On the sidelines of the 2024 Petroleum & Energy Conference on Friday 18th October,2024, Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited Managing director, Wapu Sonk signed a Pre-Front-End Engineering & Development (FEED) contract for a Floating LNG (FLNG) facility in the Gulf of Papua, in PNG. Mr. Sonk announced that this important contract had been awarded to Shanghai Wison Offshore & Marine Company Ltd. Mr Damien Nguyen, the Chief Technical Officer. Mr. Nguyen who signed on behalf of the company said Wison was delighted to work closely with Kumul Petroleum in its ambitious plan to commercialize gas fields in Papua New Guinea. “Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited has for some time been investigating how to commercialize stranded gas resources, particularly in its Petroleum Retention Licenses (PRLs 47 & 50) over the Pandora and Uramu gas fields offshore in Gulf Province, this is a critical step and in the right direction, one we are extremely excited about as the national petroleum company,” Mr. Sonk stated. “KPHL has evaluated these gas discoveries and completed reserve certification, which has given us confidence in moving to this stage of the commercialization plan.” KPHL is 100% license holder of the two PRL offshore licenses now and intends to farm down post this study to interested partners who see value in the 1.5mtpa FLNG project in PNG. “This Pre-FEED study is a necessary step to ensure that we understand the full scope, cost, schedule, risk and the full economic value before deciding on moving to FEED and final investment decision (FID).” “The Pre-Feed study is expected to take 8-12 months, which should lead to FEED thereafter and FID sometime in 2026 or 2027.”

Most times victims are afraid to report violence, often times most people live in fear and are discouraged to report any forms of violence to the authorities. Thus, upon recognizing that violence in families and communities is a barrier to development, Hidden Valley Mine has taken proactive steps to address gender-based violence (GBV) and family and sexual violence (FSV). In partnership with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s Family and Sexual Violence Unit (FSVU) in Wau and the Morobe Provincial Gender-Based Violence Secretariat, the Mine’s Social Performance and Communities section recently rolled out an extensive awareness campaign. Reaching more than 1,000 people, including the mine’s workforce and people from landowner villages and communities in the footprint area, the campaign’s aim is to help people understand laws surrounding violence, and make them aware of services available for anyone needing support. Thelma Hungito, Program Coordinator with the GBV Secretariat, said having information could act as a deterrent for perpetrators, as well as encourage people to report incidents. “A lot of time people see gender-based violence as an issue that only women should deal with, however little did they know that, when Parliament passed the Family Protection Act in 2013, it made domestic violence a criminal matter." "So domestic violence is just like armed robbery or murder and will be treated as such by the courts.” She explained that this was a big step away from the traditional norms of dealing with violence in families. “As much as possible, we want people to stop accepting ‘bel kol’ money, or compensation because we know offenders are likely to re-offend, thus reporting someone and ensuring they do prison time will discourage other people – that’s what needs to happen.” Ms Hungito added that she was keen to see more private-public initiatives that focuses on prevention. Sheenie Kapen, Gender Development Officer with HVM, said that by engaging the broader community Hidden Valley Mine demonstrated that tackling GBV/FSV is a shared responsibility, and the program was a call to action for everyone to embrace the challenge of reducing GBV and FSV cases.

The United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), partnered with the Nature Conservancy to support nine Tangguar clans in developing a conservation deed that will protect 17,803 hectares of crucial forest and marine resources, that is approximately 45% of the community’s land. The new conservation will help to preserve vital ecosystems and also give local communities the tools to manage their natural resources sustainably for future generations. The signing of partnership in developing a conservation was signed by the clan leaders from the three tribes in Malas Village and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in Madang province recently. The signing was witnessed by the Madang Governor, Mr. Ramsey Pariwa and other representatives from the Madang Provincial Government. Governor Pariwa commended the Malas Community for stepping up to protect their resources for future generations. “Growing population drives higher demand for natural resources, which contributes to global warming. I challenge the community to care for the environment, and in return, it will care for you." Governor Pariwa pledged to support local civil society organizations Tangguar Resource Owners Development Association (Tangguar Association) and Gildipasi Civil Society Organization with funding and technical support through the provincial administration to advance their community-led conservation and sustainable development initiatives. USAID Program Management Specialist, Julie Hulama emphasized that this initiative was driven by the Tangguar clans, “At USAID, we promote localization by equipping local people with the knowledge and skills to identify issues and develop local solutions, fostering self-reliance and community resilience.” “The Tangguar clans have shown remarkable leadership in protecting their natural resources while also building a foundation for economic sustainability.” The Chairman of the Tangguar Association, Jerry Tome, expressed gratitude for the support received from USAID, “Partnerships like the one with USAID PNG LGP are crucial for empowering our community to manage our natural resources effectively and achieve sustainable, long-term development.” As of October 10th, 2024, USAID has helped communities safeguard over 40,000 hectares of forest and marine areas in Madang Province and over 60,000 hectares nationwide, demonstrating the effectiveness of grassroots leadership in protecting PNGs biodiversity.

PNG Kickboxing Federation calls for support from the Sports Ministry and other corporate companies, stakeholders and individuals who are willing to support their fighters who will be representing Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the World Kickboxing Championships in Alicante, Spain late this year. President of the PNG Kickboxing Federation (PNGKBF), Headhunter, Mr. Stanley Nandex said this is for a cause that has the power to significantly elevate Papua New Guinea's global standing and invigorate our nation's economy. President Nandex highlighted that the federation has consistently showcased the strength and spirit of the nation on the international stage, breaking barriers and forging unity through the sport of kickboxing. He said the talented athletes are preparing to represent PNG at the World Kickboxing Championships in Spain, from November 18th to 23rd, 2024, and they will be competing against 75 other countries. “We have a team of 25 male and 6 female athletes, who have dedicated countless hours to their training and preparations, striving to bring pride to our nation”. He added that this championship is more than just a competition; it is a pivotal moment for PNG's future in global sports. “Our success in Spain will significantly bolster our chances to win the bid to host the 2026 World Kickboxing Championships in Port Moresby.” Competing against formidable contenders like Colombia and China, our ability to secure this event will not only put PNG on the map but will also bring substantial economic benefits to our country, Nandex further added. “Hosting 75 different countries in 2026 will catalyze economic growth across multiple sectors, including tourism, hospitality, transportation, and local business development.” “It will attract international attention, drive foreign investment, and create jobs, all while showcasing the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Papua New Guinea.” He added that the influx of visitors and media coverage will position PNG as a prime destination for global events and tourism. The general Secretary- of the PNG Kickboxing Federation, Mr. Eddie Kavina said that the contribution will not only empower our athletes but also position the organization who supports this event as a leader in promoting sports, youth development, and nation-building. "By supporting the PNG Kickboxing Federation, you are investing in the future of PNG—where sports, economic growth, and national pride intersect," said Kavina. “We sincerely invite any corporate entities, Government ministries such as Tourism Promotion, Arts and Culture or Coffee Ministry to partner with us on this remarkable journey”. “Together, we can make history and propel Papua New Guinea to the forefront of global sports and economic development.” Please find PNG Kickboxing Federation’s bank details below: -Account Name: Papua New Guinea Kickboxing Federation -Bank: Bank South Pacific -Branch: Waigani Central -Account Number: 7018923057

Papa Buka – is a non-commercial feature film that tells the story of an Indian Historian who sets on a journey across the Indian Ocean into the Pacific and landed on the biggest Island in the Pacific, Papua New Guinea (PNG). This Indian Historian was on a mission to find out where her late grandfather was buried because her grandfather served as a soldier in the World War II here in New Guinea and has never returned home after the war. Papa Buka Producer Ms. Noelene Taula Wunum from the Native Arts and Fashion Academy highlighted that the film would paint a clear picture of Indians who were also part of the war between the Japanese and the Australians. “Indians are very resilient people and not noticeable in the history of the WWII, and this film will tell of how Indians also contributed to the freedom of this beautiful Island country, Papua New Guinea.” Ms. Wunum stated that Papa Buka Film journey started back in year 2019 with film preparation and collaboration with Native Arts and Fashion Academy in Papua New Guinea by which she is the Producer and has worked in partnership with the two Indian Producers, Pa Randith from the Neelam Productions and Praskash Bare from the Silicon Media Production House. In late August this year a crew of thirteen (13) members from India travel to Papua New Guinea to shoot the film, they were accompanied by Writer and the Director Dr Bijukumar, Heads of Dept in India Film Industry. “Out of the 13 that came over to PNG, only two were cast members, Actor Prakash Bare (lead actor) and Lead Bollywood Actress Ratibhari Chakraborty and the rest were crew members.” “The amazing part about the movie is all other actors in the movie are all from PNG.” Ms. Wunum also added that the Papa Buka Film was 100% shot on location here in PNG, with 20% of the film shot in Port Moresby at the National Museum, National Library and Archives, and 80% outside the city, few scenes at the Pacific Adventist University and almost the rest were shot at the Variarata Park at Sorgeri with the Koiari people. “In this Papa Buka film we also want to showcase PNG’s identity, culture and our history to the outside world," said Wunum. “The movie is 90% Tok Pisin and 10% India, only few dialogue between the two Indian casts”. Wunum further added that the film shooting was completed, and the Indian Crew have all gone back to India, so when in India, the Papa Buka Film will go through 3-4 months of post-production. “Right after production, Papa Buka will be premiered in the Indian Film Festival, and Native Arts and Fashion Academy will also premier the film here in PNG at the Paradice Cinema around January 2025.” “By September 2025 the Papa Buka Film should go to the Oscars, so this is our timeline, and we hope to archive all these”, said Wunum. Ms. Wunum acknowledges collaboration of the Government and private entities who had helped in this journey of Papa Buka Film making, National Cultural Commission, National Film Institute, Department of Community Development and Religion, Women Empowerment Mission, Censorship Office, PAU, UPNG, Police Media Unit, the Koiari Community, Bomana War Cemetery and many other individuals and groups who had contributed to this project. In the meantime, Ms. Wunum wants to clarify that the article published in one of the Daily Newspaper-Post Courier, date 27th August in regard to Papa Buka Film is not true and that the Director of Papa Buka Film, the Producer herself Ms. Wunum and the entire crew were disappointed at the misinformation published by the paper stating that Mr. Spencer Peter William Wangere is leading the Papa Buka Film. Mr. Spencer Wangere in his Facebook post clarifies that he was advocating for his input in government policy, especially the MTDP 4 (DIP1.7 National Film and Creative Arts Program) but the Post-Courier misquoted his LinkedIn post, without even contacting him for feedback or clarification, they went ahead and published their article.  

Following an announcement by the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council to name a new government building after the Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, the Somare family have raised some concerns regarding the proposal. Prime Minister James Marape has issued a formal apology to the immediate family of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare for any insensitivities regarding the proposal to name a new government building that will house the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council (PM & NEC) after Sir Michael. “To my sister Dulciana Somare, the Somare family, the people of Murik, and the East Sepik Province, I extend my sincere apologies for any insensitivities this may have caused,” Prime Minister Marape said. He clarified that the proposal was preliminary and assured the public that appropriate consultations will take place, particularly as the government prepares for the nation's 50th Independence anniversary celebrations come 2025. “This was a proposal, and I assure you that due consultations will take place as part of our government’s preparations for next year’s 50th anniversary celebrations,” he stated. Marape also highlighted his recent discussions on this matter highlighting that on Independence Day, after the flag-raising ceremony, he had had a brief meeting with Arthur Somare and proposed a follow-up meeting next week to discuss this further, as well as the proposed Somare Museum. He added that National Capital District Governor, Powes Parkop, and Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, Pilai Niningi, were also part of the discussion with Mr. Somare. “Once again, I apologies on behalf of the Department of PM & NEC, our intention was to honor the late Sir Michael Somare by naming the office, situated next to our Parliament and Judiciary headquarters after him,” the Prime Minister emphasized. Prime Minister Marape further noted that dialogue will take place with appropriate people and family so that during the fourth anniversary of Sir Michael’s passing in February next year, consensus can be reached to make the name change. “We will engage in discussions with the family and the people of East Sepik, including the Murik villagers, to ensure that on the next anniversary of his passing, the name change can occur, "he said. Additionally, the Prime Minister clarified the ownership structure of the proposed Somare Building. “It is a building that the State is procuring through the Build Operate Lease Transfer (BOLT) arrangement,” he explained. “Under the BOLT arrangement, the State will pay for the building through a lease-to-own agreement over 10 to 15 years.” Marape added that savings from other office spaces will help fund this arrangement. “We have lease arrangements where money saved by moving other offices to rent-free Sir Manasupe and Morauta Offices will see us pay off the new Prime Minister and NEC Office,” Marape said.

For the people of Munum Eka it was not only an Independence Celebration marking the country’s 49th anniversary on the 16th of September, it was also a moment to celebrate access to proper facility of safe drinking water and sanitation. This was made possible through a Digicel Foundation funded WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) project to bring clean, safe drinking water and improved sanitation to over 3, 000 people across four communities and two schools in the Anglimp-South Waghi District of Jiwaka Province. The celebration was a testament to the strength of a united community, one that has risen above challenges and embraced the power of partnership. Established in 2014 informally, Munum Eka Community Development Association (MECDA) began as an interdenominational fellowship group bringing together churches such as the Catholic Church, SDA, and the Four Square Church among many, but their mission went far beyond fellowship—it was about uplifting the community through development and livelihood projects that promote social and economic well-being. “That was my dream, to gather all the churches together and neighboring communities to come together to build unity to stay together, to avoid problems when we have fellowships, you know when we stay together, we will not fight and do all these kinds of things," shared Markus Malt, the Association's Vice Chairman. Through the years, MECDA has spearheaded projects that have greatly improved the quality of life in Munum Eka—building feeder roads, bridges, and rural electrification, while encouraging self-reliance through piggery, fishery, and vegetable farming. Yet, despite these advancements, one critical issue remained—safe drinking water. With polluted creeks and a lack of proper sanitation facilities, waterborne diseases were common, particularly affecting school children. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, MECDA formally registered as a legal entity, applied for a K50, 000 funding grant from Digicel Foundation's Community Grants Program – a program that gives communities throughout PNG a chance to fund meaningful initiatives in the field of education, health and leadership. "The main vision for us wanting to do the project is because of the lack of access to clean and safe drinking water," said MECDA’s Acting Chairperson, Elijah John. “We have a lot of fresh creeks within the village but most of the creeks have been polluted by landslides, there’s been a lot of gardening activities upstream and we’ve seen a lot of kids having skin diseases and some viral diseases within the communities,” he further explained. "This WASH project will change that, it will ensure access to clean drinking water and improved sanitation, directly addressing the health issues that have plagued these communities." “It represents hope, progress, and the potential for a healthier and safer future." At the launch event, which coincided with Independence Day, Digicel PNG Foundation CEO Serena Sasingian spoke about the power of community driven development. "It is fitting that we launch this important project on Independence Day, as it represents the power of communities to take control of their own development.” Chairman John highlighted that the Munum Eka Community Development Association embodies the spirit of independence—self-reliance, unity, and the belief that they can shape their own destiny. The Munum Eka WASH Project is part of Digicel Foundation’s continued commitment to improving education, health, and sustainable development in Papua New Guinea. Since 2008, the Foundation has invested over K176 million into health and education projects across all 96 districts of PNG, including K2.5 million in Jiwaka Province alone. As the people of Munum Eka move forward with their WASH project, they do so with the pride of knowing they are creating a brighter, healthier future for their children and community. They have proven that when people come together with a shared vision, they can overcome any obstacle—and that is something they truly celebrated on the 16th of September 2024.

Digicel PNG has announced a major milestone in its mission to enhance connectivity across Papua New Guinea by bringing its coverage to almost a million people. Since April 2022, Digicel PNG has significantly expanded its network, reaching all 21 provinces and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, enabling more Papua New Guineans to get connected. Over the past two years, Digicel PNG has built 115 new mobile towers and upgraded 96 mobile towers to 4G LTE, achieving a 20% increase in its 4G LTE coverage, thereby solidifying its position as the largest 4G network in the country. This expansion has resulted in the network covering over 80% of the population of Papua New Guinea, including both rural areas and major urban centers such as Port Moresby, Lae, Mt Hagen, Wewak, and Kokopo. "This expansion underscores Digicel PNG’s dedication to bridging the digital divide and fostering economic and social development across Papua New Guinea," said Tarik Boudiaf, CEO of Digicel PNG. "By extending our mobile network to all 21 provinces and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, we are making significant strides towards enabling every Papua New Guinean to get access to reliable and high-speed internet.” Digicel has the largest network coverage in the country, thus the deployment of new towers has been strategically balanced across the Highlands region, in Momase, in NGI, and in the Southern region, bringing the new coverage to almost a million people. "We recognize the critical role that connectivity plays in today’s digital age,"Boudiaf added. "Our new builds and upgrades, especially targeting rural areas, help to ensure that remote communities are not left behind.” Boudiaf highlighted that in fact, the majority of their mobile network upgrades have been concentrated in the Momase and Southern regions, with the New Guinea Islands and Highlands regions also benefiting significantly. "By investing in our network infrastructure, we are not just improving connectivity; we are contributing to the overall development of Papua New Guinea." "Whether it’s through facilitating better communication, supporting remote education, or enabling digital commerce, our network plays a vital role in the nation’s progress." Digicel’s expansion is part of Telstra’s commitment to Papua New Guinea, following its acquisition of Digicel Pacific in July 2022, thus this acquisition reflects Telstra’s dedication to supporting sustainable economic growth in the Pacific region.

The Oil Palm Industry Corporation (OPIC) through its Popondetta Project Office recently hosted a handover ceremony of two refurbished police quarters at the Sorovi Police Station in Popondetta, Oro Province. The recent ceremony was attended by official members of OPIC including the General Secretary Mr. Kepson Pupita, milling company representatives, police personnel of Sorovi Police Station and the community of Sorovi Village, which is mostly made up of oil palm growers. OPIC General Secretary Mr Pupita when handing over the two refurbished houses to the Sorovi Police Station stated that it has been the goal of OPIC to contribute positively towards the communities they operate in, and working on the police quarters was paramount to bringing peace and harmony back into the community. Pupita also mentioned that with the increase of law-and-order issues in the Sorovi community, it was a timely gesture for OPIC to complete renovation work on the two houses to allow for effective police presence back in Sorovi. The refurbishment of the two police quarters will now ensure that police personnel are back in the community and ready to perform their duties and maintain peace within Sorovi. Mr. Pupita also put forward a challenge to the community to work together with the police to ensure there is peace and safety because this in turn will have a positive impact on oil palm development within the province. "Oil Palm development was designed with the aim of alleviating poverty within the country; therefore, we must look after our oil palm projects so that our people can continue to earn an honest living through the oil palm industry." He also took the time to remind milling companies within the province to take ownership of small holder projects and provide effective assistance and guidance to oil palm growers where necessary. Project Manager of OPIC Popondetta Project said the refurbishment of the police quarters came at a cost of twelve to thirteen thousand kina and thanked the General Secretary for prioritizing funding to make this happen. The total cost of building the two houses was estimated to be over K12,000.00, and OPIC has pledged to continue work with the communities and create positive impacts within the six divisions. Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Ewai Segi upon receiving the keys to the two houses expressed gratitude to OPIC for the assistance given at such a time when law and order issues were prevalent in the community. PPC Segi highlighted that the police force has been experiencing setbacks in infrastructure as well as manpower and this assistance from OPIC will boost the morale of police men working in the province. "I take this time to thank business houses such as OPIC for coming on board to help the community through such initiatives." "These refurbished houses will be utilized by two of our police officers and so we are expecting constant police presence here to attend to law-and-order issues promptly," PPC Segi said. With the official handover of the two refurbished houses, OPIC Popondetta Project looks forward to a better and safer working relationship with local oil palm growers.

National Rugby League (NRL) fans here in Papua New Guinea, great news for you, this coming Independence weekend will see two former top Australian rugby league players grace us with their presence at the independence professional boxing showdown here in Port Moresby city. Sam Thaiday aka Slamming Sam, who is a former Bronco and Queensland Marrons who played as a second rower, prop and also as a Hooker, will be joined by another former NRL star too, John Hopoate, who played for clubs like Manly Sea Eagles and West Tigers and also appeared for NSW Blues in 1995 and was also a former boxer. These two greats will be involved in an exhibition bout at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex on Saturday 14th September. Oceania Fight Promotions Managing Director Maryanne Millie said the two will be arriving on Thursday with their respective teams and accompanied by a former Australia world title holder Barry Michael. Michael, who won the IBF (International Boxing Federation) super middleweight title in 1985, is now a leading Australian pro boxing promoter. “Those passionate about boxing in PNG are grateful for his commitment to work closely with OFP to help grow the sport in the country.” The boxing sport has great potential to provide various benefits to the country like promoting sports tourism among other benefits and anyone assisting in any capacity has been commended for their support. Millie mentioned Air Niugini as one such supporter who is assisting with the airline tickets. “The Thaiday-Hopoate challenge is part of the Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) Fight Night on Sunday night, which has PNG’s leading pro boxer Junior Kauko Raka taking on Indonesia’s Ricky Manufoe in the 60kg 6x3 match-up as the main bout.” “An additional bout to look forward to would be two-time Olympian John Ume who will be making his professional debut.” Mr. Millie added also that other amateur boxers who have already made their professional debuts include Jamie Chang, who won gold at the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Female medalists Liranda Kidu and Goli Bali will also feature on the night against other PNG opponents in a program that is promising to be an exciting exhibition of local talent. Tom Boga, who captained the 2015 Pacific Games team and won gold, is also on the fight card for the event which is scheduled to start at 5pm, Millie said. “The day is expected to start earlier with top PNG amateur boxers up against each other as they showcase their talents.”

The Censorship Office in Papua New Guineas is now on track to regulate the local Music Industry and the Film Industry. This was stated by the Chief Censor Mr. Jim Abani at the Papa Buka Film Dinner night at the Crown Hotel recently. Mr. Abani mentioned that the Censorship office is about classifying films and publications, they are to classify the contents to make sure it is suitable for Papua New Guinean viewers to view. With the introduction of the new Papua New Guinea movie called Papa Buka, a film by the Native Arts and Fashion Academy in PNG and the Nali and Silikon Media from India Film Industry. Mr Abani was excited to censor and give authorization to the 10 new contemporary songs that will be used has background music to the film. “We encourage you Indians to come and shoot more films in our country, going forward censorship will still regulate, so it is a win-win situation for the industry and the people involved as well as the resource.” Abani further stated that most current songs in the country sang by all male artists in the country is about women. “Almost all the names of every woman in the country have been used in all songs.” “We the Censorship office are not here to stop young talents and their music; artist must try to sing descent song and promote our culture.” Mr Abani also stated that Censorship will continue to work with the Natural Cultural Heritage in partnership to promote our country, culture and identity. With the Government Vision 2050, the Censorship office now is in line to regulate the music and the film industry, and benefit from songs and films production.

Papua New Guinea must get ready to be featured on the global culinary stage with the popular YouTube show making its first trip to the land of a million different journeys, promising an exciting culinary adventure through both modern and traditional foods. The Best Ever Food Review Show arrived in Papua New Guinea to explore PNG’s rich and diverse cuisine on Friday 30 August, Port Moresby. Hosted by celebrity Sonny Side, also known as Will Sonbuchner, the show has over 10 million subscribers and is renowned for its vibrant and immersive food explorations around the world. For its Papua New Guinea special, the show will kick off in the capital city, Port Moresby, for the Southern Lag, straight after Port Moresby the film crew will be in the Highlands Region, specifically Tari, in the Hela Province. There the crew will experience the unique flavors and cooking methods of the Highlands, likely sampling traditional dishes prepared in earth ovens known as “mumu”. The journey will then take them to the Momase Region, where they will explore the remote village of Palambei in East Sepik Province, along the Sepik River. This area is known for its vibrant cultural practices and its staple food, sago. The final leg of their culinary adventure will be in the New Guinea Islands Region, with a visit to Rabaul in East New Britain Province. The opportunity to feature PNG on such a prominent platform was first presented to TPA by PNG Experience, a leading tour company known for its expertly curated tours across the country. TPA’s role ensured that Sonny and his team received strong support from the local tourism industry, through special discounts making it feasible for the BEFRS crew to film in various parts of the country. TPA has acknowledged the vital contributions of key industry players, including Air Niugini, Hilton Hotel - Port Moresby, and the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), these partners provided essential support in the form of discounted flights, accommodations, and local resources, making it possible for the show to capture the essence of PNG’s hospitality and culture. Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s Senior Marketing Officer, Simon Pih, expressed his excitement at Sonny’s arrival in the country. "We are thrilled to welcome Sonny Side and his team to Papua New Guinea, their decision to explore our country’s diverse cuisine shows our rich culinary heritage.” “We believe that through their platform, the world will get a glimpse of the unique flavors and cultural experiences that make Papua New Guinea truly special and also ultimately promoting tourism to the world," said Pih.