The 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture is currently taking place in Seoul, Republic of Korea, from May 27 to 30, 2025, providing Papua New Guinea (PNG) with a significant opportunity to showcase its rich and diverse cultural traditions. This event allows PNG to learn from the experiences of other countries, foster enduring international relationships, and discover how arts and culture can aid in national development—both socially and economically. The insights gained from this summit are anticipated to be instrumental in shaping and guiding the development and execution of cultural policies in the country. The summit aims to create new ways to advance arts and culture, highlighting the sector's role in the global sustainable development agenda and in building stronger local communities. It seeks to inspire participants through real-life examples, best practices, and a variety of perspectives from around the world. Representing PNG at the Summit was Executive Director of the PNG National Cultural Commission, Mr. Steven Enomb Kilanda. The summit is expected to gather approximately 400 delegates from 85 different countries. These delegates include key leaders and decision-makers from various areas within the arts and cultural ecosystem, along with professionals from other sectors. Delegates are discussing and learning from each other about how different knowledge systems, technology, innovation, and digitalization are affecting the arts and cultural sectors. These talks aim to support transformation, empowerment, decolonization, and sustainability in communities worldwide. PNG's participation in this global event shows its commitment to recognizing and promoting its arts and cultural heritage internationally. The World Summit on Arts and Culture is organized by International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA) with the Arts Council Korea as a co-host. The event encourages open exchanges among representatives from governments, the cultural sector, civil society, and others, welcoming both IFACCA members and the global community.

WaterAid, together with Queen Pads, CPL foundation Inc and the UN Population Foundation (UNFPA), hosted their annual Menstrual Hygiene Networking event yesterday to provide opportunities and solutions for issues women and girls in PNG face in relation to menstrual health, hygiene, and sanitation. Carolyn Uberawa, a tax advisor with the Internal Revenue Commission, briefly spoke on the recent policy, Goods and Services Tax (GST) Zero-Rating of Essential Goods – a policy which does not charge GST on selected items, menstrual products included. She stated that it is a massive tax relief for PNG Citizens, and for women and girls, the price of sanitary pads will not include the 10% GST. “Sanitary pads will be more accessible and at a less price.” “This policy allows women and girls greater access to improve menstrual hygiene, all of which leads to better health, education and empowerment outcomes.” “For girls, it provides a safety net knowing that they can afford sanitary products at affordable prices and do not affect daily activities.” She said that this policy decision taken up by the government, was a collaboration between stakeholders, IRC, ICCC and PNG Customs with IRC being at the forefront to be administrators of the policy. Additionally, implementing the Zero-Rating Policy comes with responsibilities, hence she urged all parties involved to work diligently to ensure compliance. “As we implement this Zero-Rating policy, it is essential for stakeholders, retailers, importers and suppliers to ensure that full compliance is with the policy.” “To include correct application of the GST Zero-Rating at point of sales, transparency in pricing and support for ongoing public awareness.” “This is also going to be a joint compliance with ICCC, IRC and PNG Customs in making sure that this policy is delivered.” Finally, she explained to buyers how to identify Zero rated goods. “In shops, look for the Zero-Rated labels of products and also after purchase, check your receipts." "Make sure that all these products, that are listed, including sanitary pads and tampons are Zero-Rated.”

WaterAid, together with Queen Pads, CPL foundation Inc and the UN Population Foundation (UNFPA), organized their yearly Menstrual Hygiene Networking event today to provide opportunities and solutions for issues women and girls in PNG face in relation to menstruation, health, and sanitation. Speaking at the event on Menstrual Health Media Advocacy, Elizabeth Oswyn from Oky Toky Radio, emphasized the impact media can have in promoting menstrual health and hygiene awareness. “Using media platforms to advocate for better menstrual health can significantly amplify our messages and reach a broader audience as we see a lot of girls here in PNG lack information on menstrual hygiene and sexual reproductive health.” “Media plays an important role to advocate for better menstrual health.” “Platforms such as social media, radio, television provide a powerful tool to educate, raise awareness, and break the stigma surrounding menstruation.” “By leveraging these platforms, we share valuable information, promote healthy practices, and encourage open conversations around menstrual health.” An illustration of media's influence was provided through the example of Oky Toky. “Through engaging and informative episodes, Oky Toky Radio has successfully reached over 40,000 adolescent girls.” “The aim of Oky Toky Radio was to ensure maximum reach targeting adolescent girls in rural areas where access to menstrual health information is limited.” “Girls want reliable information.” She added that collaborators can contribute to fostering a supportive and informed community that prioritizes menstrual health and hygiene for a period-friendly world.

Cardinal Sir John Ribat had the honor of representing Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Oceania during the recent conclave and the funeral of the late Pope Francis in the Vatican City. Cardinal Ribat recounted that during the funeral of Pope Francis, more than 100 leaders from around the globe gathered to pay their respects. “This assembly included not only heads of state but also representatives from various faiths, such as Muslims and Baha'is.” “All attendees took part in this significant event. Pope Francis was a widely acknowledged and respected leader, embodying that role throughout the ceremony.” “His importance was also recognized by the United Nations, as everyone in attendance came to honor his legacy.” He further spoke about the inauguration of Pope Leo. The inauguration ceremony of Pope Leo marked the start of his ministry as the Pope for the entire church worldwide. “During this event, we all came together on the 18th of May. The cardinals, bishops, priests, and the congregation were present. The ceremony took place outside in St. Peter's Square, while we rested inside the Basilica.” “After we had rested, we were guided from the sacristy to the front where Mass is usually held, which is above Peter's tomb.” “We were all taken there and asked to wait. As we stood there, looking forward in anticipation, it was really the Pope along with those responsible for the event who arrived. They processed him in.” “For many of us, including myself, it was our first time witnessing this, and it was significant for him to assume his role as the patron of the ministry of St. Peter, who was indeed the leader of the entire church.” “We were all eagerly waiting for him, and he eventually arrived. They descended, to visit St Peter's tomb. He paused there to pray for a moment and then returned. After that, we were given the signal to begin the procession.” “The cardinals started to move to St. Peter's Square for the Mass inside the sacristy.” "I was approached by those who were organizing and preparing the liturgy. So, this person came to see me and said that I had been selected. I was to be one of those who would go and show my respect and vow of obedience to the Holy Father, as this was his first time receiving the pallium.” “He had already received the pallium for his previous work, but this one was specifically for the archbishop and as the leader of the entire church.” “Five representatives from five continents were selected to represent everyone. I represented the entire Oceania region.” In regard to the conclave, Cardinal Ribat stated that it lasted for a short time. “If you count the days, it was only two days. However, if you count the hours, it was actually just one day when everything took place.” "We began voting on Wednesday afternoon while we were there to get ready. We were asked if we wanted to vote at that moment since it was the end of the day. Everyone agreed, noting that we had many votes to carry out, so we should proceed with this one." “After that, we had two more votes to finish the process. The first vote included all nations.” “Importantly, no candidate was ever elevated to the position of Pope.” “Furthermore, when we were seated to vote, we had to take an oath, which was truly between the Lord Jesus, and me.” He stated that Pope Leo was speechless at the cardinal’s choice of him being the new pope. “After his election, he had to place his trust in God's plan and accepted it. He had no words, just tears. That was how he responded.” “Once the voting was finished, he went to what is referred to as the room of tears. He asked everyone to wait there. The voting results were to be brought to the room of tears, where he would lead prayers and other ceremonies afterward.” “He got ready to present himself to the public. We were positioned at four balconies or windows, all aligned.” “There were 133 bishops and 133 cardinals in attendance. He stood in the middle, prepared to greet the people.” “The venue was full, and it was an extraordinary experience to witness," Cardinal Sir Ribat expressed.

The National Parliament of Papua New Guinea is inviting Grade 11 students nationwide to participate in the National Essay and Poetry Contest, which commemorates the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary. The contest which launched on Friday 23rd May, will close on Friday 20th June. The central theme for both essay and poetry categories is: "PNG is celebrating 50 years of independence. What does independence mean to you and how do you envision PNG in 50 years' time?" Essay Category: • Language: Must be composed in English. • Word Count: Between 2,000 and 3,000 words. • Content: Students are encouraged to combine personal insights with research, which may include interviews with elders or analyses of history and literature. • Suggested Subthemes: Participants are invited to weave in subthemes like cultural pride, unity in diversity, leadership, or legacy. Poetry Category: • Language: Must be written in English. • Length: A minimum of 6 to 10 stanzas. • Structure: Each stanza should consist of at least 4 lines. Poems may be in free verse or follow traditional forms such as rhymes. Individual students can submit entries in one or both categories. For Individual Participants: • 1st Prize: K5,000 • 2nd Prize: K3,000 • 3rd Prize: K1,000 For the Winning School: • Plaque Award • Library Books Finalists’ Benefits: • National Program in Port Moresby: 24 finalists (6 from each of the 4 regions) will engage in a week-long program in Port Moresby in August 2025, marking the 41st anniversary of the official opening of Parliament House! • All-Expenses-Paid Trip: Finalists will be provided with return air tickets to Port Moresby, a daily allowance, and accommodation throughout the program, all covered by the National Parliament. • Publication Opportunities for Winning Entries. • Historic Capsule Contribution: Copies of all 24 finalist entries will be placed in a time capsule. This capsule will be interred with the presence of pioneering Members of Parliament and will be opened with their presence in 2075! Photographs are also to be included as items in the capsule. Key dates in Selection Process: Stage 1: Selection of top 6 entries in each school. • Deadline: Friday 27th June, 2025 Stage 2: Selection of top 6 entries in each province. • Deadline: Friday 11th July, 2025 Stage 3: Selection of top 24 regional entries. • Deadline: Friday 25th July, 2025 Students are encouraged to take part and showcase their literary skills, critical thinking and patriotism.

Westpac PNG recently announced its distinguished panel of judges for the 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women (WOW) Awards. This year's judges exemplify excellence across various sectors, including civil society, business, diplomacy, the arts, and governance, truly reflecting the essence of the Awards that honor women who inspire, lead, and transform their communities. With a renewed commitment to celebrating remarkable women in Papua New Guinea, the WOW Awards in 2025 is privileged to be guided by the collective wisdom, integrity, and vision of five extraordinary judges namely Ruth Kissam, Taumaia Hellesoe, Dame Meg Taylor, Ngaiire, and Michelle Hau'ofa. Ruth Kissam, the Overall Winner of the WOW Awards in 2018, is a pioneer in the country’s civil society. Her relentless efforts in the not-for-profit sector have influenced policies and empowered communities throughout the nation. Recently appointed as General Manager of Corporate Affairs for Steamships, Ruth remains a strong advocate for positive change. Taumaia Hellesoe brings over 20 years of experience in banking operations, governance, and strategic execution within PNG and the Pacific as a seasoned leader in financial services. As the Head of Operations at Westpac PNG, she is recognized for her composed leadership and dedication to service excellence, ethical governance, and the empowerment of women in leadership roles. Dame Meg Taylor, a lawyer trained at Harvard, has held positions on the boards of Nambawan Super and the PNG Sustainable Development Program, and was the first female Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum. Her distinguished career includes important roles with the World Bank Group and as Papua New Guinea's Ambassador to the US, Mexico, and Canada. A prominent figure in Pacific diplomacy and climate advocacy, Dame Meg's lifelong dedication to public service and her ground-breaking accomplishments serves as an inspiration for generations of women. Ngaiire, an artist born in Papua New Guinea and now based in Sydney, has made a name for herself with notable performances at Glastonbury and the Sydney Opera House, as well as collaborations with renowned artists like Alicia Keys, John Legend, and Flume. Her third album, titled ‘3’, draws inspiration from her return to her PNG roots and has garnered four ARIA nominations, marking a significant step into multidisciplinary art. In 2025, she is set to further expand her creative horizons with her upcoming large-scale show PAIA, premiering at VIVID Sydney. Michelle Hau'ofa, serving as the Chair of Callan Services National Unit and also as the Chair of one of PNG’s four superannuation fund Boards, brings a wealth of experience from her national leadership roles. Her dedication to the social and economic advancement of PNG is evident through her leadership in business and public health program delivery, where she has served on various boards across these sectors. The distinguished judges involved will contribute their insights, values, and personal experiences to the thorough selection process, ensuring that the 2025 WOW Awards continue to highlight the contributions of women across PNG who are making significant impacts in their respective fields and communities. Andrew Cairns, CEO of Westpac PNG, expressed his enthusiasm in regard to reintroduction of the WOW awards. “As we celebrate 115 years of banking in Papua New Guinea, we are excited to reintroduce the Westpac Outstanding Women’s Awards as one of our flagship initiatives that honors the strength, resilience, and brilliance of PNG women.” “The quality of our judging panel for 2025 reflects our commitment to recognizing the power of women’s leadership across all sectors of PNG society.” “We are privileged to have these outstanding individuals guiding the selection of the next generation of WOW Award recipients.” Nominations for the 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women’s Awards will close on May 30th, 2025. Winners in each of the seven categories will receive a K5,000 grant along with a full year’s mentorship program with a Westpac leader. The overall winner of the WOW Awards will be awarded a K5,000 grant, a full year of mentorship, and the opportunity to attend a business conference in Australia, all sponsored by Westpac.

ACT NOW! and Jubilee Australia Research Centre are calling on a UN Committee to address human rights abuses in Papua New Guinea (PNG) linked to illegal logging. The organizations have submitted a formal appeal to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, requesting that it consider taking action during its upcoming meeting in August. The Bismarck Ramu Group has also shown support for this initiative. Eddie Tanago, ACT NOW! Campaign Manager has communicated to the UN regarding the damage done to customary land. "We have emphasized to the UN that there is widespread, ongoing, and irreversible harm to customary resource owners whose forests are being taken by logging companies." "These violations are systematic, institutionalized, and endorsed by the PNG government through two specific mechanisms: Special Agriculture and Business Leases (SABLs) and Forest Clearing Authorities (FCAs) – a form of logging license." “For over a decade since the Commission of Inquiry into SABLs, successive PNG governments have rubber stamped the large-scale theft of customary resource owners’ forests by upholding the morally bankrupt SABL scheme and expanding the use of FCAs.” “They have failed to revoke SABLs that were acquired fraudulently, with disregard to the law or without landowner consent.” "In the meantime, logging companies have amassed hundreds of millions, if not billions, in ill-gotten profits by effectively appropriating forests from customary resource owners through the use of FCAs.” The complaint also highlights that the abuses are hard to challenge because PNG lack even a basic registry of SABLs or FCAs, and customary resource owners are denied access to information such as: The existence of an SABL or FCA over their forest. A map of the boundaries of any lease or logging license. Information about proposed agricultural projects used to justify the SABL or FCA. The monetary value of logs taken from forests. The beneficial ownership of logging companies – to identify who ultimately profits from illegal logging. The primary motivation for foreign companies to participate in illegal logging in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is profit – it remains lucrative because importing nations and businesses are willing to accept timber that has been logged unlawfully into their markets and supply chains. “If they refused to take any more timber from SABL and FCA areas and demanded a public audit of the logging permits – the money would dry up.” “We hope that this UN attention will urge the international community to see this isn’t an issue of less-than-perfect forest law enforcement.”  “This is a system, honed over decades, that is perpetrating irreparable harm on indigenous peoples across PNG through the wholesale violation of their rights and destroying their forests.”

Title: Another Simple Favor (2025) Director: Paul Feig Rating: R Genre(s): Comedy, Thriller, Mystery, Crime Fiction Run Time: 2hrs Star(s): Blake Lively • Anna Kendrick • Michele Morrone • Henry Townsend When crime obsessed, social media star and newly published author, Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) gets invited to her ex best friend’s (Blake Lively) Emily Nelson’s wedding, Smothers is skeptical at first, considering that Nelson is not only a convicted criminal but also the subject in Smothers latest book. Could this be a perfect setup for revenge killing? Essentially, Blake Lively’s character, Emily Nelson gets out of prison to marry a mafia and seems to have moved on from any previous conflict with her former friend. However, multiple murders occur, and all clues point to her, except Nelson maintains her innocence. Another Simple Favor scored an average of 2 out of 5 stars in rating, which is no surprise as the movie is plain ridiculous. Almost like a badly written mafia romance crafted by a 15-year-old on Wattpad. It’s watchable at first until the second murder occurs which goes downhill from there. Comedy becomes mockery (almost). But if the director was trying to do that, congratulations because the movie performed outstandingly. The backstories of certain characters were unexpected and unwatchable. But you need to watch it to understand the story, unfortunately. It’s only redeeming quality was the moments of genuine friendship between the two main characters. But even that was quickly overshadowed by the nonsensicality in the rest of the film. The film uses crude jokes and dirty language which makes sense considering its rating. As well as LGBTQ+ themes. I don’t recommend this to anyone unless you’re a fan of parodies and crude comedy with bad plots.

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) has been the recipient of a generous donation of building paints worth K120,000 from DC Commodities Limited. This important contribution supports the company's dedication to enhancing healthcare infrastructure in the National Capital District (NCD). The paints will be utilized to improve the aesthetics and working conditions of healthcare facilities, fostering a more inviting and supportive environment for patients and medical personnel alike. The donation was officially presented by Mr. Damon Cragnolini, Director of DC Commodities Limited, to Dr. Robin Oge, Chief Executive Officer of NCDPHA. Dr. Oge, representing the Management and Board of NCDPHA, conveyed his thanks for this valuable support.  “It is always commendable when the private sector gives back to the community through investments in health and education.” “We deeply value this contribution and look forward to continued collaboration with our partners and stakeholders to strengthen health services in the National Capital District.”

A new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Learning Centre was opened at Boera Primary School in the Central province by ICT Minister Timothy Masiu marking another one of National ICT Authority's (NICTA's) Universal Access Service Connectivity Project giving ICT accessibility and services to the students. The facility included 20 computers, high-speed internet access, and a range of digital learning resources, designed not only to support academic excellence but also to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration among students. Member for NICTA Board, John Cholai who spoke during the launch stated that it was an honor and privileged to experience this milestone achievement. “This ceremony represents more than the opening of a building; it signifies a collective commitment and the power of partnership in empowering the next generation of Boera and ensuring that they're equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world.” He expressed that learning resources have evolved over time into digital tools and ICT had brought significant contributions to learning and growth.  “In recent years we have witnessed the transformative power of information and communication technology from enhancing educational outcomes to fostering economic growth and social inclusion; ICT has become a cornerstone of modern development.” He further encouraged the students to make use of the facility well and to not look down on themselves and where they come from. “This technology gives you a window to the world and we would like you to open your minds to the possibilities out there.” “Don't think that we're just from Boera Primary school and you can only achieve so much.” “Amongst you are leaders, scientists, engineers, that may not only serve the country, but you may actually be able to become a world leader and specialist in the area of whichever line of discipline that you want to pursue.” “Don’t think that the future is not for you. You have the power, and you have the ability using this technology to move yourself and our country forward.”

Port Moresby Nature Park today marked World Tree Kangaroo Day today, Wednesday May 21st, an event that raises awareness and recognizes the importance of the tree kangaroo in PNG and other regions. Present at the event was NCD Governor Powes Parkop. Governor Parkop, stated that World Tree Kangaroo Day has the potential to not only preserve our wildlife but also to bring income for the country. “World Tree Kangaroo Day has the potential to become a powerful global fundraising initiative.” “One that channels international goodwill into real underground conservation program here in PNG.” “I encourage all of us, let this day also be a catalyst for investment into PNG – investing in conservation, education, tourism, sustainable development that benefits both people and wildlife.” He added that the responsibility of conserving the environment and protecting our endangered species is everyone’s responsibility. “Conservation is not just the domain of scientists and park rangers; it is something that we all can be part of.” “As a business leader, a public servant, a village head, elder, member of parliament, policy maker; our actions matter.” “Choose to say no to hunting and endangered species.” “Choose to protect forests, not to just clear them. “ “Let's choose to learn, share, volunteer and educate. Every one of us has a role to play.” He challenged all Papua New Guineans to take World Tree Kangaroo Day as a national call to action – a day to help protect our wildlife.

Title: Somniphobia (2021) Director: Dillon Vibbart Genre(s): Short, Horror, Psychological Thriller Run Time: 25mins Cast: Chris Attoh • Tatajana Marjanovic • Atticus Hinckley A doctor with a special ability to visit people’s dreams assists a young woman to confront her terrifying nightmares. Sominophobia appears to be a regular horror film until it reaches the end. The young woman, Riley Rose is seeking therapy from a series of recurring nightmares, however, the most peculiar detail about her nightmares is that it’s the same dream every night. In her nightmare, a ghoul emerges from her closet and grips her arm leaving ugly bruises. She finds a Somniologist, Dr. Brady – a man with the ability to enter and experience other people’s dreams. As Dr. Brady visits Riley’s nightmare, he discovers that the real monster is not the ghoul in her dreams but her abusive boyfriend, Brian. Riley’s nightmares were the result of her suppressing traumatic memories of her boyfriend’s physical and psychological abuse. The bruises on her arms came from her boyfriend’s beatings. However, Brian manipulative tactics affect Riley to a point where she cannot pinpoint her abuser. Dr. Brady encourages Riley to escape from her abusive boyfriend. As she does, the ghouls from so many nightmares before coming to attack her boyfriend while he is still in Dr. Brady’s house. The film was so good, I wished it was a feature film instead of a short. It teaches that often times, the real monsters are in our own house, disguised as family, friends and most often partners.