Churches across the country will benefit from a K1 million funding commitment announced by Jason Peter, Member for Huon Gulf and Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion, during the closing ceremony of the Evangelical Lutheran Church (ELC) Malaclo Circuit’s 50th Anniversary celebrations held in Salamaua LLG, Morobe Province. The three-day event was held at Buakap Primary School from 3rd to 5th October 2025. It brought together church leaders, circuit pastors, and community members to reflect on five decades of faith and service. The event was held under the theme “Let your light continue to shine for God’s glory” (Matthew 5:16). In his keynote address, Minister Peter repeated the National Government’s commitment to supporting churches, announcing that K1 million has been allocated through the Department of Community Development, Youth and Religion for the rehabilitation of rundown church buildings across the country in 2025. He also emphasized that the Department is working towards reviving mission stations operated by various church denominations, acknowledging their ongoing role in community service, moral guidance, and social development. The Minister urged pastors and church elders to remain faithful to their calling and to serve God’s people with integrity and humility. He reminded church leaders to avoid becoming involved in politics for personal gain and to focus instead on their mission to promote faith and unity in their communities. In addition to the national commitment, Minister Peter, through the Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD-DDA), has also delivered K729,000 in 2025 towards church-related programs within the district. Of that amount, K649,000 was allocated for infrastructure maintenance, while K45,000 supported ministerial activities. Additional funds remain available for use before the end of December. The ELC Malaclo Circuit, the host of the anniversary celebrations, received K249,000 in direct support. This includes: - K180,000 – Infrastructure Maintenance - K10,000 – ELC Mama Geyamsao Support - K10,000 – 50th Anniversary Celebrations - K5,000 – ELC Malaclo Circuit SAM Support - K20,000 – Church Bell Setup Materials - K4,000 – Labour & Transportation Highlights of the celebration included the opening and closing ceremonies, the dedication of the historical Malaclo Church, the launch of the Geyamsao Conference Hall, and a Sunday worship and ordination service. The event was attended by senior church leaders, including the Yabim District President and Wampar District President, as well as local officials and members of the wider ELC-PNG community. Minister Peter commended the ELC Malaclo Circuit for its 50 years of committed service, encouraging the congregation to continue being a light of faith, unity, and hope in the Huon Gulf District and beyond.

Governor of East New Britain province Michael Marum, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with churches across the province, calling them key allies in service delivery, and community development. In a funding presentation held on Sunday, October 5, Governor Marum delivered financial support to two churches in the Gazelle District, K20, 000 to the Valaur United Church and K10, 000 to the Vunagamata United Church. The Governor described the church as a “frontline service provider,” particularly at the ward level, noting its critical role not only in meeting physical needs but also in nurturing the spiritual, emotional, and social wellbeing of communities. “With the current law and order issues we are facing in the province, we believe the churches are the way forward.” “That is why the East New Britain Provincial Government will continue to support church programs and initiatives that strengthen our communities and uphold positive values.” He also stressed that the financial assistance aims to build the institutional capacity of the churches, empowering them to play an even greater role in driving peace, unity, and sustainable development across East New Britain. Receiving the support on behalf of both congregations, Reverend Bellie thanked the Governor and the people of East New Britain for their continued trust and backing. “We are deeply grateful for this assistance.” “It shows that the Government values the work of the Church in transforming lives and building stronger, more peaceful communities.” “We will continue to pray for Governor Marum and his leadership as we work together for a better East New Britain.” The Valaur and Vunagamata United Church congregations expressed great appreciation and pledged their ongoing support to the Government’s broader vision for peace, progress, and unity in the province.

Eastern Highlands Governor Simon Sia recently made a heartfelt contribution to the House Krai program for the late Luther Wenge, donating K50,000 in cash and goods worth another K50,000 on behalf of the people of Eastern Highlands Province. The donation was officially presented by Deputy Provincial Administrator Peter Gare, who represented both the Governor and the provincial administration. The contribution included the cash amount as well as three live pigs, a cow, garden produce, and store-bought food items. Speaking during the presentation, Gare paid tribute to the former Morobe Governor, saying the country has lost a patriotic leader who served both his province and Papua New Guinea with distinction. “Governor Sia sends his deepest, sincere condolences to the immediate family members of the late Luther Wenge and the people of Morobe Province for a great loss.” “The passing of a great leader is not only your loss, but a national loss.” He reflected on the longstanding relationship between the two provinces, noting that Morobe Province has long been considered a “big brother” to the Eastern Highlands, due to shared history, values, and the influence of early missionaries and public servants who moved inland from the coast. “Our presence here is to remind you that we are with you during this mourning period and to reaffirm that Morobe still holds a special place in our hearts.” Receiving the support, Chief Mourner and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso expressed his gratitude to Governor Sia and the people of Eastern Highlands for their solidarity during a time of mourning.

Grade 10 students have commenced their National Examinations, marking point in Papua New Guinea’s education calendar. At Gordons Secondary School, a total of 386 students — 186 male and 200 female students— are sitting for the week-long assessments that will determine their eligibility to progress to higher secondary education. According to Mr. Johnymar Cudal, Deputy Principal of Academics, the examination week has begun with Personal Development and Mathematics papers. The exams are being conducted across eight classrooms, with invigilators drawn from nearby schools — including New Erima Junior High, Jubilee Secondary School, and Asia Pacific College — to ensure proper supervision.  When asked about student safety, particularly as NCD joined in the 50th Independence celebrations, Mr. Cudal assured that operations remained stable. “Students were hardly affected. We completed all the requirements." He also noted a slight decrease in student numbers compared to the previous year, though the number of classes remains unchanged. “It’s the same number of classes, just a minor change in student count." The examination schedule is as follows: * Oct 6: Session1- Mathematics Session 2 - Personal Development * Oct 7: Session 1- S/Science Session 2- Arts * Oct 8: Session 1- Science Session 2 - TIA/CCT * Oct 9: Session 1 - Bus Studies Session 2 - Agriculture * Oct 10: Session 1 - English The National Examinations are a critical stage in Papua New Guinea’s education system, assessing students’ academic performance and readiness for the next level.

Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea (MSPNG) reaffirmed its vital role in advancing the country’s development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the dissemination of Papua New Guinea’s Second Voluntary National Review (VNR) Report and the launch of the SDG Portal. The event, held at the Hilton Hotel, was hosted by the Department of National Planning and Monitoring. MSPNG's Country Director Angelyn Famudi, participated in a high-level panel alongside leaders from government, academia, and the United Nations. She highlighted MSPNG’s significant contributions, particularly in relation to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). “MSPNG’s mission is deeply tied to the heart of Papua New Guinea’s national development and the SDGs.” She stressed the organization’s work in providing life-saving family planning and reproductive health services, directly contributing to reducing maternal deaths, preventing unintended pregnancies, and averting unsafe abortions. Additionally, MSPNG’s efforts in empowering women and girls to make informed decisions about their bodies are integral to promoting long-term gender equality and empowerment. Famudi also noted the economic benefits of MSPNG’s services, particularly in reducing the strain on national health financing. In 2024, the organization’s services helped save an estimated K3.34 million in direct healthcare costs, providing essential financial relief to the government and the broader health sector. “These savings are crucial, especially at a time when health financing is stretched.” “Our services enable the government to redirect resources to strengthen health infrastructure, expand essential services, and fulfil broader goals under the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV).” In addition to its health contributions, MSPNG has been dedicated to the principle of ‘leaving no one behind,’ with a strong focus on reaching underserved and remote communities across PNG. Despite immense logistical and geographical challenges, Famudi reaffirmed MSPNG’s commitment to overcoming these barriers to reach those most in need. Going forward, she emphasized MSPNG's ongoing partnership with the Government of Papua New Guinea to deliver on development priorities and meet SDG targets. She also expressed gratitude for the support of the organization’s donors, including the Australian Government through the PNGAus Partnership, the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and other philanthropic partners.Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea (MSPNG) reaffirmed its vital role in advancing the country’s development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the dissemination of Papua New Guinea’s Second Voluntary National Review (VNR) Report and the launch of the SDG Portal.

The Governor of East New Britain Province Michael Marum has made a significant commitment to supporting local youth and wards aimed at cleaning key tourism areas along the Kokopo-Rabaul road. Governor Marum recently presented K10, 000 worth of tools and equipment from Agmark Didiman Store in Kokopo to assist six wards in the Raluana Local Government Area including, Vunamurmur, Barowon, Nguvalian, Bitatita, Raburua, and Karavia. This donation will help the communities engage in environmental preservation and development programs. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between the Governor’s Office and RAMs Shipping Limited, marking the beginning of a joint partnership to involve local youths in the cleanup of tourism hotspots. The clean-up will cover areas along the Kokopo-Rabaul road, from Barowon to Karavia, including the Blue Lagoon and beach front areas. As part of the MOA, RAMs Shipping Limited will contribute K2, 000 per month to each participating ward account for the next three months, with the program to be reviewed at the end of the trial period. The funds will support the cleaning efforts along the designated road areas, encouraging youth involvement and offering them valuable work experience. The program will be closely monitored, and if successful, will be extended to other areas across the province, continuing the focus on environmental stewardship and youth empowerment.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is ramping up its efforts to tackle the growing threat of invasive weeds, with the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) stepping into a regional initiative focused on sustainable, biological control methods.Six NARI scientists joined key government agencies and partners in Port Moresby on September 24 for the National Stakeholders Workshop on Invasive Species, a one-day event aimed at boosting the country’s capacity to manage the spread of harmful weed species. Hosted by the New Zealand Bioeconomy Science Institute in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) under the Natural Enemy Natural Solutions (NENS) program, the workshop marked PNG’s first major step toward re-engaging in biological control, an area where the country once led the way. PNG has a strong legacy in biological weed control, having successfully introduced 19 natural enemies since the mid-20th century. However, no new introductions have occurred since 2014, despite the rising spread of new invasive weeds, partly fuelled by climate change and environmental disruptions. Rodney Aku from NARI’s Momase Regional Centre stated that invasive weeds are silently undermining food production and rural livelihoods. “Reviving the natural enemies’ approach can restore balance in our ecosystems and safeguard agriculture for future generations.” The NENS initiative, spearheaded by the Pacific Regional Environment Program (PREM) and led by the New Zealand Institute of Bioeconomy Science, supports Pacific countries in adopting long-term, environmentally friendly solutions to weed management by using carefully selected natural enemies that target invasive species without harming crops, communities, or local ecosystems. So far, eight Pacific nations including, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, Niue, Tuvalu, and Tonga, are participating in the NENS program. PNG’s active interest marks a significant expansion of the initiative in the region. Representatives from NARI, NAQIA, DAL, CEPA, and several NGOs attended the workshop, focusing on three key goals: • Building a shared understanding of the threat posed by invasive weeds in the Pacific. • Identifying and prioritizing the top 10 invasive weed species in PNG. • Exploring opportunities for collaboration and institutional alignment to improve national weed management systems. NARI staff from research centres across the country including Bubia, Kerevat, Laloki, Aiyura, and Tambul, contributed regional insights to the discussions, highlighting the diverse challenges faced in different parts of PNG. The outcomes of the workshop are expected to shape national policy and planning on invasive species and could position PNG as a leader in the Pacific for using biological control to promote sustainable agriculture and protect ecosystems.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) was proudly represented by eight talented athletes and officials at the Oceania Gather, Adjust, Prepare, Sustain (GAPS) Camp held on the Gold Coast from 14–20 September 2025. The GAPS Program is a high-performance initiative designed to develop emerging athletes and coaches across the Pacific, offering access to expertise and training facilities not readily available in their home countries. The program is proudly supported by the Australian Government through the PacificAus Sports initiative and delivered by Commonwealth Sport in partnership with Griffith University. This year’s camp brought together approximately 70 athletes and coaches from 10 Commonwealth nations and territories across the Oceania region, fostering regional sporting excellence ahead of major international events such as the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Representing Papua New Guinea in athletics and para-athletics were: - Lakona Gerega – Athlete - Patricia Kuku – Athlete - Joy Tibea – Athlete - Steven Abraham – Para Athlete - Jerome Bunge – Para Athlete - Regina Edward – Para Athlete - Mike Smith – Official - Jackie Travertz – Para Athletics Official With a strong focus on inclusion, diversity, and gender equity, the GAPS Program is also committed to creating opportunities for women and athletes with disabilities to thrive in elite sport. The PNG delegation embodied this spirit, showcasing determination, skill, and a drive to grow within the global sporting arena. Para-athlete Regina Edward spoke reflecting the team’s forward-looking mindset. “I’m looking forward to the competitions at the end of the camp to see our performance and what we need to work on for our qualifying competition for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2026.” Australian support for the program has been pivotal in its success. Deputy Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Adrian Lochrin, highlighted the broader value of the initiative. “Australia is proud to support the elite development of PNG and Pacific athletes. The GAPS program is a great initiative in providing world-class high-performance training for the athletes.” “The program also fosters stronger people-to-people connections across PNG and the Pacific with Australia.” “GAPS plays a vital role in preparing athletes and coaches, both able-bodied and those in para sport, for elite competition, strengthening pathways for Pacific participants in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Papua New Guinea Swimming Inc. (PNGSI) has announced that the 2025 FedEx National Short Course Swimming Championships will be held on 4–5 October at the Lae International School, Senior Campus, known as the Coronation School Pool, located on Coronation Drive. The event will feature 40 swimmers from top local clubs including the Lae Amateur Swimming Club (LASC), Boroko Amateur Swimming Club, and PNG Masters Swimming, competing in what promises to be an exciting and competitive weekend. Athletes will showcase some of the nation's brightest swimming talent. PNGSI has expressed appreciation to the Lae Amateur Swimming Club and its executives for hosting the important event, which brings together athletes and officials to deliver a memorable competition. The FedEx National Short Course Swimming Championships also serve as a key selection event for the Train-On-Squads for several major international competitions in 2026, including: - Oceania Aquatics Swimming Championships (50m) – Suva, Fiji (11-17 May 2026) - Commonwealth Games (50m) – Glasgow, Scotland (24-29 July 2026) - Summer Youth Olympic Games (50m) – Dakar, Senegal (31 October – 13 November 2026) - World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m) – Beijing, China (1-6 December 2026) The event’s success is made possible thanks to the cooperation and support of numerous individuals and organizations. PNGSI commended the technical officials, led by World Aquatics Swimming Officials Albert Vigil and Gilbert Camillus, as well as the LASC executives and members, for ensuring the competition meets international standards. PNGSI also expressed its thanks to PNG Air Freight through their FedEx brand for their sponsorship and in-kind support, which provides vital resources for both officials and athletes to ensure the successful delivery of the championship. On behalf of the PNGSI executives, President Ryan Pini, MBE, extended his best wishes to all participants and stakeholders, looking forward to a successful event and continued development of swimming talent in the country.

What began in a modest home kitchen just five years ago grew into one of Lae’s most inspiring business success stories.Violet Bukon, founder of The Eatery Catering and Cakes, has been named the 2025 Entrepreneur Award winner at the prestigious Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA). From preparing meals for family and friends, Bukon now runs a thriving catering business that provides boardroom lunches to some of Papua New Guinea’s top companies. Her client list includes corporate heavyweights such as Paradise Foods Limited, Credit Corporation, and the Bank of Papua New Guinea. But for Violet, it’s about more than just business. “This journey was never just about me.” “I built this business not just to rise, but to raise others with me.” “When women are equipped with life skills, they find the power to live meaningful lives and contribute with purpose to their families, society and nation.” Indeed, The Eatery Catering and Cakes has become a platform for empowerment. Violet has trained over 20 young people in cooking and customer service, many of whom have gone on to start their own food businesses or found steady employment in the hospitality sector. Walk into her kitchen today and you’ll find a space filled with learning, growth, and transformation — a place where confidence is built and futures are shaped. Tamzin Wardley, Chairwoman of Westpac PNG, praised Violet’s impact, saying her story is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship as a tool for social change. “Violet’s approach reminds us that business can be a platform for growth, not only for the entrepreneur, but also the people around them.” “It’s not just about building a successful business; it’s about building futures, and that is the kind of impact Westpac PNG is proud to support across the country.” Emma Low, Managing Director for Westpac Pacific, highlighted the significance of the WOW Awards in recognising leaders like Violet. “The WOW Awards are more than a moment of recognition — they celebrate the outstanding contributions of women, act as a catalyst for opportunity, and serve as an inspiration for the next generation of female leaders in PNG.” “I’m especially proud of finalists like Violet Bukon, whose dedication and impact exemplify the spirit of the awards.” Westpac PNG Chief Executive, Andrew Cairns, echoed these sentiments. “Violet’s victory in the Entrepreneur category reflects Westpac’s values of supporting businesses that create positive community impact.” “She embodies the spirit of enterprise that builds stronger communities.” Violet’s business serves as a powerful example of how entrepreneurship can uplift individuals, families, and communities.

Prime Minister James Marape returned from New York after attending the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he delivered a national statement coinciding with PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary and 50 years of UN membership.Speaking before world leaders, Marape anchored his message on three pillars: peace through dialogue, urgent climate action, and trade-driven development. In his UN address, the Prime Minister urged warring nations to embrace dialogue, citing Papua New Guinea’s own history. “After ten years of civil conflict in Bougainville, we chose dialogue over bullets.” “Under the United Nations’ oversight, we reached the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement. Twenty-four years on, not a single bullet has been fired.” Turning to the Middle East, he called on both Israel and Hamas to commit to negotiations. “To Hamas and to Israel, you have the opportunity to give your people peace.” “If you want peace, sit at the table together. Peace is always possible if we give it a chance.” On climate change, Marape issued one of the strongest appeals of the General Debate. “Our planet is boiling. Unless you have a second planet to run to, we must save the one we have.” Reaffirming his longstanding stance, Marape told world leaders that PNG seeks partnerships rooted in trade and investment, not aid dependency. “It is trade, not aid, that will build our economy to sustain 10 million people.” Marape closed his address by reaffirming faith in multilateralism. “Some think the United Nations is irrelevant. Papua New Guinea, says the Charter is still relevant.” “This Assembly remains humanity’s meeting place. It is here that unity in diversity is possible. “It is here that we preserve peace through dialogue, and it is here that we must save this one planet for all generations.”

Director: Tyler PerryCast: Tyler Perry, Xavier Smalls, Diamond White, Cassi Davis, Tamela Mann, David Mann Rating: PG-13│ Genre(s): Comedy, Drama│ Run Time: 1h 44mins SLIGHTLY RAUNCHY, DISRESPECTFUL AND TRIES TO COVER UP WITH A HEARTWARMING LESSON – AS USUAL “Same old raunchy jokes, family toxicity and Madea delivering life lessons.” Madea (Tyler Perry) and the rest of the Simmons family travel to the Bahamas after their grandniece, Tiffany (Diamond White) unexpectedly announces her engagement to her boyfriend. Madea’s Destination Wedding offers almost nothing new from the usual abuse disguised as humor. The Simmons family is nothing short of toxic and manipulative. Fifty percent of the film’s dialogue is the supporting cast insulting Brian Simmons for his parenting style, his disrespectful children, his career and basically his entire existence only then to turn around and show support once they get what they want from the other party – in this case Brian Simmons’ ex-wife sponsoring their luxury trip. Although Madea is known for delivering hard lessons about life, much of those lessons, realistically would’ve been ignored and overshadowed by her toxic behavior. In spite of this, Tyler Perry knows how to deliver a good message amidst the raunchiness. Madea’s Destination Wedding highlight’s the growth of Tiffany Simmons (Diamond White). The early installments of Madea, depict Tiffany as rebellious, disrespectful and immature. In this film however, Tiffany is taking a big step in her life, getting married and is more open to receiving her father’s rebukes and advice. When her engagement meets a setback, instead of blaming her father, she simply retreats into the company and wisdom of her elders. That said, Tyler Perry’s Madea hardly brings anything fresh to audiences, except capitalizing on black American’s social issues and villainizing black communities. Final Verdict: Anyone looking for cheap laughs will definitely enjoy Madea’s Destination Wedding. Rating: ★★★⯪ (7/10) Best enjoyed during moments of boredom.