Port Moresby and Long Beach City in California have officially signed a historic Sister City Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a new chapter of cultural, educational, and community exchange between Papua New Guinea and the United States of America (USA). The signing ceremony was held at City Hall and was attended by key dignitaries including Chair-Elect of Sister Cities International Mr. Carlo Capua, Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy Mr. Andy Covington, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, Port Moresby City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank, and Director of Community Engagement for the City of Long Beach Mr. Jeff Williams. Governor Powes Parkop said the agreement was a significant milestone in Port Moresby’s efforts to connect globally and foster people-to-people partnerships. “Port Moresby has benefitted immensely from sister city ties in the past, and without a doubt, we will benefit in a big way through this association with Long Beach City,” Parkop said. “This relationship will promote cultural understanding, educational enrichment, community engagement and peace, all essential components of development.” Governor Parkop noted that despite the challenges of urbanization, the city remains committed to learning from more established cities like Long Beach, especially in areas such as disaster resilience, city planning, and inclusive development. Mr. Capua described the event as the culmination of years of groundwork and said the agreement symbolized “destiny” rather than coincidence. “Sister Cities International was founded by US President Dwight D. Eisenhower after World War II to promote peace through friendship. Today, Port Moresby and Long Beach became part of that mission,” Capua said. “This moment has been in the making for years which from my first visit to Papua New Guinea in 2001, to recent discoveries like the WWII plane wreck in Madang, it all led us here.” Mr. Andy Covington said the Sister Cities agreement reflects the strength of grassroots diplomacy. “Some of the most enduring diplomacy happens not in government halls but through everyday people — students, artists, community leaders. This agreement is not symbolic, it’s real and lasting,” Covington said. Also in attendance was a delegation from Poplar, Wisconsin, who signed a similar Sister City agreement with Madang earlier this week. The agreements come as Papua New Guinea and the United States celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations and approach PNG’s 50th independence anniversary in September. Mr. Jeff Williams said Long Beach and Port Moresby shared many similarities as port cities with diverse communities and emerging tourism industries. “Every event this week has been a reminder of how connected our cities are. We are excited to grow this partnership,” Williams said. As the ceremony concluded, Governor Parkop extended an invitation to the delegation to attend PNG’s Independence celebrations in September, promising a vibrant showcase of the country’s more than 800 cultures. “We are the gateway to all of Papua New Guinea. This is only the beginning,” Parkop concluded.

Papua New Guinea’s national men’s cricket squad sharpened their competitive edge yesterday 10th July 2025 in a crucial 50-over trial match held at Amini Park in Port Moresby city. The session was part of the final evaluation phase for the Barramundis Train-On Squad, ahead of two major international tournaments: 50-over ODI tournament in Jersey, United Kingdom this August ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Muscat, Oman. The match brought together 25 top players under the national selection radar. The squad will soon be narrowed to 20 contracted athletes, and from there, the final 14 will be chosen to represent PNG on the global stage. “This trial match was particularly compelling,” said Mr. Hudson Api Leka, Chairman of the Cricket PNG National Selection Panel. “New and vibrant players displayed gutsy performances, challenging the established names and proving that every position in the squad is hotly contested.” The past two months of intense training have seen seasoned Barramundis and fresh talents push each other to peak form. According to Mr. Leka, this internal competition is essential for team growth and international success. “This healthy competition is exactly what we want,” he said. “It keeps players on their toes and ensures that only the best earn the right to wear our national colours.” Since gaining ODI status in 2014 and appearing at their first ICC T20 World Cup in 2021, Papua New Guinea has steadily grown its presence on the world cricket stage. The current squad aims not only to qualify for upcoming tournaments but also to build a long-term elite core for future competitions. “The final 14 will not only represent our country but will also form the core group that we will continue to develop,” Mr. Leka said. “With the talent, determination and fighting spirit displayed yesterday, I am confident we will assemble a formidable team that will make our nation proud.” The announcement of the contracted 20-player squad is expected in the coming weeks, followed by the final 14-player lineup who will carry the red, black and gold to international grounds once more.

Two young leaders from Papua New Guinea’s Special Olympics program have returned from a regional leadership training in Singapore, equipped with fresh knowledge and determination to promote inclusion and challenge the stigma faced by persons with intellectual disabilities. Japheth Narrey and Eunice Wanjumoe, accompanied by mentor Jenny Luff, completed a three-day leadership and advocacy training organized by Special Olympics Asia Pacific. As members of the Regional Athlete Leadership Council (RALC) and the Regional Youth Leadership Council (RYLC), the trio represented Special Olympics PNG (SOPNG) at the international workshop. Special Olympics is a global movement that uses sport, leadership, and health programs to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities. Active in over 190 countries, including PNG since 2010, it works to break down social barriers and create inclusive communities. Narrey, who lives with an intellectual disability, spoke candidly about the challenges he faced growing up in a school environment that did not understand or support him. “I was teased and bullied a lot in school because of my condition so I left school and joined Special Olympics PNG,” he said. “Leaving school affected my learning. I tried my best and now I can read, but I still struggle with writing. But I’m not giving up. I’m still trying.” The training focused on building the leadership capacity of youth with and without intellectual disabilities, giving them tools to become advocates and role models in their communities. Narrey shared that he now feels more confident in speaking out and hopes to raise awareness on the rights and dignity of people like him. Wanjumoe, a youth without intellectual disability, emphasized the importance of what Special Olympics calls “Unified Leadership.” “Unified leadership is about creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, is accepted and empowered to lead together,” said Wanjumoe. “This approach can break down barriers and ensure equal access to basic services such as education, health care, employment, and social participation. “As a youth without intellectual disability, I am passionate about working alongside Japheth to amplify the voices of those with ID, making sure they are seen, heard, and valued in our society.” Mentor Jenny Luff echoed their commitment, saying that the training strengthened their vision for inclusion in Papua New Guinea. “We will continue our work under SOPNG by organizing events and sports programs to promote inclusion and acceptance in communities across PNG,” she said. “Don’t be quick to judge someone just because their abilities do not meet your expectations. Show empathy and respect to everyone, whether you know them or not.” The Special Olympics leadership model encourages diversity and peer-to-peer collaboration, helping create a more inclusive future led by the youth of today.

Port Moresby Nature Park has made history as home to the 17,000th species photographed for the world-renowned National Geographic Photo Ark project — Papua New Guinea’s own Raggiana bird-of-paradise. National Geographic explorer and photographer Joel Sartore visited the Nature Park in April as part of his mission to document 25,000 animals in human care to promote biodiversity awareness and inspire global conservation. “Birds-of-paradise are living works of art,” said Sartore. “We preserve art in museums. These species deserve the same level of protection.” The announcement coincides with Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence, making the national bird’s selection even more symbolic. The milestone image has already reached an audience of more than 500 million via National Geographic’s media platforms and Sartore’s own global channels. Johnpaul Houston, CEO of Port Moresby Nature Park, said the team was honored to host Sartore. “To have our kumul recognized as the 17,000th species is a proud moment for PNG and the Nature Park. We look forward to sharing these images with our visitors soon.” The Photo Ark project emphasizes the urgent need to protect species facing environmental and human-driven threats. Its milestone moment in PNG underscores the country’s vital role in preserving the world’s natural heritage. More information and the full story are available at joelsartore.com.

Queensland Maroons captain Cameron Munster delivered one of the most emotionally charged performances in State of Origin history last night, leading his side to a series victory just days after the passing of his father. After going down one game to nil to the New South Wales Blues in Game One in Brisbane, the odds were firmly stacked against the Maroons. The Blues featured a powerful halves pairing in four-time NRL premiership-winning halfback Nathan Cleary and 2024 Origin-winning halfback Mitchell Moses, widely regarded as two of the best in the game today. In a bold move, Queensland coach Billy Slater made a significant leadership change following the Game One defeat, replacing veteran captain Daly Cherry-Evans with Munster. The decision was based on Munster’s proven Origin pedigree, including being named Player of the Series in 2020 and Man of the Match in Game One of 2022, along with his strong working relationship with Slater through 16 Origin appearances. Heading into Game Two in Perth, Queensland unveiled a new halves combination, with Munster partnering rising star Tom Dearden. Although Mitchell Moses was sidelined with a knee injury, New South Wales still fielded a strong spine including Jarome Luai and the returning Cleary. Queensland responded with grit. While they scored one try fewer than New South Wales, Valentine Holmes' accurate goal-kicking proved decisive, securing a narrow two-point victory to keep the series alive. Before the decider, Queensland suffered another setback. Fullback Kalyn Ponga was ruled out with injury, prompting Slater to shift Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, also known as The Hammer, to fullback and hand a debut to Brisbane Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki. Veteran forward Josh Papali’i also returned to the side, riding strong form as the Canberra Raiders sat at the top of the NRL ladder. Tragically, just days before Game Three, Munster’s father passed away. The news shocked the NRL community. Slater initially released Munster from the squad, but on Sunday morning, Munster sat with his coach and told him quietly, “I’m playing.” At the post-match press conference, an emotional Slater, who also lost his father in January, reflected on that moment. “I knew his father would have wanted him to play, so I had to let him,” Slater said. “Over my four years as coach, this is my proudest moment. The bloke on my left is the most courageous and bravest man to captain this special squad. I do not know how he did it.” The Maroons turned the game into a tribute. Their first half was clinical. Queensland completed sets with precision, made fewer errors, and built a twenty-point lead by halftime. It was a stunning and dominant performance. In the second half, the Maroons sustained pressure, particularly on the left edge that had been exposed in Game Two. Valentine Holmes and Murray Taulagi kept Latrell Mitchell and Brian To’o in check. Tom Dearden even saved a certain try from To’o, adding to his standout night. The Blues crossed for a late try, but it was not enough. Dearden went over for his second try, sealing the Maroons' emotional series win. As the full-time siren sounded, Munster and Slater embraced in a tearful captain and coach moment, embodying the spirit and resilience of their side. At the press conference, Munster held back tears as he thanked the wider rugby league community. “I am thankful to the NRL community for your support, to Billy and the Queensland coaching staff, and to my brothers who stood with me.” He concluded by dedicating the victory to teammate Josh Papali’i. “This one is also for Papa. It is his last year in the comp. We got this one for him too.”

National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop has strongly condemned the violent unrest that erupted in Port Moresby on Tuesday, calling it a serious threat to law and order and demanding urgent reform of the city’s public transport system. The violence, reportedly led by Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) drivers and their relatives following the fatal stabbing of a crew member, saw parts of the capital descend into chaos, causing widespread fear and disruption for city residents. Governor Parkop expressed sympathy for the victim’s family but firmly denounced the retaliatory attacks, stating: “While I share the public’s grief and outrage... it does not in any way justify the reckless and tribal violence that followed.” He stressed that such disorder is unacceptable in modern society and has tarnished the image of Port Moresby as a peaceful and investment-ready city. In a call to action, Parkop urged police to identify and arrest those responsible for the riots and called on the Road Traffic Authority (RTA) to suspend licenses of the PMVs involved. He also proposed that the RTA’s regulatory role be reviewed and possibly transferred to the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) for stronger oversight. “This incident must be a turning point,” he said. “We must now urgently de-tribalize the public transport system... The culture of tribal identity and revenge has no place in our public services.” Governor Parkop further appealed to the Minister for Transport to enact sweeping reforms to restore order and professionalism in the sector. The Governor concluded by reaffirming the city’s commitment to public safety and rule of law: “We must act – swiftly and decisively – to restore confidence.”

The Governor for National Capital District (NCD) Powes Parkop highlighted the significance of 'One City, One Country, One Future' at the official launching of the PNG Story Month celebration at the Sir Hubert Murray stadium in Port Moresby city in the lead up to the 50th independence anniversary, beginning with the Southern Region. The month-long celebration is part of a broader national storytelling initiative that began in May and continues through to September, exploring PNG’s cultural and historical journey through the voices of its diverse regions and communities. Addressing crowd in attendance, Governor Parkop reflected on the Southern Region’s deep-rooted significance. “Southern Region is where the PNG story began. In Hanuabada, the Union Jack was first raised in 1884, and from here, the journey to nationhood took root.” He shared personal memories from his youth, starting school in 1968, witnessing his parents vote during the early days of self-governance, and singing the national anthem in 1973. “We imagined a united country, despite our thousand tribes and languages.” Calling on young Papua New Guineans to take ownership of the nation’s future, Governor Parkop posed a challenge to them. “Our time is almost up, but your time is now. Where do you see your city and country in 2075?” He reminded the nation of key Southern Region milestones, from Yule Island, where the national flag was first designed, to the Haus of Assembly, where leaders voted for independence. “We achieved independence peacefully. Let’s keep that spirit of unity alive.” Traditional songs, dances, and cultural displays from Central, Gulf, Oro, Milne Bay, and Western provinces became the heartbeat of the day, each performance offering a powerful narrative of identity, resilience, and unity. Governor Parkop extended heartfelt thanks to the performers, the audience, and the organizing teams from the National Capital District Commission and Amazing Port Moresby for staging the successful launch event. The spotlight now shifts northward, with New Guinea Islands Day set for Saturday, July 12, featuring cultural showcases from East and West New Britain, New Ireland, Manus, and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. The PNG Story Month continues, honoring the past, celebrating the present, and shaping a future grounded in unity.

Nathan Cleary is once again at the center of controversy ahead of tomorrow's State of Origin decider. At just 27, he has already accomplished more than many of the game's greatest names, including several NRL Immortals. Yet, despite his accolades, critics continue to argue that Cleary will never match the legacy of Andrew Johns, widely regarded as New South Wales’ greatest ever halfback. But unlike Johns, who debuted in Origin in his late 20s and only reached his peak in his 30s, Cleary is still years away from what many believe could be his prime. The Penrith playmaker already has four NRL Premierships under his belt and led the Blues to back-to-back Origin series wins in 2021 and 2022. The debate surrounding Cleary’s legacy intensified during Monday night’s episode of 100% Footy on Nine’s Wide World of Sports, where Phil Gould, Paul Gallen, and Cameron Smith weighed in. Gould passionately defended Cleary, dismissing claims that he isn’t an Origin great. “This kid has already achieved so much, and he’s only 27,” Gould said. “His focus, determination, and dedication to the game already make him an Immortal in my eyes." "Unfortunately for the Maroons, he hasn’t even reached his peak yet — most Origin greats don’t until their late 20s or early 30s.” Both former Origin captains, Cameron Smith and Paul Gallen, strongly backed Gould’s comments, agreeing that Cleary’s best is still yet to come. As the decider looms, all eyes will be on Cleary. And if history is any guide, the best may truly be yet to come.

South Pacific Brewery (SP Brewery) has confirmed a K5000 contribution to support preparations for this year’s National Mask and Warwagira Festival, an event that celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of East New Britain. Scheduled to take place from July 9th to 12th in Kokopo, East New Britain Province, the festival is one of Papua New Guinea’s iconic cultural events, showcasing traditional dances, masks, and customs from across the region. SP Brewery’s Regional Sales Manager for the New Guinea Islands, Leon Schulz, said the company was pleased to assist. “This festival aligns with our goal of fostering unity and celebrating cultural diversity,” he said. “We are proud to play a small role in helping communities come together through such an important event.” Festival organizers acknowledged the support and highlighted the challenges of hosting cultural events without adequate funding. “Contributions like this go a long way in helping us preserve our cultural identity and pass it on to future generations,” a committee spokesperson said. As part of its involvement, SP Brewery will set up a booth at the event to promote awareness around responsible alcohol consumption. Only individuals over the legal drinking age will be permitted to engage with the booth for materials and activities. The organizers say this year’s festival will feature a variety of performances and exhibitions from local and international groups, drawing visitors from around the country and abroad.

For the first time in Pacific Games history, every national team participating in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau is supported by a dedicated safeguarding officer. This proactive move, led by the Pacific Games Council, signals a regional shift toward prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of athletes and officials. Complementing this initiative is the Safe Games Team, a group of four regional safeguarding champions representing Tonga, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and Palau. Leading the team is Roshika Deo, Team Up’s GEDSI and Safeguarding Officer, who is also the Games’ official Safeguarding Team Leader. In a key step toward stronger collaboration, the Safe Games Team hosted a networking session today with safeguarding officers from across the participating nations. The session created space for sharing on-the-ground experiences, reviewing current protocols, and identifying opportunities to further strengthen safeguarding support during the Games. Among the standout advocates in this space are Milton Kisapai, a former elite athlete and anti-doping facilitator, and Delisha, a sports administrator and safeguarding facilitator. Both serve as safeguarding focal points for Team PNG, bringing with them years of expertise in athlete protection and clean sport advocacy. Together with local service providers, the Safe Games Team and safeguarding officers are working to raise public awareness and ensure clear, accessible pathways for reporting and responding to safeguarding concerns. These coordinated efforts reflect a growing regional commitment to making sport safe, inclusive, and empowering for all.

A kaleidoscope of colours, rhythm, and reflection unfolded at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium yesterday 05th of July 2025 as Southern Region Day officially opened the month-long PNG Story celebrations in honour of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Under the uniting theme “One Drum, Many Echoes,” the Southern Region showcased the full strength of its cultural pride and creative expression, drawing crowds from across the city. Twelve singsing groups and six cultural string bands from the provinces of Central, Gulf, Western, Oro, and Milne Bay lit up the stadium grounds with traditional dances, chants, and musical storytelling as part of the day's program. The performances were more than entertainment as they were powerful expressions of identity and unity. However, it was a raw and moving stage performance that blended cultural and modern elements, titled 'Where Do We Go from Here?' by the Kove Arts Theatre Youths, that stood out—bringing the crowd to silence with its deep and timely message. Written and directed by Kove Arts Theatre Director and Founder Rodney Kove, the drama challenged Papua New Guineans to reflect on their collective journey after 49 years of independence and consider where the nation is heading in its next chapter. “These young people you saw performing, some of them live on the streets. I gathered them from all over the provinces. In two weeks, we wrote and rehearsed this play,” Kove shared. “They spoke from their hearts. It’s their story. It’s our country.” In a symbolic crossroads formation, the youths posed critical questions to public servants, politicians, and everyday citizens by urging unity, accountability, and compassion. “One of the lines says it all: ‘Our Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare placed us all in one basket called Papua New Guinea.’ That’s a reminder. We may have 865 languages, but we are still one nation. We must act like it,” said Kove. A banner displayed and carried on stage captured the central message: “UNITY IN DIVERSITY, WITH 865 LANGUAGES: YOUR COUNTRY, MY COUNTRY, OUR COUNTRY. GOD BLESS PNG.” The message was translated into four local languages representing each region—Bunja from Oro (Southern), Manus (Islands), a language from Momase, and one from Gulf Province, each highlighting inclusivity and shared identity. Kove continues to work with vulnerable youth through theatre, paying them for their involvement and nurturing their talents. “This wasn’t just a performance—it was healing, expression, and purpose. We have to look after our children now, before they end up on the streets. That’s what this play is about,” he added. While the drama left many in deep thought, the day overall was a joyful celebration of Southern identity. From the lively kundu beats of Gulf Province to the graceful canoe dances of Milne Bay, and the rhythmic storytelling of Central’s string bands, the Southern Region proudly echoed the PNG Story’s call for unity and cultural pride. As the PNG Story continues throughout July—with region days for Niugini Islands, Highlands, and Momase all stands, the message from the South is clear: Culture connects, and youth voices matter.

Sri Lankan pop sensation Yohani made her highly anticipated debut in Papua New Guinea this week, delivering not only an electrifying performance at the Musical Extravaganza at The Stanley Hotel & Suites last night, but also a heartfelt visit to Brown River that touched the lives of a community often overlooked. Best known for her viral hit “Manike Mage Hithe”, Yohani who is signed under India’s most subscribed YouTube label, T-Series was the headline act for the high-profile, charity-based concert organized by the Sri Lanka–Papua New Guinea Friendship Foundation (SLPNGFF). The event was the culmination of a week-long campaign aimed at raising funds for vital health services and outreach programs in rural PNG. But her impact wasn’t only felt under the stage lights. Just days before the main event, Yohani visited the Brown River community on Thursday, 3 July, offering something deeper than entertainment. Joined by the Sri Lankan pop-rock band The Infinity, their visit featured an intimate acoustic set, including a stripped-back cover of “Price Tag” by Jessie J sending a powerful message about compassion and connection through music. Children and families in the village were left inspired and uplifted by her presence, especially given that for many, this was the first time meeting an international artist face-to-face. The visit was part of SLPNGFF’s humanitarian outreach, a core pillar of the foundation’s ongoing work in PNG. On concert night, Yohani’s entrance onto the Kokoda Ballroom stage was met with deafening applause. She opened with her signature mix of Sinhala ballads, pop anthems, and newly released tracks from her latest album, blending South Asian sounds with international pop beats. The show’s emotional peak came when she teamed up with PNG’s star Rhée Gial for a rousing duet of Livin' La Vida Loca" by Ricky Martin. The performance was more than nostalgic because it was symbolic, capturing the harmony between visiting and local artists. Another standout moment came with her energetic cover of “ATP”, the 2024 global smash by Rosie and Bruno Mars. Backed by Infinity, Yohani’s vocals soared over a rich wave of pop-rock instrumentation, creating a soundscape that had the crowd on their feet. The SLPNGFF Musical Extravaganza wasn’t just a night of lights and music, but it was a corporate humanitarian initiative with clear objectives: Delivering healthcare support to underserved rural communities Promoting child nutrition and maternal wellness Encouraging cultural exchange between Sri Lanka and Papua New Guinea The night ended with Yohani voice echoing far beyond the ballroom—carried into homes, into communities like Brown River, and into the hearts of a nation that embraced her not just as a performer, but as an artist in solidarity.