Katrina ANGELI

Police are working with the surrounding communities of Nawaeb district lo Morobe province to apprehend youths who attacked female students of Nawaeb High School in the Morobe province. Morobe Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Jacob Singura confirmed that between 7PM and 8PM last night, the youths from the surrounding community came into the female dormitory to steal phones and other staff and caused infiltrated harm to the female students at their dormitory. PPC Singura has already tasked his police officers this morning to go to the school and give assurance to the school management, parents and the citizens that police are investigating the matter. He has also tasked the police officers to talk to the surrounding communities to identify the youths and assist police to surrender those youths involved. “We want to make sure there is a rule of law, and it must be respected by everyone." "Those students should also be respected and allow them to live and study in a peaceful and safe environment to get an education.” “I will again attend the incident today for further follow-up as I have not confirmed the number of female students being attached.” “I appeal to the people particularly the surrounding communities to have respect for the learning institutions and make the learning environment conducive for our children to get better education.” PPC Singura stated that this kind of incident was very concerning. He also called up on everyone to identify those youths involved so that the police could arrest and bring them before the courts.

A total of 87, 990 Grade ten (10) students across the country will sit for their Written Expression National Exam on Thursday June 5th, 2025. The students are from 514 Secondary and High Schools, including 48 private permitted schools in the country who have been nominated to sit this important exam. Secretary for Education, Dr Uke Kombra, confirmed that the exam booklets have already been delivered to all the provinces and had reached all the schools a week prior to the exam date. “This marks the first National Exam in the education calendar and for National examination schedule for this year.” “The Written Expression Exam is important as any other lower secondary certificate exams to be held in October, later this year.” To ensure the integrity and fairness of the exam, the Department has put in place strict security measures for handling and distributing the exam papers. All the Provincial Education Advisers (PEAs), provincial education examination supervisors, senior secondary school inspectors, guidance officers, principals and governing councils are asked to be vigilant and security conscious with the examination materials through the actual administration, by following the rules enforced by the Measurement Services Division. Dr Kombra also advised everyone involved in the examination process to prevent all tendencies towards any mal practices that may compromise the results. “I want to remind students to stay calm and focused during the exam. Read all the questions carefully, manage your time well, and go over your work before submitting it.” Special support will be provided for students who have special needs so that they can also take the exam comfortably and fairly. He further wished all Grade ten (10) students the very best of luck and called on parents, teachers, and the community to support the students during this important time.

The Papua New Guinea Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICSA) recently launched the first in a series of training workshops aimed at educating its officers on the importance of embedding the Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) policy into its services. Taking place at APEC House from the 20th to the 22nd of May 2025, the first of ICSA’s GESI ‘Know Your Series’ kicked off with the inaugural Know Your Strategic Work Plan three-day workshop focused on understanding ICSA’s Corporate Plan. Twenty officers from all levels across the organization participated in tailored activities over three days, including real-world case studies and scenarios. The initiative was aimed at embedding the GESI policy into strategic planning and daily tasks while promoting ownership, accountability and collaboration across teams. PNG ICSA Chief Migration Officer (CMO), Wellington Navasivu praised the success of the initiative and highlighted the importance of the GESI policy in all aspects of ICSA’s work. “We here at ICSA acknowledge the importance of furthering the GESI agenda and are working towards full implementation of the GESI policy.” “This training workshop is a pivotal step toward empowering our officers to achieve their professional aspirations while collectively improving the organization by promoting accountability and ownership.” The workshop program was structured over three days to enhance understanding and implementation of key strategies. On day one, participants engaged in interactive discussions, group presentations, and team-building activities to deepen their knowledge of strategy and planning, particularly through an examination of ICSA’s Corporate Plan 2024–2028. Followed by that, in days two and three, focused on defining roles, key performance indicators (KPIs), and practical applications of GESI principles, using case studies to connect policy with daily responsibilities. The training will continue sessions throughout this year, 2025.

The Marape-Rosso government remains steadfast in its commitment to build an education system that meets the needs of every child, leave no child behind, strengthens communities, and supports the nation’s long-term development goals. This is according to Minister for Education Lucas Dekena, who on behalf of the Ministry of Education expressed his gratitude to the government for its undivided support for a World Bank Loan. He also extends appreciation to the World Bank for its recent approval and release of US$100 million (K406 million) in funding to support the Learning Enhancement and Access Project (LEAP) in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The Learning Enhancement and Access Project (LEAP) is a transformative initiative that aims to improve learning outcomes for children across the country, targeting the foundational years, that is, Early Childhood Education (ECE) preparatory, grade one and two. This critical investment will directly support an estimated 3, 500 schools, benefiting approximately 375, 000 preparatory to grade two students and 9, 000 teachers, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in an environment that nurtures their potential. LEAP will now focus on four key pillars including: - Preparing children to be ready to learn: The project will support pilot Early Childhood Education (ECE) initiatives, laying a strong foundation for future learning and aligning with the government’s commitment to expand and formalize ECE in the national education system. - Supporting teachers to teach effectively: LEAP will provide high-quality teaching and learning materials, extensive professional development, and teacher qualification upgrading to equip teachers with the skills and resources they need to succeed. - Modernizing infrastructure and management: Recognizing the importance of safe, well-equipped learning environments, the project will invest in refurbishing school infrastructure, improving data management systems, and enhancing overall governance in the education sector. - Strengthening project management and capacity-building: LEAP will support the Department of Education in building strong systems and human resource capacity to ensure effective delivery, monitoring, and sustainability of project activities. Minister Dekena said this funding shows the World Bank’s trust in our plans for education. “LEAP will help our teachers and children and bring hope to communities across the country and once again, I thank the World Bank for standing with us to improve the future of our children.” “We look forward to signing the agreements and formally launching the project in the coming weeks.” Moreover, the project represents the first phase of a 12-year Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA), designed to be a scalable and sustainable pathway to achieve significant education reforms and ultimately improve learning outcomes across the country. LEAP is aligned with the Government’s National Education Plan 2020-2029, the Medium-Term Development Plan IV 2023-27, and the country’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all). Furthermore, the Ministry of Education also acknowledges the ongoing efforts to secure additional funding through the $50 million OPEC Fund and the approximately $10 million grant from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which will bring the total project funding to approximately $160 million (K429,145,600) once finalized.

On Tuesday this week, a distinguished delegation of Papua New Gionea’s fashion representatives departed for the Fiji Fashion Week 2025, marking yet another milestone in the country’s rise on the Pacific fashion scene. Onboard this mission are cultural fashion icon Florence Jaukae Kamel, brand ambassador Incennea Minz, and Bridgette Kassman as well as Executive Assistant to the Managing Director of PNG Fashion Week. Their presence in Fiji highlights the deep commitment PNG Fashion Week has made to both regional collaboration and cultural diplomacy. Leading the charge is Florence Jaukae Kamel, known worldwide as the “Bilum Meri,” who’s handmade bilum couture pieces turn tradition into high fashion. Her participation is a celebration of PNG women’s artistry and indigenous knowledge, woven into every stitch. Also joining her is Incennea Minz, PNG Fashion Week’s vibrant brand ambassador, who will grace the Fiji Fashion Week runway as a model, proudly representing the fusion of tradition and modern Melanesian style. Incennea embodies this year’s theme, ‘GENESIS’, with elegance and authenticity. In addition, also providing crucial support is Bridgette Kassman, who travels in her role as ExecutiveKat Assistant to the Managing Director, ensuring the smooth coordination and representation of PNG Fashion Week throughout the event. The delegation is flown to Suva and back, with the courtesy of Air Niugini, the official air carrier and cornerstone partner of PNG Fashion Week. Their ongoing support plays a vital role in enabling international exposure and exchange opportunities for Papua New Guinea’s fashion industry. Adding to the moment was the presence of William Maba Bray, a celebrated PNG designer, who was at Jacksons International Airport to see the team off. William will take part in Florence Jaukae Kamel’s Bilum Festival in Goroka later this year, as part of PNG Fashion Week’s ongoing fashion exchange program, further strengthening regional and cultural fashion ties. Spokesperson from PNG Fashion Week, Bridgette Kassman stated that this is what GENESIS is all about, and that is new beginnings, deeper connections, and stronger representation PNG’s culture. “We are not just sending designers, we are sending ambassadors of heritage, identity, and innovation.” Furthermore, with the team now in Suva, they will now carry with them the pride of a nation ready to shine and bring the spirit of PNG to walk boldly down the Fiji Fashion Week 2025.

Prime Minister James Marape has issued a clear and uncompromising directive to public servants in the Provinces and Districts throughout the country who fail to abide by Reporting requirements that they will face serious disciplinary action, including termination. In his strong Statement to Parliament this week, the Prime Minister emphasized that a culture of accountability must be embedded in every level of Government, from National Departments to Provincial and District Administrations. Adding on to his strong call following Parliament session this week, Prime Minister Marape said that failure to report is not just poor governance, it is outright negligence. “If you are entrusted with public funds and responsibilities, reporting is mandatory, not a choice. Those who do not comply will be removed from their positions. No more carrying individuals who fail to deliver.” Prime Minister Marape made it clear that all department heads, consular administrators, provincial administrators, and district officers must submit timely reports on work progress and financial management. He also highlighted that the government is entering a new phase of governance, where transparency is the foundation of nation-building. “You, as department heads or administrators in the Provinces and Districts, must report on your work. We have carried people for too long who do not report on what they are doing. That stops now.” “If you are not reporting, you are failing in your duty, and that failure comes with consequences.” In addition, through the presentation of a consolidated Annual Provincial Governments Performance Report for the years 2018-2022 by Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, Soroi Eoe in Parliament, the government laid a strong foundation for enhancing the delivery of public services across the country. He further said that a renewed call to action for all Provinces and Districts is that it is time to provide timely and detailed reports on yearly achievements and the utilization of funds allocated through the National Budget. He emphasized that the process of reporting is far more than an administrative requirement; it is a cornerstone of good governance and an essential instrument for tracking progress at all levels of Government. Moreover, he also reinforced strict Deadlines for Compliance: • Performance Reports must be submitted by 30th June each year • Financial Reports are due by 31st March each year “These deadlines are absolute,” Marape warned. “No more delays, no more excuses. If you cannot meet these obligations, then you have no place in the public service." Meanwhile, the Prime Minister clarified that enforcement is backed by existing laws, specifically Sections 119 and 114 of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local-Level Government: • Section 119 mandates administrative and performance reporting • Section 114 governs financial transparency He further stressed that the previous governments have struggled with accountability, leading to weak oversight and inefficient service delivery. He also pointed out that since the 1995 Provincial Government Reform, only three Ministers of Government (Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs) have tabled such reports that Minister Eoe has presented in Parliament this week, while under 40% of Provincial Governments have met their reporting obligations. “This chronic failure has continued for decades. But today, we are drawing a line in the sand. If you do not report, you will be removed because accountability is not optional.” With Papua New Guinea approaching its 50th year of Independence, Prime Minister Marape sees these reforms as critical to modernizing governance and strengthening public trust. “This is not just about paperwork. This is about delivering results for our people, ensuring every kina spent is accounted for.” “We are restructuring our governance systems so that PNG enters its next chapter with integrity and efficiency at the core.” Furthermore, PM Marape called on all leaders to support these reforms, emphasizing that good governance transcends political affiliations. “This is a bipartisan issue. Transparency is not a political debate, but it is our responsibility as leaders.” “Every public servant must step up and deliver. Those who cannot meet the standard will be removed.” “We have learned from past mistakes, and now we are implementing robust mechanisms to ensure reporting is enforced and who fail will face termination, because non-compliance is a betrayal of public trust. We will not allow this cycle to continue.” With strict reporting measures now in place, the Marape-Rosso Government aims to restore transparency, strengthen public sector integrity, and ensure Government efficiency across Papua New Guinea.

The East New Britain Provincial Election Advisory Committee (PEAC) has issued a public warning to candidates contesting the 2025 Local Level Government (LLG) Elections over the unauthorized use of official government symbols in their campaign materials. In an official statement released on Thursday May 22nd, the PEAC Chairman and Provincial Administrator Mr. Levi Mano, stated that several candidates have included the crest, logo, and emblem of the East New Britain Provincial Government and its administration on their campaign posters without permission. Mr. Mano stressed that the Provincial Government remains strictly neutral and does not endorse or support any candidate, whether independent or affiliated with a political party. “The East New Britain Provincial Government and its administration do not financially or materially support any candidate.” “All campaign materials must be free of any government emblems or symbols to ensure the integrity and neutrality of the election process.” He called on all candidates currently using such symbols to remove them from their posters immediately. Meanwhile, the PEAC has directed provincial administration staff to ensure full compliance by removing all offending campaign materials. Mr. Mano also emphasized that the use of official government imagery on campaign materials could mislead the public into believing that certain candidates have government backing, which he described as ‘misrepresentation.’ Furthermore, the committee reminded candidates that it is their responsibility to produce campaign posters that reflect their individual campaigns, independent of any connection to the provincial government. Campaign period for the 2025 LLG Elections have commenced with polling and counting period scheduled for the months of July and August respectively.

Team PNG athletes and officials came together on Sunday the 25th of May 2025 at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby for a vibrant and spirited team bonding event in preparation for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau. The day-long event brought together over 150 athletes and officials in a celebration of unity, national pride, and team culture under the guidance of the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC). The event featured a range of activities designed to disseminate important Team PNG and Games information, strengthen relationships, reinforce shared values, and prepare Team PNG to represent the nation with pride. The program began with a moving devotion by the Gavuone Urban Fellowship and a powerful rendition of the National Anthem and Pledge by students from Gordons International School. PNGOC President Emma Waiwai, in officially welcoming Team PNG athletes and officials to the Team Bonding event, also congratulated all who earned their place on the team and said that the event was not about competition, but about building real connections, a deeper connection with team members, clear sense of purpose and renewed spirit of unity. Team PNG was privileged to have former athlete and member of the General Management Team, Xenia Peni share her story of her journey as an athlete, to inspire the team representing PNG at the Palau 2025 Pacific Mini Games. Xenia, who represented PNG in Swimming at the Olympic and Pacific Games in Swimming and also Vaá at the 2005 and 2015 Pacific Games, encouraged athletes to know why they train, play and give it their all. Meanwhile, Team PNG’s Chef de Mission for Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo, also gave his remarks, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared purpose. “Team PNG is more than just a group of athletes. We are one team, one spirit, and one voice. This bonding experience is about understanding that we each play a part in lifting our country, both on and off the field.” “This is where our journey as a team truly begins.” In addition, athletes were also addressed by the Chair of the Athletes Commission, Andrew Molen and also on the importance of Safeguarding that was addressed by Asiani Vagi. Athletes engaged in interactive sessions grouped by functional areas such as Media, Medical, Performance, Safeguarding and Anti-doping, and the Athletes Commission. These sessions, creatively named after iconic Palau landmarks such as Jellyfish Lake, Rock Islands, and Milky Way Lagoon, which added a fun and thematic layer to the experience. Moreover, the event ended with a lively team walkout practice, a spirited performance of the official Team PNG song, and a team lunch that allowed athletes and officials to connect in a relaxed setting. PNGOC sincerely thanked Coca-Cola Europacific Partners for their generous donation of ten cases of beverages, and the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF) for providing the venue at Sir John Guise Stadium. Their support played a vital role in the success of this event, in which PNGOC expressed their true appreciation towards. Furthermore, with the countdown to Palau 2025 underway, the Team Bonding Day marked a meaningful step forward in ensuring Team PNG heads into the competition united, motivated, and ready to make the nation proud.

The energy was electric at the Port Moresby edition of the Trukai Fun Run Auction held on Friday evening as the local business community rallied together in a powerful display of support for Team PNG. The event proved to be a resounding success, with an impressive 17, 200 Trukai Fun Run shirts being sold, collectively raising a significant K258, 000 for Team PNG. These highly anticipated auctions serve as a crucial fundraising prelude to the annual Trukai Fun Run, a much-loved national event. This year’s Fun Run carries the inspiring theme, ‘Running Through History,’ an emotional reflection on Papua New Guinea’s remarkable 50-year journey of Independence. The theme shines a spotlight on the unifying power of sport, celebrating its growth and development as a force that brings communities together. All proceeds generated from the auction will be channelled directly towards funding Team PNG’s participation in the upcoming 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau, scheduled from June 29th to July 9th. This financial boost will be instrumental in ensuring our athletes have the resources they need to compete at their best on the international stage. Both the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) and Trukai Industries Limited (TIL), who are the driving forces behind the Trukai Fun Run, expressed their profound gratitude to the Port Moresby business community for their unwavering commitment to Team PNG. Their heartfelt thanks extended to the numerous government entities, business houses, and individuals who demonstrated remarkable generosity by attending and bidding at the auction, all in support of both our national athletes and local schools, who will also benefit significantly from the funds raised. Team PNG Chef de Mission to Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo took a moment to recognize and thank the Trukai Fun Run major sponsor, Trukai industries Limited, and the top five bidders at the t-shirt auction including, Sir Brian Bell Foundation, Institute of Business Studies University, Brands Pacific, International Training Institute, and PNG Investment Promotion Authority (IPA), for their invaluable support. “I would like to extend my warmest gratitude towards the major sponsor, Trukai Industries. Limited for their unwavering support.” “Your contributions will play a crucial role in this year’s Pacific Mini Games, we are grateful for your commitment towards Team PNG.” “Your generosity is truly inspiring and gives us the motivation to continue our efforts to provide the best possible Launchpad for our Team PNG athletes.” [caption id="attachment_65930" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Team PNG Chef de Mission to Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo Mr. Knivagi Karo Pic Credits: Trukai Industries Limited[/caption] Meanwhile the head of Trukai Industries, Mr. Andrew Grace, also acknowledged the remarkable commitment and support demonstrated by the business community towards Team PNG. He conveyed his sincere gratitude and expressed his optimistic outlook for the upcoming annual Trukai Fun Run. “We are eagerly looking forward to working closely with the PNG Olympic Committee to make this year’s Trukai Fun Run another truly memorable event.” “Mark your calendars for June 22nd, as we anticipate an event that will be bigger, better, and even safer for everyone to participate in.” He further emphasized the enduring strength of the partnership, stating that for 25 years, the partnership between Trukai Industries and the PNG Olympic Committee has stood strong as a powerful symbol of their shared commitment to Team PNG and the incredible unifying power of sports within our nation. The resounding success of the 2025 Port Moresby Trukai T-shirt auctions would not have been possible without the invaluable contributions of dedicated support sponsors. [caption id="attachment_65929" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Head of Trukai Industries Mr. Andrew GracePic Credits: Trukai Industries Limited[/caption] Moreover, the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee and Trukai Industries have both extended their sincere gratitude and appreciation to Air Niugini, Theodist Limited, IBS University, Coral Sea Hotels, Trophy Haus, and Vodafone PNG for their tireless support and unwavering dedication to the Trukai Fun Run campaign. The commitment of these esteemed sponsors has truly made a significant difference, and both organizations look forward to their continued partnership and support in the years to come. In addition, a unique aspect of the initiative allows participating organizations the option to add their own branding onto the purchased t-shirts before generously donating them to their chosen schools. This thoughtful gesture further strengthens the connection between the business community and the educational institutions they are supporting. Furthermore, in terms of adding a touch of fun and promoting healthy living, the Fun Run t-shirt design also features Trukai Industries’ beloved superheroes of nutrition, Tru and Kai. These vibrant characters are also the stars of two engaging publications produced by Trukai Industries in partnership with Buk bilong Pikinini. These superheroes champion the vital message of healthy eating and active lifestyles, inspiring young Papua New Guineans to embrace a healthy lifestyle. The overwhelming success of the Port Moresby auction sets a positive tone for the second lag of the Trukai Fun Run Auctions which will be in Lae on June 13th and the main Trukai Fun Run event on June 22nd, promising to be a powerful demonstration of national unity, sporting spirit, and community support.

Kokopo based Growers Association Incorporation (GAI) has achieved a milestone, producing chickens locally and selling for affordable prices to the Kokopo communities. The project has been undergoing progress and is a few steps ahead in ensuring that East New Britain province is self-sufficient on food, and that is the consumption of chickens. The GAI poultry venture began with the support of the World Bank funded program through the PACD (Papua New Guinea Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification)-Cocoa project where they are one of the eighteen partnerships in the country assisted with funding to roll out poultry project as well as cocoa in the Duke of York Island of Kokopo District. Under the leadership of Executive Manager, Simon Arnold, they are not only assisting farmers to plant cocoa and farm poultry but also to treat these opportunities as a business or small SME and manage them sustainably to support their immediate families, wards and more widely. GAI has been supported with just over a million kina to roll out their various activities in their outline contract and budget. The poultry project has 100 farmers and 200 farmers in the Duke of York Island in Kokopo District. The process of the poultry project starts with the purchase of the chicks, followed by the supply to the farmers and when the chicks reach the weight requirement, GAI then harvests from them and process or help with the marketing. Mr. Arnold also stated that currently growers' poultry team are harvesting chickens from their farmers, slaughtered, clean, processed, prepare and packed at their small processing plant facility that was purchased with the financial support from PACD-Cocoa PMU. The chickens are currently selling at K22 per kilo as well as packed 500 gram for K10 and 800 grams for K15 plus a variety of price ranger at the GAI office in Kokopo near the Cocoa Board office. This exercise has brought a lot of excitement to the farmers as well as people in the province, as this is actually the first of its kind for an organization helping smallholder farmers is charting a new course for sustainable farming and diversification and commercialization. Moreover, GAI is engaging youths from the surrounding community to do little work in the facility such as cleanliness, security, carpenter work and working inside the slaughterhouse slaughtering and preparing the chickens after they undergone some trainings. The mini slaughterhouse set up at Vimi plantation in Kokopo District was once a hot spot area of social issues such as hold ups, stealing and has also seen many youths turn to social issues to survive. Many of them have lost their lives where they were shot by police. With the hardship faced by the youths, GAI is now engaging a good number of them to work in the mini slaughterhouse. The youths are now raising poultry and plan to replicate what PACD GAI project has started off them with and aim that all families in Vimi will have a poultry house. Mr. Arnold added that they are just waiting for the rightful authorities to give them permission and in which they can then proceed with proper packaging and selling of chickens. Meanwhile, a farmer, Ignasia Ginigil has expressed her gratitude to the World Bank through the PACD Cocoa project for supporting her with her poultry project. She also thanked GAI for their continuous field visits and trainings that have put confidence in them to pursue this project for the first time. “I am a cocoa farmer but now with this new poultry project, I am happy and thankful that this is another income revenue for my family to sustain our livelihood in these challenging times.” Furthermore, the project initiatives aim to increase cocoa production and improve livelihoods and signifies a significant step towards enhancing agricultural sustainability and economics in PNG’s rural communities.

Cook Islands will increase its minimum wage by 50 cents to $10 per hour, a change welcomed by some workers and expats but considered insufficient by others and potentially impactful for small tourism businesses facing rising costs. The Cook Islands' minimum wage will increase by 50 cents, from $9.50 to $10 per hour, effective 1 July 2025. While some welcome the change, others argue it's insufficient given the rising cost of living, including soaring rental and food prices. The Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council notes that smaller businesses may feel the impact of this increase. The Employment Relations (Minimum Rate of Pay) Regulations, signed by the King's Representative on 15 April, approved the proposed increase. The new minimum wage was proposed following the annual review mandated by the Employment Relations Act 2012. Two Cook Islands teenagers, who wished to remain anonymous for job security reasons, believe the minimum wage should be higher to reflect the current cost of living. The 19-year-old worker, who earns $9.50 an hour, has welcomed the 50-cent increase but believes, "personally, I should be getting paid more considering I work part time and they expect us to do the work of a full-time worker". "I personally think we should get paid more than the minimum wage." An 18-year-old, working in a government department, says, "Depending on the living expenses, if prices for cost-of-living increases then minimum wage should also increase." "Pushing to $10, adding $0.50 from the previous $9.50, is okay I guess but it heavily depends on where you are working as well. If it includes heavy labour then it should be more than 10 bucks an hour." Cook Islands Fijians Association vice president operations Ravinesh Swamy said that while the association welcomes the 50-cent increase, its impact as a boost needs to be evaluated in comparison to the cost of living, particularly concerning rental accommodations. Expat worker Waqa Naitini welcomed the increase, stating that it was much needed as "the cost of goods and services has increased too". "Rental homes (rents) have increased too compared to two years ago, the minimum wage increase is welcomed," Naitini said. The Filipino community president Grace Scheel says if the government has considered 0.50 cents increase then we do accept and respect this new law. "However, if you go shopping and the cost of commodities is spiralling up, the $20 extra income on their weekly pay is not enough to cover these extra costs. The workers should tighten their belts in spending here to enable them to send money to their family back home at the same time," Scheel said. She added that the minimum rate of $12 was a suggested amount, and business owners or employers would then have to increase the prices of their products and services to cover the wage increase. "So, it's kind of a relative increase in price/commodities." Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council president Tere Carr said the new minimum wage rate would have little impact on most large private sector operators, who she expects are already paying $10 or more per hour. "However, some of our smaller local businesses may feel the impact which comes on the heels of increased cost of goods into the country and therefore making their products more expensive to sell," Carr said. Carr said that most smaller businesses, particularly those in the food industry, would feel this increased cost, especially when combined with other rising expenses and government-imposed costs like water tariffs. "The tourism industry relies on supply and demand. If we price ourselves out of the market through increased costs which are passed on to the consumer, then we risk seeing tourists choose other cheaper destinations. It really depends on the business and whether the increased costs can be absorbed without price increases," she said. "We are already a high-priced destination and are fortunate that tourists still choose to come, mainly because of our Cook Islands people and the incredible service they deliver in making all our tourists feel valued and welcomed." When asked what support the government should provide to the tourism sector to help navigate this change, Carr said the government could address the additional costs being placed on businesses such as water, "which the Select Committee recommended be brought back under appropriation by government through taxes already paid to government". "Double taxing businesses for services is not good governance," she said. The Minimum Wage Review Public Consultations for 2025 were held in March this year to allow the community to engage in meaningful discussions with the panel on the minimum wage and contribute to shaping fair and balanced recommendations for the Minister of Internal Affairs. The panel members include Maru Mariri-Tepou - Ministry of Internal Affairs, Tristan Metcalfe - Ministry of Finance and Economic Management, Steve Anderson - Chamber of Commerce (employers representative), Ina Kamana - Cook Islands Workers Association (employees representative) and Simona Aumetua Nicholas - community representative. Cook Islands Chamber of Commerce vice chair Eve Hayden said that the minimum wage recommendation from the warranted panel, of which the Chamber is a member, was subject to a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), and therefore, "we are not in a position to comment yet on the recommendation put forward". "Once it is in the public area, more than happy to provide you with some comments," Hayden said. The Cook Islands Workers Association (CIWA) similarly said that it has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Internal Affairs (INTAFF). Workers Association's Helen Maunga said, "CIWA has signed an agreement with the Ministry of Internal Affairs not to release anything on the 'as you requested below' until they make a public statement then we can make a release comments of our own view to the new rate." In New Zealand, the latest minimum wage increase came into effect on 1 April 2025. The increases are: adult minimum wage has gone up from $23.15 to $23.50 per hour starting-out and training minimum wage has gone up from $18.52 to $18.80 per hour. Cook Islands has the second highest minimum wage rate in the South Pacific, behind French Polynesia which pays its workers 1100 XPF (NZ$17.50) per hour. Additional reporting from Teitimoana Tairi -This article was first published by Cook Islands News. Source: https://www.rnz.co.nz/

Australia has announced that it will make an immediate contribution of $5 million (K12, 742, 500) to support Papua New Guinea to respond to the detection of vaccine-derived poliovirus. This funding, delivered through the World Health Organization (WHO), will support the integration of polio vaccines with other routine childhood immunizations. This will help protect an estimated three million children nationwide and reduce the risk of future polio outbreaks. Australia is also supporting a Technical Advisory Group, including two Australian experts in polio and child health. This will provide independent recommendations to guide PNG’s response. Australia is also a key contributor to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, WHO and UNICEF, who are playing important technical roles in supporting the response. In addition, the country acknowledged the swift and proactive measures taken by the Government of PNG to respond to the evolving situation, including stepping up surveillance, testing and advice to clinicians, as well as a catch-up immunization campaign. Australia's Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Pat Conroy, said that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of polio. “That’s why we are working closely with the Government of Papua New Guinea to step up vaccination efforts to protect children and ensure a healthy region.” Meanwhile, Minister for International Development, Doctor Ane Aly also stated that they are now working in partnership with governments across the region to respond to the priorities of their Pacific neighbors, including improved access to health care and better immunization coverage. “A polio-free world is possible; Australia’s investments play a vital role in helping our region eradicate this devastating disease.”