The East New Britain Provincial Government has engaged the National Research Institute (NRI) to conduct a survey on the escalating lawlessness in almost all the four districts of the province. Provincial Administrator Levi Mano announced that the survey, underway since last week, seeks to understand the underlying causes of escalating criminal activities and pinpoint specific factors fueling the problem. This long-term measure complements police efforts, which serve as an immediate response to ongoing crimes. In a statement, Mr. Mano explained that the NRI survey aims to provide data to help the provincial government develop targeted, sustainable solutions to community lawlessness. He urged the public to participate, encouraging individuals to share concerns with the survey team and provide confidential information that could assist the police in their operations. This collaborative effort between the public, law enforcement, and government aims to create a clearer picture of the social issues driving crime in the province and formulate a plan for long-term improvement. The survey reflects East New Britain’s commitment to finding practical ways to address law and order beyond policing alone.

Air Niugini’s first A220 aircraft is expected to arrive next September, coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary. The A220, popular among airlines like Qantas, Air France, and Delta, can operate across PNG, replacing all current Fokker operations. To prepare, Air Niugini recently held its first town hall meeting to brief 115 staff on the new aircraft’s Entry into Service (EIS) and update them on recent developments. This initiative, led by CEO Gary Seddon and the Board, aims to ensure staff are informed, engaged, and committed to improving the airline’s performance as part of an ongoing transformation program. In his address, Mr. Seddon noted the project team is meeting all scheduled milestones, with some work ahead of schedule. While exciting, he emphasized the need for all employees to understand these changes, including expectations and possible challenges. Air Niugini will train and certify staff across all areas, ensuring they are ready to embrace this change. "It’s no longer business as usual, we have a great opportunity to improve air travel for our country." "We must look at all aspects of our business and take a proactive and assertive approach, to increase aircraft utilisation, to improve services, to deliver affordable, reliable travel.” Mr Seddon explained that new systems are already being implemented, with several current processes undergoing improvements. Training is underway for pilots, engineers, tech crew, cabin crew, and ground staff, preparing all teams for the A220 arrival. “Work has already started on implementing new systems while some of our current processes and procedures are being changed." "This also includes training for pilots, engineers, tech crew, cabin crew and ground staff in all areas of the business in readiness for the new aircraft - our Air Niugini people will benefit from this investment.” Staff also had the chance to ask the CEO and management about current issues, including regional fuel availability and strategies for staff retention.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) LNG Kumuls Veteran, current PNG Kumuls fullback and Man-of-the-Match Nene McDonald remains satisfied and pleased for the Kumuls effort claiming the title as the “2024 Pacific Bowl Champions” after taking down the Cook Islands Aitu with 42-20 win at the Santos National Football Stadium (NFS). While celebrating after a dormant win, McDonald told PNG HAUSBUNG about the challenges and efforts behind the outstanding performance. McDonald emphasized that despite the distracting tough lead in the first half with 16-14 including the hot weather above 30°, he remained focused on the second half which in return paid off with an outstanding performance from the backline in defence and attack, scoring 5 tries in the second half while the Cook Islands Aitu scored one. As the fullback, McDonald stressed that the high-level performance wouldn't be possible without the outgoing communication within the team on the field especially between his wingers Robert Derby and Elijah Roltinga, also highlighting communication as the key fundamental to the progressive stages in the game. McDonald concluded by expressing his gratitude to the crowd of 11,219 in NFS who were in every critical stage of the game motivating and supporting the team and its players to push through their limits. The match saw Nene McDonald claim two tries for his side in the first and second half, contributing to the exhilarating overall performance. The PNG Kumuls celebrated eight tries and five conversions while the Cook Island Aitu scored three successful tries and conversions. After a victorious triumph at the Santos NFS, McDonald remains calm and fixed on the next game against the New Zealand Kiwis in Final Crossover Game into the Pacific Cup Championship on Sunday 10th November in Sydney.

The PNG Kumuls triumphed over the Cook Islands Aitu with a final score of 42-20, earning the title as the Pacific Bowl Championship in a spectacular display of rugby league today at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The Kumuls emerged victorious under fine weather and ground conditions, much to the delight of their home crowd and behind the TV screens. The game started with a bang as Elijah Roltinga crossed the line in the 5th minute, setting the tone for the Kumuls' dominance. Despite an early response from the Aitu's Davvy Moale in the 8th minute, the Kumuls continued to extend their lead with tries from Nene Macdonald and Lachlan Lam, bringing the score to 16-14 by half time. The second half saw the Kumuls open a fountain of tries with a relentless offensive display. Robert Derby scored in the 42nd minute, followed by Sylvester Namo in the 46th minute, and another try from Roltinga in the 49th minute. Macdonald continued his stellar performance with a second try in the 57th minute, and Morea Morea sealed the victory with a try in the 79th minute. Kyle Laybutt's consistent kicking added five successful conversions from eight attempts, further solidifying the Kumuls' lead. Despite the Cook Islands Aitu’s managing three tries, with David Moale, Steven Marsters and Esom Ioka contributing to the scoreboard. Marsters' precision with conversions saw him successfully convert all three tries and a penalty goal, showcasing his kicking style. However, it wasn't enough to close the gap created by the Kumuls' dynamic play. Both teams faced disciplinary challenges, with PNG's Sylvester Namo and the Cook Islands' Zane Tetevano each spending time in the sin bin. However, the Kumuls' ability to maintain their structure and focus during these periods was a testament to their resilience and strategic planning. The victory propels the PNG Kumuls as the Pacific Bowl Championship winners, showcasing their strength and determination. As they look ahead to future matches, the team's cohesion and adaptability will be key factors in continuing their success. Exactly 11, 219 fans in the Santos National Football Stadium and those watching live broadcasts were treated to a thrilling match, filled with excitement and high-level rugby league action.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has made it clear that Pomio MP Elias Kapavore’s return to the government is both welcomed and well within his rights. In a no-holds-barred address, Marape emphasized that Kapavore’s move aligns with the freedoms enshrined in Papua New Guinea’s Constitution. “He (Kapavore) texted me earlier today (Thursday 29th August) saying that ‘I'm coming back,’ and I said, ‘Welcome back, you are certainly welcome back,’” Marape revealed, highlighting that the return was entirely Kapavore’s decision. “Members of the Internal, Section 45 of our Constitution allows for freedom of movement. Freedom of association, Section 46, if I'm not wrong. It's the total freedom of movement and freedom of association,” Marape said upon his return from the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Summit in the Kingdom of Tonga. In a straightforward acknowledgment of Kapavore’s choice, Marape stated, “He was not asked to leave, and he was not asked to come back, based on what is on offer.” "The Honorable Elias Kapavore is a member of his people, he's a leader that is entitled to make his own call." "We've invested five bridges in key strategic areas, even when he was still in Opposition - we did not say it's an Opposition district." "Pomio people are our people... And so, we've invested ... a special road that should link the south side of East New Britain," Marape said, echoing similar reasons raised by Kapavore. Marape also took this opportunity to underline the significance of unity, especially with the looming vote of no confidence (VONC). “It's not one morning you wake up and you feel that, oh, I could be the Prime Minister. Of course, everyone can be the Prime Minister,” Marape said in a blunt tone during a press conference held at APEC Terminal at Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby. Surrounded by his key Cabinet Ministers, the Deputy Prime Minister, and other government MPs, Marape did not mince words when he underscored the seriousness of the VONC. “In a vote of no confidence play, you have the incumbent's character, aptitude, temperament, and ability on the table, and that’s for leading. And the alternate that is proposed. So, being in the opposition for some time, you would have seen the different contest for alternates that happen. So, it’s just a two-way street. The incumbent and the alternate. We're not playing marbles here. People's life, country's life is at stake.” Marape also did not hold back when critiquing the opposition’s lack of cohesion and preparedness. “Whether it's on growing the economy, creating jobs, law and order, increasing student enrollment in school, hospital invitations, we have clear policies, outcomes that we pronounce in 2019. And every now and then we take a review. When we go into retreat, we review,” he stated, taking a swipe at the opposition’s failure to present a united front. “The opposition is an unseen hand that remains at the back... No wonder why you had two former opposition leaders vacating their jobs,” Marape remarked, clearly referring to the disarray within the opposition ranks. He continued with a stern piece of advice, urging the opposition to get its act together: “Rally behind one face. Pronounce the alternate to the country. If the opposition was serious, please, for goodness' sake, the Westminster conventional system of government is that the opposition leader is the alternate. You don't fish out the alternate. You seriously place the opposition leader as the opposite to government policy. And you rally behind him, and he becomes the face of the opposition.” Marape expressed his amusement with the current opposition leader, Douglas Tomuriesa, who he described as lost. “Today, the opposition leader (Douglas Tomuriesa), I feel for my brother from Kriwina. Very experienced man in his own right. But he's lost. He's not the alternate (Prime Minister nominee).” With the vote of no confidence looming, Marape emphasized the importance of following the proper process. “Rally behind one face. Pronounce the alternate to the country. And if you want to move a vote of no confidence, totally within your entitlements,” he said. Marape also made it clear that the opposition needs to respect the VONC process and act responsibly. He criticized the opposition for repeatedly failing to correctly fill out the necessary forms, which had caused unnecessary delays and confusion. “Please do it correctly. We have the late Central Bougainville MP Father Simon Dumarinu to honour next week, Tuesday. His body is coming to Parliament next week, Tuesday." "We have Wednesday the private business committee seat, so free advice to them." "Last five times, you filled the forms incorrectly. You're not imbeciles. You're not stupids. Please, for goodness' sake, respect yourself; you're intelligent. Fill the form correctly. Don't waste all of our time. You held the country to ransom by incorrectly filling the forms.” Marape highlighted a specific instance where the opposition deliberately made errors to create tension: “For instance, the fourth time, whoever was filling out the form wrote one, two, three signatures. And then started with five on the other side - deliberate disloyalty by those who filled. Number was not on their side, just to create tension. Let's not be irresponsible. VONC process is there for everyone to follow.” Marape concluded his address by expressing his confidence in his government’s ability to handle the upcoming VONC. “We have an issue. Do it properly. Next week, we're going to Parliament. Give respect to Father, late member of Central Bougainville. Wednesday, the private business committee sits. What's in your paper on Tuesday? Wednesday, if it sits and it's competent, there'll be a notice on Thursday.” He also reassured the nation that his government is prepared to face the VONC head-on: “We attend for one week. We come back the following Thursday. Let's get to dealing with the numbers. Simple as that. They could have done that in February. Just because they had no number, they were confusing everyone. So, they were making deliberate mistakes. They were making deliberate mistakes.” As the political landscape in Papua New Guinea continues to shift, Marape’s leadership remains steadfast. “On our side, we just want to say that members are free to move around. We want to go forward. In any case, we come back to government. We never chased them out. They went out, but their space is there. We give respect to what they do.” Marape has made it clear – his government is ready, and it’s not backing down. ///ends/// Feature

In a genuine act of kindness, Coca Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) have come to the assistance of the labour ward at the Angau hospital in Lae, Morobe Province with the donation of baby care and hygiene products. CCEP’s Head of People and Culture, Adlyn Nagwi said in a statement that the donation was a response to the recent call out from the Angau hospital to assist the labour ward. “CCEP believes it plays an important and critical role in society and supporting the efforts of the essential health services is one such area that CCEP strives to support.” Nagwi said the donation of a wheelchair and 50 baby packs that consists of baby care products as well as hygiene care products for the mother. “We are happy to support the mothers that travel in from remote areas of Morobe to Angau hospital, most of whom don’t have the basic necessities to welcome their new bundle of joy, once they deliver.” Meanwhile in receiving the items on behalf of the mothers and the Angau hospital, Dr. Justin Yanga thanked CCEP for their timely contribution that enables mothers to care for their babies immediately after they are born.

His Excellency the Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae GCL, GCMG, KStJ, Governor General of Papua New Guinea, has officially welcomed the new Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Peru to PNG, H.E. Vitaliano Valencia. According to a statement, Ambassador Valencia presented his Letters of Credence to the Governor General at Government House on Thursday June 20th, 2024. In his welcome remarks, Grand Chief Sir Bob acknowledged the support of Peru to PNG through international forums and urged both countries to enter into cooperation agreements. “The PNG Government recognizes and appreciates the continued support that Peru has given to Papua New Guinea’s development aspirations through its significant contributions to the APEC and the United Nations.” “I would like to invite the Republic of Peru to consider the possibility of entering into a Technical Cooperation Agreement that can enable both our countries to cooperate in areas of agriculture, fisheries, forestry and Agri-food products, that are native to both our lands,” the Governor General said. Ambassador Valencia informed the Governor General of Papua New Guinea’s participation in meetings in Lima, Peru, by key Government departments of Finance, Trade and Tourism in which the subject of inclusion of the informal sector to the formal economy was discussed and agreed upon. Additionally, Ambassador Valencia said, there are opportunities of cooperation between PNG and Peru in the areas of preservation of natural resources and traditional cultures that both countries have in common. “Many areas of cooperation are in front of us." "Preserving the environment, from the pollution of plastic in the oceans, using our natural resources in a sustainable way and keeping our traditions and the first nation’s way of life in their natural environment,” Ambassador Valencia said. Furthermore, Ambassador Valencia commended Papua New Guinea for its unwavering stance in highlighting to the international community and through international forums issues concerning the environment, climate change as well as upholding democratic values in its Westminster-styled system of government. Meanwhile he said, Papua New Guinea continues to be a powerful voice in the region and in international forums and has been a key player in shifting the approach of powerful countries to the plight of the island nations in the Pacific and advocating for action towards sustainable development in the Pacific and the world.

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Lae Tennis Club (LTC) recently concluded its highly anticipated team tournament, in a stunning display of skill and sportsmanship, crowning PAPINDO TRADING and CHEMICA as the new champions of their respective divisions. The Division A finals witnessed an intense battle between PAPINDO TRADING and BISMARK MARITIME. In a tight showdown, PAPINDO's duo of Japeth Tulod and Chris Jose showcased remarkable resilience, rallying back from a 5-2 deficit to clinch the first set. Their teammates, Julien Banchetti and Chris Arreo, continued the momentum, securing the second set with finesse. With two sets under their belt, PAPINDO claimed the Division A grand final, marking a historic debut in the LTC Team Tournaments. Meanwhile, in Division B, CHEMICA faced off against TRUKAI INDUSTRIES in a nail-biting finale. Despite a strong start from TRUKAI, CHEMICA's Roebeck Bacani and Bianca Bacani staged a remarkable comeback, ultimately sealing the victory in a thrilling 6-4 finish. The momentum shifted in the subsequent match, with CHEMICA's Nathan Yagum and Vincent Satorre dominating the court, securing a swift victory and solidifying their team's triumph. Like PAPINDO, CHEMICA celebrated their first championship win, making a memorable debut in LTC's prestigious tournament. The tournament also recognized outstanding performances from BOROKO MOTORS and PRIMA SMALLGOODS, who claimed third place in their respective divisions. Adding to the excitement were special awards and raffle prizes, highlighting the talent and camaraderie within the LTC community. From Best Doubles Pairs to Encouragement Awards for juniors and even an accolade for the oldest player, the event showcased the diverse range of participants and their dedication to the sport. Acknowledging the invaluable support of sponsors like BISMARK MARITIME, NANO LIGHT, and PRIMA SMALLGOODS, among others, LTC expressed gratitude for their contributions to the success of the tournament and ongoing junior development programs. The event not only celebrated current players but also welcomed six new participants, underscoring LTC's commitment to expanding the reach of tennis in Lae. Looking ahead, LTC announced plans for future tournaments, including the upcoming PANAMEX LAE TENNIS OPEN 2024, scheduled for June 14-17. With the players impatiently waiting for the next team tournament later this year, LTC asks more interested teams and players to join the competition.