Air Niugini has revealed its first Airbus A220, The People’s Balus, marking a significant milestone for the airline and Papua New Guinea (PNG). Fresh from the Airbus facility in Mirabel, Canada, the aircraft is painted in the airline’s iconic red, black, and gold, with a special 50th-anniversary logo honouring Air Niugini’s legacy. The A220 is more than a new plane; it’s a symbol of progress and national pride. Designed for efficiency, comfort, and performance, it reflects Air Niugini’s commitment to world-class service while celebrating the country’s unique identity. Inside, the A220 offers modern comfort with spacious seats, ample legroom, and a quiet, smooth cabin. The enhanced lighting system adjusts to different flight phases, and complimentary wi-fi will keep passengers connected throughout the journey. This new aircraft will soon represent the country on regional and international routes, serving as a flying ambassador for the nation's resilience, diversity, and ambition. Full unveiling will take place next week, where more details on the aircraft’s capabilities and the team behind it will be given.

A joint collaboration between Solar Buddy, Airbus, Air Niugini and Paradise College brought about a spectacular assembly of students to construct 750 solar-powered lights, aimed at providing much-needed illumination for children in Daru, Western Province – who lack access to electricity in their communities. The workshop began with an engaging and educational presentation on renewable energy, sparking curiosity in the students. Stephen Forshaw, Airbus Chief Representative, stated that Paradise College will be the first group in the country to construct these Solar Buddy lights. “For some years now, Solar Buddy have been making these lights overseas and bringing them to support communities in Papua New Guinea.” “Today is the first time that we will be building these lights for your local communities.” He encouraged the students saying that their young minds are an asset in assembling the lights faster. Meanwhile, Paradise College alumnus, Christopher Odorry, explained the benefits that communities will receive from the students’ contribution. "The biggest challenge the children face is the inability to read their books at night when it's time to study or complete homework.” “These lights we're building will play a crucial role in overcoming that obstacle, helping to provide access to light so children can read, learn, and continue their studies long after the sun sets.” Later, the students got to work building mini-solar lights in their classrooms.

Papua New Guinea has taken a huge step in its digital development journey with the release of the country’s first-ever Fifth Generation (5G) mobile spectrum. Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, announced today (Wed Aug 20, 2025) that the government has released the 2600 MHz band for 5G services for PNG’s telecommunications sector. “This release marks the first time in PNG’s history that radio frequency spectrum will be assigned using a market-based approach and reflects the Marape/Rosso Government’s commitment to modernizing digital infrastructure and aligning with global best practices." The new spectrum allocation is expected to unlock opportunities for innovation, investment, and inclusive growth, while also enhancing access to fast and reliable internet and mobile services. “Access to fast and reliable internet and mobile services is essential." "The release of the 5G spectrum will support better connectivity and introduce the latest wireless technologies." "This will in turn promote innovation and boost productivity by supporting services such as digital government, business applications, private networks, as well as education and health services." Mr. Tsiamalili commended the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) for its leadership and extensive consultation with stakeholders leading up to the decision. He noted that NICTA’s approval in July 2025 under Section 164(a) of the NICT Act 2009 paved the way for this release, ensuring the efficient allocation of spectrum for the greater public benefit. According to Minister Tsiamalili, 5G services will initially be rolled out in urban areas to improve and enhance mobile data services. “While 4G has already significantly improved connectivity across PNG, the shift to 5G represents a leap forward in capability and opportunity to further drive digital transformation." The assignment of spectrum will be conducted through an open and transparent process, with commercial and business 5G services expected to launch in the second quarter of 2026. Tsiamalili also extended his appreciation to the incumbent ICT Minister, Timothy Masiu, who is currently on sick leave, for his role in ensuring that NICTA undertook careful consultation and technical studies prior to the decision. The announcement comes as PNG has approximately 28 days left until it's 50th independence celebrations. The Acting Minister urged citizens to embrace the new technology but also remain mindful of potential risks associated with high-speed internet. “Our Department of ICT and NICTA are working together to put in place appropriate and necessary policies to safeguard our country from the harmful effects of the internet and to strengthen cyber security protection."

More than 500 students from Paradise College in Port Moresby are participating in a week-long, hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program, aimed at tackling energy poverty, with support from Airbus and Air Niugini. The initiative, led by global impact organization, SolarBuddy, will see students learn about renewable energy and solar technology before assembling their own solar-powered study lights. These lights will be given to school children in Western Province communities without access to electricity, enabling them to study safely at night. Airbus and Air Niugini are also delivering aviation workshops, encouraging students to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Airbus Chief Representative for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, Stephen Forshaw, said the program combines education with practical impact. “Energy in all its forms powers progress and doing it sustainably helps our planet.” “Giving students the chance to study with these lights will help them achieve more for their communities.” Chief Executive Officer of Air Niugini, Gary Seddon, said the program is about inspiring the next generation. “Education is the runway to opportunity, and STEM is at the heart of building a brighter, more connected future for Papua New Guinea.” Former student of Paradise College and guest speaker, Christopher Odorry, will return to his former school to share his journey and speak on the importance of STEM education. The distribution of assembled solar lights after the STEM workshop will be carried out by Christopher to students in the Western Province. The initiative forms part of SolarBuddy’s wider mission to combat global energy poverty, with a focus on the 660 million people worldwide who still live without access to light.

Jerilai Pujari Field Services Limited (JPFSL) has donated portable water bucket filter systems to Jerilai Pujari Holdings Limited (JPHL), representing landowners of the Papua LNG Project (PRL 15). This is to help address the ongoing challenge of clean water access in Poroi 1 village. The handover took place at Herd Base, where JPFSL Camp Manager Mr. Lazarus Muyeu formally presented the systems to JPHL Chairman Mr. Jomu Peniai and Director Mr. Trevor Birney, with local community members in attendance. Poroi 1 villagers have long relied on river water, often untreated and unsafe. The donated Sawyer Clean Water Bucket Filters can remove up to 99.94% of harmful bacteria and impurities, offering a low-cost and high-impact solution to unsafe water. JPHL Camp Manager Mr. Muyeu acknowledged the importance of clean drinking water and hoped that these systems make a real difference in the community. Meanwhile, JPHL Chairman Mr. Peniai welcomed the donation, calling it a ‘timely and thoughtful gesture’ that will improve health outcomes in rural areas. “Access to clean water remains a challenge in many rural areas, and these portable filter systems are a practical solution that could bring meaningful change.” In addition, Madfox Pawa Managing Director Mr. Gary Litx, whose company distributes the filters in Papua New Guinea, noted increasing demand for the product in remote areas. This rollout will serve as a trial phase, with Poroi 1 villagers testing the systems over the coming weeks. JPFSL may expand the initiative to nearby communities based on feedback.

In a recent Facebook post, BARU Piksa Studio announced the Goroka Film Festival Short Film Competition, inviting filmmakers across Papua New Guinea to showcase their artistry in film under the theme “Celebrating Papua New Guinea – Past, Present, Future.” The competition is open to short films in the categories of Drama and Documentary, with entries limited to five minutes or less. Films must be in English, or in Tok Pisin with English subtitles. The Festival is offering K4,000 in cash prizes, with K1,500 for first place, K1,000 for second, K700 for third, K500 for an Audience Choice award, and K300 for a Sponsor’s Choice award. Registration is set at K50, and interested participants are encouraged to register early. The deadline for submissions is September 5, 2025. For more information, participants can contact BARU Piksa Studios via WhatsApp (71042228) or email barupiksa@gmail.com.

The 65th Hagen Cultural Show drew thousands from August 15–17, 2025, highlighting Papua New Guinea’s cultural diversity while passing knowledge from elders to youth. First staged in the 1960s to promote peace among Highlands tribes, the Show has grown into one of the country’s most iconic festivals and a crucial platform for preserving tradition. This year’s opening featured various individuals from the government, government departments and international partners including, Member for Vanimo-Green and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Belden Norman Namah, Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa, Member for Mul-Baiyer, Jacob Maki, National Cultural Commission Executive Director Steven Enomb Kilanda, and US Ambassador Marie Yastishock, reflecting the event’s national and international importance. Performances by tribes in traditional regalia of feathers, shells, face paint and woven materials were more than spectacle, they were lessons. Songs, dances and rituals provided opportunities for elders to pass on cultural knowledge, ensuring young people carry forward their identity. Organizers stressed the event’s role in promoting unity and safeguarding heritage in the face of modern influences, making it both a tourist attraction and a living classroom for PNG’s youth.

The construction of the Ependa School of Evangelism Building Complex located approximately ten kilometers (km) outside Mendi in Southern Highlands Province, is progressing steadily, with significant milestones being reached throughout 2024 and 2025. The ground-breaking ceremony for the ambitious project took place on May 11th, 2024, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Ependa School of Evangelism. The building complex is set to have essential facilities for students, including a lecture hall, dining hall, dormitories, and self-contained units, all within one location. The first day of construction began on June 24, 2024, with the team focusing on preparing the foundation and laying the groundwork for the multi-purpose building. In November 2024, work on the building’s foundation was completed, and concrete was poured on November 7th. By November 12th cement mixing and pouring had begun after weeks of preparation, marking a major step in the construction process. By January 6, 2025, the first batch of bricks arrived, allowing work to progress on the first of three floors. Pastor Paki mentioned that approximately 3,000 bricks would be needed to complete the entire building. The project reached another critical milestone in July 2025 when carpenters began working on the third floor of the complex. Pastor David Paki, the project's overseer, has now called for prayers and support from the community to help complete this vital project. In addition, he also shared that within two weeks, the team would be preparing to work on the roofing, marking the final stages of the building’s framework. On August 12, 2025, Pastor Paki provided an update, revealing that partitioning was completed this week. The next focus now will shift to the trusses, in which a call for assistance has been made in acquiring iron roofing materials. For those wishing to support the project, donations can be made with Pastor Paki who can be contacted directly also via phone or WhatsApp, +67579331828.

Mahogany Finance and 2 Fast Motors have strengthened their partnership to offer tailored vehicle financing solutions for JAC vehicles to individuals and businesses across Papua New Guinea. This collaboration ensures customers can access fast, accessible, and flexible finance options through Mahogany Finance, with simplified loan applications, competitive interest rates, and personalized repayment plans. Terry Hall, CEO of Mahogany Finance expressed delight in working with 2 Fast Motors. "We are proud to strengthen our partnership with 2 Fast Motors. Our collaboration is founded on a shared vision – to make quality vehicle ownership more accessible for Papua New Guineans.” “By working together, we can continue to support both individuals and businesses with a financing experience that is fast, transparent, and tailored to their needs." 2 Fast Motors operates at Klinki Street, Hohola (Port Moresby) and XCMG – PNG Engineering Ltd, Valley View Estate (Lae), providing reliable transportation solutions. With Mahogany Finance, customers can enjoy rapid approvals and flexible terms to purchase JAC vehicles. The partnership aims to support both individuals and businesses, contributing to economic growth and improved mobility across the nation. For more information, contact 2 Fast Motors at 7921 3336 (Port Moresby) or 7209 7942 (Lae).

Australia has boosted Papua New Guinea’s defence capability with the official handover of 12 up-armored Landcruiser's to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), alongside the opening of the refurbished Sergeant’s Mess at Murray Barracks. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles made the announcement in Port Moresby recently with PNG’s Minister for Defence Dr Billy Joseph. The handover, valued at more than PGK 8 million, is aimed at strengthening PNG’s ability to respond to domestic security challenges and deepening defence cooperation between the two nations. The lightweight, armored vehicles will allow PNGDF personnel to move securely and operate effectively across varied terrain. Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Joseph described the gift as a timely boost as the country approaches its 50th anniversary of independence. “We are honored to be the recipients of 12 armored personnel carriers for the protection of our armed forces.” “It will go a long way to rebuilding our defence capability and capacity. Over the last 50 years, our nations’ people-to-people, defence-to-defence, and government-to-government relationships have grown in leaps and bounds.” Mr. Marles reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to supporting PNG’s sovereign security needs. “Our shared geography and history make Papua New Guinea and Australia natural partners.” “The Australian Defence Force and Papua New Guinea Defence Force continue to work together to respond to shared strategic challenges in support of a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.” The event also marked the reopening of the upgraded Murray Barracks Sergeant’s Mess, funded by the Australian Government to accommodate 82 Senior Non-Commissioned Officers. The refurbishment is part of ongoing efforts to improve PNGDF facilities and enhance the wellbeing of service members.

The Granville Seventh-day Adventist Church at 9 Mile in Port Moresby city, recently held a Career Fair Workshop, providing participants with practical tips on career growth, job preparation, and online safety. The event covered topics like developing a growth mindset, academic coaching, CV and cover letter writing, interview skills, and cyber safety. Mr. Allan Robert from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) spoke about the various types of cybercrimes affecting Papua New Guinea, such as identity theft, cyberbullying, and cyber harassment. He emphasized the importance of being mindful when sharing personal information online and encouraged participants to use social media privacy settings. Mr. Norbert Wanit, also from DICT, discussed the importance of cybersecurity, offering tips on using strong passwords, updating software, avoiding scams, and securing online transactions. The event aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to succeed in both their careers and digital lives, with the DICT team raising awareness about online safety and security.

Westpac PNG has announced the appointment of Miriam Rothera as its new Head of Retail Banking, a key leadership move aimed at supporting the bank’s strategic transformation, community engagement, and alignment with Papua New Guinea’s national development goals. Miriam Rothera brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served within the Westpac Group for 36 years across a range of senior positions in Australia. Her impressive career includes leading the Queensland Property team, heading the Business Institute in Sydney, and managing retail branch networks at both St George and Westpac. Known for her "people first" leadership approach, Rothera is passionate about developing talent and fostering strong community ties. Her appointment is expected to bolster Westpac PNG’s focus on sustainable growth, inclusivity, and delivering greater value to its customers. Chief Executive of Westpac PNG, Andrew Cairns, welcomed the appointment. “I am thrilled to welcome Miriam to her new role. “ “Her expertise and leadership will be critical in advancing the bank’s strategic priorities and meeting the evolving needs of our customers, communities, and the broader financial environment.” Rothera's leadership comes at a pivotal time for Westpac PNG, which has been part of the country's banking landscape for over 115 years. Her appointment marks a new chapter in the bank’s continued commitment to strengthening its presence and impact in Papua New Guinea’s dynamic economy.