The Penrith Panthers cemented their place in NRL history by defeating the Melbourne Storm 14-6 in a hard-fought 2024 Telstra Premiership Grand Final at Accor Stadium. With a crowd of 80,156 fans in attendance, the Panthers delivered an impressive performance, securing their third Premiership title in four years. Melbourne Storm took the early lead with a Harry Grant try in the 22nd minute, but Penrith quickly responded with tries from Sunia Turuva (26th minute), Liam Martin (38th minute), and Paul Alamoti (60th minute). Nathan Cleary added a conversion to seal the win. Liam Martin’s standout performance earned him the prestigious Clive Churchill Medal. His relentless work in both attack and defense helped steer the Panthers to victory. “I’m in disbelief,” Martin said post-match, reflecting on the team's determination throughout the season. Although Storm's defense showed moments of brilliance, they could not keep up with the Panthers’ structured play and unwavering pressure. Penrith’s ability to control the game and break through the Storm's defense proved decisive. Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy praised his team’s efforts but acknowledged the Panthers’ dominance. "They're the best," said Storm’s Jahrome Hughes. Meanwhile, Penrith’s Cleary emphasized the team’s collective effort, saying, “It’s all worth it.” This victory continues Penrith’s reign as a powerhouse in the NRL, marking their fourth Grand Final appearance in five years.

Prime Minister James Marape will attend the National Rugby League (NRL) Grand Final today Sunday, October 6th in Sydney, Australia. He was invited by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a gesture that highlights the strong ties between Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG). The Grand Final, featuring the Melbourne Storm and the Penrith Panthers, comes at a crucial time for PNG as the country is making a bid to join the NRL competition in 2028. Prime Minister Marape sees PNG’s NRL bid as more than just about rugby. He believes it can bring unity to the country. “Our bid to have a PNG team in the NRL competition is seen as a ‘unifying strategy’ for the country amidst so many divisive forces" "A PNG team competing in the NRL would do so much to bring us together as ‘one country, one nation, one people,’” said Prime Minister Marape. The Prime Minister is also working with major companies in PNG to back the NRL team. The government is making improvements to Port Moresby, preparing for the bid’s success. Marape praised the Australian government’s support for PNG's bid, saying that rugby league is incredibly popular in PNG, especially among youth and women. He pointed to the success of the PNG Hunters, the country’s rugby league team that competes in Queensland’s second-tier competition, as proof of the country’s potential. “Imagine the impact on PNG if we have a team in the NRL competition. For me, this is not just about rugby—it’s about a ‘unifying strategy’ as we look beyond our 50th anniversary as a nation in 2025,” Prime Minister Marape explained. Australia has backed PNG’s NRL dream with strong financial support. Marape acknowledged Australia’s partnership, stating, “When we floated the idea of having a PNG team in the NRL, Australia didn’t hesitate to offer substantial financial support." "I sincerely thank them from the bottom of my heart.” Marape also talked about rugby league’s social and cultural power, comparing it to Nelson Mandela’s use of rugby union to unify South Africa during apartheid. “Rugby league has the power to bring people together. We already have world-class players in the NRL, and our country is full of untapped potential. I’m confident that Papua New Guinea has what it takes to compete at the highest level,” Marape said. Beyond the sport, Marape highlighted the economic benefits of an NRL team for PNG. Hosting international games and having players living in the country would provide huge growth opportunities. He emphasized the government's commitment to improving Port Moresby, in partnership with National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop. “This event will be bigger than anything we’ve seen with the PNG Hunters, and it will showcase our nation on the global stage through worldwide broadcasts." “Together, we’re seizing this chance to elevate Port Moresby to new heights, driving progress and pride for all of PNG.”

In an inspiring speech on October 4, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) John Rosso reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso Government’s commitment to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Programme. Addressing a farewell luncheon for 54 students from Papua New Guinea’s six national schools of excellence, DPM Rosso praised the transformative power of STEM, stating that "it is key to unbundling knowledge for our nation." These students, 26 women and 28 men, are embarking on a life-changing journey to prestigious universities in China, funded by PNG Government STEM scholarships. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Chinese Ambassador to PNG, H.E. Yang Xiaoguang, Education Minister Lucas Dekena, and Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra. The STEM initiative, led by Prime Minister James Marape, has already paved the way for numerous PNG students to access world-class education in various countries. Earlier this year, 30 students were sent to India, 76 to the USA, five for pilot training in Fiji, and now 54 more are heading to China. DPM Rosso described the STEM Programme as more than just education; it represents a bold vision for PNG’s future, equipping the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to become leaders, innovators, and thinkers. DPM Rosso emphasized that education is vital to PNG’s development and urged students to take this opportunity seriously. "Education is a key factor for all nations. Without education, nothing can prosper," Rosso said. He also reminded the students, and their parents, guardians and sponsors who attended the luncheon that learning does not start in the classroom but at home, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility in shaping one’s future. In his speech, DPM Rosso spoke passionately about the opportunities and challenges awaiting the students in China. He encouraged them to persevere and maintain a positive mindset. “You sit here mostly because of yourselves, believing in yourselves and aspiring to become someone better. Sheer hard work, perseverance, and making the right choices in life will put you in front of everyone,” he said. He advised them to reflect on China’s history, noting how the nation progressed through dedication and hard work. "China came from a space just like ours, but it advanced in leaps and bounds to become what it is today." Rosso also emphasized the importance of learning from the culture and values of their host country, particularly China’s work ethics and respect for discipline. He urged students to absorb these values, as they would not only shape their future but also help improve PNG when they return. He illustrated this point by sharing a personal anecdote about how visiting Australia for the first time as a young man of 24 or 25, changed his attitude toward littering. He recounted how he was used to throwing rubbish out of the car window in PNG, but when he did the same thing in Sydney, the person driving him, stopped the car, slapped him, and made him get out and pick up the rubbish. "From that day, I never threw rubbish out the window again," he said, underscoring how exposure to different environments can positively influence behaviour. As part of the government’s broader efforts, the STEM Programme is sending PNG’s best and brightest to various countries to learn, grow, and bring back valuable knowledge. Besides China, students have already been sent to universities in the USA, India, and Fiji, with future plans to expand the program to include Indonesia. Each destination offers unique learning experiences, which DPM Rosso believes will help enhance PNG’s development. "The lessons we learn from each of those countries will enhance our own development as a nation," he stated. The Deputy Prime Minister ended his speech by calling on the students to be ambassadors of PNG, both academically and in their conduct abroad. He urged them to make the most of this opportunity, learn from their experiences, and bring back the knowledge and skills that will help PNG progress. "The onus is on you to change the country," Rosso said, emphasizing that the future of PNG lies in the hands of its youth, especially those fortunate enough to receive such education. Rosso when encouraging these STEM students to aim high, emphasised that their education abroad opens opportunities beyond the country's borders, noting that many skilled Papua New Guineans now work globally, with engineers, doctors, and pilots employed in countries like Australia, the USA, and the Middle East. He emphasized that while the students’ knowledge will be valuable at home, they also have the potential to secure jobs internationally. “It’s not just about jobs in PNG. Once you have that knowledge, the world is your limit,” he said. In closing, Rosso reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the STEM Programme, stating that sending students abroad is a long-term investment in the nation’s future. "The government is focused on supporting this sector, and we will continue to improve and expand the program," he said.

Team Rabaul’s athletics squad excelled at the NGI Regional Youth Games in Kavieng, New Ireland, securing five gold medals and three silver medals on Thursday, October 3rd. The one-day track events at Utu Secondary School showcased the athletes' incredible talent and sportsmanship, leaving a lasting impression on the competition. Among the standout performers was Pauline Taule, 23, from Matupit in Kombiu Ward, who dominated the 100m race to secure a gold medal. In the thrilling 4x100m relay for females, Ronlish Bongoi, 22, from Malaguna 1, teamed up with Fredlyne Kamrai, 20, from Nakanai, WNB, and Nancy Malamut, 23, to display outstanding teamwork and coordination, bringing home another gold medal for the team. Highlighting the youthful potential within the squad, 13-year-old Gloria Patrick from Clifton Ward 5 in Rabaul Urban LLG showcased remarkable endurance in the 3000m race, earning a silver medal despite her young age. Gloria, the youngest member of the team and a Grade 5 student at Clifton Primary School, demonstrated incredible skill on the track. Joining Gloria in the ranks of silver medalists were Henry Koniu, 14, who delivered a commendable performance in the 3000m event, and Nancy Malamut, who also secured a silver in the 100m. Team Manager, Warren Kenneth, commended the team for their courage and determination, stating, “Despite their youth, we were proud to expose these talented individuals, providing them with the opportunity to compete against experienced athletes who have previously represented Papua New Guinea on the international stage.” The athletics team is now eager to return to Rabaul and work on areas that need improvement, showcasing their commitment to future success. Overall, the athletics events yielded a total of 16 gold, 16 silver, and 16 bronze medals.

Twelve new officers of the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) were sworn into the public service during a ceremony in Port Moresby on Friday, September 27th, according to DPLGA Secretary, Philip Leo. These officers completed a week-long training program at the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG). DPLGA Secretary Philip Leo, who had addressed the new officers during the graduation ceremony, encouraging them to be "agents of change in the Department." “You have to commit yourself to the oath you recited to be agents of change. You have to nurture good habits like arriving early to work, getting paid the honest way by completing daily tasks, looking neat, approachable and professional in the office at all times,” he emphasized. Leo urged the officers to avoid unprofessional behaviour, such as chewing betel nut and smoking cigarettes inside the office or going to work intoxicated. He also highlighted the importance of their commitment to the state. “As you move up rank and file, you have to relieve yourself from some responsibilities at home. I understand that we have responsibilities at home but as public servants, we have sworn an oath to be responsible to all Papua New Guineans,” he added. The training program was not merely a requirement for public servants but a vital step in their career pathways within the public service. After completing five days of intensive training, all 12 participants received National Certificate 2 in Government and Public Service Induction. This cohort marks the third batch from DPLGA out of 20 training sessions conducted for various government agencies and state-funded institutions. Speaking on behalf of the inductees, Samson Kendeman expressed gratitude towards DPLGA for facilitating the timely completion of their induction. “We are privileged and honoured to be qualified as public servants and be agents of change in our respective divisions. We rest assured you all that what we learnt here is not a waste of resources and time but will execute efficiently and diligently at our respective workplaces,” he said.

A new format called “Fortnightly Performance Assessment” (FPA) has been introduced in the Border Command to evaluate the daily performances and conduct of police officers. Assistant Commissioner Border Command, Perou N’Dranou, stated that this approach aims to ensure the foundational aspects of policing are addressed, allowing for better assessment of what officers are doing, when they report to work, and their expectations in their operational areas. Previously implemented in the New Guinea Islands (NGI), Mr. N’Dranou found the approach effective and is now applying it within the Border Command. During his first official parade in the North Fly Police Command in Kiunga on Tuesday, October 1st, he urged officers to begin self-assessments as a means of improving policing services. He emphasized that failure to attend work would be recorded in their assessments. “If you continue to absent from work and your Provincial Police Commander (PPC) or Police Station Commander (PSC) does not deal with you, I will deal with them,” he asserted, highlighting the responsibility of command officers to address issues of attendance and performance. N’Dranou stressed the importance of accountability, stating, “There is no longer free ride, and this is very important.” He expects every police officer in the Border Command to contribute meaningfully each day. “If you failed to submit your performance appraisal, all the good work you do is not recognized,” he added, underscoring the need for accurate and timely reporting of each officer's efforts. He also mentioned that if PPCs do not conduct assessments of their officers, they, too, will be held accountable. “The PPCs are required to submit performance assessments of individual police officers so their efforts are not wasted,” he explained. This assessment system will also influence promotions within the force, he further explained. “The assessment is good for promotions as well. When promotion comes out the promotion board looks at your assessments to assess your performance,” he noted, urging officers to remain diligent in their duties to qualify for advancement. “Your elevation and training is based on what you do daily,” ACP N’Dranou reiterated, insisting that the time for complacency has ended. He warned that police officers who fail to assist the public when needed will be held responsible. “If a public comes to the police station, and they fail to assist them then the police officers are failing that responsibility, so they would be dealt with,” he stated. When concluding the parade visit, ACP N’Dranou reminded the officers of their critical role: “The police officers were given the responsibility to perform and to serve the people of this nation.” He assured them that both the police executive management and the government are committed to ensuring that police services effectively deliver to the community.

Assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) Border Command, Perou N’Dranou, has called on stakeholders in the North Fly Command of Western Province to stop misusing the police force for personal interests. During his first parade in Kiunga on Tuesday, October 1st, ACP Perou emphasized that police officers are not security guards and should not be deployed without proper authorization from the Provincial Police Commanders (PPCs). “You police officers cannot be used as security guards anymore. I hear a lot of unauthorized deployments for self-interest, and such must cease immediately because I am enforcing the Fortnight Performance Assessments on your daily deployments,” he stated. He introduced the new Fortnightly Performance Assessment format, which will evaluate officers based on their performance, discipline, and other behaviors, aiming to improve policing services. “The fortnightly performances format will tell me who is going to where, what you are doing, whether it is right or wrong engagement.” Addressing the stakeholders, ACP Perou stressed the importance of a symbiotic relationship between the police force and stakeholders. He explained, “Without stakeholders, there is no police force, and without the police force, there are no stakeholders. This is my approach to policing in the Border command.” He urged stakeholders to invest in the police to ensure effective policing, adding, “If stakeholders want policing to be effective in the North Fly Command, they must invest in the police force. If police want investment from the stakeholders, they should perform.” ACP Perou also called for improvements in police living conditions, particularly the barracks, noting that better facilities would motivate officers to serve more effectively. He stressed that the police officers’ responsibilities go beyond personal interests, serving the entire population of Western Province. “The noble positions and ranks they are occupying are not theirs, but they come with responsibilities to perform and serve the people of North Fly Police Command,” he concluded. The parade marked ACP Perou’s official visit to the North Fly Command since assuming his role as ACP Border Command.

The Department of Provincial and Local-level Government Affairs (DPLGA) recognizes that climate change and development projects have significantly contributed to increased internal displacements in Papua New Guinea. Due to the rise in natural disasters and tribal conflicts, a well-structured and humane response is also crucial for ensuring protection and assistance for affected individuals and communities. With that purpose, on Thursday October 3rd, DPLGA Secretary Philip Leo led a one-day validation workshop in Port Moresby, aimed at finalizing the draft National Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Policy. This policy is essential in providing guidance and solutions for the challenges faced by displaced persons in the country. The workshop gathered national stakeholders, department agency representatives, development partners, and other non-state actors involved in disaster risk management and mitigation. Mr. Leo emphasized the importance of collective input, stating, “We, as a country, have witnessed increased internal displacements induced by natural disasters, tribal conflicts, climate change, and development projects.” He noted that the IDP policy focuses on four major types of disasters: natural disaster-induced displacement, manmade disaster-induced displacement, development-induced displacement, and climate change-induced disaster and displacement. The participation of various stakeholders is critical to ensure the policy effectively addresses the needs of those affected by these crises. The validation workshop aims to collect valuable feedback to refine the draft policy further.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape and President for the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Ishmael Toroama, today announced the appointment of a mediator for the Bougainville peace process towards its independence aspirations. Sir Jerry Mateparae, former Governor-General of New Zealand, has been appointed as an independent moderator to help mediate the Bougainville peace process. His role is critical as Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Bougainville continue to work through complex issues following the 2019 referendum, in which 97.7% of Bougainvilleans voted for independence. Both President Toroama and Prime Minister Marape expressed confidence in Sir Jerry’s impartiality and expertise. Prime Minister Marape note: “He’s one of our senior citizens. Independence of opinion.” The United Nations will assist Sir Jerry by providing logistical and administrative support. Marape highlighted the significance of Sir Jerry’s involvement, stating that his moderation adds credibility to the peace process. “The good thing about the 2001 peace agreement, and I give credit to those who helped out... it is a masterpiece. It is world-class.” The consultation process will continue under Sir Jerry’s guidance, with a joint meeting between the PNG and Bougainville governments planned for the near future. In addition to Sir Jerry’s appointment, the national government has asked all provincial assemblies across PNG to discuss Bougainville’s push for independence. Marape emphasized that this is a decision requiring the involvement of the entire country. "To detach one part of a country is not a lightweight matter... It’s a process that must involve all parts of our country,” he said, acknowledging that the post-referendum process is both sensitive and significant. Marape reiterated that the current consultations aim to inform the nation, not to hold another vote. “We must find a path that is mutually satisfying to all of us,” he said, explaining that the 2001 peace agreement requires only internal consultations within PNG after the referendum. The peace process will also include a national reconciliation program leading up to PNG’s 50th anniversary of independence in 2025. Marape confirmed that this reconciliation will involve both PNG and Bougainville, as well as internal reconciliation within Bougainville itself. “We’re looking at a reconciliation, full reconciliation program between Papua New Guinea and Bougainville,” he said. Bougainville’s leadership, under President Ishmael Toroama, has already been engaging with other provinces in PNG to inform them of the independence process. Marape praised these efforts, noting, “Bougainvillians must also think from a PNG perspective.” The ongoing discussions will culminate in a parliamentary vote, with Sir Jerry Mateparae’s moderation expected to play a key role in ensuring a fair and transparent outcome.

Prime Minister James Marape is making law and order a top priority for Papua New Guinea (PNG). After returning from the United Nations General Assembly, he shared his plans to improve security in the country. Marape highlighted the need for peace to begin within communities, with all citizens playing their part. “For us, PNG in the local context is internal security that is really important, number one," Marape said. He linked law and order to human rights, explaining that these are crucial to maintaining peace in PNG. The Prime Minister stressed that fixing security issues is a long-term task. “We will not sleep until the law-and-order issues are really fixed correctly in our country going forward,” he said, showing his government’s strong commitment. He also mentioned that structural changes and proper policies will be needed to bring lasting peace and security to the nation. Marape also emphasized that PNG should align with global security standards, using the United Nations' "one rulebook" to guide the country's efforts. He discussed how important it is to follow international frameworks in domestic governance, especially when resolving conflicts. He praised the UN for its help in global conflict resolution, mentioning how it assisted PNG in Bougainville’s peace process. This success is a model for applying the UN’s guidelines locally. "For me, as a country, we also ask the United Nations to be more present here,” Marape said, urging for more UN involvement in local programs. He called for greater UN support, especially in resolving tribal conflicts and other security problems. International cooperation, he explained, is key to improving law and order across the country. To improve security in Port Moresby, Marape announced a K10 million investment in installing CCTV cameras. This project will target key areas like downtown, Boroko, and Jacksons Airport, with plans to expand it to other major cities such as Lae, Mt Hagen, and Kokopo. "We’re working in partnership with NCDC to ensure the safety of our city," Marape stated, emphasizing the importance of making Port Moresby a safer place for residents and businesses. This initiative is part of the government's larger effort to modernize urban areas and promote peace and security. The Prime Minister commended Kokopo MP Ereman ToBaining for already working on the CCTV program in Kokopo. Marape said that this security measure is only the beginning of a long-term plan to improve law and order in PNG’s main cities, ensuring that future budgets will allocate more funds for security projects. Through these initiatives, Marape is aiming for a safer and more peaceful PNG, with local and international cooperation playing key roles.

The National Government is working with the Government of India to improve Papua New Guinea's (PNG's) electoral systems, as country makes preparations ahead of the General Elections in 2027. Richard Masere, the Minister of Administrative Services, shared details about this collaboration in a statement released on Tuesday September 1st. According to the Minister, discussions are ongoing between PNG and India to explore areas of cooperation, focusing on important changes in the electoral process, technology use, and building skills for the Electoral Commission. He said these talks aim to create a stronger and more efficient electoral system in PNG. In a productive meeting with the Acting High Commissioner of India to PNG, Simon Sinai, the Electoral Commissioner, and Minister Masere discussed how to formalize this cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement will not only involve both governments but also connect the Electoral Commission of PNG with the Electoral Commission of India. This partnership is seen as a crucial step in enhancing PNG's electoral management. Earlier this year, in May 2024, Masere led a delegation from the PNG government to India. This team, which included members of the Electoral Commission, participated in India's Election Visitors Programme during the national elections. This program provided valuable insights into India's electoral management systems, which are recognized as effective and advanced. The delegation learned about Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and biometric technology used for voter enrolment and verification. Masere highlighted that these experiences are vital as PNG looks to modernize its electoral processes. He said, “These learnings are vital as PNG explores new technologies to modernise its electoral processes and ensure transparency and accuracy.” By learning from India, PNG hopes to improve the way elections are conducted in the country. During their visit, the PNG delegation also met with the India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM). They discussed how training and development programs offered by IIIDEM could help build the skills of personnel in the PNG Electoral Commission. These programs focus on practical election management skills, which could significantly boost the capacity of electoral staff in PNG. Masere and his team also met with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to learn about India’s Aadhaar card system. This national ID system uses biometric technology to identify citizens. These discussions were essential for understanding how similar technology could be used in PNG's own National Identification (NID) card system. Masere explained, “These discussions provided critical insights into how PNG could potentially apply similar technology in its own National Identification (NID) card system, which could improve future voter enrolment and validation processes.” The PNG government is committed to learning from international best practices, especially regarding biometric technology and Electronic Voting Machines. These technologies could play a significant role in improving the integrity of the voter enrollment and verification processes in future elections. As part of this commitment, the Ministry, through the PNG Electoral Commission, plans to conduct a feasibility study. This study will evaluate how these technologies can be integrated into PNG's unique electoral context. The government is also collaborating with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) to receive technical assistance on various reform matters. Masere stated, “We are also working closely with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) for technical assistance on various reform matters, ensuring we adopt global best practices.” This collaboration aims to align PNG's electoral practices with global standards and ensure a fair electoral process. The recent 2022 Election Report presented to Parliament will serve as a foundation for ongoing discussions and reforms in PNG's electoral system. This report highlights key outcomes and recommendations that the government plans to implement as they move forward with these reforms. The Minister's statement ended with him stating, “As we continue these efforts, our goal is to ensure that the electoral process in PNG is both transparent and credible, and that it reflects the democratic values of our nation.”

Prime Minister James Marape returned from the United Nations General Assembly, where he highlighted Papua New Guinea’s unparalleled cultural, linguistic, and biodiversity. In a media briefing upon his return this morning in Port Moresby, he said when he spoke to world leaders, he emphasized that PNG’s rich heritage and natural resources are globally unmatched, standing as a symbol of diversity and resilience. "Papua New Guinea remains a beacon of cultural and ecological wealth," Marape stated, reinforcing the significance of the country’s 49 years of democratic stability. He also stressed the critical role that the UN played in PNG's peace process, noting its contributions to the Bougainville peace agreement and local conflict resolution. In his discussions with the UN Secretary-General, Marape urged for stronger international involvement in Papua New Guinea, offering the country as a regional hub for UN operations in the West Pacific and Southeast Asia. "We invite the UN to have a more active presence in our region, and Papua New Guinea can be that base," he said, signaling PNG’s intent to strengthen diplomatic ties globally. Marape said his message at the assembly was clear—PNG stands as a nation rich in diversity and committed to working closely with international partners.