Police Commissioner David Manning commended the residents of Port Moresby for their peaceful demeanour and adherence to democratic processes during this week's Parliament session. He noted that the behaviour of supporters reflects the leadership displayed by members. Manning said the city has seen unrest in the past during similar situations like vote of no confidence attempts or elections, however, he is pleased to report no significant incidents now. He said police anticipate this tranquillity to persist. He has urged potential troublemakers to refrain from disrupting order, emphasizing the importance of leaders ensuring their supporters uphold the law. He underscored that leaders must leverage their respect to uphold democracy and community well-being, while giving assurance of ongoing police operations to address any potential tensions, focusing on maintaining security in the National Capital District and other areas as needed. “It is essential that leaders continue to ensure their supporters respect law and order and that they also intervene if any followers seek to break the law.” “Our leaders carry the respect of those that get behind them, and now is the time to ensure they draw on that respect for the good of all citizens.” “This is about doing the right thing for the country and your communities, do not undermine the reputation of our democracy."

Hugo Canning Business Limited has reported that Kraft Heinz has successfully sold its shares to a group of investors led by Taylor Pacific, a Papua New Guinea (PNG) registered company, marking a substantial change in ownership. With effect from Monday, February 5, 2024, this ownership transfer ushers in a new era for the well-known food industry. Stakeholders are reassured by the corporation that normal business operations won't be affected by this ownership transition. Hugo Canning Company Limited promises to continue producing and distributing its well-known brands, such as Ox & Palm and Ocean Blue, in the Papua New Guinea market, all while upholding smooth operations. Crucially, the ownership change won't have a negative effect on firm outputs because all current staff members will still have their roles. This consistency highlights the dedication to the operations' continued success under the new ownership. Hugo Canning Firm Limited's management is optimistic about the company's future and emphasizes that, with the support of the investment group led by Taylor Pacific, the company is expected to achieve remarkable growth in the food sector. Additionally, the business restates its commitment to maintaining high standards and providing its esteemed clients with top-quality items. Hugo Canning Company Limited hopes to improve its market offers by refocusing on possible domestic sourcing in the future. Mr. Von Pacetes, General Manager of Hugo Canning Company Ltd., responded to customers' concerns about the availability of the well-known brands Ox & Palm and Ocean Blue by stating that both are here to stay and will prosper under the new ownership. This change represents a calculated strategic move meant to strengthen the company's position within the Papua New Guinea market and reaffirm its dedication to providing superior food production and delivery. Hugo Canning Company Limited is unwavering in its commitment to fulfilling its customers' needs and promoting industry expansion.

In a significant update to Papua New Guinea's infrastructure landscape, the Minister for Works & Highways, Solan Mirisim, revealed that more than halfway of Phase 1 of the Connect PNG Infrastructure Development Program has been completed. This milestone marks a crucial step forward in connecting remote communities to the broader world through the construction of vital 'missing link' roads. The program, aimed at enhancing connectivity across Papua New Guinea, has seen substantial progress with over 350 kilometers of new roads constructed out of the targeted 633 kilometers in Phase 1. Among these developments are seven roads breaking into previously unconnected areas, covering a total of 1,800 kilometers of missing link roads. The seven 'missing link' roads completed include: - Erave-Semberigi section on Gulf-Southern Highlands Highway - Vanimo-Aitape Section (100km) of Sepik Coastal Highway - Trans-Island Highway and Magi Highway - Finschhafen-Lae Road - Wabag-Maramuni Road - Tabubil-Telefomin Road - Gumine-Karamui Road Minister Mirisim, in his report to Parliament this week, emphasized the transformative impact of these infrastructure developments. He highlighted the newfound accessibility, enabling uninterrupted travel from Kikori to Mendi, Hagen into Morobe, and to Madang, as well as from Kuinga to Tabubil to Telefomin through the Hindenburg Wall. Addressing skeptics who questioned the value of investments in the construction of missing link roads, Minister Mirisim emphasized the immeasurable significance of providing lifetime road access to remote communities for generations to come. He shared anecdotes of joy from communities in Telefomin District, Kaintiba, and Maramuni, underscoring the profound impact of these infrastructure projects on the lives of Papua New Guineans. Furthermore, Minister Mirisim condemned critics, including certain Members of the Opposition, who labeled the program as a scam. He reaffirmed that Connect PNG is delivering tangible results by reaching the unreached and connecting remote Papua New Guineans to the outside world. The progress made in Phase 1 of the Connect PNG Infrastructure Development Program signifies a monumental step forward in Papua New Guinea's journey towards enhanced connectivity, economic growth, and prosperity for all its citizens. As construction continues, the government remains committed to bridging the gap and ensuring that no community is left behind in the march towards progress and development.

The recent announcement by PUMA Energy PNG to stop providing fuel has caused a stir in the aviation industry in Papua New Guinea, especially with regard to PNG Air's operations. In light of these constraints, PNG Air has issued a cautionary statement, alerting travelers to the possibility of delays and cancellations stemming from fuel restrictions and adverse weather conditions. Concerns have been raised about the airline's capacity to uphold flight schedules and guarantee passenger safety in light of the sudden notice. PNG Air is currently facing a difficult situation where it must maintain its present flight schedule while maintaining operational safety due to the abrupt stop of fuel delivery. The airline has had to make constant adjustments to its timetables and fuel supply, with the safety of its passengers and personnel coming first in all of these decisions. The airline has made clear that because of the restricted fuel distribution throughout its network, it is unable to guarantee lodging for impacted passengers. PNG Air is unwavering in its resolve to minimize service interruptions in spite of the challenges presented by the fuel scarcity. Even though it might cost more, the airline is actively looking into alternate fuel suppliers to maintain the integrity of its aircraft operations. PNG Air has acknowledged the inconvenience it has caused its clients and has thanked them for their patience during this difficult time. In response to the unfolding situation, stakeholders within the aviation industry are closely monitoring developments and exploring potential avenues to alleviate the impact of the fuel supply disruption on air travel across Papua New Guinea. The effects of PNG Air's fuel supply constraint highlight the wider ramifications of such interruptions on communities and businesses that depend on air transportation services. Stakeholders are alert in navigating these obstacles and ensuring the continuation of vital air transport services while attempts to address the matter continue.

Ryan Papenhuyzen made a stunning return for the Storm in the opening match of the NRL Pre-season Challenge but the Bulldogs finished too strong to win 24-12. Papenhuyzen's career was in the balance after he suffered a sickening leg injury in last September's preliminary final loss to Brisbane just three matches into his return from a 14-month lay-off with a fractured kneecap. However, the star fullback left no doubt that he would have a significant impact on Melbourne's fortunes this season after creating a try for winger Dean Ieremia and scoring one himself in a spectacular 40-minute stint. The Bulldogs dominated the first half in virtually area of the game but trailed 12-10 at the interval after Papenhuyzen raced through to catch a kick from a rehearsed scrum move. Canterbury centre Eli Clark opened the scoring in just the fifth minute after Reed Mahoney shuffled across field from dummy half to put the rookie over untouched following a penalty near the Storm line against prop Aaron Pene. Dean Ieremia responded for the Storm in the 13th minute after Papenhuyzen chimed into the backline to create space for his right winger, who missed all of last season due to a knee injury. Bulldogs winger Blake Wilson regained the lead for the home side in the 24th minute when he stood up Melbourne five-eighth Keagan Russell-Smith after picking up loose ball to score. With halves Drew Hutchison and Matt Burton playing both sides of the ruck, Blake Taaffe adding spark from the back and Jaeman Salmon performing the role of ball playing lock, the Bulldogs constantly threatened in attack. However, the Storm's defence kept them in the game, with Ieremia stopping Bronson Xerri short of the tryline, Tuipulotu Katoa knocking down a ball to stop another attack and Sam Hughes losing possession as he reached out to score. Papenhuyzen then put the visitors ahead at the break after racing through to regather a perfectly placed Pezet kick from a rehearsed scrum-base move and score as the halftime siren sounded. Xerri also scored a try in his first match after serving a four year doping ban and threw the final pass for winger Jeral Skelton to score as the Bulldogs finished too strong for Melbourne. The Bulldogs fielded the nucleus of last year's Jersey Flegg winning backline in the second half and halves Bailey Hayward and Joseph O'Neill combined with fullback Joash Papalii to put winger Jonathan Sua over in the 73rd minute. Source: NRL.com

The East New Britain Provincial Government has vowed to continue to support the law and justice sector in the province during the opening of the legal year in the province that was held at the Tokota Fellowship Center Varzin in the Gazelle area recently. ENB Governor, Michael Marum in his address during the opening of the Legal Year 2024 said the law and justice sector plays an important role in the society as it maintains justice and the rule of law. Governor Marum said that the province as well as the country are facing a high rate of criminal activity. “We are no different from the rest of the country." "We no longer feel safe and secure in our own homes because our societies have completely broken down in terms of law and order." He told the legal fraternity and those in attendance at the occasion that the provincial government is aware of the issues facing law enforcement. “The law and justice sector have been prioritized in our Provincial 10-year strategic plan and is also captured in this year’s budget." He added that the province has experienced a record number of criminal cases perpetrated by individuals under the age of 18. The province currently lacks a detention facility for juveniles; however, the provincial administration is in discussions with the Sonoma Adventist College to establish a facility in their area to process and deal with juvenile cases. “We have these plans now on hand and will pursue so we see peace and harmony restored in our communities,” he said. Additionally, Marum said churches and communities have also received support in a move to address law and order concerns collectively. Resident judge in East New Britain province Justice Paul Tusais told those gathered that a man with a full stomach does not resort to stealing and looting from another man’s house or shop. “The ENB provincial administration is trying to address law and order and find ways to improve economy and empower people especially youths." He commended the ENB provincial government for its proactive role in addressing lawlessness and assisting the law and justice sector. Meanwhile, present at the opening ceremony were ENB Provincial administrator Levi Mano, Snr Provincial Magistrate Sam Lavutul, ENB PPC Felix Nebanat and Kerevat Jail Commander Fidelis Kaski.

Papua New Guinea’s national sport is rugby; every region is all things rugby – tackle, touch, and union. But this story is not about rugby; it is about cricket – another legacy sport passed on from the colonial period, but only gaining much momentum in recent years as PNG becomes a recognized force to be reckoned with on the international cricket stage. Cricket PNG continues to develop the sport, strategizing crucial pathways to make cricket a national sport; a commitment assured by the competent leadership of CPNG’s CEO Richard Done and his excellent high performance and senior managers, and regional development managers. For me, I recall, as a kid, watching cricket on TV and sometimes playing the sport in the front or back yard of the various homes I grew up in. I can certainly tell you that growing up in the highlands, typical sporting life revolved around rugby, soccer, basketball and volleyball, so my interest in cricket slowly dwindled as I grew up, but now, I am intrigued by the sport again. So meeting up with Cricket PNG’s Talent Identification Manager, Rodney Maha this week at Port Moresby’s Amini Park, dubbed the home of cricket in PNG, I was curious as to why there was so much interest in cricket again in the country, and why places you would never think cricket would be played, actually have development programs in place. Mr Maha does acknowledge that they indeed have their work cut out to turn cricket into the national sport. He also agrees that the fact that you see places such as Jiwaka and Southern Highlands provinces amongst those with cricket development programs, confirms growing interest in the sport. “It is very important. For us to become a national sport, we must include, as much as possible, all the regions outside (NCD and Central),” Mr Maha said at the Amini Park grandstand area, whilst walking past him is the Assadollah Vala, captain of the Kumul Petroleum PNG Barramundis, as the girls on contract to the PNG Lewas are conducting drills behind us on the pitch.” Mr Maha continues: “Growing up, I worked in Lae as a development officer, and I saw how much talent in Lae when I was there, and I saw that cricket was not advertised properly, and you know what rugby league is like, and soccer, it’s everywhere, so whenever someone holds a rugby or soccer ball, everyone gets excited, and that’s what we want to bring into cricket – the excitement.” “And that’s why I’m very excited that we have (development) officers in Jiwaka, Mendi, and those kinds of areas.” “It is my dream that someone from these areas represent the country.” “I strive and work very hard for that, because I know that my people here in Central and NCD, uh, we already we can play (but) if you see someone selected from the outside, then it will really catch your attention.” “I’m very excited, and every now and then I go to these guys (regional development managers) from outside and have long chats on how we can best develop and bring the kids here and align them with our programs for leading up to high performance.” “This is very important as cricket is growing; even China, and Korea are playing – even internally you guys may not have known there was a development officer in Jiwaka, so it’s the same thing, cricket is spreading globally, and for that sake, we must also spread it here (domestically).” “For it to be a national sport, we have to include everyone else, and it is my dream that one day if I see someone from those kinds of areas playing, representing Barramundis or Lewas, then I’ll probably sit back and retire."

Westpac according to a statement reaffirmed its commitment to education in Papua New Guinea (PNG) by donating 300 backpacks to Links of Hope PNG's Children Sponsorship program. Appropriately timed for the start of the academic year, this act guarantees underprivileged kids receive the resources they need to start their educational path. Brett Hooker, CEO of Westpac PNG, stressed the bank's commitment to helping families and making sure every child has access to education. Hooker said in the statement, "Giving these backpacks shows our commitment to helping those in need. We want to make it easier for these kids to go to school and have a better future." This kind deed is a part of Westpac's continuous efforts to better lives and uplift communities; it is not an isolated incidence. Now in its second year, the donation demonstrates Westpac's faith in the transformational potential of education. Mrs. Seruma Numa, Operations Manager at Links of Hope PNG, conveyed her sincere appreciation for Westpac's assistance. For more than ten years, Links of Hope, a non-governmental organization, has been working in PNG to provide underprivileged children with basic services like health education programs, pastoral care, and education. "Every year, we provide school uniforms to ensure all our school-aged children are equipped for the academic year," Mrs. Numa explained. "Westpac's support significantly reduces the financial burden associated with our back-to-school program, allowing us to allocate resources more effectively." For the kids who receive these backpacks, they represent more than just practicality, they are a statement of support and nurturing. "These backpacks mean a lot to the kids we help," Mrs. Numa stated. They show that people care about them and want them to succeed. This partnership with Westpac enables us to do even more for these children." Westpac's commitment to education in PNG serves as a beacon of hope for disadvantaged communities, highlighting the positive impact that corporate entities can have on societal development. As the backpacks are distributed, they carry not only school supplies but also the promise of a brighter future for the children of PNG.

Bank South Pacific (BSP) Financial Group Limited has welcomed 17 new cohorts under its Graduate Development Program, from institutions across the country. These individuals, who commenced their journey in January, will spend the next 11 months rotating through various Strategic Business Units within the bank, gaining valuable insights and honing their skills. BSP, in a statement, said transitioning from academia to the corporate world can be daunting, but BSP ensures a seamless integration by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. BSP said this confirmed their commitment to nurturing young talent through the GDP, grooming promising individuals for successful careers within the organization. The new cohorts show how BSP remains steadfast in its commitment to grooming future leaders. By investing in programs like the Graduate Development Program, BSP not only cultivates talent but also strengthens its position as a leading financial institution in the Pacific region BSP Financial Group Limited (formerly the Bank of South Pacific Limited) was founded in 1957 and prominently operates in seven Pacific countries, boasting the largest branch network in Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu. With a workforce of over 4000 employees and an extensive banking infrastructure, BSP is committed to driving positive change and empowering communities across the Pacific.

Bank South Pacific (BSP) Financial Group Limited, prominent retail and corporate banking group in the Pacific region, confirms its commitment to nurturing young talent through its Graduate Development Program (GDP). In a statement, BSP said the program, designed to foster growth and opportunities for aspiring graduates, has once again demonstrated its effectiveness by grooming promising individuals for successful careers within the organization. This commitment to youth development is assured by two former BSP Graduate trainees, Julius Loko and Handy Fred. They joined BSP in 2022 and have since secured permanent positions in the Customer Experience domain of the bank. Julius was recently appointed as Manager Complaints, while Handy assumed the role of Complaints Officer within the Retail Customer Experience Business Unit. Julius and Handy highlighted their aspirations and determination to excel in the banking sector. Julius, a graduate of the University of Goroka (UoG), expressed confidence in his abilities and eagerness to embrace new challenges. Also from UoG, Handy, with a Bachelor's degree in Business Accounting, emphasized the significance of faith and perseverance in pursuing career opportunities. Recalling their experiences during the selection process, both Julius and Handy acknowledged the rigorous nature of the interviews, which comprised four distinct phases. Despite initial apprehensions, they found the process to be enriching. It tested both their professional competence and personal attributes. When asked about the impact of the program on their professional lives, Julius emphasized the multitude of opportunities it has opened for him, encouraging him to adopt a broader perspective on his career. Handy, echoing similar sentiments, also emphasized on the program's role in providing clarity and direction, as well as fostering essential life skills such as public speaking and presentation. One of the most appealing aspects of working at BSP, according to Julius, is the dynamic and fast-paced environment that constantly challenges him to learn and grow. For Handy, understanding the intricacies of the banking industry and its role in shaping the country's economy has been a rewarding experience.

Prime Minister James Marape has expressed gratitude and apologized to the business community during yesterday’s annual Back-to-Business Breakfast, sponsored by Kina Bank in Port Moresby. The prime minister acknowledged the significant contributions made by businesses to Papua New Guinea's economy over the years. He further extended apologies referencing the events of January 10, 2024, when the Nation’s Capital was disturbed by violent riots sparked by a police strike over pay. Prime Minister Marape underlined the government's commitment to investigating the incidents of January 10, especially addressing concerns about the absence of police services during the unrest. This was according to a statement made by Prime Minister Marape. He assured business houses that the government will overcome this incident and citied historical instance of overcoming challenges such as the Bougainville Crisis. Efforts that were put into strengthening the nation's security and justice systems were highlighted, including the recent engagement with government officials in Canberra, Australia. Prime Minister Marape outlined the government's priorities, which include removing economic impediments to foster business growth and prioritizing law and order. Reflecting on the country's economic growth, Prime Minister Marape stated an increase in the economy's size from K79 billion in 2019 to K110 billion today. Marape highlighted the government's goals of achieving a surplus budget by 2027 and debt elimination by 2034. Considering recent events and challenges faced by the business community, Prime Minister Marape urged businesses to remain focused on their contributions to the economy. Again, Marape assured them of a promising future for Papua New Guinea, emphasizing the significance of the next 10 to 15 years, with major resource projects on the horizon. The Prime Minister's statement underscores the government's commitment to fostering a conducive environment for business growth and prosperity in Papua New Guinea amidst ongoing challenges.

The Government has been asked for assistance to help out the 80 percent of students registering at colleges, tertiary and higher education institutions, who come from rural village backgrounds. The question posed by Manus Governor Charlie Benjamin was put to the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and Sport, Don Polye yesterday in Parliament during questions without notice. Governor Benjamin said students and the parents are being asked to pay 70 - 75 percent of the fees upfront before registering to attend classes. He said fees now are between K15-20 000, and this is a challenge to parents, as many cannot afford this. The Governor said while many Members of Parliaments, and provinces and districts do provide assistance, the government accounts has been closed until March, and most provinces have not presented their budgets as yet. He said it is a concern as to how these students will be able to attend school at all in the meantime, suggesting the upfront tuition fees asked can be lowered to at least 10 percent. Minister Polye acknowledged this ongoing concern, and in response, said he had already directed the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) to provide a brief on the issue. He said the brief will outline how the Government can intervene in these circumstances. Minister Polye said he expects that report today and will make a comprehensive response on the issue.