PNGFM Limited, home of the three most popular radio stations NAU FM, YUMI FM, and LEGEND FM, celebrated 30 years of broadcasting.
Established on November 14th, 1994, PNGFM has become a cornerstone of entertainment, news and information in Papua New Guinea (PNG), the 30th Anniversary celebration last night was to thank everyone who helped make PNGFM a success, including clients, former staff members, supporters and the listeners right throughout the country.
Founded by Mr. William Parkinson, who also established Communication Fiji Limited (CFL) the parent company, PNGFM grew from strength to strength from humble beginnings to the leading broadcaster it is today in the country.
The flagship station, NAU FM, also celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of connecting listeners across the country, having been the first station launched by PNGFM in 1994.
The host of the event, YUMI FM personality ‘Kasty ‘, spoke about how far the station has come since its early days, when PNGFM operated with basic equipment like floppy disks and how it has transitioned to everything that the team is operating with today.
He shared how the station has adapted and grown, especially through tough times like the 2003 economic crisis. Kasty highlighted the resilience of the team, stressing how they worked together to overcome challenges and continue delivering quality radio to listeners in the country.
“But today, it’s much more advanced with the latest radio broadcasting software and consoles. Through all those tough hard times we never gave up, we stood by each other and survived.”
Following Kasty’s speech, PNGFM General Manager Rosemarie Botong (Shaz) took the stage to welcome the guests and reflect on the station’s achievements. She expressed gratitude to the founders, advertisers, and loyal listeners who have supported PNGFM throughout its journey.
“Thank you for being here tonight. We are thrilled to welcome you to our official housewarming. And today, we also celebrate our 30th anniversary.”
Rosemarie’s remarks celebrated the hard work and dedication that have made PNGFM a trusted name in radio. She thanked everyone who contributed to the station’s growth and success over the years.
A standout moment of the evening was a live performance by Justin Wellington. Also known as JW, a renowned artist whose first career album was launched by NAU FM in 2008 that made JW a household name in PNG Music.
Justin performed several of his hit songs, including the 2020 Worldwide TikTok Hit and Billboard sensation “Iko Iko (My Bestie)” and shared how NAU FM played a key role in his early career, helping to make his music popular with listeners across nation.
Justin’s performance was a heartfelt tribute to the station that supported him during the start of his musical career, making the night even more memorable.
Also participating on the night was PNG and Pacific music sensation Pati Pots Doi, belting out his famous songs. Pati Pots performance on the night was also significant in that the artist won multiple awards in the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK Awards over the 30 years of the PNGFM.
Guests were also given an exclusive tour of PNGFM’s new office space. The tour offered a behind the scenes look at how the station operates, including visits to the three radio studios, the PNG HAUSBUNG newsroom, and various departments like Sales, Finance, and Events.
Attendees got to see firsthand what it is like to be a part of the team that makes PNGFM the leading broadcaster in the country.
The evening ended with a traditional Fijian kava session, where guests enjoyed the special drink that is traditionally shared during important occasions. This moment honored PNGFM’s Pacific roots and was a nod to the station’s founder, William Parkinson, and the cultural ties that have shaped the station’s identity.
Mr. Peter Aitsi, who is PNGFM Board Chairman and the first General Manager, expressed his thanks to the community for their continued support as he emphasized the importance of strong relationships and partnerships, which have been key to PNGFM’s success.
“Your presence tonight and your ongoing support for PNGFM is really a testimony to the importance of the relationships that bind us together, and the positive impacts that are made through these productive relationships and productive partnerships.”
As PNGFM celebrates its 30th anniversary, the stations are excited about the future. With the support of its loyal listeners, advertisers, and community partners, PNGFM is ready to continue providing High-Quality Radio to the people of PNG.