Parliament's September sitting started this afternoon not with the normal opening session, but with the Lie- In- State ceremony of the late MP for Central Bougainville as a mark of respect for a leader who strived for his people and for peace. The casket of late Fr. Simon Dumarinu was taken in by pole bearers comprising of Correctional Services officers, onto the parliament chamber floor where the casket was placed for the ceremony. Opening the tributes was Prime Minister James Marape who described late Fr Dumarinu as a truly committed leader, who wants what is best for his people, the people of Bougainville and the future of Bougainville. "He wanted us to find a lasting solution to Bougainville," said the prime minister. The late MP during the Bougainville crisis when practicing as a Catholic priest, facilitated dialogue between the parties in the crisis. He was also instrumental in the progressing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and continued to work to see Bougainville gain its independence when he passed on. Prime Minister Marape said his legacy expands fare as a politician. "He inspired other politicians to excel and put people first." The leader of the Opposition, Douglas Tomuriesa also paid his respects and tribute, describing the late MP as a man of the people who only wanted peace and harmony amongst his people, Bougainville and Papua New Guinea. "He was destined to become a leader and for that reason, he was chosen by his people twice to lead," said the Opposition leader. It was this passion and drive that saw the late MP two months ago launched a Five-year Development Plan for his Central Bougainville electorate before his passing. Meantime, his Social Democratic Party leader, Powes Parkop, said the Party has lost a great leader and they are still coming to terms with his passing. "He was an extraordinary leader. He was truly a servant of God and of his people." Late Fr Simon Dumarinu's dedication to his work for his people stemmed from his struggles, and having shared the struggles of his people, he was committed to peace and development. Other MPs also paid their tributes together describing him as a man of good character, a man of peace and a peace maker. The ceremony then closed with parliament adjourned to tomorrow, Wednesday 4th September at 10am.

Over 20 new intakes of Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) under its Graduate Development Scheme (GDS) Program for 2024 have been urged to make the most of the opportunity given to them under this program. The cohort consisting of 29 intakes, were welcomed by the OTML Executive Leadership Team in Tabubil led by Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Kedi Ilimbit. As a product of the GDS program, Mr. Ilimbit said to the intakes that the program will set them on a successful career path if they make the most of the opportunity. “Congratulations on reaching this exciting milestone in your professional journey. We welcome you to our team, where you’ll play a crucial role in this dynamic and evolving organisation. “I want to emphasize how vital it is to make the most of this opportunity to learn and grow. The mining industry is not just about extracting resources; it is about innovation, safety, and making a positive impact in our families, community, and country. “Embrace every learning moment, leverage from the expertise that is around you, have a growth mindset, prioritize safety and responsibility, and build strong professional relationships. Do that and your time here will be a journey of professional growth, personal development, and achievement. We are excited to see the contributions you will make to OTML’s future success.” The 2024 cohort includes 10 females and 19 males. They represent disciplines in Accounting, Applied Physics, Business Studies, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Communications Arts, Computer Science, Electrical & Communication Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Science, Geology, Geotechnical Engineering, Health Management, Human Resources, Mineral Processing Engineering, Mining Engineering, and Surveying. Since 1988 OTML has enrolled 635 Graduates under its GDS program. With the OTML Board’s decision in-principle to extend the mine life to 2050, this will create more training and development opportunities for the Preferred Areas, Western Province, and Papua New Guinea.

Parliament resumes today for the September session with much to attend to on the agenda including another Vote of No Confidence motion; however, before all that can take place, the body of the late Member (MP) for Central Bougainville will Lie- In- State at the Parliament House. The body of the late MP, Fr. Simon Dumarinu will Lie- In- State this afternoon at parliament in Port Moresby from 2pm to 3pm for his Member colleges and dignitaries to pay their final respects to the leader. As per the program for today, the body of the late MP will arrive at the National Parliament 2pm from the Funeral Home at Erima, where before that, the funeral service held at the St Joseph Catholic Church in East Boroko. The Lie- In- State ceremony will be for an hour where the Speaker of Parliament will take the lead in the ceremony at the National Parliament. The late MP was first elected to the 10th National Parliament in the 2017 National General Elections. He served as Minister for Bougainville Affairs following the formation of the then O’Neill- Abel Government in August 2017 until 2018 where he was replaced by Mr. Sam Akoitai following a recount of votes that was ordered by Court of Disputed Returns. He was re- elected to the 11th National Parliament for the Central Bougainville Open Electorate in 2022 General Election. He served as committee member for various Parliamentary Committees including Communication, Constitutional Laws, Acts and Subordinate Legislations, and Privileges and Health following the formation of the Marape- Rosso Government on the 9th of September 2023. The late MP also served as a member of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Customary Land and Reforms in Papua New Guinea. He was a member of the Social Democratic Party.

Paradise Boutique is the newest addition of the Har Hurum Group of Companies that was just opened in Port Moresby city, marking yet another milestone achievement for a Papua New Guinean business. Speaking at the small but significant opening ceremony on the evening of Saturday 31st August, the Group General Manager Mr. Joseph Tupiri said the opening of the boutique is a significant milestone in the journey of a small PNG success story. Giving a brief history of the Group, Mr. Tupiri said the company started fifteen years ago when the Founder, Mr. Firman Joseph left his job as a Workshop Manager with Ela Motors and started his own construction company called Kemele Construction. From there, he ventured into other areas, including opening coffee shops, a tailoring company and a gym, and now a new boutique. “We are proud to present to you this one shop at the sea front,” said Mr. Tupiri. He added that this also goes to show the Group's commitment in creating jobs in the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector. “It’s not just about fashion, its about faith in the future as you can already start to see the small story of this PNG SME.” “Its about faith in the future in our people, and in our capacity to create special things for Papua New Guineans to experience. Meantime, the Paradise Boutique is not selling any specific brand name of clothing or accessories yet at this time, just generic garments. But going forward, the shop should be able to find a brand name to sell and add other products. Paradise Boutique is part of the Har Hurum Group of Companies, which owns Tribes Coffee Club, Tribes Fitness Center, Paradise Tailoring and Kemele Construction. The Paradise Boutique Shopfront is located at the foot of Lawes Road at Ela Beach just five minutes from Downtown Port Moresby.

Access to affordable connectivity plays a huge role in an emerging market like in Papua New Guinea (PNG), leading to improved access to services provided to the people. The Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Tomothy Masiu stressed this when launching Vodafone’s independence special promotion in Port Moresby city this week. “As a champion of technology change, I believe connectivity is one of the biggest equalizers. Access to affordable connectivity plays a huge role in improving people’s lives and contributing to the country’s growth,” said Minister Masiu. The Minister said affordable connectivity means that rural school students can access the same teaching material as urban students, access online learning, people can use technology to start small and micro businesses, access information and government services. “There are many services, such as mobile money and other value- added services that can be built on the foundation of reliable and affordable connectivity,” the minister added. “With the liberalization of the Telecoms industry, and entry of new players like Vodafone, the game is changing. Cost of connectivity is becoming much more affordable; plans are becoming cheaper; phones are more affordable and there are amazing promotions for customers to choose from.” He also revealed that latest reports indicate that cost of connectivity and data continue to fall, and more people are connected today than ever before.

Access to affordable connectivity goes a long way to improving the lives of people, especially in the rural parts of the country to have access to basic services through communication infrastructures, but for that to happen, there must be low cost of connectivity. Now, this can happen when there are initiatives or players in the communication market who can introduce innovations that can lower the costs in communication and internet. At the start of this year, United States (US) company Starlink was introduced to the country’s communication market with the potential of significantly lowering internet cost. Starlink is a satellite internet system owned by SpaceX that hopes to deliver high- speed internet across the globe. Starlink is being pithed as the internet solution of choice in areas where connectivity has been challenging, such as rural and regional areas. However, their entry into the communication market has been halted due to issues with the approval of the license to operate. This matter was brought up recently by the US Ambassador to Papua New Guinea (PNG), Her Excellency Anne Marie Yastishock in a meeting with the Minister for International Trade and Investments, Richard Maru, where she said it was difficult to attract American companies to invest in PNG if they continue to go through the frustrations of establishing themselves. She used Starlink as a classic example to this matter. She said Starlink was promised a license in January this year and they still have not had their approval. However, it is understood that the delay was due to the PNG Ombudsman Commission stopping the National Information Communication Technology Authority (NICTA) from issuing the license because of some investigations which have taken over eight months. This was also confirmed by the NICTA Board Chairman Mr. Noel Mobiha in a very short statement on August 14th, where he addressed queries on the Starlink license by stating that the matter is now subject to a judicial review proceeding before the National Court of Justice at Waigani. Meantime, the Minister for Information, Communication and Technology (ICT), Timothy Masiu in an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG on Wednesday 28th August, made it clear that initially in January NICTA commenced negotiations with Starlink on the license, and not what people thought then that the license was already approved. “As Minister, I did not say we’re giving them a license because NICTA as the regulator, they have to go through the full process. The regulator is now engaging with Starlink and in the event that the requirements and processes and procedures are completed, a license will be awarded,” said the minister. However, that process has been halted with current Judicial review in place. Nevertheless, until this matter with the license is fully resolved, the possibilities of lower cost of internet in PNG and coverage to most of the rural parts of the county, will have to wait.

Mobile telecommunication provider Vodafone since commencing operating in Papua New Guinea (PNG) not so long ago has expanded its network coverage to almost covering the whole country within a short period of time. This was revealed by Vodafone PNG Regional Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Pradeep Lal when launching Vodafone’s Independence special promotion yesterday, Thursday 29th August at the Vodafone Haus in Port Moresby city. He said in short span of two years Vodafone has built four new Data Centers at key locations and over 800 towers covering all 22 provinces. “We have over a million subscribers on our network and market share of 25 percent and growing,” said the Vodafone Regional CEO. “All our sites are 4G, which means that our customers get a much better and faster data experience, and with 70 percent smartphone penetration on our network, it is a little wonder why we have become the data network choice for customers.” In addition to this span of network coverage, there is also the affordable costs of its products and services. “We have introduced price plans and value never seen in PNG before, we have reduced phone and device prices to make them more accessible and affordable to everyone, and we carry the entire range- Apple, Samsung, Alcatel Xiaomi, Anya, TCL, Huawei, a phone at a price to suit every customer.” “We believe that connectivity is a basic human right that has the power to transform lives, and nothing will stop us from brining technology within reach, creating new opportunities and stimulate growth,” said Mr. Lal. Since Vodafone’s inception into the PNG communication market, the mobile telecommunication provider has invested over K3billion in building a robust and resilient network in PNG.

The Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has launched Vodafone’s special promotions and cash prizes just in time to mark the country’s 49th Independence celebrations coming up next month. Minister Tomothy Masiu when launching the Independence promotion at the Vodafone Haus in Port Moresby this morning, said he was honoured and excited to launch this promotion for Vodafone that embodies the spirit of the cultures of Papua New Guinea (PNG) that brings everyone together. “This promotion is not just about celebrating our independence, but also about looking forward to the future with optimism and hope,” said Minister Masiu. “It is an opportunity for us to take advantage of the special deals and use connectivity to come together as a community, to use the power of connectivity to improve our lives and make a difference.” To symbolize PNG’s 49th Independence, Vodafone launched 4 special promotions and cash prizes to a value of K490, 000 to be won. Every transaction gets customers an entry, so no one is left out, and the more customers spend, the more entries customers get. The prices include, · 4 major winners of K49, 000 from each region · 10 weekly winners of K4, 900, two each from each of the 4 regions and two nationwide · Prices never seen in PNG before on brands like Apple, Samsung, Alcatel, Xiaomi, Anya and more · An exclusive to Vodafone only customers surprise that will run for two weeks. To participate in the promotion, customers can top up any amount to get a chance to win. Also, customers can subscribe to any prepaid plan to get a chance to participate in the promotion, and customers can also purchase any of Vodafone devices from any of its outlets to enter the promo. The promotion will run for 6 weeks starting today and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Meantime, Vodafone PNG Regional Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Pradeep Lal said there is more to come. “And the great news is that this is not the end. We have an even bigger surprise promotion; something never done in PNG before. This promotion will run for two weeks, a week before, during and after the Independence Day. Stay tuned for this big announcement.”

The quick efforts to restore traffic along the Yalu Bridge outside Lae city after it had been damaged by flood waters caused by torrential rain last week, has drawn commendations from the prime minister. Prime Minister James Marape in a statement issued while attending the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Tonga, extended his commendation to all those involved in the successful restoration of traffic along the Yalu Bridge on the Highlands Highway, located just outside Lae. “I commend everyone involved in restoring the flow of traffic over the Yalu Bridge after three days,” Prime Minister Marape stated. He acknowledged the contributions and efforts of key individuals and organisations, including Lae MP and Acting Prime Minister John Rosso, the Department of Works and Highways under the leadership of Acting Secretary Gibson Holemba, Provincial Works Manager Samson Apai and his engineering team, the Morobe Provincial Administration under Provincial Administrator Max Bruten, as well as the Lae and Morobe Police, business houses, and all others who contributed in various ways towards the reopening of the bridge. “I thank everyone for your patience during this challenging time,” added Prime Minister Marape. Meantime, Prime Minister Marape announced that a new four-lane bridge will be constructed over the Yalu River, funded by the National Government. This development is part of the broader infrastructure project covering the Yalu Bridge to Nadzab stretch of the Lae- Nadzab Road. “The construction of a new four-lane bridge over the Yalu River will soon commence. This project is a significant component of the Yalu Bridge to Nadzab stretch of the Lae-Nadzab Road, aimed at improving connectivity and supporting economic growth in the region,” Prime Minister Marape stated

FinCorp Limited today announced the appointment of Mr Mark Ellul GAICD and Mr. Loi Martin Bakani CMG, to its Board of Directors. Both bring a wealth of experience and expertise that will undoubtedly contribute to FinCorp’s growth and strategic direction. Mr Ellul joins FinCorp’s Board with extensive experience in the banking and financial sector, having held senior executive roles at ANZ Bank and Halifax Bank of Scotland (HBOS)/Bankwest. Mr. Ellul’s notable achievements include driving and managing complex business turnarounds and operations, implementing strategic policies and risk profiles, and leading sustainability transitions. His experience in engaging with a wide range of stakeholders and executing complex organizational structures across diverse regions, including PNG and the Pacific, will be invaluable to FinCorp. Mr Ellul’s previous roles include: • Head of Community Sustainability/Senior Advisor Sustainability Transition at ANZ • Executive Director Institutional Banking at ANZ Papua New Guinea • Board Member/Non-Executive Director at ANZ Vanuatu Limited • Chief Risk Officer for Fiji and Deputy Chief Risk Officer for the Pacific; and • Head of Credit Fiji & Pacific and Chief Risk Officer Samoa, Tonga & Cook Islands Mr Ellul’s leadership, including within sustainability and ESG matters, risk and governance, as well as, his strategic mindset, will support FinCorp's mission to optimize resources, increase efficiency, and maximize profit while maintaining quality and workplace morale. Mr Loi Martin Bakani CMG, the former Governor of the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG), brings over a decade of experience in central banking and financial sector reform. During his tenure, Mr. Bakani led significant reforms in microfinance, financial inclusion, and the modernization of payment systems. His efforts in establishing the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) and implementing the Kina Automated Transfer System (KATS) have been pivotal in advancing the financial landscape of Papua New Guinea. Mr. Bakani’s previous roles include: • Governor and Chairman of the Bank of Papua New Guinea (2009-2021) • Deputy Governor - Policy and Regulations at BPNG (2005-2009) • Deputy Chairman of the State team on the establishment of the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF); and • Chairman of the BPNG Board Committee for reviewing the Central Banking Act 2000 His extensive involvement in international and regional financial institutions and groups, commitment to policy advocacy, and dedication to transparency and accountability make him a valuable addition to the Board. Goiye Gileng, FinCorp’s Board Chairman commented that, "FinCorp is thrilled to welcome Mr Mark Ellul and Mr Loi Martin Bakani CMG to its Board of Directors.” “Their vast experience and exceptional leadership qualities will be instrumental in guiding FinCorp towards achieving its strategic objectives and reinforcing its commitment to excellence in the financial services sector." Andre Bester, FinCorp’s Acting Chief Executive Officer also stated that, "The addition of Mr. Ellul and Mr. Bakani to it's Board comes at a pivotal time for FinCorp.” “Their insights and expertise will be crucial as the brand continue to innovate and expand its offerings. FinCorp is confident that their contributions will significantly enhance the brands' ability to serve its customers and stakeholders effectively." The Board and Management of FinCorp Limited is confident that the expertise and leadership of Mr. Mark Ellul and Mr. Loi Martin Bakani CMG will drive the FinCorp’ brand forward, ensuring continued growth and success.

In light of the current inflation experienced in the country, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Research Institute (NRI) has issued its recent Spotlight edition highlighting some fiscal policy options that the government should consider going forward in addressing inflation. PNG is currently experiencing imported inflation which directly affects the welfare of people and cost of businesses. The inflation pressure has been caused mainly by high taxes on imports and inflation in the exporting countries because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war between Russia and Ukraine, and the weakening Kina that emanates from the domestic exchange rate reform. The National Research Institute Spotlight Volume 17, Issue 15 titled: “Can macroeconomic policies address the current inflation situation in Papua New Guinea?” states that, of the three macroeconomic policies, monetary and exchange rate policy instruments, cannot effectively address the current inflation, but fiscal policy tools can but at a cost to the government. This latest edition, which was authored by Dr Thomas Wangi, listed some fiscal policy options that can be considered to address the current inflation situation in PNG. They are as follows: · Provide tax relief measures on imports, · Reduce goods and services tax (GST), · Reintroduce fuel subsidy, · Reduce personal income tax, and · Substitute imports, mainly through the agriculture sector. Inflation, which is a general increase in the price of goods and services in an economy over a period is generally bad for the economy, especially when the inflation rates rise rapidly. This is because it reduces the demand for goods and services, increases the cost of living, increases the cost of doing business, and discourages new investments and expansion of existing businesses. Meantime, the Report can be accessed on the PNG NRI website https://www.pngnri.org.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has met with Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka on the margins of the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in Tonga where both Melanesian leaders talked on furthering trade and security cooperation. The meeting, which took place on Monday 26th August, discussed mutual areas of concern between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Fiji, where the two leaders continued to explore and strengthen the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The agenda covered progress of the PNG-Fiji Defence Cooperation, engagement of Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) in peace-keeping operations, trade and investment, land availability in both countries for respective missions, education, and the continuation of the Sir Mara and Sir Michael legacy. Marape informed PM Rabuka that the defence cooperation between the two countries will be progressed, and also highlighted to his counterpart the great potential for trade and investment existing between the two nations, urging bureaucracies of the two nations to work together through the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) avenue to progress trade and investment further. He informed PM Rabuka that PNG is now focusing on commerce, business, trade and investment, and exploring further markets in Asia and the Pacific. The Prime Minister highlighted the East New Britain Initiative (ENBi) in PNG as a regional fisheries commercialisation concept for the fishing and processing of the region's marine resources for export. He stressed that the ENBi provides the opportunity to Pacific Island countries to invest in the project for better returns than what Pacific countries are currently getting from raw tuna export. Marape also made known the availability of land to Prime Minister Rabuka for the construction of the Fiji mission building in Port Moresby city, committing K25 million to start the construction. He then thanked Mr Rabuka for the land the Fiji government is making available to PNG to build its mission office in Suva. Regarding PNG students in Fiji at the University of South Pacific, Prime Minister Marape said PNG would sign up as a member of University of South Pacific, and that the PNG government is looking at scholarship options for Pacific Islands students studying at Pacific Adventist University in PNG.