Landowners representing the Petroleum Development License two (PDL 2) areas in Kutubu, Southern Highlanders Province and the Southeast Mananda of Hela Province have removed the 14 days ultimatum given to the Government through Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina yesterday at Airways after a peaceful discussion with the Minister. The petition given to the Government through the petroleum minister was to address the issues affecting the rights and benefits of the people. The three agenda they presented to the Government that needs to be address was: The petroleum minister to immediately make a ministerial determination Under Section 168A of the Gas and Oil Act 1998 to supersede the 3 Kerenga Kua Ministerial determinations affecting benefit sharing must be reviewed. The three Ministerial determinations had to be reviewed so the Landowners can participate to review the sharing structure transparently and fairly by the three major tribes from Kutubu PDL2 License area Appeal to government and Petroleum minister to ask the National Executive Council to revise the Kutubu Equity distribution whereby the Southern Highlands Provincial government receives 70% and landowners receive 30%, to be changed so the Landowners receive 80% and the Southern Highlands Government receive 20%. However, after a very peaceful meeting with the petroleum minister Jimmy Maladina the landowners have all agreed and decided to remove the 14 days ultimatum. They will now work with the Minister and support his call to proceed with filing a Supreme Court reference to seek legal direction on the implementation of the Ministerial Determination on impacted Petroleum Development License two (PDL 2) and to clarify whether the Kutubu beneficiaries are preserved under the Oil and Gas Act. Chairman for Nama Aporo Association Inc. Mr. John Kapi Natto and Chairman for Foe Association Inc, Johnny Yawari signed the letter to formally remove the 14 ultimatum and handing it to Minister for Petroleum Jimmy Maladina. Minister Maladina commends both leaders stating that he is happy with the civil actions taken by the landowner groups to formally remove the 14 days ultimatum.

The Minister for Petroleum Jimmy Maladina has confirmed that he will proceed with filing a Supreme Court reference to seek legal direction on the implementation of the Ministerial Determination on impacted Petroleum Development License two (PDL 2) and to clarify whether the Kutubu beneficiaries are preserved under the Oil and Gas Act. Minister Maladina said that to ensure clarity and certainty, he is seeking the Supreme Court’s guidance on this matter. He stated that both parties (Landowner Group the Fasu and Foe Tribe) have been invited to join the proceedings should they wish to do so. Minister Maladina said that notwithstanding this legal step, he remains hopeful that a resolution can be reached through dialogue, without requiring the Court’s intervention. “Our meeting this week with both parties have been very positive and encouraging. I sincerely appreciate the willingness of all sides to engage in open discussions, and I commend their respective leadership for their constructive approach.” He further emphasized that while discussions continue, landowners have now agreed to withdraw their ultimatum to the State as all parties work towards a lasting resolution within the confines of law and equity. “The aggrieved landowners have shown good faith by withdrawing their ultimatum and we will continue to work together to reach a fair and legally sound outcome.” Mr. Maladina also reaffirmed that project security is guaranteed and that all parties are fully committed to maintaining stability for the benefit of the country and investors. “The collaboration we are demonstrating should send a strong message to the nation that project security is non-negotiable.” “While differences exist, there is a shared understanding that safeguarding our resources and ensuring long-term benefits for all stakeholders must remain our top priority.” He further highlighted that, despite some disagreements, there are promising areas of agreement that can be built upon in the coming days and weeks to find sustainable resolution. The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with all parties to bring certainty to the benefit-sharing arrangement for PDL 2, stating that a mutually agreed solution remains the best possible outcome. “I welcome the amicable agreements between both disputing parties to proceed with the recognition of their ILGs allowing the democratic process to determine the rightful representation to the people of the PDL 2 project.”

Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) announced the appointment of Ms. Paula Allen as an Independent Trustee Director on the NSL Board. NSL stated that Ms. Allen brings over 25 years of executive and director experience across a variety of sectors, including superannuation, finance, wealth management, technology, emerging technologies, and infrastructure in both Asia and Australia. “Throughout her career, Ms. Allen has held numerous high-level positions, including Director, Adviser, Chief Executive Officer, Head of Strategy, and roles focused on Operations, Merger and Acquisition advice (including superannuation and investments), Finance, Technology, and Change Projects.” “Her extensive experience includes serving as Chair on various committees, such as those dedicated to the Board, Investment, Compliance/Governance/Misconduct, Audit & Risk, Property, Environment and Heritage, Sustainability, Outstanding Growth, and Telecommunications groups.” “In her most recent work, Ms. Allen has served in a quasi-judicial capacity evaluating alleged misconduct cases, acted as a judge for the Telstra Best of Business Awards, and provided consultancy services to organizations across different sectors,” NSL stated. NSL CEO Paul Sayer said they are pleased to welcome Ms. Paula Allen to the Fund. “Her extensive experience, particularly in leadership and strategic transformation, will be instrumental as we continue to drive growth, develop our culture, and improve services for our members,” Mr. Sayer said. NSL stated that the NSL Board follows a thorough and independent process for appointing new Directors to fill vacancies, in line with its succession plan and the necessary skill set assessment. “Ms. Allen has been appointed for a three (3) year term, in line with the Bank of Papua New Guinea’s (BPNG) Prudential Standards related to Corporate Governance for Authorised Superannuation Fund Directors. Directors’ terms may be extended or renewed, with a maximum tenure of nine (9) years. The Fund is governed by the Board of Directors of NSL, the Fund’s Corporate Trustee. The primary purpose of the Fund is to invest and grow amounts contributed on behalf of its Members, to secure their financial future in retirement.” The Fund added that it has no purpose other than to serve the interests of its members. “While a normal Board of Directors oversees a corporation's overall management, making high-level strategic decisions and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards, the role of a Trustee Board involves additional responsibilities, particularly in relation to fiduciary duties.”

With many issues affecting business operations in the country and the increase in Law-and-Order issues as well, Prime Minister James Marape has reassured investors that the PNG Government is taking steps to improve the business environment in PNG. PM Marape stated that the government recognizes industry challenges such as high operational costs and investment hurdles, but investors should know that PNG is taking steps to improve the business environment in the country. Speaking at the high-level meeting for Papua New Guinea’s official membership into the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC) and focusing on Palm Oil Mr. Marape reaffirmed PNG’s commitment to strengthening advocacy efforts alongside Indonesia and Malaysia. “We must stand together to promote fair trade policies and counter any negative narratives surrounding palm oil. As major forest nations, we have the responsibility to present our case and showcase that we are sustainable producers,” he said. Additionally, he reiterated the government’s intention to expand palm oil into biofuel production. “Palm oil is more than just an edible oil; it is a critical resource for the future of green energy. We need to ensure that we fully maximise its potential.” “We are working on land mobilisation programmes and tax incentives to make PNG a more attractive investment destination,” he announced. He also highlighted the government’s K100 million annual allocations for land acquisition and infrastructure support, ensuring long-term growth in the sector. “We are putting systems in place to encourage sustainable industry expansion and create more opportunities for our people,” he stated. Mr. Marape proposed hosting a CPOPC Heads of Government Meeting, bringing together leaders from member nations to discuss trade, sustainability, and global market strategies. “We are not alone in this industry.” “Through collaboration with Indonesia, Malaysia, and other producers, we can build a more equitable and sustainable palm oil market.” “We look forward to strengthening our role in CPOPC and working together for the benefit of all palm oil-producing nations.”Copy Patch to installation folder and apply it

Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed Papua New Guinea’s official membership in the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), marking a historic milestone for the nation’s oil palm industry. PNG joins Indonesia, Malaysia, and Honduras as the fourth member of the global palm oil organization, strengthening the country’s position in international trade and sustainability advocacy. Speaking at a high-level meeting attended by CPOPC Secretary-General Dr Rizal Affandi Lukman, Deputy Secretary-General Datuk Nageeb Wahab, PNG’s Oil Palm Minister Francis Maneke, Indonesian Ambassador His Excellency Andriana Supandy, Agriculture Secretary Dr Sergie Bang, and Oil Palm Industry Corporation General Secretary Kepson Pupita, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed PNG’s commitment to responsible and sustainable palm oil production. Mr. Marape emphasized PNG’s active role in past CPOPC discussions, highlighting the importance of joining as a full member. “This is a significant moment for our country. We appreciate Indonesia and Malaysia for embracing PNG into the CPOPC family." "Together, we can strengthen our advocacy and ensure that the global palm oil market remains fair and sustainable,” he stated. He noted that PNG has immense potential for growth, highlighting that over one million hectares of grassland can be utilized for palm oil cultivation. “As a major forest nation, we will ensure that our palm oil production meets international sustainability standards and that we counter any misleading narratives about deforestation." The Prime Minister assured stakeholders that PNG is committed to enhancing investment opportunities and improving market access. “We must work together to ensure PNG’s palm oil meets the requirements of international markets, including compliance with European Union regulations." "Our industry must align with global standards while also benefiting from the economic opportunities that palm oil provides." He also highlighted PNG’s ambition to develop downstream processing and biofuel production, citing Indonesia’s progress in palm oil-based renewable energy. “We must explore palm oil as a fuel alternative, as Indonesia has done successfully." "This will not only boost our economy but also position us as a key player in the green energy sector." CPOPC Secretary-General Dr Rizal Affandi Lukman welcomed PNG’s membership and stated, “Papua New Guinea’s entry into CPOPC strengthens PNG’s collective advocacy for fair trade and sustainable palm oil production." PNG’s involvement will bring significant contributions to the industry, particularly in expanding market access and reinforcing sustainable practices. Dr Lukman also emphasized that PNG’s inclusion in CPOPC aligns with global efforts to address regulatory challenges such as European Union deforestation compliance. “We have been engaging with European stakeholders to ensure that regulatory frameworks recognize sustainable palm oil production. PNG’s inclusion allows us to strengthen these discussions and present a united front."

The PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the Australian Government Funded Kokoda Initiative Partnership (KIP) recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to boost tourism infrastructure and services along the Kokoda trail. The MOA signed at Ownes Corner on 4, February 2025, launched the Kokoda Sanitation Project. The Kokoda Sanitation Project is part of a broader effort to strengthen sustainable tourism development in the country. It will address inadequate and poor sanitation along the trail which have been long standing challenges for both tourists and locals. PNG TPA Chief Executive Officer (CEO)Eric Mossman Uvovo stated during the signing that the primary objective of the MOA is to strengthen tourism development along the Kokoda Trail. Mr. Uvovo said that the partnership marks a significant step forward in their efforts to not only preserve the historical importance of the Kokoda Trail but to enhance the visitor experience by improving facilities and services. He emphasized the importance of upgrading campsite facilities and improving working conditions for porters. “The Kokoda Trail is a national treasure and by improving the amenities and ensuring that local operators are better equipped to serve tourists we are ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach the communities directly involved.” “Local communities are at the heart of our tourism industry and this partnership ensures that they will directly benefit from the development projects along the trial,” Mr. Uvovo said. He added that the MOA will be in effect until 2026 with between three and five major projects planned for implementation. Success will be measured by the timely delivery of projects, the positive impact on local trekking facilities and the subsequent benefits to the communities involved. “The core focus of this partnership is the promotion of sustainable tourism development and the utilization of local resources and knowledge.” The TPA with the support of KIP aims to enhance the tourism infrastructure along the Kokoda Trail while preserving its cultural and historical significance. “The partnership is expected to deliver many benefits including improved services and facilities which enable local businesses to charge higher campsite fees and increased revenue for the communities along the trial,” he said. Mr Uvovo said that future capacity-building initiatives for local tourism operators and associations will strengthen the Kokoda Trekking industry making it more competitive and sustainable, while environmentally the introduction of upgraded sanitation services will support a healthier and safer environment for both locals and visitors.

New Ireland Province Acting Governor Mr. Sammy Missen presented the Provincial budget of more than K203million to Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey at Vulupindi Haus in Port Moresby yesterday. The Acting Governor was accompanied by New Ireland Province Administrator Richard Andia and other senior officials from New Ireland. “The 2025 New Ireland Government Budget is K203million compares to the K172million in the 2024 Budget.” “Our Revenue Estimates in the 2025 Budget reflect a total increase of 18% or K30million over the 2024 Budget,” Acting Governor Sammy Missen stated. Mr. Missen stated that Grants from 287 Revenue had increased by 17% which is K18million to K125million in 2025 from K107million compared to this year’s budget. He said that this is due to an increase in Functional Grants allocation by the National Governments in its 2025 Budget and a forecasted increase in our outstanding SSG & IDG with the National Government. “Our Internal Revenue has increased by 19% or by K12million to K77million from K64million in the 2024 Budget.” “This increase in our Internal Revenue is due to savings in the New Ireland General Reserve Trust Account from the NIPG’s share of 20% royalties received during the Lihir Mining royalty split where the two DDAs are getting 80% which is the development component of the Lihir Mining Royalties.” “This reflects prudent management of funds derived from our natural resources and to be used for our development aspirations.” With the rising inflation and never-ending increase in the prices of goods and services, with the trickle rising of law and orders issues, New Ireland Government had posture and set its direction for socioeconomic growth in this budget by setting focus on Law & Order, Economic Empowerment, Free Primary Health Care, infrastructure building and decentralization and capacity building of our Ten LLGs which is the third tier of the government,” Mr. Missen added.

The shortage of Foreign Exchange Currencies (FX) remains an issue for businesses in PNG. According to a few major business houses in the country, the shortage of FX is one of the main issues that is affecting their businesses. Recently, CPL Head of Pharmacy Mr. Pradee Panda said that after January 10 events when CPL lost four (4) of its supermarkets which they were able to rebuild three (3) that had an impact on their cashflows and also inventory. Mr. Panda stated that the shortage of FX is now still a challenge as it still has an impact on their imports. “The availability of FX is affecting our import of our products especially pharmaceutical products and even though we make our orders on time we still face backlogs on our orders,” he added. Just this year Brian Bell Chief Executive Officer Cameron Mackellar has stated that access to foreign currency is still an issue for them and everyone else seeking goods, products or services from overseas. Many of these major business houses in the country have also continuously raised concerns that one of the major areas that is restricting their growth is access to foreign currency when they need it. “The majority of our products that we source, and sell are from overseas." "We would like access to more foreign currency as there is a strong demand in PNG for those high use consumer products and services,” these business houses stated. The ANZ Bank in its Pacific FX Insight released in May 2024 stated that new foreign currency flows associated with major projects in Papua New Guinea are not expected to arrive until 2026. ANZ stated that this is due to delays in mining and petroleum projects Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu. While the reopening of Porgera projects is set to inject foreign currency into the market, the mine will not hit full capacity by the end of 2024. The Insight also stated that ANZ expects Kina depreciation will continue into 2025 and reach a bottom sometime in 2026. According to research done by a researcher at PNG National Research Institute (PNGNRI) FX shortage remains a concern to businesses and individuals.

Today marked the signing of two new Memoranda of Understanding between the Federal Court of Australia and the National and Supreme Court of Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the High Court of Solomon Islands. Australia High Commission to PNG in a statement stated that our national courts play a critical role in a safe, prosperous and peaceful region. Australia is proud to partner with PNG and the Solomon Islands in pursuing this common goal. “Chief Justice Sir Gibuma Gibbs Salika represented the Supreme Court of PNG, while the Federal Court of Australia was represented by Chief Justice Debra Mortimer, and the High Court of Solomon Islands was represented by Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer.” “With a long history of shared values, legal traditions, commitment to democracy and the rule of law, Australia, PNG and Solomon Islands are close friends and natural partners in law and justice. When justice thrives, communities prosper.” The Australia High Commission added that when courts are strong, people have faith in the justice system and when they work together, the future looks brighter for everyone in our region. Australia looks forward to enhancing the decades-long relationship between our legal systems through the Memorandum of Understanding, which will see new training, mentoring and fellowship opportunities, but most importantly, lasting connections,” The Australia High Commission said.

The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) has re-affirmed State-Owned Enterprise Minister William Duma’s position on Non-performing Heads of State-Owned Enterprise (SOEs). ICCC Commissioner, Paulus Ain said that ICCC as the regulator of some of these SEOs, has re-affirmed the minister’s position. He stated that while it is crucial to note the current progress and impact of the SOEs commercial performance in terms of their respective financial, legal and governance environment, it is equally important to put on record the regulated oversight by ICCC which has contributed to the high performance of some of the state owned entities to date. He also said that on the onset, the ICCC in the past has provided regulatory oversight on five of the SOEs including, Telikom PNG Limited, PNG Power Limited, PNG Ports Corporation Limited, Post PNG Limited and the Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited (MVIL). He said these SOEs monopolies were performing very well until after they were removed from the ICCC’s regulatory oversight. “For instance, Telikom PNG Ltd and PNG Power Ltd. PNG Power was unable to recover its cost of investment due to the tariff freeze back in 2013 and it continues to face challenges to date.” The ICCC currently regulates three of the current five SOEs monopolies, PNG Ports Corporation Limited, Motor Vehicle Insurance (MVIL) and Post PNG Limited through regulatory contracts for a five-year period. The regulatory contracts offer a number of advantages to consumers, the regulated SOEs, and wider PNG economy. Among these advantages offered to the regulated SOE in that the Regulatory Contract provides a degree of certainty as to the way in which maximum prices and minimum service standards are to be set and the price path that will apply over a period. "Provided the price path has been set in such a way as to encourage greater efficiency from the regulated SOE, the greater certainty allows the regulated SOE to plan its investment and efficiency improvements in such a way that it achieves over time a better level of efficiency and standard of service delivery.” “Consistent with the objective of the ICCC Act, the ICCC has strictly required PNG Ports and MVIL to reduce cost and improve their service levels to benefit of all provinces in PNG. The incentive provided to these entities under the ICCC regulatory arrangement is an opportunity for these entities to earn a return commensurate with their risk profiles and returns that are available in the economy.” Furthermore, Mr. Ain said that he believes in essence as well as the importance of the current regulatory arrangement and the positive impact it has had on the respective regulated SOEs commercial performances. “It is equally important to put on record how effective the regulatory oversight by ICCC has contributed to the healthy annual returns enjoyed by the government to date.”

The East New Britain Provincial Government today endorsed it's 2025 Provincial Budget of K566, 705, 482. Provincial Member Michael Marum presented the budget appropriation Bill at a special Provincial Assembly, held in Kokopo this week, which received full approval from the house. The budget is comprised mainly of development funds worth over K308 million (54%) while recurrent is valued at almost K258m. The Provincial Headquarter holds over K290m; District Development Authorities cater for about K240m while LLGs comprise just over K36m. ENB Provincial Administrator Levi Mano said that they anticipate issues with the implementation of the budget. “This year's budget is slightly higher (additional of K30m) than last year's money plan and again includes unspent funds from previous years.” “From the report that I was given, last year we (ENBPA) achieved 53% implementation rate of the 2024 budget.” “This is an improvement compared to previous years, but it is still not enough," he said. Mr. Mano said the ENBPG and it's Administration has made some re-arrangement while seeking outside assistance on infrastructure development and sustainability, given the absence of the Gazelle Restoration Authority (GRA) in the province. “As a key infrastructure project listed in this year's budget, the Civic Center will be second priority, as Parliament House takes precedence.” “Our public service is currently under long term agreements with property owners so we will shift our focus to setting up the government seat first.” “Work has progressed on site at Vunabakut in Kokopo, and by end of this year, we should have some progress.” Currently the ENBPA spends over K5m in rental for the public service. Commenting on the budget, Gazelle MP and Minister for Fisheries Jelta Wong requested more assistance to wards in the acquittal of funds. Speaking on unused funds from former years, Minister Wong said that those funds should be used in areas that need funding, like in education, health and agriculture. Likewise, Pomio MP and Health Minister Elias Kapavore called for a more robust and fine tuned monitoring and evaluation arrangement, so to improve the province's accounting system. Rabaul MP Dr. Allan Marat emphasized on the need for consultation between senior public servants and the political heads, on projects and programs that would be captured in the budget. The Member for Kokopo Ereman ToBaining Junior echoed a call by the Pomio MP for the responsible sector in the ENBPA to fast track outstanding land matters. Kokopo City Mayor Phillip Tale called for more support to build ward community halls for the 300 plus wards of East New Britain, in order to strengthen governance at the ward level. Provincial Member Mr. Marum said that he has taken note of all comments made and assured the provincial government's support towards planned projects and programs in the districts. The 2025 approved Provincial Budget focuses on Infrastructure development with major projects and programs like district roads, bridges and an airstrip in Pomio District. This also includes the Provincial Government House and Civic Center, as well as infrastructure for the education and health sectors. Community empowerment programs initiated last year will be progressed under the Community Development Division and other relevant sectors of the ENBPA.

Member for Hiri-Koiari Keith Iduhu has expressed profound sorrow and outrage over the recent brutal murder of 23-year-old Margaret Gamaru Gabriel in Port Moresby. He extended his deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this tragic time. "Our hearts are heavy with grief for her family. Such heinous acts of violence have no place in our society. I demand that all perpetrators involved in this atrocity be swiftly apprehended and brought to justice." Mr Iduhu urged the public to assist law enforcement agencies by providing any information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible. "Our communities cannot continue to live in fear." "I urge all citizens to cooperate with law enforcement officers and provide any information that will help bring these criminals to justice." "Law and order must be restored, and this needs resourcing of the Police and the support of the public." Mr Iduhu also appealed to Central Governor Rufina Peter to allocate resources to repatriate vagrants from Goilala and other parts of Central Province back to their home villages. "The rapid increase of informal settlements and displaced populations in urban areas has placed a heavy burden on public services and contributed to social unrest." "It is time we take responsible measures to support people in returning to their traditional homes where they can contribute productively to their local communities." He also made a direct appeal to the people of Hiri-Koiari not to receive any of those displaced but instead report them to the Central Police for repatriation forthwith. "Anyone harboring fugitives shall be identified for eviction." "This is a direct call to Hiri-Koiari area residents living amongst and at the kindness of the indigenous Doura, Koiari, Motuans, and Koitabu people." Additionally, Mr Iduhu called on Prime Minister James Marape and the National Executive Council (NEC) to immediately halt the CONNECT PNG program and instead prioritize a nationwide repatriation initiative. "The government must urgently shift its focus towards repatriating people to their home provinces." "The uncontrolled movement of populations into urban areas without proper planning has contributed to rising crime rates and weakened law enforcement efforts." "A national repatriation program will ease pressure on our cities and help our police force restore law and order." With regards to settlements in general, Mr Iduhu stated they should be outright illegal, and Governor Powes Parkop and his city hall must take immediate action on this issue. "All Open Members must assist vagrants living in the city to be repatriated." "We must address this issue decisively before it continues to undermine law and order in Port Moresby and beyond." Mr Iduhu further called for an immediate halt to the selling and informal leasing of customary land, particularly to those establishing illegal settlements. "The unchecked sale and leasing of customary land by local landowners must stop immediately." "This trend is fueling the rise of illegal squatting, which in turn creates lawlessness and instability." "Once this practice stops, illegal squatting will be deterred, and the spread of settlements will be curbed." Mr Iduhu reaffirmed his commitment to working with all levels of government to implement long-term solutions that would improve governance, security, and economic opportunities for all Papua New Guineans. "Our nation cannot move forward without social stability." "We must act now to restore law and order, uphold the rights of legitimate landowners, and return displaced populations to their home provinces where they can rebuild their lives."