Along with a Mufty Day organized for the lower primary students at the Malolo International School on June 6th, each student brought along K2 as their contribution to the school’s initiative to raise funds which will go towards the families and communities that were affected by the landslide in Mulitaka, Enga Province. In an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG, Malolo International School Deputy Principal for Academics, Ms. Bierwirth stated that this initiative was brought forward by the administration as a fundraising drive but mainly as a lesson for the students to help others in need. “Each child from early learning all through to High School have brought their contribution." "We did not set a target as this is for helping those in need and the primary point of view is to teach the students to always help when there others are in need.” Meanwhile Ms. Bierwirth stated that the Mufty Day was only observed by the lower primary grades and mentioned that there was also a dedication ceremony held for the Grade 10s before their Written Expression Exams. “We had a dedication program and there were a lot of encouraging and motivating speeches that the kids were very appreciative about.” “I am confident that they will do well in this examination.”

For the first time, the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) and the National St John Ambulance Service (NStJA) have formalized a collaborative partnership to enhance maritime safety and search and rescue (SAR) operations across Papua New Guinea. In a joint statement, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) marked a significant milestone in ensuring the safety and welfare of individuals at sea and on islands. The MOU outlines the framework for both organizations to work together on a variety of initiatives aimed at improving response times, coordination, and overall effectiveness in maritime safety incidents. Key objectives include the development of a joint database of trained personnel and assets, the creation of an advanced seafarer first aid course, and the facilitation of NStJA’s access to NMSA vessels for emergency medical responses. General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of NMSA, Paul Unas, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that this MOU represents a critical step forward in our efforts to safeguard lives at sea. “By combining our resources and expertise with the National St John Ambulance, we can provide a more robust and efficient response to maritime emergencies.” SJA’s Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Cannon highlighted the importance of this collaboration, adding that this joint efforts will not only enhance their ability to respond to emergencies but also promote greater public awareness and education on maritime safety. “This partnership is a testament to our commitment to the wellbeing of the communities we serve.” “The MOU also includes provisions for developing joint public awareness campaigns, training plans, and contingency plans for various maritime incidents, including oil spills and mass casualties.” Additionally, both organizations have committed to periodic evaluations and the establishment of a Joint Working Group to oversee the implementation and progress of the agreed initiatives. Meanwhile the partnership underscores the dedication of both NMSA and NStJA to fostering a safer maritime environment in Papua New Guinea. The combined expertise and resources will undoubtedly enhance the capabilities of both organizations in delivering vital services to those in need.

A group of 239 participants from the Watom Island LLG in Rabaul District of East New Britain Province of a recent financial literacy training program have been urged not to let their new acquired skills go to waste, but rather to actively apply in their daily lives. The Financial Literacy Training, according to a statement, was a key priority activity under the Financial Inclusion Program being rolled out in the province under an MOA between the ENB Provincial Government and CEFI. Speaking over the weekend at Vunakabai Community Hall during the conclusion of the two weeks program for the six wards in Watom LLG, ENB Provincial Financial Literacy Coordinator Natasha Aplin emphasized the need for participants to take proactive steps in applying what they learned. Aplin said financial literacy is not just about acquiring knowledge but also taking action and making positive changes in one’s financial behavior. “This training is tailored to suit people living in our wards and communities in which you learnt basic accounting tools." "These include budgeting and savings, tracking of daily income and expenses, weekly to monthly cash flow and savings plan.” “Go back home, practice these tools and mastermind it and it will help to manage your daily income." "When you do, you will see that you have money to spend on food, clothes, school fee, and there will be no pressure of running around looking for money as you are already a manager of your savings,” she told the participants. Additionally, Watom LLG President and Commerce Chairman in the ENB Provincial Assembly, Enos Pulumen encouraged his people to put their financial literacy skills into practice to enhance their economic independence and overall development of the community. Watom LLG Administration Business Development Officer, Robert Uluna said there is a big need for such trainings at the ward level so people can manage their daily incomes. Meanwhile the trainings for the 6 wards of Watom were facilitated by Only One Consultancy Services and Cathy’s Consultancy Services.

Prime Minister James Marape and the Government Members of Parliament commemorated the 2024 World Environment Day by planting trees at the Independence Boulevard in Port Moresby, before heading to Parliament on Wednesday. He thanked the NCD Governor Powes Parkop and the City Hall for this great initiative. “Amidst all the politics that’s currently going on, we the Government have come here to plant a tree, to commemorate this very important day." “Plants are very vital for our survival as they provide the oxygen we require to exist on Earth,” PM Marape said. He said this outstanding tree-planting program aims to plant a million trees throughout Port Moresby and urged all citizens to at least plant a tree. Meanwhile Marape applauded this year’s World Environment Day theme: Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience - "Our Land, Our Future, We are Generation Restoration."

Japanese emergency relief goods given through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) were handed over to the Government of Papua New Guinea in response to the landslide in Enga Province. This shipment of emergency relief goods, according to a statement, is from the Japanese Government through JICA includes 250 tents, 1,500 blankets, 25 plastic sheets, 1,500 sleeping pads, 5 water purifiers, and 250 portable jerry cans in response to the disasters. The emergency relief goods arrived at Jacksons International Airport on 4th June, followed by the second batch to arrive on 6th June. The handover ceremony was conducted on 4th June 2024 at the Jacksons International Airport. Chief Representative of JICA PNG Office, Mr. MATSUOKA Hideaki, and Acting Director of National Disaster Centre (NDC), Mr. Laso Mana, accepted and signed the letter of delivery which was witnessed by H.E. WATANABE Nobuyuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to PNG. Additionally, Mr. Mana shared NDC’s appreciation to the people of Japan and Mr. Koney Samuel, Secretary, Department of National Planning and Monitoring (DNPM) and said that this timely provision of emergency relief supplies shows the strong ties of both countries. Japanese Ambassador, H.E. Watanabe expressed his deepest sympathy to those who have been affected by the devastating disaster and hope that these relief goods would mitigate the difficulties facing those affected and come back to their normal life as early as possible. Meanwhile the emergency relief goods will be delivered by National Disaster Centre in coordination with International Partners in a few days.

Knack Studios and Dare2Create with the support of WR Carpenter Group of companies and UNDP are set to restage Andrew Kuliniasi’s critically acclaimed in the round theatre drama, “For My Father”. According to a statement, production will run from July 24th to August 3rd at the Moresby Arts Theatre, featuring performances from upcoming PNG actors and directed by young theatre director, Ziggy Yominao who co-directed the show before in its premier in 2022 and restaging in 2023. “We wanted to stage For My Father again because it’s a small show, with only 65 seats, we create an intimate experience for the audience to witness this show." "I’m really excited to be directing the show, as it’s an important story to tell.” Play Writer, Andrew Kuliniasi explained that For My Father is the story of four (4) siblings whose father passes away leaving them with the financial burden of a hauskrai, the repatriation of their father’s body to the village and the costs of a funeral. Having no money to pay for it all, they turn to their rich half-brother who lives overseas for help. Taking place over the night their brother comes to town, For My Father is a story of the generational impact of fathers, blending families and customary and family obligations. “For My Father asks the main questions like: What is the cost of death in a country like PNG?" "What happens when a parent passes that you were not on good terms with?" "How does a family cope with grief while trying to pay for the death of the deceased?” For My Father features a cast of five (5) amazing PNG actors, Noel Kavora playing the distant rich half-brother Michael, writer and experienced actor Andrew Kuliniasi playing Elisha the eldest of the half siblings, Daniel Romney who gives a rapturous take on a pastor, playing second born Braxton. Emmanuel Simeon playing Benny who encapsulates the young street-smart PNG man trying to find his way in the world and rounding off the cast is the amazingly talented Hananiah Dickson, who gives an emotional performance playing the youngest sister Anita. Past audience members of the show have expressed their praise for “For My Father” play. “Plays like this portray that we are the sum of our experiences." "For My Father was confronting and thought provoking." "A beautiful play every Papua New Guinean will know in some form,” Sylvia Pascoe said. Rex Buka from the NCD Youth Desk said that he enjoyed watching firstly, the hidden talent of our Youths in acting, Scripting and Directing. “The creativity of it. The energy and commitment put in and the cross-cutting issues the play addressed.” Other audience members have described it as “Riveting”, “A beautiful tragedy” and “It will have you laughing, angry, but most of all it will have you crying.” Meanwhile tickets for “For My Father” are on-sale now on the Ticket Bilum App or you can contact Knack Studios on Facebook, Instagram or email knacktsproductions@gmail.com with tickets going for as low as K15. For My Father is rated M17 and is for matured audience with parental guidance recommended for those 17 years old.

Self taught music producer Walo Gaibua also known as Jemboii bagged the best producer of the year award at the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards ceremony held on Saturday June 1st. Jemboii has produced music for artists like Mikes Toto, Shadows of Souths and the Ewanetz band of Oro. He was at a loss for words as this award was his very first but he mentioned that it has motivated him to produce more great music for the listeners. "A very big thanks to the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards team and to the listeners as well." Meanwhile, the Minigulai Band won the Best Duo/Group of the year category. Band member, Uralom Kania received the awards with great appreciation. "Thank you to Yumi FM and all the fans and listeners." Meanwhile Sean Rii was presented the APRA Award for his song Chu Chu but was unfortunately out of country and could not make it to accept the award in person.

The main premier game of the Pepsi Capital Rugby Union round six at Bava park saw the Kramer Ausenco Brothers and the Chemcare Juggernauts battle it out on Sunday, June 2,2024. In the first half, the Brothers came out leading with 2 tries, resulting in a score of 10-0. However, despite the scoreline, the match was evenly contested, with both teams plagued by errors that prevented them from showcasing their full potential. As the second half commenced, Juggernauts secured a penalty kick, narrowing the gap. KA Brothers swiftly countered with a converted try, extending their lead to 3-17 while Juggernauts responded with consecutive long-range tries, reducing the deficit to just 2 points (15-17). The match remained tightly contested until Brothers capitalized on opportunities late in the game, scoring two additional tries. Meanwhile despite being one man down with Brothers hooker Richard Paiva penalized with a red card, the determined Brothers held on relentlessly to clinch the victory 29-15 against the Chemcare Juggernauts.

The YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards 2023 hype is in the air as people turned up for the awards ceremony to see their favourite artists perform. On a night out to enjoy some good music and have a good time, families and friends turned up in numbers for the event. With the Lamana Gold Club packed, Yumi FM radio announcer, 'Kasty' opened the ceremony with a few words before the stage performances began. Sprigga Mek opened the show with '400 Naka' with Mikes Toto who followed and performed his hit song 'Missim Yuh' with Bee White and King Swega. The boys from 4Blordz & Dan Blantz performed their hit single "Aburusim' which also won the Best Song category as Saii Kay psyched the crowd up ad Daniel Bilip closing the show. Meanwhile with the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards was a success with a great crowd turn out, great music and artists who were recognized for their efforts in the country's music industry.

Local singer Sailas Kania best known by his stage name Saii Kay was thankful to be recognised as a nominee but even happier as he was announced the Best male artist in the category at the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards ceremony. "Thank you PNGFM and Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards for this award." "A big Thank you also to my producer NC Nhates for helping me with recording and producing the songs that our fans love." Meanwhile Raylinda Ruth Mura bagged the Best Female Artist of the year award. "I'm mostly shocked but happy for this award. Thank you so much to listeners and the YFMPNGMA team for this recognition."

A new category in the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS 2023, the Album of the year award was presented to a rather shocked Sprigga Mek for his album-Kanaka Messenjah. He dedicated this album to his fans and the underground hiphop community. ” It's an honour, this is for PNG Hip hop. Thank you." 4Blordz & Dan Blantz bagged the song of the year award for their hit song 'Aburusim'. Representing the band, Drex Bluntz stated that they were very happy as this was their very first award as a group. "We were really happy to be nominated for this award and this win means so much to us as first time winners of this award." "Thank you to the listeners and everyone who supported during the recording and producing and to the YFMPNGMA as well." Best new artist of the year award went to the new kids on the block, Shadows of Souths for their song 'Lewa Lewa' who were thankful for the massive support from the listeners for making this happen for them. Meanwhile bagging the YUMI FM PNG MUSIK AWARDS Listener's Song Choice of the year sponsored by Kumul Consolidated Holdings were Zone 5 Crew for their hit 'Puppy Love'. Lead singer Johannes Sogoromo was excited and appreciated the listeners for this award as well. "It's good to be finally recognized."

Emmanuel Muganaua popularly known as Toxicmahn, sound engineer and producer was shocked as he received the Justin Kili Award sponsored by Keynote PNG which recognises the efforts of musicians and producers here in the PNG music industry. Muganaua was all smiles as Keynote Extrnale Sales Manager, Emmanuel Korai and son of the Late Justin Kili MBE, Cytrus Kili presented him with the prestigious award. He said that this is the second time that he is receiving this prestigious award. "I was presented this award back in 2008 by the late Justin Hansu Kili MBE himself and I'm shocked to be receiving this award but I'm excited." Meanwhile Muganaua has his sights set on delivering the Anslom and Jokema's albums respectively which is in production and will be released soon. He has also been selected as a finalist in the prestigious International Singer-Songwriters Association Awards 2024 set for August in Atlanta, USA.