The Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Timothy Masiu, and Minister for State Enterprise, William Duma recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for DICT and PNG DataCo partnership in Digital Transformation. This formal agreement between DICT and DataCo ensures that both entities will operate with respective mandate, and collaborate in achieving a digital government for Papua New Guinea (PNG). Masiu stated the historic nature of the event, describing it as the commencement of an exciting journey toward a brighter digital landscape for the country. “The MoU reflects a shared vision between DICT and PNG DataCo, recognizing their important roles in steering PNG towards a more advanced digital future,” Minister Masiu stated. DICT, as the lead ICT agency for digital government delivery, is dedicated to coordinating and driving the digitalization of government services. He said goal is to ensure that the benefits of the technology reach every province in the nation. In parallel, PNG DataCo is acknowledged as the government’s designated custodian of critical digital infrastructure. The MOU emphasize the mutual understanding that collaboration is key to progress in the digital space. Together, DICT and PNG DataCo aim to create an environment that not only strengthens the delivery of digital government services, but also safeguards the nation’s digital landscape from emerging threats and harnesses the potential of cloud technologies. Masiu expressed his hope that this collaboration would serve as a model for public-private partnership and cooperation between government entities.

Starting today till the 26th of this month, the Members of the East Sepik Boxing Association will be conducting a one week coaching workshop for club coaches. In collaboration with East Sepik Boxing Association, professional fighter Junior Kauko Raka will be officiating as guest official at Sir Michael Somare Stadium, Wewak. With the aim to develop good up-coming PNG boxers, the current NCD Boxing Tournament Director Junior Raka, is extending his assistance to team East Sepik, with the sponsorship aid from his team Manager Brethren Vaelo, to assist in the coaching workshops for ESP Boxing coaches and boxers. He also stressed that the workshop is not only for the coaches, but boxers as well. “The purpose of running this one-week coaching program is not only for the coaches, but boxers as well as. For instance, while we are doing boxing workshops with coaches, we are also teaching the boxers at the same time and at the same time, the coaches will acquire what I am trying to teach them. Both coaches and boxers will learn at the same time.” He said that the boxers that they will be working with are those that were identified to represent team Wewak in the up-coming PNG Games in January 2024. He also encouraged those who would like to try out boxing to come out and give it a go. For quite some time now, Raka has been working to shed light on the code in the hopes to develop and upskill fighters and officials and is happy to have been given the opportunity to take part in such an opportunity to work with and develop young talent.

As the Kumul Petroleum PNG Barramundi’s and Lewas gear up for international events in the coming months, Cricket PNG alongside Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited [KPHL] and the International Cricket Council [ICC] recently granted 34 members of both the Barras and the Lewas full contracts. In a short conference yesterday, 18 members of the Barramundi’s team received their contracts while 16 members of the Lewa’s team. Five other players were given development contracts, Michael Charlie and Patrict Nou for the Barras and Dika Lohia, Erani Pokana and Mahuta Jayperth were identified for the lewas. The List of fully contracted Barras and Lewas are as follows; 1. Assadollah Vala 2. Charles Amini Jnr 3. Norman Vanua 4. Tony Ura 5. Alei Nao 6. Hiri Hiri 7. Kabua Vagi Morea 8. Kiplin Doriga 9. Lega Siaka 10. Sese Bau 11. Chad Soper 12. Gaudi Toka 13. Hila Vare 14. Jack Gardner 15. John Kariko 16. Nosina Pokana 17. Riley Hekure 18. Sema Kamea The Lewas; 1. Brenda Tau 2. Sibona Jimmy 3. Tanya Ruma 4. Kaia Arua 5. Naoani Vare 6. Paoke Siaka 7. Vicky Ara’a 8. Buruka Vicky 9. Emma Hauro 10. Geua Tom 11. Hane Tau 12. Henao Thomas 13. Initia Vagi 14. Isabella Toua 15. Kevau Frank 16. Melanie Ani

After an intense two weeks of non-stop consultation with people of the Momase and the Highlands region, the Parliamentary Law and Order Committee have advised that they are working on presenting their findings along with resolutions to the floor of Parliament as soon as they have completed their report. Reuben Derrick, the Secretary of Law & Order Committee told PNG HAUSBUNG that there was a lot of interesting things that were spoken about during the two week consultation period, with many voicing concerns about the spike in crime and calling for more stringent approach to addressing this. “We are on a fact finding mission." "It’s a broader issue but we are focusing on tribal warfare and breakouts of prisons in the area, petty crimes and others.” Derrick said one of the shocking discoveries unveiled by during consultations was the Department of Justice & Attorney General’s lack in maintaining the legal systems at the lower levels, especially in terms of infrastructure and up keep of personnel in village courts. “There is a very big gap in there." "Through this department the government is not addressing these issues and this is one of the saddest things that have been found out.” This raises concerns as to how DJAG goes about with the amount of money that is budgeted every year. According to the findings, many serious and sensitive issue are heared under mango tress or in small buildings, many of which are not suitable to host court proceedings.

More drama in the Lagaip Open by-election this week as it was revealed that the Returning Officer for the District, Norman Waliyo had resigned from his position, leaving the counting for the by-election in limbo. This was revealed through a letter to the Electoral Commissioner from Waliyo. According to Waliyo, this decision came following relentless intimidation from political candidates and supporters during the supplementary election. "The pressure exerted on me has been overwhelming and has compromised the integrity of the electoral process,” he wrote. “The recent tragic shootout in Wabag town resulting in the loss of four civilian lives has heightened the risks to my personal safety." "I have received numerous threats and menacing messages, posing a grave danger to my life.” Waliyo further stated that due to the absence of adequate security guarantees for not only him but his family and associates should he continue his responsibilities. "Considering these circumstances and the profound risks involved, I am left with no choice but to tender my resignation.” He added that his decision is based on the imperative need to ensure personal safety, which unfortunately cannot be guaranteed in the current situation.

New directions have been issued to the returning officer for the Lagaip Open Returning officer to commence counting in Wabag town today following recommendations by key stakeholders to the Electoral Commission. In a letter to the Lagaip Open RO, Newman Waliyo, the Electoral Commissioner, Simon Sinai rescinded his previous order to move the counting venue to Goroka in Eastern Highlands Province and has now instructed Waliyo to start counting in Wabag town. According to Sinai, upon citing reports and concerns over security issues regarding the safety of the ballot boxes, he has now come to the conclusion to allow counting to start in Wabag. “My office has received reports from key agencies and stakeholders of Enga Province, including the leading Police Operations Command on the ground." "These reports raised concerns over security issues on the ground and their recommendation.” “Given the serious concern raised by relevant authorities, based on the situation on the ground I rescind my previous two directives.” In recent weeks the Electoral Commission has received backlash from the people of Lagaip following their discovery of the EC’s decision decision to move the counting venue, with many taking to the streets of Enga in protest of this decision. Counting for the By-Election is said to commence today.

The Ministerial Economic Committee recently met for three days and will continue meetings for another two days this week, as they work towards finalizing various budget submissions. Treasurer, Ian Ling-Stuckey said these submissions will cover the operating budget and the capital budget and includes submissions covering key sectors that can help drive growth and jobs through various sectors like Trade and Investment, Agriculture, Tourism, Labour and Employment, Oil Palm, Forestry, Live Stock, Coffee, Communications and SOEs. Following the first MEC meetings, Ling-Stuckey said the 2024 Budget, guided by the Circular requirements of Prime Minister Marape dated 27 October 2023, they plan to streamline the budget decision-making processes. “Budgets are hard work. Budgets are where visions hit the realities of limited funds.” “There is never enough budget moneys to meet all the pressing needs of our people.” “Tough choices are required. Making good tough choices is helped by good budget processes.” He said he believes that under the leadership of Prime Minister James Marape, an important innovation in the 2024 budget process is all major budget policy decisions must go through the Ministerial Economic Committee (MEC). The MEC is one of two key sub-committees of the National Executive Council (NEC). The MEC considers all economic related submissions with major financial implications. “The requirement for all budget submissions with financial implications to go through the MEC means that there is more time devoted for analysis, discussion and debate including input from relevant government departments.” The Treasurer said these discussions are based on an agreed budget framework as set out in the third year of the 13-year Budget Repair Plan. As announced at the last Parliament session, and as supported by the Opposition, another billion Kina reduction in the budget deficit is the target for 2024. All on the path to a budget surplus by 2027, and the option to repay all debt by 2034. “By considering all these budget submissions close together, Ministers are better informed of the merits of different proposals. There is a chance to consider the trade-offs.” He further added that there is the information and context to recommend the best practical way to meet the needs of struggling PNG families within the limited funds available. “All of these budget deliberations will require final NEC endorsement and our National Parliament for its formal decision.”

The Office of the Prime Minister has released a statement strongly refuting claims of censorship by one of the country’s daily newspapers. This is following the mass circulation of the front-page article titled "PM Stops Media Freedom," stating that this misrepresents an internal circular distributed to all First Secretaries of State Ministers, copying various officials for coordinated information dissemination. This is according to the Chief of Staff to the Office of the Prime Minister, Andy Hetra. Mr Hetra said Media, as the fourth estate, plays a vital role in scrutinizing public officials and political institutions for the public interest. “While freedom of expression is a cherished right, it comes with responsibility.” “The fourth estate should engage in responsible reporting, free from bias and distortion.” He added that by encouraging journalists and editors to uphold investigative reporting skills, this emphasizes the importance of avoiding questionable media narratives with distorted facts. “Journalism's primary purpose is to provide information in the public interest, ensuring a balanced and truthful representation of events.”

As the country moves to be on the verge of positioning itself as a leader in the global resources and energy market, the industry peak body representing the mineral, resources and energy sectors today officially announced its new name, and new logo. The former Papua New Guinea Chamber of Mines and Petroleum (“The Chamber”) formally transitioned to its new name, the Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy (“PNG CORE”). This followed the approval of this change by its membership at a recent Special General Meeting. According to PNG CORE Chief Operating Officer, Pansy Taueni-Sialis. This change is timely, as PNG positions itself as a leader global energy production and resources. “Since our incorporation as an Association in 1987, the PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum has enjoyed a cordial relationship with Government, industry, and our stakeholders and with the changing landscape in industry, the Chamber Council realized the need to adapt to the changing global environment.” The industry is now focusing more on cleaner, greener energy sources, the need to have this change was highlighted. The decision to change the name to PNG CORE was approved by the Chamber Council earlier this year, and the recent endorsement by our Membership ratified this decision, enabling the Secretariat to come under this new name of PNG CORE. “This change also reinforces our commitment to working together in collaboration with all stakeholders across government, private sector, and civil society.” Chamber Councillors, Santos Country Chair PNG Leon Buskens, and Harmony Gold PNG Executive General Manager Stakeholder Relations & Corporate Affairs Kepas Wali officially announced the name change to PNG CORE to Government stakeholders, and member representatives this morning. According to Councillor Buskens, this signified the commitment of industry to adapt to the changing global trends, to enable PNG to remain on par with other economies in promoting closer collaboration. “Today is a significant moment in our nation’s history, as the Chamber moves forward under the PNG CORE banner.”

The NRL today released the 2024 NRL Telstra Premiership schedule, featuring 204 regular season matches over 27 rounds, played across 28 venues and the first ever schedule to feature premiership matches across Australia, New Zealand and the United States. The 2024 NRL Telstra Premiership kicks off on March 2 at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, for the exciting Rugby League in Las Vegas double header featuring Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles v South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Roosters v Brisbane Broncos in the most anticipated Premiership opener in the game’s history. Round One will continue the following week with the Australian opener being the rematch of one of the great finals matches between the Newcastle Knights and Canberra Raiders, followed by Melbourne Storm hosting Premiers Penrith Panthers on Friday night. Round One will also feature local rivalries Parramatta Eels v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs on Saturday at CommBank Stadium and the Dolphins v North Queensland Cowboys on Sunday at Suncorp Stadium. Round Two will feature the Broncos against the Rabbitohs on Thursday night at Suncorp Stadium, followed by the Western Sydney derby between the Panthers and the Eels on Friday night at BlueBet Stadium. The Grand Final rematch between the Panthers and the Broncos will open Round Three on Thursday at BlueBet Stadium, followed by the traditional rivalry between the Roosters and the Rabbitohs on Friday at Allianz Stadium. Easter Weekend in Round 4 will feature the traditional Easter match ups including Rabbitohs v Bulldogs on Good Friday at Accor Stadium as well as the Eels hosting Wests Tigers on Easter Monday at CommBank Stadium. Good Friday will also include the classic Queensland rivalry between the Broncos and the Cowboys at Suncorp Stadium. The Battle of Brisbane between Broncos and the Dolphins will highlight Round Six in a clash on Friday at Suncorp Stadium. The NRL Telstra Premiership themed rounds include Multicultural Round (Round 3), Anzac Round (Round 8), Magic Round (Round 11), Indigenous Round (Round 12), Beanie for Brain Cancer (Round 15) and Women in League Round (Round 22). Multicultural Round will feature three matches in Western Sydney - BlueBet Stadium on Thursday, Belmore Sports Ground on Saturday and CommBank Stadium on Sunday. Anzac Round will include three special matches on Anzac Day itself, with matches in Auckland, Sydney and Melbourne. Indigenous Round will include two highlight matches with the Rabbitohs hosting the Eels on Saturday, May 25 and Broncos hosting their local rivals the Titans on Sunday afternoon at Suncorp Stadium. No team will have more than three five-day turnarounds and total five-day turnarounds have been reduced from 30 in 2023 to 26 in 2024. “We have so much to look forward to in Season 2024,” NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said. “For the first time ever, we also announce next season’s NRLW schedule alongside the NRL competition, empowering fans to plan for an entire season of witnessing their favourite teams, both male and female, in thrilling, unmissable on-field action. “The Premiership kicks off a weekend early in Las Vegas giving fans an extra week of football and an enormous opportunity to launch the biggest season of Rugby League. The 2024 Premiership will be 32 weekends of football, packed with themed rounds, rivalries, excitement, and anticipation. “The opening and closing rounds will have fans on the edge of their seats with big rivalry derbies and blockbuster match ups throughout. “I’d like to thank our broadcast partners Channel Nine, Fox Sports, Sky Sports New Zealand and naming rights partner Telstra for their investment and support of the game.” The full 2024 NRL Telstra Premiership schedule can be found here. The full 2024 NRL Telstra Women's Premiership schedule can be found here. Source: NRL.Com

Transport & Civil Aviation Minister Walter Schnaubelt is calling on Air Niugini to completely settle debts owed to the National Airports Corporation following the recent accumulation of over K120million in monies owed to the NAC. He said through this year alone the balance of legacy debts and the current charges has accumulated to a significant amount and currently the NAC is in dialogue with ANL management to resolve the outstanding debts. “As Minister and one of the major trustee shareholders, I express my concern on the continuous delayed payments of these charges that are necessary and critical to maintain safe operations of aircraft operating in respective NAC Airports.” Schnaubelt stated that given the re-fleeting program of Air Niugini which involves introduction of heavier aircraft, the impact on existing aircraft pavement and passenger facilities will be significant and it is necessary that operators such as Air Niugini and PNG Air make timely payment of the aeronautical charges to sustain safety of aircraft operations into NAC controlled airports. “I emphasize here again that these charges are mandated under the Civil Aviation Act and are levied on the traveling public and collected by the operators.” The Minister stressed that the need for operators to timely pay the aeronautical charges in order that these critical services be sustained and there is adequate response to safety and emergency requirements. Meanwhile, ANG Acting CEO, Gary Seddon has expressed that the Airline is willing to comply settling these outstanding debts and will be working closely with all stakeholders to do so. “Since being appointed by the National Executive Council as Acting Chief Executive Officer of Air Niugini, I have made it a business imperative to improve the working relationship with all major stakeholders in the aviation industry in Papua New Guinea,” Seddon said. Seddon made mention that Air Niugini has agreed to pay K38million in final settlement of legacy debts between the parties and apart from that have been paying NAC between K1.3million and K1.5million each week. According to the CEO, since the commencement of 2023 alone, Air Niugini has paid over K90million to NAC. “Therefore, to suggest that Air Niugini is in any way delinquent in its obligations toward NAC or any other agency for that matter, is unreasonable.” He added that despite making payments, the operations of Air Niugini are continually disrupted by the poor state of repair of runways and associated infrastructure, such as security screening scanners and is calling on the NAC to develop its runway program in advance of the aircraft arrival from late 2025 of the latest fleet to cater for larger more robust aircrafts. Mr Seddon further said both Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NAC and Air Niugini respectively, have regular engagements, primarily to ensure that disruption to the traveling public is minimized and that opportunities for mutual beneficial outcomes are maximized.

Police have reported positive changes to the regarding the removal of prohibited alcoholic substances in Hanuabada village since Monday, with no signs of people selling it openly on the streets as before. According to Motu Koita Reservists and NCD police officers patrolling and carrying out foot patrols in areas where homebrew is sold, it was reported that they did not see anyone selling it. Meanwhile, motorized patrols have also been conducted along the main roads leading to and from the village. National Capital District Metropolitan Superintended Silva Sika expressed satisfaction with the results provided by the police and commended the people of Hanuabada for their assistance in cracking down on the sale of homebrew. “People will be arrested soon because the majority of people support the police and will continue to report to the police.” Sika thanked Zone One Commander, Senior Inspector Joseph Salle who had been leading the operation with the help of the Office in Charge (OIC) Motu Koita Reservist Police, OIC Idubada Police post, PSC Town police station and other support units from NCD. He stated that they had been doing a really good job and they will continue to do that.