Known as the largest butterfly in the world, the Queen Alexandra Birdwing butterfly (Ornithoptera alexandrae) —is facing an uncertain future. This majestic insect boasts wings that stretch nearly a foot in length, but its beauty is no shield from the dangers threatening its existence. Habitat destruction, illegal trade, and climate change have left the Queen Alexandra Birdwing on the brink of extinction. Ahi Matue, a volunteer with the National Volunteer Service (NVS), is on a mission to accelerate the conservation of this unique species, with hopes of elevating its cause to a global stage. Ahi’s work, fronting the Dun Eco-Tourism Project in Yoivi village, Oro Province, has earned him a spot as one of the top ten finalists in the ClimateLaunchpad National competition, a prestigious event that champions climate-focused solutions. “The Queen Alexandra Birdwing Butterfly is the largest butterfly in the world, and it is only found in Papua New Guinea.” “I fear that, without immediate intervention, we could lose this national treasure in the next decade.” Ahi’s mission is simple but crucial: raise global awareness about the Queen Alexandra Birdwing Butterfly and Papua New Guinea’s distinctive biodiversity, forge networks with like-minded environmentalists, and promote volunteerism on an international scale. His entry into the ClimateLaunchpad competition focuses specifically on the conservation of the butterfly through partnerships aimed at safeguarding its future. Through his efforts, the community of Yoivi has not only raised awareness about the butterfly but also taken practical steps to protect it. In 2023, Ahi was tasked with promoting eco-tourism in the area, and his vision quickly evolved into a broader conservation initiative. Ahi has established a breeding nursery for the Queen Alexandra Birdwing and is building a conservation site that allows tourists and conservationists alike to visit and learn about the species in its natural habitat. Additionally, he led the construction of a 1-kilometer road connecting the site to the main highway, increasing access to this remote area and enhancing public awareness of the butterfly's plight. “This competition might seem like a routine event to many but for me and the 2,000-plus people of Yoivi village, it means everything.” “It represents hope, visibility, and a long-awaited chance to tell our story of preserving the Oro Butterfly on a global platform.” But Ahi's work does not come without its challenges. The butterfly's status as a rare species has made it a target for illegal collectors who seek to sell specimens for export. This growing problem, coupled with habitat loss due to deforestation and agriculture, has left the Queen Alexandra Birdwing with an increasingly uncertain future. The grand finale of the National Competition will take place in August, with three finalists selected to represent Papua New Guinea at the Global Grand Final event in Vienna, Austria. Ahi Matue, with his unwavering dedication to the conservation of the Queen Alexandra Birdwing, is confident that his work will help secure a brighter future for this endangered species. The National Volunteer Service (NVS), a state agency under the Ministry of Defense, is instrumental in supporting Ahi's efforts. NVS recruits, trains, and places professional volunteers in remote communities across Papua New Guinea, and its support has been crucial in helping Ahi lead this vital conservation initiative.

Rumors circulating on social media of local artist Daniel Bilip’s death have been established as fake news by the artist’s elder sibling, Steven Bilip. A Facebook Post from a verified Page which was posted approximately 30 minutes ago, reached over a thousand shares on Facebook, causing many users to share condolence messages online. The poster, shared a photo of the artist, with the caption (incomplete): “Breaking News: Local Singer, Daniel Bilip, Passed On…” At this time, the immediate family is looking to confirm the source of this fake news publication. Steven Bilip added that (brother) Daniel is NOT deceased and people posting as such are merely seeking clout with such unverified information

The National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) and Digicel PNG have signed a contract agreement for the construction of a 40-metre self-supporting spectrum monitoring tower in Port Moresby. The tower will be built at NICTA’s headquarters in Hohola and will form an essential part of the Radio Spectrum Monitoring System (RMS), a major initiative designed to strengthen the authority’s capacity to detect and respond to radio frequency interferences in real time. During the signing ceremony, Kila Gulo-Vui, the Chief Executive Officer of NICTA, called the project essential for the regulatory body's mission. “It’s an exciting project that will help NICTA monitor the radio frequency spectrum and ensure all our licensees are operating within the terms and conditions of their licenses.” “This is very important not only for NICTA but for the entire ICT industry. It will significantly enhance our ability to discharge our spectrum responsibilities.” The RMS, once fully operational, will provide NICTA with advanced monitoring tools to manage, plan and utilize Papua New Guinea’s limited frequency spectrum resources more efficiently and securely. Digicel PNG CEO Tarik Boudiaf reaffirmed the telecommunications company’s commitment to supporting the country’s digital development goals. “For Digicel, this is not just a commercial project but also a meaningful contribution toward the country’s development, digital inclusion and the prosperity of telecommunications in Papua New Guinea.” The spectrum monitoring tower is anticipated to be an important regulatory tool, allowing for better monitoring of spectrum use while ensuring adherence to regulations and aiding the government's wider digital transformation goals. Once completed, this infrastructure will enhance NICTA's ability to provide a safe, secure, and connected digital space for all people in Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea has recently begun a countrywide consultation on the rights of persons with disabilities, beginning with a two-day regional workshop in Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province. The initiative, led by the Department for Community Development and Religion (DfCDR), is supported by the Australian Government and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). The Highlands consultation brought together participants from all seven provinces in the region, including provincial government officers, persons with disabilities, civil society organisations, churches, and development partners. The forum provided a platform for open dialogue, policy review, and data collection to strengthen disability rights and promote inclusive development in line with PNG’s commitments under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Department Secretary Jerry Ubase, in his opening remarks, thanked Australia and OHCHR for their continued support, stating the consultation marked an important step toward building inclusive communities. “By engaging stakeholders across the country, we are ensuring that the voices of persons with disabilities are heard and reflected in our national policies.” Western Highlands Deputy Provincial Administrator Esley Tikil officially welcomed delegates, while Australia’s Second Secretary at the High Commission, Tomoko Kognezawa, reaffirmed her country’s support for inclusive governance in PNG. Speaking on behalf of persons with disabilities, Lupo Kon, Chairman of the Highlands Regional Assembly of Disabled Persons, described the consultation as a first of its kind. “I am proud to be part of this initiative and will continue to advocate for disability rights on any platform available.” Similar workshops are scheduled to take place in the Momase, Southern, and New Guinea Islands regions in the coming months. A study visit to the United Nations Headquarters in New York for the 18th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the CRPD is also planned, aimed at aligning PNG with global standards. The consultations are expected to result in a national CRPD report, improved reporting mechanisms, and stronger collaboration between government agencies and community organisations. PNG’s next periodic CRPD report is due in 2029.

Community advocacy organization ACT NOW! has criticized Prime Minister James Marape, after his address at the Green Climate Fund in Port Moresby city. He was reported to have stated that no new forestry licenses will be issued after 16th September, the 50th anniversary of PNG’s Independence. ACT NOW Campaign Manager, Eddie Tango, says, preventing new logging licenses is an unfruitful move with no practical impact. “Stopping new licenses will not stop the illegal logging that is destroying our forests and will not stop the human rights abuses by foreign logging companies and their tax evasion and money laundering.” “Existing logging licenses will still be valid for decades and the Prime Ministers promise will not stop the licenses being extended in the future.” According to ACT NOW, at least one-third of log exports presently, are still obtained from areas that were issued logging permits in the colonial era; permits that have been repeatedly renewed without permission from current resource owners. A lot of evidence also showed that it was a common practice that logging companies operate outside their logging permit boundaries. A significant portion of Papua New Guinea’s log exports continues to come from FCA areas in spite of a moratorium placed on new Forest Clearing Authority (FCA) licenses more than two years ago –and well-documented evidence show that many of these licenses were fraudulently obtained under the pretense of agricultural development, while in reality being used for unlawful logging operations. The organization argues that the PNG Forest Authority has consistently failed — or refused — to uphold the country’s forestry laws, allowing illegal logging and related forest crimes to persist without accountability. “If the Prime Minister is serious about preserving our forests, then he should order a full public inquiry into the FCA logging scandal and order the suspension of all log exports until the legality of individual licenses has been independently verified.” “If the government doesn’t act on existing illegal logging licenses the forest destruction will continue, and the associated money laundering is likely to result in PNG being grey listed by the international finance community with devastating impacts on the whole economy.”

To enhance education and workforce readiness in the country, Theodist Limited has entered into a strategic partnership with IBS University (IBSU) and IBS College of TVET (IBSC) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The signing ceremony was held at Theodist Business Superstore headquarters in Port Moresby, with senior representatives from all three organizations in attendance. The partnership aims to provide students from IBSU and IBSC with on-the-job training opportunities, enabling them to gain valuable hands-on experience and apply their classroom knowledge in real-world environments. In return, IBS University will deliver specialized training workshops for Theodist staff, led by faculty experts in business, technology, and management. Speaking at the event, Theodist CEO Kumar Baliah said the partnership reaffirmed the company’s ongoing commitment to education. “Theodist has always believed in the power of education to transform lives. This partnership with IBSU and IBSC strengthens our long-standing support for PNG’s education sector by creating a direct link between learning and industry.” “We’re excited to offer real-world opportunities to students while also opening up pathways for our team to learn and grow alongside academic professionals.” Collaborative initiatives such as guest lectures, student mentoring, guided industry visits, and participation in curriculum development, are included to ensure that academic content remain with industry trends and standards. IBSU Vice Chancellor, Professor Ramachandran Arunachalam, welcomed the partnership as a step toward preparing students for the realities of the workforce. “IBSUniversity is committed to the holistic development of its students by offering practical, experience-based learning opportunities.” “The Memorandum of Understanding with Theodist is a strategic step toward bridging the gap between academic learning and industry expectations.” “This ensures that students graduate not only with academic qualifications but also with practical, job-ready skills.” Supporting these views, IBSC Head Mr. Sagara Wijeratne noted that the MOU builds on an already established relationship with Theodist. “We have a long-standing relationship with Theodist. This MOU formalises our understanding in order to enhance the quality of education by improving the practical skills of our students with the facilitation and support of Theodist.” The three-year MOU, with potential for renewal, is aligned with Theodist’s broader mission to empower education and business in PNG through trusted and impactful service delivery. This partnership reflects a shared commitment by all parties to contribute meaningfully to national development by cultivating a skilled, industry-ready workforce through collaboration between academia and the private sector.

Title: K-Pop Demon Hunters (2025) Director(s): Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans Rating: PG Genre(s): Animation, Fantasy, Musical, Action-Comedy, Coming-of-Age Runtime: 1hr 36min Star(s): Arden Cho • May Hong • Ji-young Yoo • Ahn Hyo-seop • Ken Jeong BRILLIANT BLEND OF KPOP AND SUPERNATURAL ELEMENTS WITH POTENTIAL UNFINISHED ROMANCE “K-pop Demon Hunters, brings a unique concept to the world of storytelling. From the stages of with glitz and glamour to the rotten dark side of the paranormal – delivering an entertaining masterpiece that’s both chaotic and catchy.” Global K-Pop girl group sensation, HUNTR/X secretly combat demons threatening humanity when they’re not tearing up the stage. As the due date for a crucial supernatural event near, a new adversary, the Saja Boys a rival boy band whose members are all demons in disguise, threatens their progress. The film’s musical numbers are its greatest asset. With notable songs such as ‘Your Idol’ and ‘Golden’ topping real-life music charts, K-Pop Demon Hunters’ soundtracks have become a force in the music industry in spite of the artists being completely fictional. Character costume design is impeccable and respects Korean culture, both contemporary and traditional. HUNTR/X’s stage fashion consists of cropped jackets, miniskirts, shorts and streetwear pieces. Accessories include, chunky boots, statement belts, chokers, and bold earrings. Each character also carries arms inspired by actual traditional Korean weapons when battling demons. The Saja Boys in their demonic form, wears a blend of traditional Korean attire from the Joseon-era and modern fashion. The relationship between Rumi and Jinu, while emotionally charged, ultimately feels underdeveloped and unresolved. Their dynamic hints at both friendship and romance, but the storyline doesn’t fully commit to either path—leaving audiences feeling somewhat unsatisfied. The tension between their opposing missions could have offered a rich emotional arc: Rumi, bound by her duty to eliminate demons, struggles with her empathy for Jinu; while Jinu, tasked with reaping souls, finds himself drawn to a humanity he supposedly forfeited. Yet the film never convincingly explains how Jinu, having sold his soul, still holds a moral compass or capacity for emotional conflict. As a result, their potential connection feels more symbolic than sincere—an intriguing concept that lacks the depth and resolution needed to truly resonate. That said, the film is still a work of art, masterfully blending music and paranormal charm – two elements known for drawing in masses in pop culture. Final Thoughts: A warning to Christian/Religious parents: I DO NOT recommend this film for children to watch as it carries heavy spiritual elements and depicts relationships between humans and demons. Rating: 9/10 Can be fully enjoyed if you’re not a spiritual/religious person, otherwise your conscience will be affected.

BSP Financial Group Ltd (BSP) took a bold step beyond banking, reinforcing its environmental commitment through the successful hosting of the Trash to Treasure Sculpture Festival in partnership with Port Moresby Nature Park, since June when the world celebrated Environment Day. The festival, which concluded on Saturday 5th July, showcased the talent and creativity of local artists who turned plastic waste into stunning sculptures, bringing a powerful message about plastic pollution and environmental responsibility. BSP’s Head of Community Development & Sponsorship, Tina Pomat, said the event was a clear example of the bank’s ongoing efforts to lead by example in community-focused environmental advocacy. “Environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility, and BSP is proud to lead by example as naming rights sponsor of the Trash to Treasure Sculpture Festival.” “Our involvement in this festival is a testament to our commitment to go beyond financial services by making a real difference in the communities.” The festival also included a variety of educational activities designed to engage young people. Each week in June, more than 500 students participated in nature walks, wildlife keeper talks, and environmental education sessions at Port Moresby Nature Park. These hands-on activities gave students and teachers alike a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges facing PNG’s native species and ecosystems. Marissa Pagera, Commercial Operations Manager at the Nature Park commented that the teachers and students were inspired and made raised awareness on environmental conditions. “With support from BSP through its Go Green Campaign, this initiative made a significant impact. It’s helping raise awareness among today’s generation about the environmental issues that affect us all.” Family-friendly events, including a musical by Knack Studios that creatively addressed the impact of plastic pollution, were also part of the festival. The performance added an entertaining and emotional touch to the environmental theme, further reinforcing the festival’s message. Beyond the environmental education, BSP used the event as a platform for community engagement. Between 7th June and 5th July, BSP staff at the park opened 60 new bank accounts, registered 59 customers for Mobile Banking, activated 21 Wantok Moni wallets, and welcomed over 200 visitors during Saturday events. The initiative, according to BSP, aligns with its broader corporate social responsibility goals to drive meaningful impact across the National Capital District and PNG. Pomat stated that plastic pollution was an environmental threat that demanded urgent, collective action. “We urge individuals, communities, and organizations to join in this effort—because protecting our environment protects our future.”

Representatives from UNFPA, Cheshire Disabilities Centre and Marie Stopes recently shed light on the progression of sex education in Papua New Guinea since the introduction of mobile phones, during a recent panel discussion held at Moresby Arts Theatre. Previously, sex education in remote parts of the country was an uncomfortable topic to discuss openly, however since the introduction of technology, towards mid-to late 2010s, the topic has become less controversial but not without cost. Gerald Bengesser, General Manager of Cheshire Disability Services PNG and Ivy Karue, Marketing & Communications Manager of Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea – both former workers of Youth with A Mission (YWAM) spoke on their experiences, when bringing awareness to rural villages. Bengesser highlighted the difference in response due to the introduction of pornography. “I remember in 2011, we visited a remote village along the Gulf Province." "We held puberty awareness and screened a video about reproductive health.” “The crowd giggled throughout; it was all new to them.” “But when we went back in 2017 or 2018, the vibe was different." "We screened similar content, but no one giggled, because by then, mobile phones had arrived.” “And with that came exposure to pornographic material." "People had already consumed explicit content without any guidance.” Karue echoed similar experiences. “We used to separate men and women in the villages and have them talk in gender-specific groups about sensitive topics." "That helped manage the discomfort.” “The conversations have changed however." "When we go into rural communities, we hold open forums before we start providing services.” “During one of our awareness sessions, one man stood up and asked us directly: ‘What exactly are you putting into our wives’ bodies?" "They say they get headaches and pain.’” “That gave us a powerful opportunity to address common myths and explain the side effects and facts to everyone.” “There’s still discomfort, but people are more open to these conversations in group settings." "It builds shared understanding and reduces misinformation, like the common myth that implants are tracking devices.” “People will listen and engage when the approach is respectful and clear.” Deputy Representative and Head of Programme UNFPA PNG Country Office, Rena Dona, shared that the National Department of Education, with support from UNFPA, has developed new Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) materials for Grades seven to twelve. “These resources are PNG-specific, they are not just copied from international guidelines.” “We have helped tailor them to reflect local realities, and we’ll soon be launching them alongside an instructor’s guide.”

A panel discussion under the theme, “Equity through Generations” was held at the Moresby Arts Theatre tackling issues around sexual reproductive health and rights (SHRH), disability inclusion, youth empowerment and the evolving role of technology in rural outreach. Panelists included, Dr. Rena Dona, Deputy Representative and Head of Programme UNFPA PNG Country Office, Gerald Bengesser, General Manager of Cheshire Disability Services PNG and Ivy Karue, Marketing & Communications Manager of Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea. Each panelist described what equity meant to them and explained how it was applied in their organization. Ivy Karue, Marketing & Communications Manager of Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea described equity as everyone starting from the same point regardless of disadvantages. “Equity means creating a level playing field. Not everyone starts with the same access or ability to use services, and equity is about bridging those gaps—social, physical, or systemic.” “In Marie Stopes, inclusion is essential. Family planning isn’t only for able-bodied people—it’s for everyone.” “We even have a GEDSI Coordinator focused on gender equality and inclusion, making sure our service providers can cater to all individuals.” Gerald Bengesser, General Manager of Cheshire Disability Services PNG, emphasized that physical infrastructure is only part of the solution. “It begins with accessibility. For example, even if a school has a lift, if the road leading to it is rough and inaccessible for someone in a wheelchair, that service is still out of reach.” “Equity sounds good, but we’re still far from achieving it. We need to be honest about the journey. It’s long and requires thoughtful steps forward.” He recounted stories from Cheshire’s Young Voices program, where young people living with disabilities identify their own technological needs and explore creative solutions using accessible tools like mobile phones. Representing the UN, Dr. Rena Doner underscored the importance of listening to young people and to not make assumptions on their needs. “There are so many misguided assumptions. For example, ‘Young people are prioritizing careers over family’, which leads to blaming them for low fertility rates.” “This can lead to making policies that worsen the situation.” She also emphasized on the risks digital spaces have on sensitive topics such as sexuality and GBV. “Digital spaces can also fuel gender-based violence and misinformation, which we must address alongside the benefits.” Reflecting on their outreach work with YWAM and Marie Stopes, both Bangeza and Carwin noted a cultural shift in how communities engage with sensitive topics. “In 2011, we had to separate men and women during SRHR talks.” “But last year, we sat with an entire village, men included, to talk openly about contraceptives and side effects.” Bangeza added that in the early 2010s, community reactions to puberty education were awkward and shy. Now, with mobile phones widespread even in remote areas, youth are often exposed to adult content without context or guidance. “We’ve essentially given fire to communities without teaching them how to use it.” The panel concluded with a strong call for collaboration across sectors.

The Community Development, Youth, and Religion through the National Gender-Based Violence Secretariat, has committed K1.5 million to Civil Society Organization grants – specifically designed to support organizations working to respond to and prevent gender-based violence in line with the National Gender- Based Violence Strategy. The announcement was made by Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion Jason Peter at the official launch of the National Safe House Mapping Report and rebranded Civil Society Organization GBV Grants Mechanism, held at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby. “These grants represent our commitment to strengthening the capacity of CSOs throughout Papua New Guinea.” The CSO GBV Grants are designed to finance community organizations across the country who provide vital services to survivors of violence. “We recognize that effective partnerships between government, donors, private sector and civil society is essential in realizing our shared goals of having a society free from gender-based violence.” With K1.5 million committed under the National Gender-Based Violence Secretariat, the funding is expected to bolster capacity, improve outreach, and support sustainability in service delivery. Unlike previous approaches, the new grant mechanism introduces transparent and accountable guidelines for application, selection, and disbursement. It aligns with the PNG National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence, which envisions a coordinated and inclusive approach to tackling GBV. The launch also saw the unveiling of the National Safe House Mapping Report, a document that identifies the location, capacity, and operational status of safe houses across the country. For policymakers and funders, the report provides a data-driven foundation for targeted investment and long-term planning. By 2027, the government aims to support 80 safe houses under its Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP).

Mahogany Finance has expanded its footprint in Papua New Guinea with the opening of a new branch in Lae, Morobe Province. The move marks a significant step in the company’s mission to deliver accessible, innovative, and client-focused financial services across the country. The new branch, located at Unit 18, Central Arcade Building, Top Town, Lae, will begin operations on Monday, 7 July 2025. It will provide a full suite of financial products, including Equipment and Vehicle Finance, Lease Finance, Term Deposits, Insurance Premium Finance, and Interest-Only Loans. These services are designed to support both individuals and businesses with diverse and evolving financial needs. Known for its fast approvals, competitive interest rates, and personalized customer service, Mahogany Finance aims to raise the standard of financial service delivery in the region. The Lae branch is expected to make significant contributions to the economic development of Morobe Province by supporting the province’s business landscape. Ms. Nathalie Kaman has been appointed as Relationship Manager for the Lae branch. With extensive experience in the financial services sector and a deep understanding of the local market, Ms. Kaman will lead the branch in delivering tailored financial solutions and building strong community connections. Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Terry Hall, expressed enthusiasm about the company’s latest milestone: “Our entry into Lae marks a significant moment in Mahogany Finance’s growth. We’re here not just to do business, but to become a trusted financial partner to the people of Lae.” “We’re excited about the opportunities this vibrant region offers and are committed to contributing to its continued development.” Mahogany Finance invites residents and businesses across Lae and the wider Morobe region to visit the new branch and experience the difference of working with a dedicated, community-focused financial partner. Customers in Lae can reach the Mahogany Finance team by phone at (675) 7065 3470 or (675) 8137 2757, or via email at LaeRM@mahogany.com.pg. For more information, visit www.mahogany.com.pg