Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed the government's commitment to tackling law and order issues, emphasizing that domestic security is critical for Papua New Guinea’s development. Speaking upon his return from New York, Marape said, "Law and order is the number one task for us, and everything else we rank with law and order." He highlighted the persistent security challenges within PNG, noting that while the country promotes tourism and modernization, internal security remains a significant obstacle. "For us, PNG in the local context, internal security is really important, number one," he added. Marape stressed that addressing law and order is a long-term effort, requiring structural reforms and sustained implementation. "It's not just one day, one month, one year, or one term conversation. Structural issues in fixing law and order in our country must be adjusted." "Adjustments have taken place, it's now implementation that is taking place for us going forward." The Prime Minister called on all citizens to play a role in maintaining peace and security, urging individuals to avoid taking the law into their own hands. He referenced a recent incident at Tokarara which was sent to him, saying, "You don’t take law into your own hands. You point to the perpetrator and get the police to make the arrest." As part of the government’s broader strategy to improve security, Marape confirmed the allocation of K10 million for the installation of CCTV cameras in Port Moresby. "We’re working in partnership with the NCD city commission as well as government partners." "That program will be picked up in this year’s budget," he said. The initiative aims to enhance police response to crime and improve overall safety in high-risk areas of the capital. Marape reiterated his administration’s focus on making Port Moresby and PNG safer for its citizens and international visitors alike.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape returned to Papua New Guinea (PNG) this morning from the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York, where he delivered a strong message on the country’s global standing and its future aspirations. Marape was welcomed back by Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, who acted as Prime Minister during his absence, along with cabinet ministers including Health Minister Elias Kapavore and Finance Minister, Mikki Kaeok. During a brief at the VIP Lounge of Jacksons International Airport, Marape expressed gratitude for the support shown while he was away, stating, "Thank you, Deputy Prime Minister and a host of ministers and other leaders here. Unfortunately, the space is too tight. They cannot be here, but they all equally showed up." Reflecting on PNG’s participation at the UN, Marape emphasized the importance of sharing the nation’s story on the global stage. "At the United Nations, our story was told, especially after coming out of our 49th independent anniversary," he said. Marape highlighted PNG's unique diversity, adding, "We are the most diverse nation on planet Earth in terms of population, language, cultural diversity, and biodiversity." Marape also underscored PNG's political resilience. “The fact that for 49 years we maintained our democracy as one people, one nation, one country is a great testament to our people's resilience," he noted, acknowledging the UN's role in key moments of the country's history, particularly in peacebuilding. He further discussed pressing global issues, including human rights and climate change. “In my private meeting with the UN Secretary General, our conversations touched on human rights and forestry resources," Marape said, reaffirming PNG’s stance that “climate change and forest conservation are two sides of the same coin.” Looking forward, Marape called for PNG to shift from exporting raw materials to a manufacturing-based economy, aligning with the country’s 2050 vision. “The next 20 years coming up for us is important," he said, urging the nation to move in this direction.

A $100 million loan, about K392 million, from the World Bank is set to improve education in Papua New Guinea. It has been reported that the Department of Treasury has submitted a request for concessional lending from the International Development Association (IDA). Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra reportedly says that this initiative will help boost educational outcomes and will work closely with the Department of Education. Recognizing the importance of quality education, the government has outlined a project aligned with the Ministry of Education's focus areas for 2025 to 2029. Dr. Kombra emphasized the commitment to create a multi-year plan aimed at improving primary school learning across the country. The proposed project will likely include building infrastructure, purchasing teaching materials, training teachers, improving education management, and expanding early childhood education programs. The World Bank financing will support national efforts to meet these educational needs. The World Bank will also help build the capacity of the Department of Education, focusing on procurement and environmental safeguards. This support is essential since the Department has not managed a World Bank project in years. Dr. Kombra reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with the World Bank to create a detailed project proposal, including a budget and implementation plan that meets Papua New Guinea's educational goals. A steering committee, chaired by Dr. Kombra, will oversee the project and include key officials from the Ministry of Education. Dr. Kombra has called for cooperation among all officers involved in the project to ensure its successful implementation and compliance with the World Bank's requirements.

The stage is set for a thrilling NRL Grand Final on Sunday, October 6th, with the Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers ready to face off after securing their spots in dominant style this weekend. Melbourne Storm dismantled the Sydney Roosters in a crushing 48-18 victory on Friday night, while the Penrith Panthers booked their spot in the 2024 NRL Grand Final with a commanding 26-6 victory over the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Saturday night. These two teams, packed with firepower and grit, are no strangers to high-stakes clashes; the stats tell a story of fierce competition. With Melbourne winning 31 of their 46 previous encounters, including a narrow 24-22 win over Penrith in August, the Storm will be riding high with confidence. However, the Panthers will be eager for revenge, coming in with a strong defense that has allowed just 16 points per game this season. Both teams boast excellent completion rates and tackle efficiency, with Melbourne at 87.3% and Penrith just ahead at 87.9%. When it comes to playing at Accor Stadium, Melbourne edges Penrith with a 66% win rate at this venue, compared to Penrith's 52%. But Jarome Luai, the Panthers' dynamic five-eighth, knows this is another chance to prove Penrith’s dominance, saying, “The job's not finished yet.” He and the Panthers squad, who have reached seven Grand Finals—including three consecutive wins since 2021—are more motivated than ever to defend their title. "We're coming up against a great Storm side. They're really hungry to win, so it'll be a great battle next week." Expect fireworks next Sunday, 6:30pm, as both teams aim to cap off an extraordinary season with ultimate NRL glory. Will Melbourne storm through, or will Penrith pounce? One thing is for sure: rugby league fans are in for a Grand Final classic!

The 2024 Grade 12 STEM examinations are set to begin tomorrow, Monday September 30, marking a crucial moment for students across Papua New Guinea. The Measurement Services Unit of the Education Department is actively preparing for the exams by packing and dispatching examination booklets to all provinces, ensuring all students receive the necessary materials to complete their assessments. As students gear up for their exams, school principals and stakeholders are being reminded of the strict rules surrounding examination conduct. The Education Department has issued a warning about the severe penalties that will be imposed on anyone caught cheating. The integrity of the examination process is of utmost importance, and the department urges all individuals involved to uphold these standards to ensure a fair assessment for all candidates. The Grade 12 STEM exams will run from September 30 to October 4, 2024, with students expected to familiarize themselves with the timetable and prepare diligently. Following the STEM exams, the Upper Secondary School Certificate exams for Grade 12 will take place from October 14 to 18. Additionally, the Grade 10 Lower Secondary School Certificate exams are scheduled for October 7 to 11, while the Grade 8 Certificate of Basic Education exams will be held from October 21 to 24. The National Department of Education wishes all Grade 8, 10, and 12 students the best of luck as they prepare for their respective examinations. Students are encouraged to arrive on time and ensure they are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the upcoming exams. As the examination dates approach, schools are working closely with the Education Department to ensure a smooth process. Students are reminded that their hard work and commitment will be key to achieving success in their academic endeavours. With the start of the STEM exams set for tomorrow, all eyes will be on the students to keep away from any trouble and to concentrate on getting through this next step of their education.

Papua New Guinea's Olympic weightlifting star, Dika Toua, celebrated a triumphant gold medal win at her debut in the 2024 United Masters Weightlifting Championship in Suva, Fiji. Competing in the women’s 40-44 age group (50kg division), the 40-year-old athlete lifted an impressive total of 158kg, consisting of 68kg in the snatch and a remarkable 90kg in the clean and jerk. Despite battling an elbow injury, Toua expressed her excitement, stating, “I competed last night (Wednesday, September 25th) in the 50kg 40-44 age group and won gold. Doing better than last week’s competition at the Commonwealth Championships despite the injury.” Toua was part of a determined team, with four out of six initial Papua New Guinea masters lifters competing. Former PNG lifter Udu Heni also showcased his talent, earning a silver medal in the 73kg 50-54 age group after a close contest with an Australian opponent. While their achievements were noteworthy, financial constraints prevented two other former lifters, Rita Kari and Miria Vagi, from participating, limiting the total number of competitors from PNG. Toua, who also holds the position of president of the PNG Weightlifting Federation, highlighted that this event was not funded by the federation as it was an individual competition. She explained, “The federation’s main focus is on our development squad, the elite, and seniors preparing for the 2025 Mini Pacific Games in Palau.” However, she remains hopeful about the future, stating, “We hope to look into this in the future as this will be a way forward for our former and much older lifters who wish to represent PNG and have the opportunity at the world stage.” Current PNG lifters, Thelma Toua and Morea Baru, were in the final sessions on Friday, September 27th. The 2024 United Masters Weightlifting Championship commenced on September 23rd and runs until today, September 29th.

Papua New Guinea’s Barramundis have kicked off the 2024-2026 CWC Challenge League A in Kenya with a stunning victory, defeating Denmark by six wickets. In cricket, CWC stands for the Cricket World Cup, which is an international championship contested by the national teams of the members of the International Cricket Council (ICC); the tournament is one of the most prestigious in cricket, taking place every four years. After winning the toss, the Barras elected to bowl first, and Denmark struggled with a slow start, finishing their innings at just 80 runs. The PNG bowlers were relentless, with Kabua Morea stealing the show by taking five wickets for only 29 runs, earning him the Player of the Match title. Supporting Morea, Alei Nao and Michael Charlie contributed with impressive bowling performances, each making crucial breakthroughs to dismantle the Danish batting lineup in just 26 overs. In their chase, the Barras showcased strong batting, needing only 13 overs to secure their first win of the Challenge League. Hiri Hiri led the charge with a solid 28 not out, supported by Sese Bau and Charles Amini, who each made important contributions to the scorecard. Despite Denmark’s Saif Ahmad taking two wickets, their bowling could not contain the Barras from racking up the runs needed for victory. Man of the match went to bowler Kabua Vagi Morea. This victory marks a significant step for the PNG Men's National Cricket Team as they aim to regain their ODI status. ODI stands for One Day International, which is a form of limited-overs cricket where each team bats for a fixed number of overs, typically 50. The format is designed to complete a match in a single day, making it distinct from Test cricket, which can last up to five days. The Barras are using that confidence to focus on their match against Jersey, scheduled for today, Saturday afternoon, PNG local time. With their confidence soaring, the Barramundis are ready to tackle the next challenge head-on!

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL), the State owned national petroleum and energy company, has announced a new scholarship program for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students, offering a path to overseas study and future employment opportunities. KPHL’s Corporate Secretary, Dianne Aikung, revealed that starting in 2025, 20 top STEM graduates from Schools of Excellence will be funded for tertiary education at overseas universities. She stated, “For KPHL, investing in people contributes to the development and prosperity of the nation just as much as investment in infrastructure and services.” After completing their studies, these graduates will join KPHL’s Graduate Development Program to enhance their careers. She revealed this when attending Wawin National School of Excellence’s 22nd graduation on Friday, September 20th. Wawin is nestled in the middle of the Markham valley grasslands and is one of only six National High Schools with this moniker in the country, sitting alongside those at Sogeri, Aiyura, Passam, Kerevat, and Port Moresby. Ms Aikung, the most senior female employee of KPHL, said during the graduation, “As a new initiative Kumul Petroleum Holdings in partnership with the Government is prepared to fund STEM tertiary studies of 20 top graduates from Schools of Excellence in the country every year from 2025 at an overseas university." "We are currently liaising with DHERST (Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology) and other agencies on the details of these placement arrangements.” “Additionally, on successful graduation from their overseas STEM studies Kumul Petroleum will take these degree qualified individuals into its Graduate Development Program to continue the growth of the company .” In her address Ms Aikung stressed that in STEM and in all disciplines, there was no reason why male and female employees should not compete equally and aspire to senior management and directorial roles in the public and private sectors. Ms Aikung provided a number of examples of successful women who had made the transition from professional excellence to becoming directors of companies. ”Kumul Petroleum’s support for STEM education is in line with the Government initiatives and policy.” KPHL also supports the Government and country through health infrastructure, rural electrification and other community development and sporting programmes.” “This is an example of how, as the national petroleum and energy company, KPHL is actively transferring the wealth generated from development of our natural resources to improving human capital and social development in our country," Ms Aikung said.

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) will mark Police Remembrance Day on Sunday, September 28th, a solemn occasion dedicated to honouring the brave officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Observed across Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific, this day recognizes the sacrifices made by law enforcement to ensure public safety, often under dangerous conditions. Since its establishment in 1989, Police Remembrance Day has paid tribute to both officers who fell in service and those who passed due to illness or other circumstances. In PNG, the main event will be held at the National Centre of Excellence, formerly Bomana Police Training College, where fallen officers will be tributed. This day serves as a stark reminder of the dangers police face daily. It acknowledges not only their bravery but also the challenges within law enforcement. In a time of reflection, the RPNGC calls for greater unity, reminding the public of the risks these officers endure while protecting communities. With services taking place across the region, the observance offers an opportunity to honor their memories while standing with their families in solidarity. It is a moment for the nation to collectively acknowledge the ultimate price many have paid to maintain peace and order. As families and fellow officers gather, Police Remembrance Day ensures the legacy of these courageous individuals will never be forgotten. Their sacrifice is forever woven into the fabric of national service and protection.  

The PNG Cancer Relief Society has donated three critical medical machines to the National Cancer Center at Angau Memorial Hospital. This donation is part of the Society's ongoing commitment to enhancing cancer care in Papua New Guinea, as it has supported cancer patients for 48 years. The donated equipment includes a suction machine for the cancer wards, an electrocardiography (ECG) machine for the chemotherapy day ward, and a gynaecological table for gynaecologic examinations. Dr. Cathy Timothy, a physician at the National Cancer Center, expressed deep gratitude to the PNG Cancer Relief Society and donors for their support, reports the PNG Cancer Relief Society in a social post. She acknowledged the critical need for this equipment, emphasizing the importance of the ECG machine for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. “The centre has never had an ECG machine, which is crucial for monitoring the hearts of patients receiving certain chemotherapy drugs that can affect cardiac function." "Ensuring the heart is healthy before chemotherapy is vital,” Dr. Timothy said. She confirmed that the ECG machine is already in use, while the suction machine and gynaecological table will soon be set up in the clinic. An ECG machine, also known as an electrocardiogram machine, is a medical device used to measure the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. The machine records the heart's electrical signals, which helps healthcare providers assess heart function, detect arrhythmias, identify heart disease, and monitor the effects of medications or other treatments. An ECG is a common test that is non-invasive and can provide crucial information about a patient's heart health. Additionally, Dr. Timothy noted that with the recent reopening of the radiotherapy machine, more women and girls are expected to seek gynaecologic examinations. “We treat many cervical cancer patients, and having a proper gynaecological table for thorough examinations is essential,” she added. The Society thanked The Order of Saint John for funding the machines and all partners for their continued support in enhancing cancer care in Papua New Guinea.

At the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting in New York on Wednesday September 25th, Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko emphasized the necessity for inclusive global governance, urging member nations to prioritize collaboration over the interests of exclusive groups. He declared, “The success of the Pact for the Future should, however, not be dictated by the outcomes of exclusive clubs of countries, whose interests may differ from others who are not parties to such configurations.” Minister Tkatchenko's remarks came during a pivotal session focusing on the theme "Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet." The meeting, chaired by Brazil and attended by all UN member states, aimed to address significant global challenges such as hunger, poverty, and the pressing need for sustainable development. Tkatchenko warned against the entrenched interests of a few countries that often slow progress in vital reforms. He stated, “Entrenched interests of a few at the expense of the majority continue to slow the pace at which reforms are taking place in these areas.” The Minister highlighted the urgent socio-economic crises facing the global community, stemming from various factors, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. “It couldn't come at a better time, when the world is being impacted by multiple crises, and socio-economic challenges, where there is great need and importance in working together, and through multilateralism under the United Nations, for the betterment of common humanity,” he noted. In addressing the necessity for reform within the United Nations, Tkatchenko called for a decisive and bold approach to revamping the UN Security Council, lamenting that progress on these reforms has been “haltingly slow” for nearly two decades. “The Security Council's core mandate for international peace and security continues to suffer at the expense of many untold lives and livelihoods,” he stated. The Foreign Minister urged member nations to revise the UN Charter to reflect current realities better, highlighting the need for a global financial system that prioritizes the welfare of people over profits. “The success of the Pact for the Future should, however, not be dictated by the outcomes of exclusive clubs of countries, whose interests may differ from others who are not parties to such configurations,” he reiterated, calling for attention to the high debt burdens that many small developing economies, including Papua New Guinea, face. “While we are thankful to G20 members that continue to lend official development assistance to our country, we would urge G20 members to consider debt relief arrangements, particularly through the Debt Service Suspension Initiative.” Minister Tkatchenko further pointed out that global trade must be inclusive and fair, stating that Papua New Guinea stands to gain significantly from economic diversification through improved market access and reduced trade barriers, which would attract foreign direct investment. “Our Country's Medium Term Development Plan sets out our development agenda to grow our economy to K200 billion by 2030, with a greater focus on downstream processing of our main economic sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, forestry, oil and gas, and tourism,” he outlined. The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of a level playing field for the country to harness its investment potential, asserting that the G20 could play a vital role in fostering such an environment. He called for enhanced efforts to bridge the gap between the global North and developing South, noting that the "Pact for the Future" provides a roadmap for facilitating these efforts. The G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting heard opening remarks from the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who stressed the necessity for global institutions to work collaboratively, “not on parallel or conflicting tracks.” Guterres warned of the increasing inequalities and challenges posed by climate change and urged G20 countries to act decisively in reforming international financial systems to support sustainable development goals. “Progress is slipping out of reach as our world becomes more unsustainable, unequal, and unpredictable,” he cautioned, calling for a unified approach to tackling pressing global issues. Guterres underscored the need for the international community to modernize its approach to global governance, emphasizing that the G20 nations bear a critical responsibility in leading these efforts. Philemon Yang, the President of the UN General Assembly, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the G20's pivotal role in addressing global economic challenges and fostering international cooperation. He stated, “The G20 remains a critical platform for addressing global economic challenges, fostering international cooperation, and driving sustainable development.” Yang reiterated that G20 countries, representing about 60% of the global population and contributing around 85% of the world's GDP, hold a crucial responsibility in realizing the ambitious goals set out in the Pact for the Future. Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for robust actions against climate change and hunger, emphasizing the importance of social inclusion and reforming global governance systems. He stated that the G20 must not shy away from its responsibilities amid the severe crises generated by climate change. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, which will assume the G20 presidency in December, highlighted the need for a modernized UN to effectively address current global challenges. The meeting culminated in the adoption of a Call to Action on Global Governance, focusing on reforming the UN and improving international financial systems. The G20, or Group of Twenty, is an international forum comprising 19 countries and the European Union. Established in 1999, it brings together the world's major economies to discuss and coordinate policy on global economic issues. The G20 members account for about 85% of the global GDP, two-thirds of the world’s population, and 75% of international trade. The G20 meetings provide a platform for leaders and finance ministers to address critical issues such as economic stability, sustainable development, climate change, and financial regulation. It serves as a forum for cooperation and dialogue among both developed and emerging economies, aiming to promote international financial stability and foster economic growth.

Papua New Guinea has reaffirmed its commitment to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York. Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko met with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, where they expressed a unified desire to end the war in Ukraine immediately. Minister Tkatchenko emphasized, “We have similar experiences in the Second World War [WWII], and the last thing we don’t want is another war in the Pacific region.” His sentiment highlights PNG's historical understanding of the repercussions of conflict, especially in the context of the Pacific. Both ministers acknowledged that in today's globalized world, the repercussions of national conflicts resonate beyond borders, and the political and socio-economic implications of the war in Ukraine extend beyond geographical borders, impacting nations worldwide, regardless of their geography, religion, or ethnicity. Minister Tkatchenko reaffirmed PNG's support for Ukraine, rooted in the principle of good global citizenship and the nation’s foreign policy stance of being "Friends to All, Enemy to None." Minister Sybiha expressed gratitude for PNG's continued support, assuring that Ukraine will not rest until the war is over. The two leaders also discussed plans to establish diplomatic relations between their countries, a move that could lead to stronger ties in political, economic, and cultural areas, with Minister Sybiha extending an invitation to Tkatchenko to visit Ukraine before the end of the year, emphasizing that this visit would be an excellent opportunity to formalize their diplomatic relationship. In turn, Minister Tkatchenko also invited Sybiha to visit PNG, highlighting the country’s rich culture and abundant natural resources, such as fisheries, minerals, and agricultural products.