SMEs in some of the remote parts of the country continue to provide basic services like trade store, fuel services and other retailer outlets that serve the needs in their local communities. Melu Brass Cutters is one such SME operating out of Milliom Village, along the Sepik Highway in Aitape-Lumi District, West Sepik Province. Established initially in 2013 to provide vegetation control, the family business has diversified into other retail services such as trade store, fuel services, a guesthouse, poultry and agricultural produce, especially fresh vegetables. Since registering with BSP’s Mobile Merchant payment solution, the SME business has been one of the top performers in the mobile payment ecosystem. Business owner Maggie Melu, stated, “Mobile payments is easy and convenient, we receive mobile payment receipts instantly and our customers also received their electronic receipt on their mobiles. We prefer this payment method because funds go straight to our BSP Account and there are no cash handling involved; no loss from my cashiers and you our rural customer can pay with a “wan-bang” (feature phone) or a smart phone as long as mobile network is available”. Ms Melu said their aim was to empower their rural communities and encourage the growth of SMEs to take up entrepreneurial activities to alleviate poverty and income-source employment for community. Ms Melu added, “I would like to encourage other small business especially in the rural areas to register for this digital payment service from BSP, even though it may take time for your customer to understand the payment steps, they will eventually get the hang of it.” Businesses interested in registering for Mobile Merchant payment solution can contact BSP through email servicebsp@bsp.com.pg or call BSP 3201212 or 70301212.

Newcrest Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Sandeep Biswas received a rousing traditional welcome in Kavieng recently. Mr Biswas was in town to meet New Ireland Governor, Sir Julius Chan, enroute to visiting the Newcrest Mining Operations on Lihir Island. He was greeted at the airport by the Moxokore Clan of Lamusmus, having previously been inducted into the clan in 2015. Mr Biswas and the clan maimai (chief), Joe Lumaris presented each other with mies – the traditional shell money from New Ireland Province. The exchange signified and strengthened the cultural ties between the Marauli (Moxokore) Clan and Mr Biswas. As a leader of the Marauli (Moxokore) clan, Mr Biswas also presented two mies to female employees Ruth Waram, Manager External Relations and Communications and Megan Kinowin, Specialist Government Liaison. Maimai Lumaris said New Ireland is a matrilineal society where women are the leaders and are important in decision making, adding that by presenting the mies, Mr Biswas as a clan leader was inviting not only Ms Waram and Ms Kinowin into the clan but also female employees of Newcrest to engage with the women of the clan. Mr Biswas welcomed the opportunity to meet with Sir Julius, Provincial Administrator, Lamilla Pawut and senior executives of the New Ireland Provincial Government. Mr Biswas commended the flexibility and resilience of Newcrest Mining’s New Ireland employees and business partners, who rose to the challenge to ensure the mine had no material disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Newcrest is committed to PNG and to New Ireland, and we look forward to continuing the good working relationship,’’ Mr Biswas said. Measures taken by the company in 2021 to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on operations, and to keep the workforce and Lihir communities safe had cost K180 million. Mr Biswas also reaffirmed Newcrest Mining’s enduring commitment to Papua New Guinea, both nationally and provincially. In addition to the K1.65 billion contribution to PNG’s economy in FY 2021, the company was proud to have provided over K100 million in support to a range of health, education and conservation programs. Following the meeting, Sir Julius provided a tour of the new provincial assembly building and the new sports stadium in Kavieng. Following a lunch hosted by Sir Julius, Mr Biswas travelled to Lihir to meet with the mine workforce and local communities.