PNG Haus Bung

Keeping a strong, healthy and safe workplace is always a daily priority in every organization because it helps to reduce unwanted incidents in a workplace, something which Mr. Nakikus Tion knows very well.Mr. Nakikus is the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Field Officer with Australia’s Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP) in Papua New Guinea (PNG). In partnership with the Government of PNG, ESIP delivers critical infrastructure across energy, telecommunications, health and markets, while also supporting PNG’s state-owned enterprise reform program. Each day, hundreds of people work across ESIP project sites and offices. HSE professionals like Nakikus play a vital role in protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of workers, contractors, and partners. Through regular health and safety training, delivered with the PNG Fire Service and St John Ambulance, Nakikus and his team are building safety capability. The training and awareness sessions help staff, contractors and partners understand safety risks and respond confidently in both on-site and office settings. Strong health and safety practices help reduce workplace incidents. Training improves awareness and decision-making, enabling workers to identify risks early and apply safe work practices every day. Project staff build safety into day-to-day work, from site inductions and prestart safety meetings to clear safety requirements for contractors and visitors. This consistent approach encourages everyday safe behaviours, such as workers feeling confident to raise risks, checking conditions before starting tasks and following agreed safety procedures. “If safety messaging can save one life, it is worth repeating,” Nakikus said. “It helps build a strong culture of safety, which is just as important as building the infrastructure.” “It helps build a strong culture of safety, which is just as important as building the infrastructure.” Reflecting on why health and safety matters most to him, Nakikus said everyone deserves to go to work and return home safely.

In the final match of the 2026 Digicel Exxon Mobil (DEM) Cup Round 4 in Lae city yesterday saw the Bintangor Goroka Lahanis came from behind to draw 14 points all with the premiers Lae Snax Tigers, leaving the 2025 champions sitting on the 9th place on the ladder.Back in the Nation’s Capital, in the double header match at the Santos National Football Stadium saw Kroton Hela Wigmen hold off PRK Gulf Isou with a 20-12 points win. While the Gas Resource Central Dabaris were too good for ENB Agmark Gurias with a convincing 38-20 points victory. The match played at Aipus Oval in Wabag saw the home side NPL Enga Mioks had their home supporters disappointed with a 6-30 points loss at the hands of a classy PRK Mendi Muruks outfit. Mioks manage to score the first try in the opening 6 minutes, which turned out to be their only point for the match as the Muruks dominated to pile on 30 points to win. Meanwhile, Kandes escaped a narrow 18-16 win over the Wamp NGA Mt Hagen Eagles in Minj, to leave the Eagles the only team with no win after 4 rounds of footy. Moni Plus NCDC Pom Vipers late try to Jordan Palus in the 78th minute gave them a 26-20 points escape at the hands of the Asila Waghi Tumbe in Minj. After Round 4, the top 5 teams see Vipers on top with no losses leading with 8 points, Dabaris, Muruks and Wigmen all sit on 6 points and Lahanis on 5 points wrapping up the Top 5.

Kaul Coastal in North Karkar has received its first-ever IFAD fishing device, marking a significant boost for the fisheries sector in Sumkar District of Madang province.The project, funded by the Sumkar District Development Authority (SDDA), was officially launched by Member for Sumkar and Vice Minister for Petroleum, Alexander Suguman Orme. Speaking at the event, Orme described the installation as a milestone for the district, saying the device will improve fishing efficiency, increase productivity, and support coastal livelihoods. Local fishing groups have welcomed the initiative, with further funding support announced to help expand operations and maximize the benefits of the new device. Ward Member Rodney Dawi thanked the MP for his leadership, noting that the project will strengthen incomes and drive sustainable economic growth in the area. The IFAD installation reflects SDDA’s continued focus on practical development in key sectors, particularly fisheries, across rural communities in Sumkar.

The newly appointed Director of Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) Mr. Isaac Lupari was quite pleased with the working progress at the two facilities owned by the State-Owned Company just outside Port Moresby city.Mr. Lupari, accompanied by KPHL acting Managing Director Dr. Luke Liria, on Saturday, visited two of the company’s major project sites – the Motukea Fuel Facility and the Caution Bay Training and Fabrication Facility, and was pleased with what he saw. "It is pleasing to see that these facilities are at an advanced stage of completion. The Motukea Fuel Facility will be mechanically complete next week, services are connected, staff have been recruited and after commissioning in June, it will be ready for commercial operations in August.” “The Motukea facility has the capacity to hold 12 million litres of JetA1 fuel and was built in response to Government and public concerns about fuel security at the time when Puma stopped importing fuel.” At KPHL’s Caution Bay site, director Lupari saw that the Training Academy was structurally complete and that the Safe, Live Processing Plant, previously installed at the Kumul Petroleum Academy at Idubada, had been transported to the site in preparation for the next session of technical training to commence. The nearby 294-man camp was complete and ready to service future petroleum development contractors operating in the Caution Bay area. Mr. Lupari added,” The KPHL Board is critically reviewing all major project activities that KPHL is undertaking, including assessing the most effective management for these important facilities going forward.” “These Kumul Petroleum initiatives are aimed at supporting the development of the petroleum and other resource industries in Papua New Guinea, and maximizing national content in them. We are looking forward to FID for Papua LNG and KPHL’s involvement in all aspects of that project.” Director Lupari confirmed that Kumul Petroleum’s main focus at present was preparing to take up equity in the Papua LNG Project, and that KPHL remained committed to continuing to work closely with the government, industry partners, and financiers to achieve sustainable growth and national prosperity. “Kumul Petroleum remains a cornerstone in the development and safeguarding of PNG’s natural resources sector, whilst simultaneously contributing to achieving socio-economic goals through our nation-building projects.”

Papua New Guinea’s recent grey listing by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has drawn attention across the business sector, but banking leaders say it should be seen as part of a global compliance process rather than a penalty.Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said grey listing indicates areas where financial crime prevention systems can be improved under international monitoring and does not reflect negatively on the integrity of the country’s banks, businesses or citizens. He said many countries have undergone similar processes and successfully implemented reforms. Mr. Cairns noted that work is already underway in Papua New Guinea, led by government and supported by regulators and the private sector, to strengthen financial systems and meet international standards. He added that while grey listing may lead to increased scrutiny from international partners and cautious investor sentiment in the short term, it also presents an opportunity to improve coordination, enhance financial intelligence and build stronger regulatory frameworks. Mr. Cairns expressed confidence in PNG’s economic outlook, highlighting the country’s natural resources, growing population, and pipeline of major projects as key drivers of future growth. He said the banking sector will continue to play a critical role in supporting businesses and communities, while maintaining strong compliance standards to uphold trust in the financial system. Mr. Cairns also emphasized Westpac’s long-standing presence in the country, noting that the bank has witnessed PNG overcome challenges in the past and remains confident in its resilience. He said with continued collaboration between government, regulators and industry, Papua New Guinea can successfully exit the grey list and emerge with a stronger and more resilient financial system.

The recent 2nd PNG Media Summit 2026 on Friday, May 1st was a success thanks to the people and organizations that supported it, like Remington Hi- Tek.Remington Hi-Tek supported it with a funding of K3,000, reaffirming its commitment to advancing technology and supporting industry development in the region.The company, a key division of the Remington Group, provided the funding in the form of Hi-Tek vouchers that were used during the summit in Port Moresby city. This marked the second consecutive year that Remington has supported the event, signaling a strengthening partnership with its organizers.The summit centered on the theme “Elevating Pacific Media: AI in Media and Regional Cooperation”, which reflected a growing emphasis on the role of artificial intelligence in journalism and the importance of collaboration across Pacific nations.Remington Hi-Tek’s continued involvement aligned with its broader strategy to expand technological solutions across the Pacific. Company representatives noted that supporting initiatives like the summit helps build capacity within the media sector and encourage innovation.Through that sponsorship, Remington aims to help equip Papua New Guinea’s media industry with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the evolving digital landscape, particularly as AI-driven technologies reshape how news is produced and distributed.

The National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has allocated K4.5 million in disaster relief funding to provinces impacted by Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Maila in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The funding will support the worst-affected areas, including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Milne Bay, East New Britain, New Ireland, Manus, Morobe, West New Britain and Northern provinces. Announcing the assistance, Acting Prime Minister John Rosso, on behalf of the Government, commended the Board for its swift response, acknowledging the leadership of Minister for Bougainville Affairs and Minister responsible for NGCB, Manasseh Makiba, Board Chairman Jack Lohia and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Registrar, Ms. Imelda Agon. Mr. Rosso said it was encouraging to see national agencies like the NGCB stepping up to support the country’s intensified emergency response and delivering much-needed assistance to affected communities. He described the scale of destruction as devastating, while praising the collective efforts of provincial governments, the PNG Defence Force, humanitarian organizations, international partners, and the NGCB in responding to the crisis. “The Government is moving quickly and strategically to formalize a disaster response plan and address immediate relief needs, ensuring aid reaches those most affected,” he said. Minister Makiba thanked the Prime Minister for his leadership during the crisis, describing the cyclone as one of the most powerful natural disasters to hit Papua New Guinea. He reaffirmed NGCB’s commitment to working alongside the Government and supporting communities during difficult times. “The National Gaming Control Board remains committed to assisting communities in need and will continue to work collaboratively with the Government to ensure timely and effective delivery of support,” he said. The funding was provided through NGCB’s Give Back Program, which focuses on improving the wellbeing of communities across PNG.

YWAM Medical Ships Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) recently gathered onboard the MV YWAM PNG to celebrate the successful completion of Phase One of the vessel’s Life Extension Project.This vital investment ensures the ship will remain operational for the next 10 years, continuing its mission to serve remote communities. The event served as an opportunity to acknowledge the collective effort behind this work, including the support of the Australian Government, the Government of Papua New Guinea, and the recently formalized collaboration with the PNG Sustainable Development Program. At the heart of the evening was a simple message: lasting impact is achieved through collaboration and partnership, building on solid foundations to bring hope to communities and shape a stronger Papua New Guinea. After operating extensively along the PNG coastline for many years, the MV YWAM PNG is currently in Western Province. As a registered health facility, the vessel plays a unique role in reaching areas where healthcare access is limited. In one instance, volunteer medical teams supported a local family with clinical techniques to strengthen their child's muscles and develop essential feeding skills, easing a burden they had carried for years. Dr. Miriam Boga, Chief Executive officers (CEO) of the Western Provincial Health Authority, noted that stories like these underscore the importance of partnership. “Access and empowerment are so important,” Dr. Boga said. “On behalf of WPHA, we appreciate the services provided by YWAM Medical Ships in supporting holistic patient care.” As the MV YWAM PNG prepares to sail again, the focus remains on strengthening local capacity and contributing to a national vision where every community is connected and equipped. Australia remains a steadfast partner in ensuring essential healthcare is within reach for every PNG citizen.

Twenty (20) gold bars of varying sizes worth millions of Kina and suspected to be illegally exported overseas, were seized by Aviation Security (AVSEC) Officers of the National Airports Corporation (NAC) at the Jacksons International Airport very recently.The gold bars that were discovered in three separate suitcases on Monday, 27th April, belonged to passengers booked on a flight to Hong Kong. They were identified and seized after AVSEC officers flagged the luggage during routine screening. One passenger was identified and upon inspection of his bag, two gold bars were found; he was unable to provide export documentation and was taken into custody by PNG Customs Services. The remaining two passengers failed to board the flight, leaving their locked luggage behind. The following day, Customs officers opened the suitcases in the presence of AVSEC personnel, discovering 12 gold bars in one and six in the other, bringing the total seizure to 20 bars. Meanwhile, authorities say this recent attempt to illegally export gold is part of a growing trend, with several cases recorded since December 2025 involving gold concealed in clothing, plastic wraps, capsules, and using other methods. The Acting Managing Director of the NAC, Mr. Dominic Kaumu, praised AVSEC officers for their vigilance and integrity and also commended PNG Customs for securing a recent conviction involving a passenger who concealed gold in a custom-made garment. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in curbing illegal gold smuggling through the country’s airports. NAC reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant agencies and urged the public to report any suspicious activities.

The work on the improvements to the Kimbe Port in the West New Britain province is progressing quiet well with the support of the Australian Government. Just recently a barge carrying the critical equipment and materials for the work, arrived at the Kimbe Port. The barge last week delivered heavy machinery, precast concrete elements and specialized materials essential for the next phase of construction. This included a 180-tonne crawler crane, a 180-foot barge for ground stabilization works and over 500 tonnes of precast concrete for the new wharf extension. The Kimbe port upgrade is being delivered as part of the Ports Infrastructure Investment Program. The project is funded by the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP) and delivered in partnership with the Government of Papua New Guinea and PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNG PCL) under a Joint Implementation Unit (JIU). Works include the demolition and reconstruction of sections of the existing wharf, with new piles to extend the wharf to 120m in length. Ms. Cate Rogers, the Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Economics and Infrastructure, said this investment reflects Australia’s long-term commitment to working with Papua New Guinea to strengthen essential infrastructure. “Progress at the port in Kimbe is creating local jobs and helping improve the flow of goods and services, supporting the business and commercial needs of local communities,” she said. PNG PCL Senior Civil Engineer - Major Projects and JIU Lead Mr. Denmark Gimiseve said, “PNG Ports is pleased with the progress as works move beyond the halfway point. The arrival of this equipment supports the next phase of construction, with local contractors and workers continuing to play an important role in delivery.” Construction has now moved beyond the halfway point, with major marine works taking shape on site. Once completed, these improvements will support safer and more reliable port operations and strengthen Kimbe’s role as a key maritime gateway for West New Britain. Allowing the port to accommodate larger vessels, improving berth capacity, and operational efficiencies.

Prime Minister James Marape has issued a powerful call to Papua New Guinean students studying in China, urging them to remain steadfast in their education and prepare to lead the nation into its next half-century of independence. Addressing the student body in Guangzhou on April 29, 2026, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government’s investment in international education is a strategic pillar for the country's future. He framed the presence of students abroad as a deliberate national investment, asserting that the true wealth of Papua New Guinea lies not beneath the soil, but within its people. “For me, you are the most important asset. It is not the oil, gas, gold, or everything else we have. Our human resource is the most important asset,” he stated. He further told the assembly, “You are the reason why we are at work. You represent a cluster of Papua New Guinea’s future that we are trying our best to shape.” The Prime Minister maintained that the country's trajectory toward prosperity is inextricably linked to the development of a disciplined and globally competitive generation. He noted that the decision to prioritize Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects for overseas study is part of a long-term strategy to equip young leaders for roles across government, business, and the global economy. “Our country will not be prosperous if our human resource is not secured for the better,” he added. Reflecting on the social fabric of the nation, Prime Minister Marape described Papua New Guinea’s vast cultural differences as a unique advantage rather than a liability. “We come from over 800 different tribal settings and language groups, yet in the unity of that diversity, we have found a symphony of unity.” He encouraged the students to take pride in their heritage as they represent the nation on the world stage, remarking, “Hold your heads high. You come from the most diverse nation on earth.” “The fact that we stand as one people, one nation, one country 50 years on is a major achievement.” Sharing a personal anecdote about his own upbringing, the Prime Minister recounted how his father prioritized faith and schooling over material wealth. “My father told me: ‘I have no money to pass on to you. I have given you Jesus, and I now put you on the road of education,’” he shared, adding, “Walk the path of education, and education will bring you to places you have never imagined in your life.” Acknowledging the difficulties of living abroad, including homesickness and financial strain, the Prime Minister offered words of encouragement. “Hang on and keep going. Do not be discouraged. Tears are part of life, but get up and keep going,” he urged. “You are not an accident, God created you for a purpose. Find that purpose and pursue it.” In addition, he committed to reviewing and improving the support systems for students through Papua New Guinea’s overseas missions and the Embassy in Beijing. However, he stressed that this support comes with the expectation of academic excellence and personal integrity. “We will look at the policy that supports your studies and see where we can step up support. But my only ask is this: do not take your focus away from your certificates.” “Focus on your studies. Finish your certificate, and if you can, go for the next one.” Beyond academic achievement, he reminded the students to act as ambassadors of their home country by respecting local laws and building international networks. “Do not break the law of the land you are in. Live within the law and you will always be safe,” he advised. He also noted that the friendships formed in China would be vital for the future and stated that the networks that the students build today will grow with them into the future. “We sent you for a purpose- not just to be PNG resources back home, but PNG resources in the world.” Pointing to the rapid modernization of Chinese cities like Shenzhen, he suggested that the students are in an ideal environment to witness the fruits of discipline and innovation. He concluded by urging the students to bring those lessons home. “Study hard, find your place, and prepare yourselves to help build a prosperous country.”

All Cabinet Ministers and departmental heads have been issued a directive from the prime minister to intensify their work programs as the country enters a crucial period in 2026. Speaking ahead of the mid-year mark, the Prime Minister emphasized that the month of May signals a turning point for Government, with limited parliamentary sittings remaining before the next national election and growing global and domestic challenges requiring urgent attention. “It is now May, and I expect all ministers and department heads to be fully at work, progressing their responsibilities with urgency and discipline,” Prime Minister Marape said. The Prime Minister highlighted mounting pressures from global economic conditions, including rising energy costs linked to international oil prices, as well as ongoing recovery efforts from recent natural disasters. “These challenges are not new to us. We have faced COVID-19, major natural disasters, and political turbulence in the past. We will get through this as we always have — with resilience and determination,” he said. Drawing from his recent official visit to China, Prime Minister Marape reflected on the work ethic and discipline observed within one of the world’s largest economies. “I shared with my ministers and Members of Parliament that in China — now the world’s second-largest economy — public servants and leaders are not paid higher than those in Papua New Guinea. That was surprising,” he said. “Yet the level of commitment, the discipline, and the sheer volume of work they put into building their country speaks volumes. From a developing nation in the 1970s and 1980s, they have risen to become a global economic powerhouse, driven by research, innovation, and hard work.” The Prime Minister said Papua New Guinea must reflect on this example and lift its own performance. This is a moment for all of us — ministers, department heads, and public servants, including myself — to step up our game and work tirelessly for our country. We cannot afford to lag behind,” he stressed. Prime Minister Marape has instructed all Government agencies to submit progress reports outlining achievements and implementation status as Papua New Guinea approaches the halfway point of the year.