The Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) stands in full solidarity with the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) in raising serious concerns about the growing suppression of journalists and media freedom in Papua New Guinea. This was the subject of a media statement released today from the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA). “As the regional representative body for Pacific media, PINA is concerned with reports of increasing pressure, intimidation, and restrictions placed on journalists in PNG who are carrying out their duty of informing the public and holding power to account,” said PINA President Kalafi Moala. “Any attempts to stifle the press - whether through threats, denial of access, or censorship - are direct attacks on the democratic values that our region upholds.” “We are deeply disturbed by the reported cases of suspensions, terminations, and ongoing intimidation of journalists working within state-owned media organizations, FM100 and EMTV — both subsidiaries of Telikom PNG Limited.” PINA further stated that these actions, including the termination of FM100’s Culligan Tanda and former EMTV journalist James Guken for simply doing their jobs, represent a dangerous erosion of press freedom and the democratic values we all strive to uphold in the Pacific. “As well, the experiences shared by MCPNG President and PINA Board Member, Neville Choi, including his own dismissal in 2019 and the termination of 24 newsroom staff in 2022 following a protest against harassment, paint a clear and troubling picture of systemic efforts to silence dissenting voices in the media.” PINA further commended the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) for its courage in speaking out against these troubling developments and reiterate the fundamental principle that a free, independent, and vibrant media is a cornerstone of any democratic society. “Journalists must be allowed to operate without fear or interference, especially in matters of public interest.” “To all Pacific governments, PINA issues this reminder: press freedom is a shared regional value that supports transparency, good governance, and the public's right to know.” “We urge our leaders across the Pacific to protect journalists, to uphold the independence of media institutions, and to create environments where the media can carry out its public duty without fear or interference.” PINA also stated their stance in solidarity with their colleagues in Papua New Guinea and across the region. “We remain committed to defending the rights, safety, and independence of all Pacific media professional.”

The Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) today issues a call on Prime Minister James Marape and the government to crack down on the Board and Management of Telikom PNG Limited and stop what has become the practice of silencing and suppressing media personnel who work for government-owned media organizations Kalang Advertising Limited (FM100) and Media Niugini Limited (EMTV). This was disclosed in a media statement released today by the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG). The Council highlighted the cases of FM100 Talkback Show Host Culligan Tanda, who was initially suspended for three weeks without pay, and subsequently issued a termination notice by KAL Chief Executive Officer Bill Wartovo upon the completion of his suspension period this Wednesday; and the case of former EMTV Reporter James Guken, who says he was terminated without notice after writing an online news article quoting the Parliamentary Opposition. Mr. Tanda received his suspension notice following a NASFUND FM100 Talkback Show programme which featured the Governor of East Sepik, Allan Bird following the last Vote of No Confidence motion in Parliament. Mr. Guken says he was terminated without notice after writing the online article which featured quotes from ESP Governor Bird. MCPNG President, Neville Choi says these two cases of media suppression are only two of the latest in a series of media worker terminations by the Board and Management of the Telikom PNG Group since 2018. “In 2019 I was terminated for refusing to act on a directive from the then Telikom PNG CEO to terminate then EMTV News Producer Sincha Dimara and EMTV Deputy News Manager Scott Waide over an overseas news Television story featuring the then New Zealand Prime Minister who had publicly stated that she would not be riding in any of the purchased Maserati luxury sedans when attending APEC 2018.” Mr. Choi added that the directive was based on what was perceived as painting the government of the day in a negative light. “In 2022 a full newsroom of 24 media personnel employed by EMTV were terminated en masse, following their walkout protest against intense intimidation and harassment by the then EMTV Acting CEO.” Mr. Choi said that in each of these cases, Telikom PNG initiated what it described as ‘internal investigations’, the results of which were never made known to the parties under investigation but inevitably ended with media worker terminations. “A free, robust, and independent media is an essential pillar of democracy.” “It is the cornerstone of allowing freedom of speech, and freedom of expression.” “Being in a position of power and authority gives no one, especially brown-nosing public servants wanting to score brownie points with the sitting government administration, the right to suppress media workers who are only doing their jobs and doing it well.” The MCPNG further reminded the managements of State-owned media organizations, that Section 5 of the Organic Law on the Independent Commission Against Corruption (OLICAC) includes within the definition of corrupt conduct by public officials, the dishonest exercising and abusing of official functions. Kalang Advertising Limited (FM100), similar to Media Niugini Limited (EMTV) are subsidiaries of the Telikom PNG Group, a state-owned enterprise within the portfolio of Kumul Consolidated Holdings under the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises. The Board and Management of Kalang, Telikom and KCH falls within the scope of ‘public officials under Section 9 ICAC which includes a member of staff, an officer, or a member of a public body. Mr. Choi added calls from the MCPNG on the ICAC to investigate the matter for corrupt conduct to establish if processes were abused to penalize both Culligan Tanda, and James Guken formerly of EMTV for their reporting. “The Council recognizes the emotional and mental stress this kind of suppression has on media personnel, and has from the beginning of Culligan Tanda’s suspension, respected his wishes and approach to it.” “The MCPNG Executive Board, with the support of its mainstream media members, calls for an immediate and permanent stop to this suppression of the media in PNG.” Meanwhile, when questioned about this most recent termination of Mr. Tanda by the Kalang Advertising Limited (FM100), Prime Minister Marape told PNG HAUSBUNG that he had given direction to his Office to find out what is happening with the termination of Kalang Advertising Limited’s (FM100) Talkback Host and Government Relations Manager Mr. Cullighan Tanda and added his direction to the FM 100 officials to disclose what has happened and to advise what the wrongdoing committed is.

Prime Minister James Marape this evening told PNG HAUSBUNG that he has given direction to his Office and his Chief of Staff to find out what is happening with the termination of Kalang Advertising Limited’s (FM100) Talkback Host and Government Relations Manager Mr. Cullighan Tanda. In an interview with this newsroom, Prime Minster Marape said he had provided this instruction and further added his direction to the FM 100 officials to disclose what has happened and to advise what the wrongdoing committed is. After a 3-week suspension without pay, Kalang Advertising Limited’s Cullighan Tanda was today notified upon his resumption of duties, of his termination from the organization. Tanda had earlier responded with serious concerns following his three-weeks suspension without pay issued by Kalang Advertising Limited (FM100) on April 22, 2025, making these concerns known in a formal letter addressing to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Bill Wartovo, questioning the fairness, transparency, and possible external influence behind the disciplinary action. The veteran broadcaster’s response highlighted critical procedural issues such as the specific policy he allegedly breached. The formal response had argued that his suspension resulted from the alleged lack of prior notice regarding East Sepik Governor Allan Bird’s appearance on the FM100 Talkback Show. Just last Friday May 9th 2025, Tanda attended a Special Parliamentary Committee session on Communications to provide further clarity on what had transpired. The session was led by Chairman Marsh Nerewec and Committee Member Governor Sasindran Muthuvel. During the session, Media Council President Mr. Neville Choi identified that it is not the first time this has happened to media professionals under Telikom PNG. Mr Choi pointed out that James Guken of EMTV was also terminated after writing an article quoting Allan Bird. Meanwhile, it is understood the Media Council of Papua New Guinea will also issue a statement on this matter.

PNG FM Ltd parent company of PNG’s leading radio stations Nau FM, Yumi FM, Legend FM, the Total Event Company, PNG Haus Bung and Magic Factory announces today that it has successfully completed its move to their new home at Hohola, Kunai St. Section 225, Lot 9. Construction on their OWN studio and office complex commenced in May 2023. “This has been a long-time dream, and we are thrilled that we can open in time for our 30th Anniversary in Papua New Guinea on November 14th” said PNG FM Chair Peter Aitsi.    PNGFM Haus, Section 255, Lot 9, Kunai Street, Hohola, Port Moresby, PNG. “Timing is critical in the PNG market, and we believe we have been able to take full advantage of favourable market conditions.” “We purchased the land in the middle of the Covid 19 crisis and were able to construct at a time when the PNG market is starting to move,” said Mr Aitsi. The new studio complex features the latest in broadcast equipment and sets PNG FM up with the tools to fully exploit a muti media future supporting media products both on air and online. “Our team is very excited about the new opportunities that are in front of us “said PNG FM General Manager Rosemarie Botong.                                             Dapu, YUMIFM Day Personality. “We are looking forward to growing our radio stations Nau FM, YUMI FM and Legend FM and our news portal PNG Haus Bung.” “To complete a project like this on time and on budget without any significant hiccups is a tribute to the PNG FM team supported by our contractors and advisors,” said Mr Aitsi. “Special thanks to our contractors China Railway Construction Co. Ltd and our architect Tropical Projects but the real heroes have been the PNG FM team.” Total cost of construction was K10m with the land having been purchased in 2021 for K5m. The complex will be formally opened on November 14th as part of PNG FM’s 30th birthday celebrations.

Tokarara Secondary School Deputy Principal Mr. Jennor Taniwey stressed that with over 1600 students in 2023, teaching staff have grown use to the occasional brawls between different peer groups but have succeeded in maintaining a healthy and educational atmosphere. “We also involving the parents and guardians to be mindful of their children’s peer group activities to allow better understanding for parents, and for them to take disciplinary action outside of the school hours,” said Mr. Taniwey. Mr Taniwey also stressed that the school tries to avoid expulsion for the sake of the student from receiving a bad reputation for his or her future school applications. However, when a student is caught with evidence violating the safety or influences illegal activities to other students, he or she is immediately under review by the board of Governors for expulsion or suspension depending on the depth of incident. Mr. Taniwey stressed that although teaching staff is outnumbered, they have developed and maintained a monitoring and observation strategy to prevent these incidents from occurring. “We have managed to work through the minor and major of students and our staff as a team.“ ”I trust that we are prepared.” “Therefore, we will remain positive to take on the 2024 Academic year and challenges ahead.”

Today marked a momentous occasion for the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) and the media fraternity at large as the MCPNG successfully held its first official Annual General Meeting since the last one in 2017 for members. Members present included full members the South Pacific Post Ltd – Post-Courier, Word Publishing Company – Wantok Niuspepa, Sunday Bulletin, National Broadcasting Corporation - NBC TV/ NBC Radio, PNGFM – NAUFM/ YUMI FM/ LEGEND FM, Media Niugini Ltd – EMTV. Associate members present included Correctional Services (CS) Media and Transparency International PNG Ltd/ Community Coalition against Corruption. Also present was observer Agence France-Presse (AFP). In addition, the new member present was Inside PNG; one of two new members with the inclusion of the PNG News Website. Among the agenda tabled at the Media Council PNG AGM, was the election of new executives for the Media Council of PNG. Incumbent executives Mr Neville Choi, Mr Gregory Moses and Ms Belinda Kora were re-elect ed to their respective positions as MCPNG Chairman/ President, Deputy Chair/ Vice-President, and General Secretary. Newly appointed Treasurer to the Media Council of PNG was PNGFM News Director Ms Genesis Ketan. Re-elected Chairman Mr Choi thanked the Media Council of PNG members present for the confidence in the executives and vowed to continue the work started to rebuild the Media Council of PNG. “The media is currently in a state of change and development.” “There has been a collective drive to rebuild the Media Council to be able to meet these current and future challenges facing free and independent media.” “The media in PNG remains independent and robust, and my re-election as President and the re-election of my fellow executives reflects the confidence the MCPNG Members have in the work the Executive has been doing and is committed to supporting the MCPNG as the official voice of the media in Papua New Guinea.” “These are challenging, but exciting times for the media in PNG, and the region.” “The Council is now on a stronger footing to see through the reform work of the council." The newly endorsed executive will continue the reform program of the Media Council, the rebuilding of its secretarial and financial processes and functions, and a review of its Constitution, and the MCPNG General Industry Code of Ethics. The election of the MCPNG executives reflects the confidence the Council’s mainstream media membership has in them to carry on the reform work at the Council, which began toward the end of last year. This work will continue with the reconstituting of the council through a review and updating of its Association Constitution. This will then lead to discussion on membership, working with journalism training institutions to review journalism training, and improving media advocacy in the country. The reform agenda of the Council has seen the return of its signature Public Discussion and Information Platform, the PNG National Press Club, the Council’s media networking schedule of events, and the return of the PNG Media Awards of Excellence. Today’s AGM also confirmed the official installation of the Media Council Complaints Tribunal which will preside over any complaints made against the mainstream media membership of the MCPNG, failing an amicable resolution of the complaint, or an agreed to retraction or correction by the parties involved. The Complaints Tribunal comprises MCPNG President Neville Choi as Chair, Post Courier Editor-In-Chief Matthew Vari, and Acting Chief News Editor for NBC, Ms. Waliegai Olewale.

Sean Rii unanimously took out the 2021 International Artist of the year for his hit single Chu Chu. The Solomon Island international who has been pumping out hits since 2014, was grateful for the award, thanking his fans for the achievement. RII acknowledged the talent that he had come up against, adding that there was so much depth in his fellow PNG Artists. He dedicated his win to his many fans not only in PNG but around the region. For 2022 however, it was his counterpart, SAIKAY who scored the award.

It's back again! PNGFM Ltd, parent company of Nau FM, Yumi FM and Legend FM, Total Event Company, PNG HAUSBUNG and Magic Factory is pleased to announce the YUMIFM PNG MUSIK AWARDS 2023 with platinum sponsor COCA-COLA and gold sponsor VODAFONE is back again LIVE after 4 years due to COVID-19. In its 18th year, this is the only event that recognizes efforts of artists in the country. This year, the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards will celebrate the work of local artists over the last two years 2021-2022. The Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards will be hosted at the Gold Club Arena on the 17th of June. "We would like to make note of the consistency in the International Artist of the Year category - In association with the Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA)." That is from PNGFM Ltd General Manager Ms Rosemarie 'Shaz' Botong when making the official announcement of the nominees in the International Artist of the Year - in association with APRA category. Ms Botong made these comments to members of the media at the offical Press conference of the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards 2023 today in Port Moresby. "This award recognizes local artists based in PNG who have registered their work through APRA and is calculated with data based on the number of times a song gets radio airplay on our radio stations (YumiFM & NAU FM & Legend FM) and via online platforms." "Quarterly station logs are supplied to APRA who collate and compile data and send to PNGFM." Ms Botong added that PNGFM Ltd through Yumi FM, Nau FM and Legend FM is proud to be the only media organization in the country affiliated with APRA. "Nominees in the 2023 International Artist of the Year category - In association with Australasian Performing Rights Association (APRA) are:" "For the Year 2021: · SAILAS KANIA - FRANGIPANI SSM (SAII KAY FT KRONOS & CAMMY BEE) · JAYSON SUISUI – KOKO (JAYREX SUISUI) · ELIAS SAMUEL – LONG WEI (ARCHIE TAZZY FEATZ RAGATH & HA)" "For the Year 2022: · RICHIE SAENI - CHU CHU (SEAN RII) · ELIAS SAMUEL – KUNAI 55 (ELBIG RAINGZ FT KRONOS) · CLINTON MALELE – EASTSIDE (TONTON MALELE & DJ DIRTY FINGERZ)". Ms Botong further congratulated all nominees and encouraged more local artists to register with APRA. "We encourage more local artists to register with APRA so that you are paid for airplay of your songs." This International Artist of the Year Category with APRA is among 10 categories in total for the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards. 1. Best New Artist of the Year 2. Artist of the Year 3. Song of the Year 4. Male Artist of the Year 5. Female Artist of the Year 6. International Artist of The Year (APRA) 7. Duo/ Group of the Year 8. Producer of the Year Other two categories are the listener’s choices-voted for by the listeners via call, walk-ins, or Facebook: 9. Justin Kili Award (Nominations closed as of at 12 midnight 21st May 2023). 10. People’s Choice Song of the Year (Nominations closed as of midnight 4th June 2023). "Get ready for the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS with COCA-COLA 2023 this Saturday the 17th of June 2023 at the Gold Club Arena, 7pm till late." "See the hottest artists perform live; the likes of Kronos, Daniel Bilip, Kande Dwayne, Jnr Vigi, BeeJoh, Danielle and Jarahn." Meanwhile, tickets for the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards are on sale now at the PNGFM office and the Lamana Hotel reception – tickets are going for K200 balcony and K150 general arena. The Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards 2023 comes to you with support of Platinum Sponsor, Coca Cola and Gold Sponsor, Vodafone, NAU FM, Legend FM, PNG HAUSBUNG and Magic Factory.

“A lot has been said in the media and social media over recent weeks and people of PNG wants to know the truth of what was said and how it was intended and how it was manipulated and was actually meant by my words.” MP for Port Moresby South Justin Tkatchenko today said this is his official address of apology seeking leave of the National Parliament after question time today. “I made these comments in a media interview targeted at social media trolls, faceless people spend days on social media hidden behind false names.” “They say the most disgusting things and make he most vile threats on social media.”” “Mr Speaker, regardless of any office that I represent; above all else in life – I am a father of my children.” “And when I saw the foul, vile & disgusting things being said about my daughter – I think I was in a state of blind fury towards these individuals.” Tkatchenko further added “These disgusting individuals were making sexual threats against my daughter. I think every parent of this house and nation can understand how angry I am.” “If anyone in our country thought this was a blanket statement about our people - that is completely wrong, and I apologize as a result in that context.” “In my heart of hearts, I simply ask every citizen how I could ever say such a thing about our people.” “We are also talking about my 6 beautiful children and my family who are my life.” The MP then further stated that how anyone could ever believe for him to have such thoughts because they could never be true. “My words and comments against these disturbing people were twisted, manipulated for own political and personal brand.” “Again, I apologize for the way my words were misinterpreted.” “In light if this misunderstanding, I did my solemn duty by stepping aside as Minister for Foreign Affairs putting my country first to clear confusion on this matter.” Tkatchenko also thanked the Prime Minister and cabinet colleagues for their understanding and accepting this decision in doing so. “At this point of time, I am also cooperating with appropriate authorities on this issue to clear any misunderstandings.” “Mr Speaker, it’s a whole new world we are living in today, the internet and all its benefits its gift to the world and threats that also accrues.” Mr Tkatchenko further added that he knew the TikTok video his daughter posted was not appropriate.” “As a parent, this is something many of us go through as we guide our children through the early stages of life.” He further said this situation that had transpired teaches a lesson of dangers of internet, especially lack of accountability from people that abuse it. “Finally, Mr Speaker, I love this country – the independent state of Papua New Guinea and all this country has been through.” “To our nation, I say to you that I am truly sorry for any misunderstanding. PNG is my home and my heart and is the place where one day Io will be laid to rest.” “I will serve the people of this nation in any way asked of me.” “I will represent the people of Moresby South as their mandated leader and Member in this House as long as they wish me to do so.” He ended the apology by stating he is a proud Papua New Guinean and always will be.

“I wish to address concerns that have been raised in news reports and social media commentary in recent days relating to our nation’s representation at the coronation of King Charles III and clarify on comments I have made in relation these internet trolls, who are individuals that threaten, abuse and bully people online." That’s from the statement of apology to the people of Papua New Guinea from the Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko. This follows a viral video posted by his daughter documenting her travel accompanying her father to the recent Royal Coronation of HRH King Charles III in England over the weekend. This sparked heated outrage amongst PNG citizens calling the Foreign Minister’s daughter’s travel a misuse of taxpayer funds. An ABC Pacific Beat article then quotes Minister Tkatchenko response to this, who slammed the social commentary against Ms Tkatchenko, citing it as a traumatic experience for his daughter and cyber bullying from “primitive animals”. Numerous calls have now ensued for the Minster to issue a public apology to PNG and further called for his resignation in the wake of such distasteful comments from Minister Tkatchenko. The Minister further stated this apology by way of an official media release this evening. “First and foremost, I would like to personally apologize about my comments that were taken the completely wrong way and make known that these comments were solely directed to the individuals that made these disgusting and vile comments about my daughter.” “As a father to 6 beautiful children, your love for them is unconditional.” “So, when one of your children gets attacked by people that have no respect for common decency, or the truth, it makes you very frustrated and angry.” The Minister further added, “There were horrible threats of a sexual and violent nature, and disgusting words used that no woman should ever have to see, that were made against my daughter online.” “Ultimately, my daughter is a person of her generation, the online generation, where they like to post everything about their lives online.” Tkatchenko added that his daughter now realizes how the video was perceived which was not appropriate. “Finally, I apologize once more to anyone that got offended by my comments and for the way this matter has transpired and is being perceived, but I said this as a father protecting his daughter.”

About 100 Human Resource Management Major students of the University of Papua New Guinea School of Business and Public Policy are now officially affiliated student members of the PNG Human Resource Institute. This followed the official certificate membership presentation by PNGHRI to the students at the UPNG HRM student chapter orientation on Thursday evening. [caption id="attachment_39740" align="alignnone" width="720"] Mr John and HRM student leaders[/caption] These student members included a mix of both undergraduates and professional students in the BBM - HRM program. HOD Mr Raymond John said the orientation was the first of many programs planned by the UPNG HRM Chapter for the 2023 academic year. Mr John added that HR is a growing profession and students were fortunate to be in that space with more jobs available after graduation in the industry. He also further challenged HR students to be adaptable to the changing workforce with the imminent introduction of AI in the coming future. [caption id="attachment_39741" align="alignnone" width="1008"] Some of the UPNG BBM - HRM Professional Studies students[/caption] It was a memorable start for the UPNG HRM Chapter activities as the program ended off with keynote speakers and inspirational addresses from recent graduates now in the workforce who shared personal life lessons with the students present on the night.

It’s back again! PNGFM Ltd, parent company of NauFM, Yumi FM and LegendFM is pleased to announce the YUMIFM PNG MUSIK AWARDS 2023 with COCA-COLA is back again after a year’s break due to COVID-19. This year, the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards will celebrate the work of local artists over the last two years 2021-2022. The Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards will be hosted at the Lamana Gold Club on the 17th of June 2023. In its 18th year, this is the only event that recognizes efforts of artists in the country. We are pleased to announce nominations and categories. There are 10 categories. 1. Best New Artist of the Year 2. Artist of the Year 3. Song of the Year 4. Male Artist of the Year 5. Female Artist of the Year 6. Registered Artist of The Year (APRA) 7. Duo/ Group of the Year 8. Producer of the Year The following two categories are the listener’s choices-voted for by the listeners via call, walk-ins or Facebook: 9. Justin Kili Award 10. People’s Choice Song of the Year The nominees are as follows in the following categories: It gives us great pleasure to make note that the Female Artist of the Year category is back this year with nominees and showing consistency both years. Notable mentions are JNR Viginats with 5 different nominations in five different categories and newcomer TonTon Malele with 4 nominations in four different categories over the last 2 years. Tickets for the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards are not out yet; but you can pre- book tickets now via the Total Events Company on phone numbers 323 0352 / 7373 8809. The Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards comes to you with support of Platinum Sponsor, Coca Cola and Gold Sponsor, Vodafone, NAU FM, Legend FM, PNG HAUSBUNG and Magic Factory.