Anslom has revealed that he is currently working on two new albums following a relatively quiet year in music.Speaking during an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG, the famously known reggae artist shared insight into both projects, including an international reggae album and a second album focused on PNG sounds and local audiences. According to Anslom, the first project is a full reggae album, with its first single expected to be released in June this year. He confirmed that recording for the album has already been completed and is currently in the mixing stage before heading to Australia for mastering. “It is completed now. It is currently under mixing and Toxic Mahn is taking it down for mastering in Australia,” he said. Anslom explained that once mastering is completed, work will begin on music videos and promotional preparations ahead of a planned tour. The artist also revealed plans for a second album aimed more toward the PNG market, drawing influence from traditional local sounds. “After the tour of the first album, definitely we will be working on the local album for the PNG market because our PNG music is big around the Pacific.” He said the upcoming local project will blend his classic sound with traditional “One Beat” influences from areas such as Goilala and Tari. “I am getting my guitar and writing songs influenced by Goilala and Tari. I love One Beat music.” The reggae artist said the project will also see him reconnect with elements of his earlier musical style. “The album will be going back to my old style. But not too much of Tolai style which my music was before.” He also acknowledged newer PNG artists helping popularize the One Beat sound, including Ragga Sia and Tarvin Toune, while praising veteran artist K-Dumen. “I am a big fan of Ragga Sia and Tarvin Toune, but also the legend K-Dumen, as they perfected that style of music.” The singer further hinted at collaborations with several well-known PNG artists on the upcoming reggae album including O-Four, Justin Wellington, and Jokema. Meanwhile, he stated that work on the local album is still developing. “Once I get into the studio, then I will have a direction on how the local album will go,” he concluded.

Bomana Prison Camp, located just outside Port Moresby, is facing a growing overcrowding crisis with inmate numbers now far exceeding the facility’s intended capacity.This according to Commanding Officer Chief Superintendent Yelly Oiufa who stated that the prison currently houses an estimated 1, 050 male inmates, including juveniles, which has placed increasing pressure on accommodation and daily operations within the correctional facility. “The total inmates here in Bomana, including juveniles, is about 1, 050, while in 2014 and 2015 we had about 600 to 700 inmates,” Oiufa said. Despite the rising inmate population and operational demands, the prison camp currently has only around 200 officers managing the facility. He said cells originally designed to accommodate about 35 inmates, are now housing more than 60 prisoners each. “This is a concerning issue in terms of human rights; however, we are only looking after them while the government is responsible to provide the support.” The inmate population includes more than 60 female inmates, while 137 Indonesian nationals are currently serving sentences related to illegal fishing offences. “Currently we have 137 illegal fishing offenders from Indonesia that the court has given two years to serve,” he said. According to Chief Superintendent Oiufa, additional illegal fishing offenders are expected to arrive at the facility following ongoing enforcement operations by fisheries authorities. In addition, the overcrowding situation has also placed an increasing strain on food supplies and prison resources. He explained that much of the prison’s funding is now directed toward food rations, leaving limited funding available for maintenance and other operational needs. He also said that the prison’s monthly food costs currently range between K265, 000 and K300, 000 due to the increasing inmate population. “Currently, we have not received a cheque for nearly three months now.” The Chief Superintendent also raised concerns about deteriorating infrastructure within the prison camp, noting that many buildings were constructed during the 1960s and 1970s. “There has been some development, but most of the buildings inside the compound were built in the 1960s and are still being used today.” He also stated that several facilities were not originally designed for their current use, including the Commander’s Office, which was previously a residential home before being converted into an office space. The prison's location near the Brown River, locally known as Bomana Wara, has also created additional safety concerns during periods of heavy rainfall. Oiufa said flooding regularly affects access roads into the prison camp, making it difficult for vehicles to enter the facility and disrupting prison operations. He warned that continued flooding could eventually threaten inmate accommodation areas. “Last year in December it was very bad,” he said. The concerns highlight increasing pressure on Papua New Guinea’s correctional system as authorities continue to deal with overcrowding, ageing infrastructure, and limited operational resources.

The National Capital District Commission’s Sports, Youth and Civic Engagement Branch has strengthened its partnership with Bomana Prison through a food donation and ongoing discussions aimed at improving rehabilitation programs and creating opportunities for inmates after release.The donation was presented yesterday at Bomana Prison Camp in Port Moresby by NCDC Sports, Youth and Civic Engagement Branch Manager Christopher Topa, who said the initiative is part of a broader effort to support rehabilitation through skills training, partnerships, and community-based programs. The donated items included 17 cartons of laplap, five cartons of chicken, and 20 cartons of sausages for inmates at the facility. Mr Topa said the NCDC restructuring now gives the Branch more flexibility to focus on practical programs that can help inmates develop life skills and qualifications while serving their sentences. “The overall goal of the branch and the Social Development Directorate is looking at community, including those who are part of our community here, and providing opportunities and programs that can enable them to become better people,” Topa said. He explained that the focus is not only on keeping inmates occupied but helping them gain technical and vocational skills that can assist them after release. “It’s not about just staying here cleaning. We want to look at programs where we can upskill them, whether it’s technical or vocational training,” he added. Topa also stressed the importance of partnerships between organizations rather than duplicating community programs already being implemented. “It’s about developing partnerships so together we can achieve a common goal,” he said. Bomana Prison Officer in Charge, Chief Superintendent Yelly Oiufa, welcomed the donation and described it as a positive sign of a growing relationship between NCDC and the correctional institution. He said Bomana Prison serves not only one province but the nation’s capital city, housing inmates from different cultural backgrounds across the country. Chief Superintendent Oiufa acknowledged that communication between NCDC and Bomana Prison had been limited in previous years, despite the institution being part of the Port Moresby community. However, he said both organizations are now moving toward a stronger partnership focused on inmate rehabilitation and reintegration into society. “Other prison camp commanders from other provinces used to get major backing from their provincial governments, and here in the country’s capital there were only broken promises,” Oiufa said. He confirmed that a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) is currently being processed between NCDC and Bomana Prison, which will support rehabilitation programs and includes plans for a rehabilitation office within NCDC. “Now with the restructuring we will have an office at NCDC — the rehabilitation office. For jobs and programs, everything will go through that office,” he said. Bomana inmate representative Billy Puio also thanked NCDC for the donation and the proposed rehabilitation programs. “On behalf of the inmates here, we want to thank NCDC for the donation and the program that is coming,” Puio said. “When we serve our terms, we can have qualifications to become somebody outside.” The initiative reflects growing efforts by authorities and community organisations to focus on rehabilitation, skills development, and reintegration as part of broader correctional reforms in Papua New Guinea.

The king of ragga music genre, Tarvin Toune, is set to perform at the 20th YUMI FM Musik Awards after receiving three nominations ahead of this year’s event which will be held at the Lamana Gold Club in Port Moresby on May 23rd, 2026.The artist has been nominated in the categories of 2024 Album of the Year, 2025 International Artist of the Year, and 2025 Male Artist of the Year.The nominations continue a long association between Tarvin Toune and the YUMIFM PNG Musik Awards, where he has remained a consistent presence since breaking onto the scene in 2015 when he won Rookie Artist of the Year.This year, he is expected to perform some of his award-winning tracks along with newer songs including one of his personal favourites, ‘Raun LongLong’.“Mi hamamas tru long kam play long musik awards bikos stori blo song ia i personal, na tu mi bin hamamas long lukim em kam insait long YUMI FM countdown,” he said.(“I am excited to be performing at the musik awards because the story of this particular song is personal, and also I was happy to see that the song made it to the YUMIFM countdown.”)Tarvin said performing the song at the awards would be a special moment for him, adding that he had been looking forward to the awards since last year.The artist also revealed that fans can expect several new singles following the awards, with the upcoming releases leading into a new album currently in production.“Many singles are soon to release that will lead to the album we are currently working on right now.”He added that his schedule remains busy this year, with music video shoots and promotional work underway ahead of the album’s expected release next year.The upcoming project is also expected to feature collaborations with well-known PNG artists including, O-FOUR, and Morobe-based female vocalist Frankie.Tarvin said he is now looking forward to taking the stage at the 20th YUMI FM Musik Awards.

International reggae artist Anslom Nakikus is set to return to the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards on May 23rd at the Lamana Gold Club in Port Moresby city.After a period away from the spotlight, the PNG reggae icon says he is honored to be part of the 20th edition of the awards, which hold special meaning in his music journey. For Anslom, the performance is more than just a stage appearance, but it is a return to where his career began. He credits PNGFM and its radio platforms for helping shape his early journey from a local artist into one of Papua New Guinea’s most recognized international reggae musicians. Speaking in an interview with PNG Haus Bung, Anslom reflected on his growth alongside the station. “It means so much because growing up with radio, with PNGFM stations, from those days it started. Coming up here, it’s like the growth of PNGFM is the growth of Anslom,” he said. Adding to the celebrated moment Anlsom appreciated PNGFM - Yumi FM for reaching out to let him perform at the event “Emi bikpela hamas stret long being a part of the 20th YUMI FM Musik Awards.” Anslom was among the early recipients at the inaugural YUMI FM Musik Awards in 2005, where he was recognized as Best New/Rookie Artist of the Year. His early hits include ‘Don’t You Lie’, ‘Aross’, and ‘Bongbong’. With a long-running music career and a strong catalogue of songs, fans can expect him to perform both classic hits and international trending reggae hits at the awards night. He is also working on new music, with reports indicating upcoming releases currently in production.

For PNG Health Support Workers Association (PNGHSWA) member Ruth Kange, joining BSP Life was not just about saving money, but it became a decision she says changed her understanding of financial security and helped support her child’s future. Sharing before BSP Life representatives and fellow members, Ruth Kange spoke with the confidence of someone whose trust had paid off. “I am so privileged, and I made a wise decision choosing BSP Life,” she said.  For Ruth, the survival benefit payouts were more than financial returns because it has become timely support for her family and proof that long-term investment can create real change.  Ruth first encountered BSP Life’s Wantok Delite cover in 2022 through BSP Life Insurance Advisors in Boroko, Port Moresby.  At the time, she admitted she did not fully understand the importance of the policy, but she chose to sign up based on trust and belief in its long-term promise.  “I didn’t fully understand the importance of the Wantok Delite cover at the time, but I agreed to sign up, placing my trust in BSP Life with the belief that this investment would be beneficial long-term,” she shared.  Three years later, that trust paid off. Ruth received her survival benefit payout under the policy, an experience she described as rewarding and reassuring.  When the PNGHSWA insurance scheme launched in 2023, Ruth enrolled again under the subsidized policy, contributing around K75 in premiums supported by the Government. Last month, she received her first Survival Benefit payout under the PNGHSWA policy, the timing, she said, could not have been better. “The cash returns were timely, and I used them fully for my child’s school fees,” Ruth explained.  For the Southern Highlands Provincial Health Authority payroll manager, the benefits have become more than personal support. They have also inspired her to encourage fellow health workers to think seriously about long-term financial planning.  As more members began receiving their survival benefits, Ruth said interest among health workers and doctors continued to grow, with many now recognizing the value of investing in BSP Life products.  She believes the program provides ordinary Papua New Guineans with an opportunity to secure financial support for their families while preparing for future uncertainties.  Ruth also reflected on how BSP Life has assisted families during times of loss, saying the payouts have helped provide relief and support to grieving relatives when they needed it most.  Her growing confidence in the program has led her to actively spread awareness among colleagues and provincial health workers, encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunity.  For Ruth, the experience has transformed her from a first-time customer into one of the strongest advocates for the scheme.  Today, Ruth Kange’s story stands as more than a personal testimony.  It reflects how one decision, made on faith and trust, can create lasting impact for a family’s future.  From helping pay school fees to encouraging others to invest in long-term security, Ruth now carries a message she hopes more Papua New Guineans will hear.  Sometimes the smallest step toward saving today can become the biggest protection for tomorrow.

The Governor General, His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, officially launched the 14th CPL Foundation Pride of PNG Women Awards as Patron of the awards at the Hilton Port Moresby today. The awards recognize and celebrate women across Papua New Guinea for their leadership, service, and contributions to communities throughout the country. During the opening ceremony, Chairman of the CPL Foundation, Sir Mahesh Patel, thanked Sir Bob Dadae for attending the launch while reflecting on the history and purpose of the awards program. “Today is not just the launch of an awards program; it is a moment to reflect and recognize something deeply important to our nation,” Sir Patel said. “Decades ago, when we started the Pride of PNG Awards, the idea was simple to shine a light on women already making a difference, not for recognition, but simply because it was the right thing to do. “We wanted to tell their stories, we wanted the country to see them, and most importantly we wanted them to know that they matter. “Today, almost 20 years later, this program has become something much bigger.” Sir Patel said the initiative was inspired by similar recognition programs for indigenous women in Australia, by News Corp. "The initiative was inspired through discussions with media partners, including the Post-Courier, and influenced by similar recognition programs celebrating women internationally.” He added that the stories shared through the awards continue to inspire young girls across the country. “With every story that we share, something extraordinary happens. That story may reach a girl in a village or a settlement in the city and show her that her life can become more,” he said. Governor General Sir Bob Dadae, in his address, highlighted the important role women play in Papua New Guinea and the significance of recognizing leadership that contributes positively to communities. “This award highlights the value of service and leadership in improving the lives of others,” Sir Bob said. Before officially launching the awards, Sir Bob commended the CPL Foundation, its partners, and the committee behind the program. “I commend the CPL Foundation, its partners and the members of the committee behind these awards. It is now my privilege to officially launch the Pride of PNG Women Awards 2026 and declare nominations open,” he said. Nominations are now open and will close on June 14 ahead of the awards ceremony. The awards recognize women across Papua New Guinea from various professions and backgrounds under categories of leadership, community service, entrepreneurship, bravery, sports, and youth leadership. During the launch, the Governor General also presented the King’s Medal to Stan Joyce in recognition of his contributions to Papua New Guinea.

Kronos experienced a breakout moment securing two major nominations for the 2025 YUMIFM PNG Musik Awards (YFMPNGMA), earning spots in the Male Artist of the Year and Song of the Year categories with his viral hit “Daddy Raus.” First released on July 19, 2025, “Daddy Raus” quickly became one of PNG’s most talked-about songs, driven by its energetic party vibe, catchy lyrics and signature PNG contemporary and islands fusion sound. The nominations were officially announced on April 27, further cementing the song’s rise as one of the country’s standout local hits of the year. Speaking with Kasty and the YUMIFM team at his residence in Gerehu Stage Three, Kronos admitted the recognition caught him by surprise. “Honest, mi surprise!” (“Honest I was surprised!”) The artist went on to thank fans who continuously requested the song on radio and voted throughout the awards campaign. “Thank you, guys, thank you for the votes. Thank you so much for requesting my song Daddy Raus. Thank you for the votes and big thanks to Yumi FM and all the sponsors.” Kronos also proudly represented his Gerehu Resident while reflecting on how the G'hood is home for making good music. “Thank you for coming here at Gerehu Stage 3. Ino gutpela hap but lo hia gutpela musik save kamap so wanpla luv lo ol yu de wan.” (“I know its not a good place but here is where we make great music so love to you all!”) Beyond the viral success and party anthem reputation, Kronos revealed that the real story behind “Daddy Raus” was far different from what many listeners originally believed. According to the artist, the song was inspired by children he had met while working for a construction company in Ungai-Bena District, where he helped build a bridge. “So, when I was working at Ungai Bena in Goroka at a construction company to build a bridge, the kids up there used to call the big trucks with mega wheels ‘Daddy Raus’ every time the truck accelerated,” he explained. Kronos shared that he often helped transport the children to and from school while traveling to work each day. “From there, I used to drop them off at school when I’m heading to work, and while heading back from work I pick them up and drop them off at their house.” He explained that the track’s now-famous line came from a conversation with one of the children during one of those drives home. “One day I was driving one of the kids home and he told me, ‘Olgeta taim daddy save go aut mummy save belhat na kilim mi.’” (‘All the time when daddy goes out, mummy used to get really mad and punish me really badly.’) “From there I picked up the song’s famous line, ‘So daddy raus na mummy tu laik rough.’” Despite many listeners interpreting the song as an adult-themed party track, Kronos said the record was always meant for the children who inspired it. What started as village kid nicknames has now evolved into one of PNG’s biggest songs of the year. Behind the viral chorus stood a story rooted in community and life in the rural Eastern Highlands. Moreover, this year also marks an important and big year for YUMIFM as this year’s Musik Awards celebrates its twentieth year.

The PNG Chiefs is yet to officially launch its club’s logo and branding colors as they prepare for their 2028 NRL entry.While preparations continue, New Zealand media reports have highlighted concerns regarding the club’s name and possible branding similarities with the New Zealand Rugby team, Chiefs. According to a report by Stuff.co.nz published on November 1, 2025, New Zealand Rugby reportedly sought legal advice regarding trademark protection in Australasia following the introduction of the PNG franchise during the 2025 PM’s XIII match at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The report states that concerns relate to potential similarities in branding and colour schemes. The Waikato-based Chiefs traditionally use red, black, and yellow colours also associated with Papua New Guinea’s national identity. In a statement published by Stuff.co.nz, New Zealand Rugby, it stated, “New Zealand Rugby is aware that there are examples of the Chiefs name used by teams in different sporting contexts internationally.” “Our focus is on protecting the Chiefs trademark in Australasia, where our rights date back to the team’s inception when Super Rugby began in 1996.” “We can confirm we have corresponded with the Australian Rugby League Commission about their decision to name a new team the Chiefs and are working in good faith toward an outcome that works for all parties.” Meanwhile, PNG HAUSBUNG spoke with the PNG Chiefs General Manager Michael Chammas, during the Alex Johnston signing press conference held yesterday, where he claimed was not aware of any issues regarding a branding clash with the New Zealand franchise. “We have not heard of this issue, but if there was a problem then the NRL would not accept the team's name as Chiefs,” he said. “We therefore don’t have those sorts of issues. The NRL has done their homework.” While the NRL has not issued a formal public comment, reports indicate that the Australian Rugby League Commission has specifically registered the name “PNG Chiefs” rather than “Chiefs” alone. Furthermore, despite discussions regarding trademarks and branding, the name “Chiefs” is used by several sporting teams internationally across different competitions and codes.

It is now official. NRL’s top try scorer Alex Johnston has signed with the PNG Chiefs, becoming the club’s second player and the first national representative to join the squad.After weeks of rumours and debate across the NRL community, Johnston has now put pen to paper.His signing was confirmed today, 6 May, by PNG Chiefs General Manager Michael Chammas at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.“It is a historic day today as we sign Alex Johnston as our second inaugural player for PNG Chiefs 2028,” Chammas said.He also acknowledged the support of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, where Johnston is currently playing and is expected to remain through the 2027 season before joining the PNG Chiefs in 2028.Johnston, who made his NRL debut in 2014, has spent over a decade with the Rabbitohs and remains one of the competition’s most consistent try scorers.The deal is for one year, with an option to extend depending on Johnston’s form and decision.“The contract is a one-year deal, and it will depend on Alex if he feels able to continue and extend,” Chammas said.PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said Johnston’s signing is a major boost for the club and an inspiration for young players.“He represents passion for rugby league in the country,” she said.She also highlighted what he will bring to the team.“He brings discipline and experience, which is fantastic.”

Blue Mountain Shallow Tail have been crowned the inaugural Butterfly Netball League (BNL) champions after edging Sepik Green Moon 45–44 in a thrilling grand final on Sunday, May 3rd. The match lived up to expectations, with neither side leading by more than two points at any stage. Blue Mountain Shallow Tail held a narrow 12–11 lead at the end of the first quarter, before Sepik Green Moon fought back to take a 24–22 advantage into halftime. Momentum shifted again in the third quarter, with Blue Mountain reclaiming the lead 33–32, setting up a tense final period. In a neck-and-neck finish, they held their composure to secure a one-point victory. In the third-place playoff, Alexander Birdwing defeated Island Monarch 47–45 after a strong comeback, overturning a seven-point deficit in the third quarter. Beyond the results, the competition highlighted emerging talent, with players showing the ability to perform under pressure and deliver at a high level. Now with the competition concluded, attention turns to national selection, where top performers from the four teams will be considered for the PNG Pepes squad ahead of the Tonga Cup qualifiers in September. PNG Netball Executive Coordinator, Lynette Maha, said the Butterfly Netball League is Netball PNG's development pathway initiative to identify the best local talents to make the National Selection. “The best players from each club will now be selected into the PNG Pepes draft squad, alongside our international players based in Australia and New Zealand,” she said. An estimated 15 to 20 players from the BNL are expected to be selected, with the squad list to be announced in the coming weeks. Further selections will also be made from Papua New Guinean players competing overseas. The squad will then go through a trimming phase before the final team is confirmed for the Tonga Cup qualifiers in September.

Mt Hagen, in Western Highlands province, is entering a new phase of aviation development following the official launch of a K39.4 million runway upgrade at Kagamuga Airport last week. Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi, announced the project on April 28, describing it as a major step forward for infrastructure development in the Highlands region. In his keynote address, Minister Goi acknowledged the patience of leaders and communities in Western Highlands, as well as neighbouring provinces including Simbu and Enga, highlighting the growing demand for an airport capable of handling larger aircraft. He said the project is a key priority for the National Government and is being funded internally through the National Airports Corporation (NAC) to ensure Mt Hagen remains a major aviation hub, second only to Port Moresby. NAC Acting Managing Director Dominic Kaumu, said the upgrade will replace the existing bituminous runway surface with a more durable asphalt concrete overlay. He confirmed that K4 million has already been paid to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to mobilise materials and begin work. Mr. Kaumu said the upgrade is necessary to support Air Niugini’s transition to larger aircraft, including the Boeing 737 and Airbus A220 fleet, which will increase passenger capacity on Highlands routes. He added that the project is expected to be completed by December 2026 to accommodate increased travel demand during the Christmas period. Meanwhile, Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa, welcomed the project, saying delays in the past had caused concern among leaders and the business community. He described Kagamuga Airport as a critical gateway for the region, with millions of people passing through the province, placing pressure on infrastructure and public services. Governor Rapa also urged contractors to ensure high-quality work, noting that previous upgrades had not lasted, and called on the community and security forces to support the project and protect workers during construction. Minister Goi also outlined immediate measures to improve the airport environment, including plans to relocate nearby markets and enforce restrictions on betelnut and cigarette sales around the terminal area. He said these changes are part of broader efforts to modernise airport operations ahead of future developments under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program Phase Three (CADIP III), which is expected to include further runway extensions and terminal upgrades from 2028. The Minister also encouraged greater participation in aviation training programs, emphasising the need to prepare a local workforce to support the country’s expanding aviation infrastructure.