The Miss Bird of Paradise Papua New Guinea (MBoP PNG) Committee has acknowledged LJ Hooker Papua New Guinea for its support of the pageant, following the company’s role as Major Sponsor of the 2025 Miss Bird of Paradise Crowning Night.In a statement issued on Friday 9th 2025, the committee said the partnership dates back to the early stages of the pageant, when LJ Hooker PNG sponsored one of its first contestants during the organization’s initial months of operation. The committee said the continued support, culminating in LJ Hooker PNG’s major sponsorship of the 2025 crowning event, reflected a partnership built on shared values and long-term commitment. According to the committee, the sponsorship has supported the pageant’s objectives, including the promotion of leadership among young women, advocacy for the educational rights of children with disabilities, and expanded participation from districts and provinces across the country. The committee also acknowledged LJ Hooker PNG’s contribution to supporting small and large businesses through engagement with the pageant platform. In the same statement, the Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Committee congratulated LJ Hooker PNG Chief Executive Officer Karan Rana on his appointment as Honorary Trade Commissioner of the India Commonwealth Trade Council in Papua New Guinea, describing the appointment as recognition of his leadership and role in strengthening international business links. The committee said it looks forward to the continued partnership.

A man accused of involvement in the killing of a 26-year-old man in Wapenamanda District has voluntarily surrendered to police.Acting Commissioner of Police Samson Kua confirmed the suspect surrendered on January 13 and is now in police custody in Wabag, where he is facing a murder charge. The suspect’s identity has been withheld. Police allege that the victim, Aitawe Nap, a 26-year-old student from the Paliu Tribe of Pipi village in Wabag, was travelling in a Land Cruiser utility on December 31st, 2025, when he was ambushed and killed during an incident linked to an ongoing tribal conflict in Wapenamanda District. Acting Commissioner Kua said six suspects were identified following increased security operations in the area late last year, funded by the government. He said community and tribal leaders were informed and asked to assist police by encouraging suspects to surrender. He said the unconditional surrender followed sustained efforts by the Enga Provincial Police Command, led by Acting PPC Chief Inspector Kelly Sombe. The Acting Commissioner has appealed to leaders of the Yakuman and Miok tribes to assist police by ensuring the remaining five suspects surrender to authorities to face the law. Police say investigations into Mr. Nap’s death are continuing.

The Provincial Member and Governor for Madang Province, Ramsey Pariwa has announced that he will be sending another batch of students from the province to study in India after he was impressed with the academic performance of the first batch of students selected from Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) to study in India.Governor Pariwa was in India during the New Year festive period when he visited Madang students studying in two universities namely Karunya University and Kalasingam University. Upon his visit to the two universities, he was informed that the FODE students from Madang had done exceptionally well in their first semester and all of them would be continuing on to the next semester this year. Governor Pariwa's trip to India was arranged by the National Education Department through the Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) secretariat because Madang has a big number of FODE students studying in India.  Furthermore, Governor Pariwa is the first in the country to consider FODE in selecting twenty top students last year from all six districts to travel to study in India. During his meet and greet session with the Madang students in India, Governor Pariwa said the main aim for him to send them purposely to India was to attain similar knowledge and skills academically like their counterparts from India, so when they return home after completing their studies abroad, they would help him develop Madang Province. He stated that he is so proud of them for doing well in their studies during the first semester and said they are good ambassadors of Madang and Papua New Guinea. He further encouraged them not to worry about their fees as it was his job to find money to support their studies. Governor Pariwa said the next batch of Madang FODE students will be travelling to India in July this year and the number might increase. The delegation that went to India included the Madang Provincial Education Director, Alphonse Igag, and the Governor’s First Secretary, Francis Tavatuna, who accompanied the Deputy Secretary of Education and the National FODE Principal to visit STEM and FODE students in Karunya University and Kalasingam University. Madang Provincial Education Director Alphonse Igag, who was also impressed with the results, extended encouragement to the students to focus more on their studies and do well academically since they would be setting the benchmark for FODE in the country. Their stories in their academy journey is a testament of a visionary leadership set by Governor Pariwa in the education sector in Madang Province. During the visit Governor Pariwa also discussed with various universities in India to send more FODE and STEM students from Madang. Under the leadership of Governor Pariwa, Madang province will continue to support fees for Sir Peter Barter Tertiary Education Scholarship Program and FODE this year.

PNG Hekari FC has flown out to Auckland, New Zealand as they aim to make history in the inaugural OFC Professional League especially when the Papua New Guinea champions are set to face Solomon Kings in their opening match this weekend.The tournament marks the first fully professional club competition in Oceania and represents a major step forward for both the club and PNG football. The Red Army will open their campaign on Sunday 18th of January 2026 against the Solomon Kings, before facing Tahiti United and South Melbourne in the opening round of fixtures. The tournament brings together top clubs from across the Oceania region and will be staged entirely in Auckland. Hekari FC General Manager Wira Wama said the team is well prepared for the challenge after an intensive 12-week training program. “Our OFC Pro League campaign officially kicks off on Sunday when we take on the Solomon Kings. I have full confidence and trust in the players and the coaching staff,” Wama said. “We have an experienced technical team that is ready to deliver for the club and for the country.” Head Coach, Marcos Gusmão of Brazil echoed those sentiments, describing the team’s preparation as thorough and encouraging. “We have been preparing for almost three months. The training has been good, and the players have blended well and understand each other’s combinations. They are ready to compete at Pro League level,” Gusmão said. Technical coach Jerry Sam and assistant coach Jerry Allan, brothers from the Solomon Islands, said their familiarity with Solomon Islands football would be an advantage, particularly in the opening match. “We are confident in the team. The preparation has been really good, and we know the strengths of a few players from the Solomon Islands side, who we will be watching closely,” they said. Team captain Dave Tomare said it was an honour to lead the side in its first OFC Pro League campaign. “I am humbled and honoured to be appointed captain. I thank the coaching staff, management and players for their trust and support,” Tomare said. “We have been waiting for this moment, and it finally arrives on Sunday.” Wama also acknowledged the club’s major sponsors—Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), Petroleum Resources Kutubu (PRK) and Kutubu Security Services (KSS)—for their long-standing support. “They have played a vital role in the growth and development of Hekari PNG over the past 22 years and continue to support sport and community development across the country,” he said. He further paid tribute to club founders John Kapi Nato and Vonnie Kapi Nato for their vision and leadership. “Competing in the OFC Pro League is a milestone achievement for the club and for Papua New Guinea. It gives our local players the opportunity to experience football at a higher level and on a bigger stage,” Wama said. Hekari PNG FC left for Auckland this morning and will complete their final preparations ahead of Sunday’s opening match.

Femili PNG will receive additional support under Australia's new initiative, Pacific Strong which is focused on, “Amplifying Action to End Violence Against Women and Girls” (PAVE).This was communicated by Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on 25 November 2025, coinciding with International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The PAVE initiative aims to strengthen crisis response services for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and child abuse in the Pacific region. In Papua New Guinea, the funding will be channelled through the PNG Women Lead Program to enhance the crisis response services at Femili PNG's Goroka Case Management Centre. Femili PNG CEO, Daisy Plana, welcomed the support, stating that it would significantly improve their ability to provide essential services to survivors. “This support enables us to respond more effectively to gender‑based violence and child abuse, ensuring survivors can access counselling, safe accommodation, medical care, and justice.” The PAVE program is a five-year regional effort designed to improve the quality and accessibility of support services for GBV survivors across nine Pacific Island nations: Fiji, Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. Foreign Minister Wong emphasized that the initiative would help create safer families and more resilient societies across the region.

The Inland Pipeline Landowners’ Association (IPL LOA) has donated K50,000 worth of essential medical drugs to four rural health facilities within the Ramu NiCo Project area in Madang province with the aim to improve access to basic healthcare services for local communities during this time of hardship.The medicines were bought through the Association's Community Development Fund (CDF) and delivered to the Buksak Aid Post, Ono Aid Post, Naru Aid Post, and Walium Health Centre. Each aid post received K12,000 worth of medicines, while Walium Health Centre received K14,000. These medicines are vital drugs used to treat common illness and save lives.The decision to support these facilities was made by IPL LOA Chairman Mr. Yaune Kasime and his Executive Committee, recognizing the important role these health centres play in serving the people. Even though the facilities are not covered under the current Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), the leaders chose to act and help meet urgent health needs.The CDF program has been supervised by the Ramu NiCo Community Affairs Department since 2020, under the guidance of Deputy Superintendent Mr. Kuipa Tonny. The Department ensures that all funds are used transparently and in line with community priorities.This initiative shows IPL LOA’s strong commitment to social responsibility and community wellbeing.

The Morobe off-season rugby league competition is more than just a fight for trophies—it’s a launchpad for raw talents across Papua New Guinea (PNG).John Milba, Morobe Challenge Coordinator for the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) Ipatas Cup, said the tournament brings together teams from across the provinces, with winners advancing to a knockout-style national final. “Each province runs its own challenge, giving players from rural areas a chance to compete at a high level and showcase their skills,” he said.The competition also introduces new players to the finals, giving them exposure in front of large crowds. “It’s an opportunity for first-time finalists to be noticed and take their game to the next level,” Milba added.Described as PNG’s biggest off-season rugby league tournament, the event tests skill, stamina, and teamwork, while giving players a chance to impress professional scouts. For Milba, the goal is simple: provide every player with a platform to excel and help grow rugby league in PNG.

Westpac PNG has a new Head of Corporate and Commercial Banking; the announcement made just this week to the bank's customers and clients.Westpac PNG on Monday 12th January announced the appointment of Mr. Patrick Wright as the new Head, promoted from his previous role as Treasurer. Patrick’s career with Westpac Group began in 2007 in Financial Markets, followed by key roles and international experience in London as an FX Trader. After a brief hiatus pursuing a degree in Nutritional Medicine and working in sports coaching and athlete career transitions, Patrick returned to Westpac in 2017 and joined Westpac Pacific as Treasurer in 2023. Andrew Cairns, Chief Executive of Westpac PNG, said, “I am delighted to welcome Patrick to his new role. His depth of expertise and proven leadership will be instrumental in advancing the bank’s strategic priorities and responding to the evolving needs of our customers, communities, and the broader financial environment. “Since joining Westpac Pacific as Treasurer, Patrick has demonstrated strong strategic insight and a deep understanding of financial operations, making him exceptionally well placed to lead this critical business division. “For more than 115 years, Westpac has been an integral part of PNG communities, and we are proud to continue building on this as we work together toward a strong and inclusive future.” This leadership appointment marks a significant step in Westpac PNG’s journey to accelerate strategic transformation and deliver lasting value in a dynamic PNG economy.

Local MP Vincent Kumura says continued investment in emergency medevac services is critical for saving lives in remote areas of Usino-Bundi-Gama in the Madang province, following the successful airlift of two emergency patients this month.Kumura confirmed the district has committed K200,000 to support medevac operations, saying the service is often the only lifeline for communities with limited access to roads and medical facilities.“These flights save lives,” Kumura said. “Without medevac support, many of our people would not survive emergencies like this.”The two patients were airlifted by Manalos Aviation to Chimbu Provincial Hospital, where doctors say both are now stable and receiving specialist care.One patient, Margaret Yagama, a woman in her early 20s, suffered severe complications during her first childbirth after labouring for more than 12 hours. She experienced excessive blood loss and a serious third-degree tear, requiring urgent medical attention. With no advanced care available locally, she and her newborn were evacuated to hospital, where both are now recovering.The second patient, a woman in her late 40s from Snow Pass, has a history of asthma and endured severe shortness of breath for over 24 hours. With no oxygen support available in the area, she was also flown to hospital and remains under medical supervision.Health officials say the evacuations highlight the challenges faced by remote communities, where medical emergencies can quickly become life-threatening.The operations were carried out through coordination between Manalos Aviation, hospital medical teams, the Chimbu Provincial Authority, and the district administration.For families in isolated villages, emergency flights remain a vital service—often making the difference between life and death.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea (ELCPNG) is making history by ensuring rural and remote members can safely participate in its 35th Synod, online.Head Bishop Rev Dr Jack Urame for safety reasons, has urged people not to cross the Vitiaz Strait in small boats due to strong winds and heavy rainfall forecasted by the Papua New Guinea National Weather Office to attend the synod, instead they can participate online. Instead, the church is encouraging members to stay in their communities and follow the week-long synod online through its official Facebook page.“This year, we want everyone to take part safely, even if they cannot travel to the island. The synod is a church event, and all instructions must be followed,” Dr Urame said.For delegates who will attend in person, only 50 representatives from each of the church’s 17 districts will board ships. Lutheran Shipping has made two vessels, MV Lalibu and MV Momase, available to transport delegates from Lae and Madang to Bunsil Station in Siassi Tewai Siassi District.Dr Urame said the synod, as the church’s highest decision-making body, will review performance reports from church executives, updates from districts, and institutional reports from Lutheran University. Reports from health, education, and other church departments will also be presented.He clarified that this synod will be held without elections, with the next electoral synod scheduled for 2028 in accordance with the church constitution.By combining safe sea transport for delegates with live-streamed sessions for the wider membership, the ELCPNG aims to make church governance accessible to everyone — particularly those in rural and hard-to-reach areas — while ensuring safety amid adverse weather conditions.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has told Papua New Guinea’s public servants that their work is not simply employment, but a moral responsibility that will shape the country’s future for generations.In his closing address at the 2026 Public Servants Dedication Service, Marape said the Reset@50 agenda is built on values, integrity and national responsibility, not just policies and budgets.“Public service is not just a job — it is a moral responsibility,” he said, urging government workers to serve with honesty, discipline and professionalism.The Prime Minister said today’s generation of public servants will be judged by what they leave behind when they retire.“When we retire, will the next generation thank us because we built systems that work, or will they inherit failure?” he asked.Marape said Papua New Guinea now stands at a critical turning point, with the next 20 years determining whether the nation builds strong institutions or continues to struggle with poor governance.He pointed to South Korea as an example of how values-driven leadership and long-term discipline can transform a country. Once one of the poorest nations in the world, South Korea became a global economic power through sustained national effort over decades.Marape said PNG has the same opportunity if it uses the Reset@50 period wisely.“If we get the next 20 years right, the next 50 will take care of itself,” he said.He urged all public servants — both appointed and elected — to treat 2026 as a year of renewed dedication under the Reset@50 agenda.Marape said the real test of leadership is not position or salary, but whether those entrusted with public office use their time to serve the people and build a better future for their children.As PNG moves into its next chapter after 50 years of independence, he said integrity, discipline and service must guide every public servant.

The collapse of the Aumea Bridge has disrupted businesses, including Ramu NiCo, and cut off a key section of the Madang–Lae–Highlands Highway.Authorities are building a temporary wet crossing to restore traffic while plans to rebuild the bridge are underway. The interim crossing is expected to ease movement for commuters, freight operators, and local businesses affected by the disruption.Nevertheless, police are urging drivers to take care when using the temporary Yanamu Bypass and wet river crossing while the main bridge is being rebuilt.Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Robert Baim said the bypass is for light vehicles only. “The priority is to restore access and keep people and goods moving,” he said. “Police resources are stretched. Please follow safety advice to protect everyone.”Baim warned that cargo trucks and other vehicles must check the river carefully before crossing and avoid attempting it if unsure. Crossing at night is strongly discouraged as the river can change course and debris may trap vehicles. Trucks reaching the crossing after dark are advised to return to Ramu Sugar and wait until daylight.Police say these measures are crucial to protect lives, vehicles, and cargo while construction continues.Meanwhile, police have raised concerns over reports that landowners and settlers in the area demanded payments before allowing work on the bypass and wet crossing to continue.Madang Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim, strongly condemned the alleged demands. “If these allegations are true, such demands are unacceptable,” he said. “Public infrastructure must not be used to pressure authorities. Proper channels must be followed, and the public must not be held at ransom.”He added that anyone attempting to disrupt the bypass or wet crossing operations would face legal consequences.