Kina Bank has launched its commemorative cards to mark and celebrate the financial institution’s 40th Anniversary.Kina Bank this week in marking 40 years of empowering Papua New Guineans alongside the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary, introduced its 40th Anniversary Commemorative Card – a symbol of shared heritage, progress, and commitment to the future. The commemorative card has an exclusive design inspired by PNG’s rich culture and Kina Banks’ legacy and is available for a limited time only. Executive General Manager – Payments and Digital Banking, Shirly Prasad, said, "There are no changes to processes or fees – the card application process remains the same, only the design has changed.” “This commemorative card is more than just a card – it represents a celebration of resilience, growth, and partnership. “Thank you to all our customers for being part of this incredible journey. Together, we continue to build a stronger, brighter future for our country,” she said. The cards are now available at all Kina Bank branches as of the 1st of December 2025 and customers can choose between the existing card design or the new commemorative card. Kina Bank remains committed to driving digital transformation, expanding financial inclusion, and delivering customer-focused innovations that shape the future of banking in Papua New Guinea.

The Provincial Member and Governor for Madang Province, Ramsey Pariwa, has expressed disgust at a manner in which a logging company operating in the hinterland of Sumgilbar LLG of Sumkar District is going about cutting down trees yet miserably neglecting its corporate social responsibility towards its immediate impact community.Governor Pariwa on Monday, December 1st, travelled quietly by road from Madang along the North Coast road to Bunabun then followed a road up to the hinterland in the Adelbert mountain range where he physically noticed the logging activity being carried out there and then travelled further on to Sewan Primary School. The trip along the road from Erenduk to Sewan Primary School is not properly maintained yet the bulldozers owned by the logging company are moving into the forests and harvesting hard wood trees.Governor Pariwa, while waiting for the church program which he was officially invited to, decide to take a brief tour of Sewan Primary School and was shocked upon noticing the sad state of the classrooms some of which are made of bush materials and thatched roofing yet the timber company presently in the area is still cutting down trees and shipping the round logs overseas.An angry Governor Pariwa did not hesitate to tell the gathering that he is prepared to close down the logging operation if the company fails to carry out its social responsibility to assisting the local community.The Madang Governor explained that he is already working on a document whereby corporate companies that do businesses in Madang must also honor their corporate social responsibility.He said it is very unfortunate that there is a timber company cutting hard wood timber on land in the area yet the primary school that is nearby does not have many permanent classrooms. Moreover, there are classrooms that have dirt floors. Governor Pariwa at the occasion tasked the newly elected Ward Two Member, Moyang Okira, to immediately mobilize those so-called landowner company executives to meet with him in the next two weeks' time to explain to him how the timber permit agreement came about and why the developer or the company harvesting timbers in their locality is neglecting its corporate social responsibility by assisting the people in services such as health, education and infrastructure. Governor Pariwa announced then an allocation of K50,000 to build a new double classroom at Sewan Primary School to assist in students learning. 

321 Group proudly announces the opening of its latest state-of-the-art gaming venue at Central Waigani in Port Moresby city this week, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued expansion across the nation.The new flagship store officially opened its doors on Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025, significantly expanding access to all 321 products and an entertainment experience for the Port Moresby community. The new flagship store is a major investment that reinforces 321 Group’s vision of growth, accessibility, and local employment.The Central Waigani location is designed to be more than just a retail point; it is a full-service entertainment hub, offering players the complete range of 321 products, including tickets for the popular Wantok Jackpot and Paradise Jackpot, as well as instant scratch cards and digital game top-ups. The store is located at a secure environment and center location for public access and will also serve as a dedicated, swift cash out point for winners, making the entire process seamless and enjoyable.This expansion is fundamentally linked to local economic development. The launch of the Central Waigani flagship is expected to generate a significant number of new employment opportunities in customer service, operations, and promotional roles. This commitment to creating local jobs underpins 321 Group’s mandate to empower the communities it serves.321 Group’s General Manager, Ben George, emphasized the store’s role in balancing entertainment with player safety. "This flagship store is a clear testament to our long-term commitment to the community. While we are focused on making our games as convenient and accessible as possible, our priority remains the well-being of our customers. At the Central Waigani flagship, we will proactively advertise and implement our responsible gaming features, ensuring a secure and positive environment for everyone. We believe in excitement, opportunity, and, above all, safe play."The new store reinforces 321s robust retail footprint in PNG, complementing existing services offered through established partnerships with the other valued partners ensuring customers across NCD and beyond have multiple, secure avenues for playing. The company remains dedicated to operating responsibly under the license and regulation of the National Gaming and Control Board (NGCB).  

Madang province on Monday the 1st of December, joined other provinces across Papua New Guinea in commemorating World AIDS Day with hundreds gathering at Bates Oval in Madang town for the event.Health officers from the Madang Provincial Health Authority (MPHA), community groups, and members of the public assembled to observe the global event, held every year on December 1st.This year’s theme, “Rethink, Rebuild, and Rise,” highlights the collective effort needed to address the ongoing challenges of HIV and AIDS.Alifa Sagem, the Nursing Officer in-charge of the HIV/STI Clinic at MPHA, said HIV and AIDS remain present in communities but can be controlled through increased awareness and testing.“HIV and AIDS are here to stay, but we can prevent it from spreading if we get tested,” Sagem said.She also stressed that treatment is free and encouraged the public to know their status.Alice Bro, Data Registry Clerk at the HIV/STI Clinic, raised concern about the rising number of HIV cases in Madang, revealing that the province is now ranked fifth in the country for HIV prevalence.“Looking at the statistics, it’s a red flag, it’s alarming for Madang,” Bro said.She highlighted that testing coverage is still very low due to geographical challenges and the high number of people living in remote areas.Bro, who noted that only about 2% of Madang’s total population has been tested, urged leaders, families, and communities to support testing efforts.Both health officers emphasized that increased awareness, testing, and community involvement are crucial to preventing further spread of HIV in the province.

Lae City Authority (LCA) has stepped in to help tackle the severe shortage of medical drugs in Lae, purchasing K130,000 worth of essential medicines for the ten urban clinics struggling to meet patient needs. The Authority will also supply K200,000 in drugs to Angau Memorial Hospital, the province’s largest referral hospital, with deliveries expected next week.LCA Chief Executive Officer Robin Calistus said the initiative is a direct response to the critical shortage of medicines affecting urban clinics and provincial hospitals not only in Morobe but across Papua New Guinea.“We recognize the urgent need for essential medical supplies in our clinics and at Angau Hospital,” Mr. Calistus said. “This initiative will ensure patients continue to receive care while longer-term solutions are implemented.”The move comes after a two-day inquiry by the Special Parliamentary Committee on Health Matters into the Morobe Provincial Health Authority (MoPHA), which revealed alarming gaps in hospital management, supply chains, and access to medicines. Committee Chairman Robert Naguri described some of the findings as “disturbing” and stressed the need for immediate action to protect patient care at Angau.The support from LCA is being seen as a crucial stopgap measure, enabling frontline health facilities to continue operations while government agencies work on systemic solutions. Urban clinics, which serve thousands of patients daily, have faced shortages of antibiotics, painkillers, and essential consumables, placing additional pressure on Angau Hospital.“This is about saving lives and keeping our urban clinics and provincial hospital functioning,” Mr. Calistus said, emphasizing the importance of local authorities stepping in to support public health.

Kiunga Secondary School in the North Fly District of Western Province will resume its boarding program in 2026 after nearly nine years of operating solely as a day school.Boarding was suspended in 2017 due to the deteriorating state of the school’s dormitories, forcing students—many from remote communities—to travel daily for classes. However, two newly constructed dormitories will now accommodate students from rural areas when the 2026 academic year begins. Students, parents, staff, and Kiunga residents gathered on November 25, 2025, to witness the official opening of the new facilities. The event featured a vibrant singsing performance by Awin Tribe students. The new dormitories, one for male and one for female students, each consist of 24 rooms—12 on the ground floor and 12 upstairs, including single rooms. Each room will house two students and is equipped with study tables, chairs, wardrobes, lights, fans, and power outlets. The buildings also include ablution blocks and laundry rooms, and will accommodate a total of about 106 students. School Principal Jebol Iowa thanked all partners involved in the construction and renovation works, including the mess hall upgrade. “Two dormitories are now ready. PNGSDP, through arrangements with NFDDA and FRPG, have worked together to build these facilities. Students can now have more study time in a conducive learning environment.” The Sustainable Development Program (SDP) funded the dormitory project, covering all building material costs, while the Fly River Provincial Government contributed K1 million to support student accommodation needs. Western Provincial Administrator Robert Alphones Kaiyun acknowledged the collaborative effort, noting the long-term value of investing in education. “Thank you all for your support. Let’s continue to work together to produce more human capital for our province. Only education will bring change, and our investment in these resources will not be wasted.” Parents and students have been urged to take good care of the new facilities to ensure that future generations can also benefit from improved boarding services at Kiunga Secondary School.

The Minister for Works and Highways Solan Mirisim has passed away this morning at Pacific International Hospital (PIH) in Port Moresby city.It is a truly surprising and sad moment for his family and the people of Telefomin District of West Sepik province. Late Mirisim served the nation with unwavering dedication for over a decade until his passing this morning. During his time in politics, he held several key ministerial portfolios, including Minister for Forests and most recently Minister for Works and Highways under the Marape- Rosso Government. Throughout his career, late Mirisim championed infrastructure development and connectivity projects that transformed rural communities. Under his leadership, the Connect PNG Program advanced major national highways and missing link roads, improving access for millions of Papua New Guineans. His passing is a profound loss to Papua New Guinea. Mirisim will be remembered for his vision, leadership, and tireless efforts to improve the lives of his people. The passing of the late Member is the second this year of a sitting Member of Parliament. Just over two months ago, Morobe Governor Luther Wenge also passed away at the Port Moresby General Hospital on the 13th of September 2025.

Madang police have intercepted a vehicle carrying over 10 cartons of illegal fireworks, arresting five people — including a serving Mobile Squad officer and a man wanted for a triple murder in East Sepik Province.The operation, confirmed by Madang Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Robert Baim, followed intelligence about unauthorised movements of uniformed personnel into Madang and Bogia districts. Officers monitored the Bruce Jephcott Highway stopped the vehicle at Draivas Compound around 9pm on Sunday 30th November. The vehicle carried five passengers: a serving officer, a wanted fugitive, a bank employee, and two other men from Yangoru-Sausia district of East Sepik province, along with a female passenger. Police allege the group was attempting to smuggle the fireworks, reportedly destined for Southern Highlands province. The seized items, valued at more than K200,000, have been confiscated as court exhibits.“This was an important operation because it prevented illegal goods from moving across provinces and resulted in the arrest of a dangerous suspect,” Supt. Baim said. The wanted fugitive will be handed over to East Sepik CID detectives.All suspects are being held at Ramu Police Station, and the vehicle has been impounded. Charges under the PNG Customs Act are expected.Supt. Baim reminded officers to follow protocol when travelling outside operational areas and urged the public to celebrate safely during the festive season as police roll out operations under the code name Sain Abe 3.

Disruptions to health services at the Modilon General Hospital in Madang due to inconsistent water supply will now be a thing of the past with the commissioning of two new 120,000 litres Southern Cross tanks over the weekend by the Provincial Member and Governor for Madang, Hon. Ramsey Pariwa.The two tanks were purchased at a cost of more than K300,000 by the Madang Provincial Government through the Provincial Support Improvement Program (PSIP) funds under the leadership of Governor Pariwa. Madang Provincial Health Authority (MaPHA) Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Martin Daimen, said constant water supply interruptions into the hospital has been a long-standing issue which has really affected the operations of the hospital over the years and with the commissioning of the two new tanks, this is a relief for the hospital and MaPHA to ensure effective delivery of health services to patients. “On behalf of the management of Madang PHA, the staff, patients and partners I want to take this time to say thank you to our Governor,” Daimen said. “You started your duty and mandated role to play your part in the health sector,” he said. “Our theme in health, there is a saying that goes 'Health is everybody’s business,' so you are playing your part as a leader,” he said. “We acknowledge this assistance, as, a while back you came to commission the new children’s ward and within a few weeks you are here to commission another project you initiated under your leadership,” Daimen said. “People have been praying for an instrument to deliver their needs, and their prayers have been answered,” he said. “You fulfilled a lot, and we will continue to work with you,” Daimen said. “Health service is not easy, and we need stakeholders and partners to work with us to deliver effective health services,” Daimen said. Dr. Daimen added that in the health sector, there are pillars for service delivery in hospitals and some enabling factors that will ensure the smooth flow of health services and water is one of them. “Constant water supply is very important for service to continue on a daily basis,” he said. “Another enabling factor is electricity. Electricity must flow through the hospital 24/7 to ensure continuity of service. Apart from that we have infrastructures, physical infrastructures, static plants and medical equipment, these are enabling factors which will help us work with patients,” Daimen said. “Another is human resource. Health is a sector that is multidisciplined. Many sections have their own specialists. So that is a factor that when we have good workers, we see effective service delivery,” he said. “Some of these things are not within our control such as water and electricity but with your support, you helped us with our reserve water supply,” Daimen said. Dr. Daimen said the old reserve storage tanks built in the 1960s hold 180, 000 litres but those have deteriorated over time due to lack of maintenance and now with the two new 120,000 litre tanks, these can sustain the hospital for a month should there be any disruptions from Water PNG. MaPHA Board Chairman, Dr. Boga Figa, said the issues of inconsistent water and power supplies have really affected the hospital’s operations and the timely intervention by the Madang Provincial Government is a relief and MaPHA will now look at ways to address the issues with electricity. Madang Provincial Planning Director John Sigara said there will be a stakeholder meeting with Water PNG and PNG Power in the coming weeks which this long-standing issues will be discussed to see how best it can be addressed. The Provincial Member and Governor for Madang, Hon. Ramsey Pariwa, who had previously purchased two 9,000 litres tanks on two separate occasions for the Modilon General Hospital from his own money said his aim is to see Madang change and move forward and progress in terms of much needed development and service delivery. “This shows how committed and dedicated my government is. If there is funding or not, sometimes we dig into our own pockets if truly we say that lives matters and it’s about the people of Madang,” Pariwa said. “Sometimes let’s go out of our way if we truly care to serve. In 2023 I bought a tank for the hospital and then last year I bought another 9, 000 litre tank,” he said. “These challenged me so now that funds are available, we allocated more than K300,000 for the two 120,000 litres southern cross tanks,” Pariwa said. “I believe that this is one of the legacy issues, a long outstanding issue of water supply disruptions. No proper standby water supply system for the hospital for its day-to-day use. Without water, how can we save lives and look after the sick?” he said. “Constant water supply will help us treat patients. Sometimes patients come and we can be able to treat them but because of no water supply and sanitation, it will affect their health, and they can contract other diseases,” Pariwa said. Governor Pariwa thanked the Joint Provincial Planning and Budget Priority Committee who have approved funding for the purchase of the water reservoir tanks when brought to their attention.  

Madang Police have launched a strong, full-force Christmas operation to control the rise in crime usually seen during the festive season.The operation, known as Sain Abe 3, was launched last Friday at the Madang Town Police Station, drawing more than 100 officers and community members.Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa opened the program with a call for shared responsibility.“Law- and- order is everybody’s business,” he said.Governor Pariwa also presented K500,000 to support police patrols and operations during Christmas and New Year. He urged business houses to back police work as part of their social duty.Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Robert Baim thanked the Governor and said the funding will help police respond quickly to incidents during the busy period.Baim said Sain Abe 3 will be stronger than earlier operations, adding that after awareness and enforcement stages, this operation is a full-force push to restore discipline across Madang.He urged the public to work with police.“If you see something wrong, step in and act as a concerned citizen,” he said.Superintendent Baim also thanked reservists, the Community Policing Unit and local communities for their support.Business houses are already helping. HF Trading Ltd and Modilon Service Station donated K10,000 worth of fuel to support police mobility.Police will now increase patrols and visibility across the province to keep families safe throughout the festive season.

The National St John Ambulance (NStJA) recently witnessed the graduation of 24 new Ambulance Officers following their successful completion of a 12-week Ambulance Officer Level One Course at the National Ambulance Education College in Baruni, Port Moresby city.These graduates are equipped to uphold NStJA’s mission of serving the nation by delivering excellence in emergency care to Papua New Guineans in times of sickness, distress, crisis, or danger without distinction of tribe, class, or creed. They are ready to respond to emergencies, embody NStJA’s core values of Care, Agility, Respect, Excellence, and Service Above Self, and contribute to the health and well-being of communities across the country. The intensive training program combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on learning, covering the management of medical, trauma, and psychological emergencies. Recruits also undertook parade drills, bootcamp-style physical training, designed to build discipline, teamwork, and resilience which are qualities essential for the demanding role of an ambulance officer. In addition, they completed an advanced emergency driving course to ensure they can respond safely under varied and often challenging conditions. NStJA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kai Tane, congratulated the graduates, stating that these officers have undergone rigorous preparation to respond to emergencies, stabilize patients, and deliver timely, life-saving care. “They are ready to serve the people of Papua New Guinea with professionalism and dedication as they step into their roles as Trainee Ambulance Officers.” The graduates will now begin a nine-month Trainee Ambulance Officer placement, working alongside experienced ambulance officers to gain on-road experience and on-the-job training in both urban and remote settings. Of the 24 graduates, eleven trainees are from the National Capital District, while the remaining thirteen come from across the provinces: two from Central, one from Mt Hagen, two from East New Britain, four from Lae, and four from Unggai-Bena in the Eastern Highlands. This training program was made possible through the generous support of key partners, including ExxonMobil PNG, which funded the National Ambulance Education College, as well as the Marape/Rosso Government and the National Department of Health Emergency Medicine Office. Furthermore, their support enables NStJA to expand services and strengthen emergency care nationwide. Further support from the Australian Federal Police through the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership (PNG-APP) has strengthened NStJA’s capacity by helping develop in-house ambulance educators, ensuring long-term sustainability in training future emergency responders. The National St John Council welcomes the 24 new officers as they begin their service to the nation, reinforcing NStJA’s commitment to delivering excellence in emergency care to the people of PNG.

Businesses for Health (B4H) is preparing a visually impactful campaign for World AIDS Day 2025, culminating in a hand-painted Red Ribbon Walkway stretching four kilometres from the Royal Papua Yacht Club up the Poreporena Freeway in Port Moresby.The Red Ribbon, the international symbol of HIV awareness, will guide Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and business leaders to G4S Haus, Konedobu, for this year’s CEO HIV Lunch & Learn on Monday, December 1st. Today, Sunday November 30th, the B4H team and volunteers will paint approximately 400 bright red AIDS ribbons, placed every ten metres along the main pedestrian corridor that passes banks, coffee shops, and major business houses. The ribbons will be created using water-based, non-permanent, and washable paint, ensuring an environmentally responsible display. By sunrise on World AIDS Day, thousands of Papua New Guinea (PNG) workers and pedestrians navigating Moresby’s notorious traffic jams will encounter the hundreds of ribbons. Dr. Ann Clarke, Chair of Businesses for Health PNG, said that they hope the red ribbons spark conversations amongst the passengers and pedestrians. “The ribbons are a reminder of the millions of lives lost to AIDS, the need for kindness in support of those affected by this lifelong, but now treatable infection.” “Most importantly, we trust our younger commuters will be challenged to talk about how to protect themselves, their sexual partners, and future children.” PNG now has 120, 000 people living with HIV, the highest number since the start of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s. The situation is critical: New HIV infections have risen sharply, with 11,000 people infected in the last year. Infections are particularly high among babies, young people, and women. Businesses, workplaces, and community leaders have a crucial role to play in stopping the spread of sexually transmitted infections. World AIDS Day remains a vital day to reflect, recommit to talking about sexual health, and act together to provide education that protects workers, families, and future children. B4H specifically aims to promote discussion about the need for testing, encourage safer sexual practices by using condoms, and remind everyone that HIV is preventable, treatable, and manageable. “With the right kind of leadership and visibility from everyone, we can end HIV in PNG.” Meanwhile, the CEO HIV Lunch & Learn, supported by G4S and the Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce, will bring together leaders from across the business community. The session at G4S Haus, Konedobu, will focus on key areas for action: Trends in HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis in PNG. Innovations in testing and treatment. Workplace responsibilities for health, safety, and wellbeing. Action organizations can take to reduce new infections among their workforce and support affected employees. Businesses for Health acknowledges the commitment of PNG’s business sector in raising awareness, supporting staff, and strengthening workplace health programs.