The Neihembi Primary School in the Numbo LLG of Yangoru-Saussia District, East Sepik Province, had a visit from their local MP and the Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru, who announced that the Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) had allocated K300,000 from its budget for the school. Minister Maru stated that the school celebrated its 40th anniversary last year (2024) and the communities that the school serve gifted the school at its anniversary by contributing funds to build a new 4-in-1 classroom which is currently under construction. “The K300,000 from the DDA will complement their efforts to complete the classroom and half of the funding will be used to build two new staff houses. The funds have already been released, and it is now up to the School Board to decide how to use the funds. I look forward to returning to the school to open the completed projects as part of the 50th Independence celebrations in September this year,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru emphasized that Yangoru-Saussia DDA will continue to invest in education in line with their policy of “God First and Education Second”. “Our District has topped East Sepik Province in the last two years in terms of Grade 8 academic results. But that is only up to Grade 8. We have to improve our academic performance in Grades 10 and 12. We have to change the standard of all our schools by building modern classrooms for students and modern staff houses to attract teachers so we can see good academic performance from our schools. We will continue to build 4-in-1 classrooms across all our schools in the district, and we will also continue to invest in early childhood education,” said Minister Maru.

Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) officially announced the appointment of Mr. Richard Sinamoi as the Chairman of the NSL Trustee Board of Directors. NSL stated that Mr. Sinamoi was appointed to replace Mr. Reginald Monagi, who stepped down as Chairman in October 2024 after serving an additional term at the direction of the regulator, the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG). “Mr. Monagi served as an ordinary Board member from 2014 to 2019 and as Chairman of the Board from 2020 to 2024. The announcement was made by Dame Meg Taylor, Deputy Chairperson of the Board, who also expressed gratitude to Mr. Monagi for his contributions and dedicated service to the Funds 235,888 Members. In acknowledging Mr. Monagi’s contributions, Dame Meg Taylor took the opportunity to highlight his notable achievements. “Mr. Reginald Monagi’s tenure as Chairman of Nambawan Super has been marked by strong leadership and significant achievements. Since joining in 2014, Mr. Monagi with Directors of the Board over time has ensured consistent growth of the Fund for both membership and Funds Under Management. Membership growth grew from 146,000 to over 235,000 Members, and Funds Under Management doubling to over K11 billion. He successfully guided the Fund through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, implemented the Niupela Pasin strategy, and enabled remote operations to ensure continued service to Members.” “Under his leadership, the Fund delivered record Unemployment Benefit payouts, expanded Financial Literacy Training to over 17,000 Members, and advanced major investment projects like Rangeview Plaza and Moki Business Park. He also led successful efforts to recover long-standing arrears from the State and secure repossession of the 9-Mile Bushwara land after 30 years.” “The Board, Management and staff sincerely thank him for his dedication and service.” In his farewell dinner, Mr. Monagi’s parting words to Board, Management and Staff were to “ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT by your Members”. And in saying so, presented what he called, “DO THE RIGHT THING” baton to Chairman elect Mr. Sinamoi. He asked that the baton be passed on to successive Chairmans with the same message which he hoped would form part of NSL Organizational Culture in their provision of services to their members. Mr. Monagi thanked past and present Board members, Management and Staff for their collective efforts in the achievements of significant results for its members. "In line with the NSL Company Constitution and the Board Charter, and in accordance with the Bank of PNG Prudential Standards, my fellow Directors and I have resolved to appoint Mr. Richard Sinamoi as Chairperson," stated Dame Meg Taylor. She said Mr. Sinamoi is a qualified professional with over 20 years’ experience in the superannuation and financial services industry, having worked for the Comrade Trustee Services Limited (CTSL) as Chief Executive Officer until January 2017. “He has served as a Director on several Boards for both commercial entities and charitable organizations, including Paradise Company Limited, Credit Corporation (PNG) Limited and Transpacific Assurance Limited. He has Executive Management experience in industries ranging from food & beverage, general insurance, trustee services, financial services and micro banking,” she said. Dame Meg further added, “In his statement as the incoming Chairman in NSL’s 2024 Annual Report, Mr. Sinamoi has stated that under his leadership; NSL will maintain momentum by focusing on five key strategic priorities: enhancing corporate governance and stakeholder engagement, advancing organizational transformation, progressing the 9-Mile Land project, exploring new investment opportunities, and collaborating with the State to resolve outstanding public service Employer contributions.” “I am confident in Mr. Sinamoi’s experience and abilities as the incoming Chairman, to leading NSL forward. As an experienced Director of the Fund, Richard has a proven track record of putting Members first and making tough decisions with their best interests first and foremost. The Board looks forward to supporting him build on the strong foundations in place, enhance service delivery and continue to drive strategies with our Members at the heart of everything we do.”

The Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Encounter arrived in the country recently, this time visiting the Alotau Port in Milne Bay province, much to the excitement of the locals. PNG Ports Limited stated that this beauty visited over the weekend on a 10-day cruise, carrying almost 3,000 tourists, including children. “Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Encounter arrived at the Alotau Port on Saturday (June 14), travelled to Kiriwina Island (Trobriand Islands) on Sunday (June 15), Rabaul on June 16th, and the Conflict Islands on June 18th. The cruise departed Brisbane on June 10th and returned on June 20th, 2025. PNG Ports is proud of its support towards cruise ship tourism in the country through the provision of fit-for-purpose port facilities and discounted port charges. Tourism is important, more important than most people realize in fact. The importance of tourism is demonstrated throughout the world. From the economic advantages that tourism brings to host communities to the enjoyment that tourism brings to the tourists themselves, there is no dispute about the value of this industry and the importance of tourism can be viewed from two perspectives: the tourism industry and the tourist,” PNG Ports Stated. From the 2024 Papua New Guinea Annual International Visitors Survey (IVP) Report from January to December 2024, Australia recorded highest visitors' arrivals into PNG at 39%, Asia at 35% and Europe at 8%.

The Boera Cricket Association in the Central province will be wrapping up its regular season this weekend with round 13 and will head into its finals. The Boera Cricket Association Committee has stated that they are reaching the thrilling conclusion of the 2025 Boera Cricket Association season after 12 fiercely contested rounds. “We now head into Round 13 — the final round of the regular season — this weekend. A huge congratulations to Gunika Mates, who has officially secured the Minor Premiership with a dominant 18 points and one game still to go. The rest of the competition remains wide open, with clubs fighting hard to cement their place in the Top 12 and secure a spot in one of the three finals divisions,” The Committee said. The Committee said this year’s competition features 14 proud clubs: Gunika Mates, Kiko, Mix Brothers, Sky Grass, Newtown Jets, Diho Winds, Tuvalu, Junction, Barix, Poison, Beta Mix, Country, Siabo Blacks, and Vatadubu. Only 12 teams will qualify for the finals — so all eyes are on this weekend’s final round! “This final round will determine which teams make the Top 12, final rankings and matchups in the Cup, Bowl, and Plate divisions and elimination for the bottom two teams. It’s all on the line — expect tight contests and fierce performances across all venues,” the Committee added. The top 12 teams after Round 13 will enter one of three divisions: CUP DIVISION (Top 4 teams)-For the Major Title – The Boera Cricket Cup Semi-Final 1: 1st vs 4th Semi-Final 2: 2nd vs 3rd Winners advance directly to the Cup Grand Final BOWL DIVISION (5th to 8th)-For mid-table contenders – The Bowl Trophy Semi-Final 1: 5th vs 8th Semi-Final 2: 6th vs 7th Winners advance directly to the Bowl Grand Final PLATE DIVISION (9th to 12th)-For rising sides – The Plate Trophy Semi-Final 1: 9th vs 12th Semi-Final 2: 10th vs 11th Winners advance directly to the Plate Grand Final Teams finishing 13th and 14th will not qualify for the finals.

The Pacific International Hospital (PIH) was on the cricket field providing support for the PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational as the exclusive health partner, delivering on-the-ground emergency and health services to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all players and officials. Cricket PNG stated that as Papua New Guinea’s leading multispecialty hospital, PIH has stepped up to provide vital medical coverage throughout the tournament. “Located just 5–10 minutes from Amini Park in the Three Mile area, the hospital is offering full emergency care, trauma support, specialist consultations, and advanced diagnostics as part of its partnership with Cricket PNG. We truly appreciate the belief of PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational’s vision and its commitment to promoting sports in our region,” Cricket PNG said. Pacific International Hospital General Manager-Marketing Mr. Shadab Anwar Siddiqui said they look forward to continuing this valuable partnership in future events as well with a multi-layered medical approach in place. He said PIH had staff on standby each match day for six days (Sunday 16 to Saturday 21 June 2025) equipped with first aid kits, trauma bags, and treatment capabilities. Cricket PNG said in collaboration with St John’s Ambulance, their presence ensured that all medical incidents whether on or off the field were handled promptly and professionally. “In more serious cases, players and staff are priorities and transported to PIH for further managing and treatment, ensuring access to high-quality healthcare at all times. Team managers were issued with 24-hour emergency contact lines to PIH, reinforcing a proactive and responsive medical strategy. No serious cases were reported during the tournament which is great feedback. While there is no dedicated Tournament Medical Officer, PIH’s involvement fills that gap effectively, supporting both planned and unexpected health needs during the competition,” Cricket PNG stated. Teams were also encouraged to work closely with their own medics and physiotherapists to manage day-to-day player care. “We are proud to partner with Pacific International Hospital,” said Board Chairman for Cricket PNG Michael Harrison. He said PIH support and professionalism are a key part of delivering a safe, high-standard tournament experience. “PIH’s support reflects our shared commitment to player welfare and emergency preparedness. Cricket PNG sincerely thanks PIH for its continued support and medical leadership throughout the PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational. This partnership strengthens the foundation for future tournaments and reinforces the importance of healthcare in sport,” he added.

In a small yet historic occasion, the Minister for International Trade and Investment & Yangoru-Saussia MP Richard Maru, hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for a new 6km road that will connect Kwarabri 3 and Ambukanjah village in the Yangoru-Saussia District of East Sepik Province. This road, once completed, will help up to 1,000 cocoa farmers in that area to access the market and it will also address lawlessness by enabling the police to apprehend criminals who use the area to hide from the police because the area is mountainous and without road access. Minister Maru said the Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) had already paid the contractor mobilization funds and work is expected to start this week on this new road that will cost K400,000 to complete. He said this is a big investment and the people of Kwarabri and Ambukanjah must be prepared to make some serious changes. “The time for the criminals to hide here is over. Let’s clean up the Sikau range and let the services flow. You have waited 50 years for this road, so I expect you to cooperate with the contractor and the DDA so we can get this road completed before September 16th. You already have power lines and electricity in Kwarabri 1 and now you’re getting a road, and you will also get a bridge. When the nation celebrates 50th Anniversary of Independence, you will also have a reason to celebrate,” added Minister Maru.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has held a high-level political Talanoa consultation with the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) on Sunday, 22nd June 2025, at the margins of the 23rd Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Leaders’ Meeting in Suva, Republic of Fiji. The consultations form part of broader regional efforts led by the PIF to strengthen Pacific solidarity and strategic cooperation, in response to shared challenges confronting the region and its member states. The Talanoa process will focus on priority issues such as regional security, climate change, fisheries resource management, political governance, national sovereignty, and the institutional reforms of both regional and sub-regional groupings in the Pacific. These discussions aim to explore how best to reshape Pacific governance structures and institutional mechanisms to reflect current realities and future aspirations. For Papua New Guinea, this engagement is a crucial opportunity to ensure that national priorities align with regional development objectives—particularly in areas such as sustainable resource use, border security, and climate adaptation. Prime Minister Marape, who consistently calls for a reformed and united Pacific architecture, is expected to advocate for stronger collaboration between MSG members and the wider Pacific community. The EPG consultations will assess how existing regional organizations can be rationalized or restructured to improve efficiency and effectiveness. These reforms are intended to meet both regional and national needs and to align more closely with rapid technological advancements and geopolitical changes affecting the Pacific. With growing international attention on the Pacific, the region must respond proactively through enhanced cooperation and reform-driven leadership. The Pacific Islands Forum, MSG, and other sub-regional entities are now under review as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, representation, and inclusivity. PM Marape is expected to lead discussions on the importance of regional ownership, institutional capacity-building, and the need for responsive and adaptable governance structures. He also highlights the value of ensuring that regional decision-making remains grounded in Pacific cultural values, while embracing innovation, inclusion, and resilience. The Pacific region stands at a crossroads. “We must take a proactive approach to safeguarding our sovereignty, protecting our resources, and ensuring that our voices are heard on the global stage. Our collective efforts must also voice strongly against human rights abuses in our region and for respect for all our people and members of our Pacific Islands Forum, the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) community, and others,” said PM Marape. He said PNG remains fully committed to regional dialogue and collective action to address the challenges that affect not just individually, but all as Pacific peoples. The High-Level Political Talanoa (HLPT) process provides a pivotal opportunity to advance cohesive regional governance reforms. Mr. Marape said consideration must be given to the political, financial, and operational implications of each rationalization option, and a strategic pathway must be identified that balances national sovereignty with collective regionalism. “A well-structured and efficient regional system is critical to achieving the Pacific’s long-term vision under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent." "By streamlining governance structures, strengthening political unity, and ensuring inclusive membership frameworks, the Pacific Islands Forum can move regionalism from aspirational dialogue to concrete, collective action." “The challenges of fragmentation, inefficiencies, and divergent national interests require bold and decisive leadership. The decisions taken now will shape the trajectory of Pacific regionalism for decades to come." "This is a defining moment for the region—one that demands commitment, collaboration, and an unwavering focus on a shared Pacific future that is resilient, sustainable, and united in its vision,” PM Marape said.

Three police vehicles that operate and serve the people of both NCD and Central provinces were damaged by an alleged group of people from Goilala who reside at different locations in Port Moresby city. National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab confirmed that two Force 10 vehicles and one Motu Koita police vehicle were damaged on Thursday and Saturday, respectively. He said the two Force 10 vehicles, which were assisting the Central police officers at Fifteen Mile police station, responded to another incident at Bomana in the early hours of Friday and were attacked by a group of armed men alleged to be from Goilala. "It was night, and the attackers were hiding in the dark when the vehicle got bogged down and trying to pull out when they stoned the vehicle's windscreens. Help was called for by other police units to assist, who responded and rescued the officers and the vehicles. Some suspects were picked up a day later and are now in police custody. They will be interviewed and charged accordingly," Met. Supt. Simatab said. He further added that the other incident happened on Saturday morning at Badihagwa, where the Motu Koita police bus was stoned by an alleged group of Goilala men. Met. Supt. Simatab said one suspect was picked up by members of the community and is now detained in the police cell for questioning. He said the police vehicles had been helping in policing the city, and with the three vehicles damaged, it will now decrease the police presence in the city. "I want to call on the public to respect public properties, such as police vehicles. The vehicles are paid for or hired with the people's money, and they help provide police services to the community. With the damage done, we will now have less police presence, which will lead to an increase in law-and-order problems. My call now is for everyone to work with the police to identify those who are stoning the Force 10 vehicles at Bomana and the Motu Koita bus at Badihagwa. We also want the community to help us report those individuals damaging public assets," Met. Supt. Simatab said. He said the vehicles are now in the workshop for maintenance.

Capital Insurance Group Limited and City Pharmacy, two trusted leaders in the insurance and pharmaceutical sectors, have officially announced a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing access to health-related services and insurance solutions for communities nationwide. As part of this collaboration, Capital Insurance Group’s Medical Policy holders can now enjoy the benefits of direct billing services on prescribed medication at their nearest City Pharmacy outlet nationwide. This initiative bridges the gap between everyday healthcare needs and long-term financial protection. “At Capital Insurance Group, putting people first means making healthcare simpler, more affordable, and truly accessible. “This partnership with City Pharmacy allows our Medical Policy holders to enjoy direct billing on prescribed medication, reducing out-of-pocket expenses. We are proud to be a part of an initiative that makes quality healthcare more affordable and accessible for the people of Papua New Guinea,” said Ms. Aphiwe Mpuma, Head of Claims at Capital Insurance Group. Mr. Pradeep Panda, Head of Pharmacy at City Pharmacy said, they are pleased to partner with Capital Insurance Group to make prescription access easier and more convenient for their members. “This collaboration aligns with our commitment to providing accessible and quality healthcare across Papua New Guinea. By enabling direct billing at all City Pharmacy outlets nationwide, we’re helping to remove financial and logistical barriers for patients. We look forward to serving CIG members with the care and support they deserve,” Mr. Panda added. He said this strategic move marks a significant milestone in the integration of healthcare and insurance services. “We are pleased to introduce this partnership as a meaningful step toward improving health outcomes for our mutual customers,” he added.

The Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) presented a cheque of K200,000 to take up Gold Sponsorship for the upcoming 2nd Papua New Guinea Special Economic Summit that will be hosted in Port Moresby from August 31st- September 3rd, 2025. Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru, thanked the Managing Director for KCH, Professor David Kavanamur, and the Minister for State Enterprises, William Duma, for their support towards this very important Summit. Minister Maru said they are very happy to work with KCH and look forward to receiving their Submissions for the Madang Integrated SEZ and the Portside SEZ so they can have them processed and approved by the NEC and the SEZ Authority will grant them licenses subject to KCH meeting all the regulatory requirements. Minister Maru and Professor Kavanamur also gave an update on the establishment of the new cannery in Madang. “We are also happy to announce that for the cannery in Madang, following the clearance of the MOU by the State Solicitor, the Shareholders Agreement will be finalized between the three shareholders- KCH, Madang Provincial Government and RD Corporation to pave way for the launching of the tuna canning project within what used to be called the PMIZ but now the Madang Integrated SEZ. The Prime Minister James Marape, will be invited to officiate at this launch which will be held on Monday, July 7, 2025, in Madang. The Governor for Madang, Ramsey Pariwa, will be meeting with us to finalize the program for this historic launch.” “This project was initiated by the Somare Government and has been delayed by over three Governments. The Marape-Rosso Government will finally deliver this very important project this year. It is going to be a very significant milestone as we celebrate 50 years of Independence. It will signal the start of the very aggressive push by the Government to have all our fish caught in our waters processed onshore. We are waiting for the National Fisheries Authority to bring the Domestication Policy, but work starts this year.” “It is our hope that in the next couple of years we will completely ban the unprocessed fish exports from PNG and in the process, we will create over 100,000 new jobs and revenue inflows will grow from less than K1 billion to over K5 billion from licensing of boats, taxes from companies, personal income taxes and GST. The new 300MT cannery project will cost K160 million. The State’s share of the equity funds is ready and will be released to the new JV Company to be called the ‘Kumul Fishing Limited’ as soon as the Project Agreement is signed,” said Minister Maru. The new Board and Management for the JV Company will be appointed in the coming weeks, and the company will be ready to start the construction of the new cannery after the launch next month. Minister Maru thanked the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, KCH, RD, Madang Provincial Government and all the partners for all their support towards the establishment of the new cannery which will be owned by our Government and the Madang Provincial Government on behalf of our people. “I want to thank the Marape-Rosso Government for the foresight and the determination to finally deliver the PMIZ decision as part of our Take Back PNG initiative,” said Minister Maru,

The National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) officially reopened its Boroko Client Service Center in Port Moresby city, marking the return of one of the most recognized and historically significant branches. Closed in October 2022 to allow for full upgrade, the Boroko branch has now been transformed into a modern, inclusive and member-focused facility, designed to enhance comfort, efficiency and accessibility. Nasfund Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rajeev Sharma said the project reflects the Fund’s long-term commitment to investing in infrastructure that directly improves the member experience. “This is not just a refreshed space, it is a recommitment to serving our members with purpose. Boroko has always held an important place in our story, and it is now equipped to support members even better. The redesigned center includes a member chamber with capacity for up to 180 people, eight service counters, private interviews rooms, and a new internal conference space. The facility also features upgraded electrical and IT systems, enabling it to function as a backup site for Head office should service disruptions occur,” Mr. Sharma said. He said they built Boroko not just for convenience, but for continuity and the branch plays a key role in keeping their services accessible and reliable in any situation. “We are proud to welcome members back to a space that truly belongs to them, their service center, their fund and their future. The Boroko Client Service Center is now open Monday-Friday from 9am to 3pm offering a full range of member services. These include processing of withdrawals, housing advances, ID card issuance and replacements, member details updates, and general account support. In the near future, the Service Center will also house Nasfund’s Employer services Team,” Mr. Sharma added.

The Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru welcomed Mayur Industrials PNG Limited as a Gold Sponsor for the upcoming 2nd Papua New Guinea Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Summit, to be held at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby from August 31st to September 3rd, 2025. Mayur Industrials PNG Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of ASX-listed Mayur Resources Limited (the Company or Mayur). Minister Maru said they are pleased to welcome Mayur Industrials as a Gold Sponsor. “Their Central Cement and Lime Project residing in a Single Factory Zone SEZ exemplifies the type of transformative, nation-building initiative the SEZ framework is designed to support,” he said. Minister Maru expressed satisfaction that the SEZ Authority (SEZA), himself, and the Prime Minister James Marape had resolved recent concerns, with SEZA and the Company now aligned. “Central Cement and Lime Project will shortly come before the National Executive Council to formalize its recognition as a strategic national priority after the State Negotiations are concluded. This project will directly create over 1,000 jobs during construction. The Marape-Rosso Government is very supportive of this project because we want to replace all cement imports and reduce the cost of cement. Cement is essential in building our nation. We have four other limestone projects on the way. We want to see all our roads built with cement from the lime resources within PNG. We do not want to see any of our lime by-products like clinker to be sent overseas. All our lime must be used for our nation-building projects in PNG. “We are currently importing cement from China, and we know that our cement factory in Lae is importing cement from other countries. We want this to cease when this project starts. We have enough resources here to supply our own needs and be the net exporter of cement.” Minister Maru said. Mr. Maru invited other PNG investors to partner with Mayur Industrials and its 50/50 local landowner partners in complementary industries such as cement manufacturing, pre-cast concrete, and other high-demand construction materials essential to industrializing PNG. He said the SEZ Summit will be a platform to showcase these opportunities and attract serious partners who want to help build PNG’s industrial base. Minister Maru also acknowledged that Mayur Industrials had responded to his call to seek a dual listing on the Papua New Guinea Stock Exchange (PNGX). “Their dual listing application reflects growing confidence in PNG’s economy. We will support them to complete this before the end of this year,” he said. Minister Maru further commended Mayur Industrials for establishing its main operating office in Port Moresby alongside its Brisbane headquarters. The new office, recently completed, will accommodate approximately 50 staff as the project ramps up. “This aligns with our vision for SEZs—to attract investment, create jobs, and embed companies in the national economy. With partners like Mayur Industrials, we are confident SEZs will help drive PNG’s economic transformation through resilient, export-ready industries,” said Minister Maru.