The Leadership team from Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PNG (CCEP PNG) gathered in Port Moresby this week for their Business Conference to set their strategic goals for 2025. Facilitated by the Country Leadership Team and joined by CCEP Pacific Managing Director Steve Inch, the conference brought together managers from Supply Chain, Marketing, Sales, Finance, Information & Technology, and People & Culture. The presentation centred on a company’s performance in 2024, identifying successes and challenges across all functions. The managers discussed strategic priorities to drive growth and strengthen performance and ensure long-term success in 2025 and beyond. Sales & Commercial Director - PNG, Tim Solly, emphasized the importance of leadership alignment in achieving business objectives. “By working together and staying focused on our strategic priorities, we can continue to grow our business, support our customers, and create value for our consumers.” “This conference is about enabling alignment across our business, reinforcing our key priorities, and empowering our leaders to drive success.” “By focusing on our customers, teams, and operational excellence, we are setting the foundation for continued growth.” “With a shared commitment to delivering results, the leadership team is now focused on executing these strategic priorities to build a stronger and more competitive business in 2025,” said Steve Inch the CCEP Pacific Managing Director.

In an increasingly digital world, cyber security has become a top priority for businesses, especially in the banking sector, where protecting customer data and financial transactions is paramount. As cyber threats continue to evolve, it is crucial for banks to invest in the right skills and technologies to safeguard operations and maintain customer trust as according to Westpac’s Acting Chief Executive Officer – Warren Bobin. Mr. Bobin said that Westpac recognizes the growing importance of cyber security and is committed to strengthening its defences by equipping employees with the necessary knowledge and expertise. “As part of this commitment, six employees from various functions within the bank successfully earned a Certificate in Cyber Security from the Papua New Guinea Institute of Banking and Business Management (IBBM). This achievement reflects our dedication to developing talent and ensuring a secure banking environment for our customers. Cyber security is essential for banks, as they manage vast amounts of sensitive information and financial transactions daily. The Certificate in Cyber Security provides critical training in risk management, fraud prevention, data protection, and secure banking practices. By investing in these skills across different areas of the bank, Westpac is reinforcing its ability to detect and respond to cyber threats, ensuring that customers’ information remains safe,” he stated. Mr. Bobin emphasized the importance of this milestone. He said, "Cyber security is at the heart of building a strong and trusted banking system.” “We are proud of our commitment to ensuring our people are equipped with the right skills. We are not only protecting our customers but also strengthening the financial sector in Papua New Guinea.” “I commend our graduates for their hard work and commitment to making Westpac a safer and more secure bank.” "Westpac remains dedicated to professional development and innovation in cyber security, ensuring that we stay ahead of emerging threats and continue delivering safe and reliable banking services for all Papua New Guineans.”

BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) recently launched Wantok Wallet; a mobile banking solution that will enhance financial inclusion across Papua New Guinea. BSP Group Cheif Executive Officer, Mark Robinson, whilst speaking at the launch of Wantok Wallet in Port Moresby, highlighted the inherent need for accessible banking solutions for all communities across PNG, particularly the unbanked. “PNG is home to over 11.7 million people, yet only 25% have access to banking services, leaving 8.7 million unbanked.” “As the country’s largest financial institution, we serve 2.6 million customers and recognize the growing need for accessible digital financial solutions.” Meanwhile, with approximately four million mobile phone users, we see a unique opportunity to bridge the financial divide through Wantok Wallet. He said that a simple, secure, and accessible solution, Wantok Wallet is designed for easy, everyday use, allowing users to send, receive, and manage money securely via BSP Mobile Banking *131#, without the need for a traditional bank account. Wantok Wallet offers users: Cardless cash withdrawals at over 300 BSP ATMs and Cash Agents One-Time Password (OTP) security for added protection Seamless mobile access via BSP Mobile Banking Mr. Robinson expressed confidence in the wallet’s impact, stating that beyond serving their existing BSP mobile banking users, Wantok Wallet enables them to reach all PNG mobile phone subscribers. “As adoption grows, we are confident that Wantok Wallet will transform the lives of the communities we serve, helping them to prosper.” To celebrate the launch, Program Manager from Retail Bank, Penelope Aisi, announced a 14-day Wantok Wallet promotion where two winners will be drawn daily to win one of two x K500 daily cash prizes. The prize monies will be credited to the winners’ Wantok Wallet. “Simply activate your Wantok Wallet and perform a Wantok Wallet transaction, by sending funds, or withdrawing cash at a BSP ATM or Cash Agent to automatically enter the draw.” “Our system will randomly select two winners every 24- hours, with announcements to be made via BSP social media.”

Prime Minister James Marape has praised the people of East New Britain for their strong commitment to cultural preservation, respect for Christianity, and adherence to government authority. Speaking in Kokopo today, the PM Marape emphasized the importance of four fundamental pillars of society—family, community and culture, government, and God—stating that East New Britain exemplifies a well-structured and progressive province. “The people of East New Britain have done exceptionally well in preserving their cultural heritage while respecting the government and upholding Christian values." The province continues to function effectively, with a strong family structure, a vibrant culture, and a well-organised government system. Governor Hon. Michael Marum is actively present in the province and only travels to Port Moresby for national duties when necessary. "This shows that the provincial government is working as it should." PM Marape made these remarks while attending the conclusion of the traditional mourning period for the late Sir Rabbie Namaliu, a distinguished statesman who served as Papua New Guinea’s fourth Prime Minister. He acknowledged the full observance of Tolai customs in honoring Sir Rabbie’s passing and expressed confidence in the province’s ability to maintain cultural traditions. “It is inspiring to see a society that is deeply rooted in its traditions yet remains progressive." "This gives me confidence that as a nation, we can move forward while staying true to our identity." He paid special tribute to Sir Rabbie Namaliu, highlighting his unwavering commitment to Pangu Pati throughout his political career. “Sir Rabbie was a leader of Pangu Pati and served as Prime Minister, remaining a true and loyal member of the party all the way through. While many left, he remained dedicated to Pangu Pati, exemplifying his deep-rooted commitment to the party’s ideals and national development." He noted that Pangu Pati continues to be a dominant political force, with 46 Members of Parliament currently representing the party. "Today, as the present leader of Pangu Pati, I stand alongside my fellow members—both political and non-political—to honour his life and legacy." “We are all here to witness the conclusion of this mourning period and to reaffirm our commitment to the values he stood for." As part of Pangu Pati’s commitment to Sir Rabbie’s legacy, Mr. Marape announced that the party will assist in establishing a library and a primary school in his honour. "We want to ensure that future generations continue to remember and learn from the contributions of Sir Rabbie Namaliu." "This library and primary school will be a lasting tribute to his legacy, promoting education and knowledge for the children of East New Britain and Papua New Guinea,” Marape said. PM Marape commended the people of East New Britain, the Namaliu family, and all those who participated in the traditional mourning process. “I thank the people of East New Britain for their commitment to tradition and unity." "Your efforts in preserving culture while embracing progress make Papua New Guinea stronger."

The Finschhafen District Development Authority (FDDA) in Morobe province officially signed a Feasibility Study & Design contracts with China Overseas Engineering Group Limited (COVEC) for all seven Local Level Governments (LLGs) in Finschhafen. The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNG TPA) who was present to witness the signing, reinforced the national commitment to tourism and economic growth in the region. Each contract, valued at K500, 000 per LLG, marks the beginning of a five-month feasibility study to assess, design and plan key tourism and industrial projects under the Finschhafen Special Economic Zone (FSEZ). The study will focus on eco-tourism infrastructure, agri-tech, renewable energy, fisheries, manufacturing, and other strategic industries to drive economic growth and job creation. Member for Finschhafen and FDDA Chairman, Rainbo Paita, emphasized that the studies will provide the foundation for long-term, sustainable development. “This signing represents a significant milestone for Finschhafen. By investing in feasibility and design, we are laying the groundwork for transformative projects that will unlock economic opportunities, create jobs, and position Finschhafen as a model for regional development in Papua New Guinea.” “COVEC, with its extensive experience in infrastructure development, will conduct technical, economic, and environmental assessments to ensure that all proposed projects are viable, sustainable, and investment ready." “The studies will also reference the pre-feasibility work conducted by SMEC to strengthen project analysis.” The seven LLGs included in the study include Finschhafen Urban LLG, Kotte LLG, Hube LLG, Yabem Rural LLG, Burum Rural LLG, Kuat Rural LLG and Mape Rural LLG. Upon completion, the feasibility studies will provide detailed master plans and investment strategies to attract both government and private sector funding for the proposed developments. Additionally, this initiative is part of FDDA’s broader vision to develop Finschhafen as a leading green industrial hub, promoting sustainable industries and economic diversification.

Mineral Resources Authority (MRA) and the Department of National Planning & Monitoring (DNPM) recently launched a Women’s Resource Center and a double classroom for communities living within the footprint of the proposed Frieda River mine, in the border of East and West Sepik Provinces. On behalf of the Managing Director of MRA, Acting Executive Manager for the Development Coordination Division, Mr. Jerry Naime and Assistant Secretary of the DNPM, Ms. Eileen Saiyomina, officiated at the launch ceremony. The Women’s Resource Centre is located at Ok Isai village in West Sepik Province while the double classroom is located at Paupe Primary School in East Sepik Province. Both projects have been funded under the National Government’s Public Investment Program (PIP) for the Frieda Mining Project, at a cost of K1.45million. The projects were delivered with partnership and support of the Frieda River Mine developer PanAust Limited where it will benefit seven villages along the footprint of the project. The Centre will be used to accommodate women’s capacity building programs, including adult and financial literacy programs amongst other community initiatives. The classroom will be used by grades seven and eight of the Paupe Primary School. In congratulating the women of Frieda River communities, Naime said these projects were the first of their kind, whereby, an infrastructure project is delivered under the mining sector Public Investment Program (PIP) within an exploration project setting. He further explained that projects like these were normally delivered through the Community Development Agreement (CDA) process for operating mines only, however, the MRA managed to secure funds from the DNPM to fund the projects. "The launching of these projects was a sign of good things to come and that MRA through our Gender Desk under the Women in Mining (WIM) program, would collaboratively work with PanAust and the districts to support the women’s programs in the future.” He appealed to the menfolk to look after the facility and support their women. Meanwhile, local women’s representative, Martina Aki said the womenfolk in the seven communities were excited about the new resource center. She said the developer of the mine, PanAust normally provided training programs, which they often conduct in village houses and shift from village to village. “With the new resource center, all activities will be held in the new center which is convenient especially logistically.”

During his visit to East New Britain on Thursday, Prime Minister James Marape has announced key development initiatives aimed at modernizing East New Britain. “We have been working in partnership with the provincial and local district governments to modernize the Kokopo-Gazelle region, ensuring that its infrastructure keeps up with the province’s economic and social growth." "One of the key projects includes the redevelopment of Rabaul, a critical link for East New Britain’s economy,” PM Marape stated. He also acknowledged the importance of upgrading district infrastructure, including plans to construct a Provincial Assembly Hall in Kokopo. “This new hall will serve as a modern administrative centre, reflecting East New Britain’s development aspirations." Furthermore, the government is working to strengthen connectivity from Kokopo Secondary School to Rabaul, ensuring that the district’s urban and educational facilities align with the province’s long-term development goals. “As we reopen Rabaul and modernize the province, we recognize the strategic importance of this region in driving national development." He concluded by calling on young Papua New Guineans to uphold their cultural traditions while embracing national unity. “The passing of great leaders like Sir Rabbie Namaliu and Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare reminds us that we must carry forward their legacy. "Our strength as a nation lies in our unity and diversity—honouring our traditions while working together for a better future."

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) and the PNG Orchids Chair have congratulated PNG Orchids’ Essay Banu and PNG Kumuls’ Jacob Alick-Wiencke on their selection to the NRL Indigenous All Stars 2025 Teams. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Hondina and PNG Orchids Chair, Celestine Ove said as a sport and as a nation, people must understand the importance and pride in supporting our players to represent their heritage when the opportunity arises. “For PNG Orchids prop, Essay Banu, her selection to the Indigenous All Stars Women’s team is a real win and further testament to her ability. To have a PNG Orchids player in Essay selected at this level will mean she can draw on the experiences of other players across Australia and the newly appointed Jillaroos coach, Jess Skinner who has also previously been in charge of the NRL Indigenous Women's Academy development programs." These highly competitive NRL matches will not only improve their performance but build their character. “With the closeness of the ties of the Indigenous Australians, the Torres Strait Islanders and Papua New Guinea, their selection makes it a natural link." "There will be no impact on Essay and Jacob still being able to represent Papua New Guinea."

The Internal Revenue Commission PNG (IRC) recently experienced a sophisticated ransomware attack, causing two weeks of disruption. IRC Commissioner General Sam Koim stated that despite significant cybersecurity upgrades, the attack occurred, highlighting the evolving nature of cyber threats. Mr. Koim said that for strategic reasons, IRC prioritized containment, recovery, and security enhancements before public disclosure. “The good news is: SIGTAS (core tax system) is secure and fully operational Email network restoration is progressing well Revenue transfers to WPA continued without disruption Our robust business continuity plan ensured minimal impact on tax administration. IRC remains committed to strengthening cybersecurity and protecting taxpayer data,” Mr. Koim added. He said that on January 28, the IRC experienced a ransomware attack that disrupted their network and email systems. “As part of our strategic response, we focused on containment and recovery efforts before formally disclosing the nature of the incident, though we had already informed the public of a system outage." "We want to reassure all taxpayers that our core tax systems, SIGTAS has been restored and is secure. We also want to assure our key stakeholders and services providers whose systems are interoperable with the IRC that there was no impact to the integration or functionality of these systems." "All data exchanges, transactions and communications between our systems and those of our partners have remained secure and uninterrupted throughout this incident." "Upon detecting the breach, we immediately activated our incident response protocols and engaged KPMG, a globally recognized firm to conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation and assist with remediation." Mr. Koim stated that as Papua New Guinea's tax administration aspiring to become a robust and modern tax administration, safeguarding taxpayer information remains their fundamental responsibility. “We have therefore proactively invested in strengthening our cybersecurity infrastructure, including an independent cyber security assessment and penetration test in 2022 that guided significant security measures in place." We are making steady progress in restoring full functionality across our systems. Our SIGTAS system is fully operational since early last week, with controlled access by a critical team,” Mr. Koim said. He added that this security incident resulted in two weeks of disruption, but their response has been managed effectively with data security as their highest priority.

Prime Minister James Marape has directed the Police and Department of Communications & Information Technology to immediately investigate the cyber-bullying on Miss Papua New Guinea May Hasola and have the offenders arrested, with a progress report to his office by next week. PM Marape also condemned the actions in the strong terms and called on Papua New Guinean users of social media to use these platforms responsibly or Government could be forced to take drastic measures. “Miss Hasola, who recently participated in the Miss Pacific Pageant held in Solomon Islands, has been attacked in a spate of Facebook highly inflammatory and racially charged posts, which have recently included her parents as well." In a letter of instruction to the agencies Thursday morning, the Prime Minister directed an immediate joint investigation into the incident, while calling on ICT department and police to work together to strengthen cyber-attacks on young women which have become prevalent recently. Mr. Marape also issued a public apology to Miss Hasola and her parents, and the people of Bougainville for the distress these derogatory comments have caused them. He said as a father of girls and the symbolic father to all daughters of PNG, he is aggrieved to read these highly inflammatory and derogatory remarks and strongly condemn these cyber-attacks against Miss May Hasola. “Miss Hasola has done a wonderful job representing Papua New Guinea at the Miss Pacific pageant. This is a platform that works to unite our people of the Pacific no matter who wins or does not win." It is very unfortunate that some debased individuals have sought to racially discriminate her, and have caused distress and disharmony to this platform. In 2019, Miss PNG Leoshina Kariha, who also comes from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, went on to win the Miss Pacific title and continues to excel in education and career. This is the lay of the Miss Pacific platform – sometimes PNG will win; other times, it will not. Competition is high among the contestants as all of them are highly educated at tertiary-education level and present themselves equally well on stage. "On behalf of the people of Papua New Guinea, I want to sincerely apologize to Ms Hasola, her parents, and the people of Bougainville for the distress these unwarranted attacks have caused them,” PM Marape said. He added that his office is working to coordinate a time so Mrs Marape and myelf can see Miss Hasola in person, and offer our apologies and strength to keep her head up. “She has proudly represented our country. But let me assure the public that word is now out for the police and ICT to track these offenders down, have them arrested, and criminally charged and prosecuted." "My instruction is that I expect a report to me by Monday next week,” said PM Marape. The Prime Minister said as the ICT department works at identifying and registering users in PNG to put in better regulation of social media in PNG, Papua New Guineans must learn to use these ICT tools responsibly or Government would be forced to shut down Facebook and Tiktok altogether if cyber-attacks of this nature continue.

The Bougainville Women’s Federation has condemned the recent racism and discrimination against their own Bougainvillean, Miss PNG, May Hasola. The Federation stated that May Hasola is such a young vibrant, intelligent and bold young woman that deserve respect and support. She has represented Papua New Guinea in the Miss Pacific Islands quest in which she needed the support from her country. The Federation saluted her for having confidence and aspiration in which she presented herself very well and expressed how proud they were as a federation toward May. In addition, words of encouragment were also made towards Miss PNG to be strong as she has the support from her own homeland. The Federation also stated that everyone is entitled to human rights which includes the right to live free from violence, hate speech and discrimination. Meanwhile, Regional Member for Bougainville, Peter Tsiamalili, also released a statement in-regards to this stating that such behavior is not only hurtful but completely unacceptable and he unequivocally condemns it. He said that May Hasola represents more than just herself. “She embodies the hopes and dreams of young women across PNG, particularly Bougainville.” “Her role as Miss PNG is a testament to her dedication, intelligence and strength and it serves as a challenge to our past civil unrest.” “These young women deserve the opportunity to pursue their dreams their dreams with dignity and pride."

Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) as a key pillar in the fight against corruption. PM Marape emphasised that ICAC will be fully empowered with the necessary resources, legal backing, and institutional support to fulfill its mandate effectively. “We have prioritised ICAC as the leading agency in the fight against corruption. My government is committed to ensuring that ICAC is fully empowered to investigate, prosecute, and deter corruption at all levels of government." He announced that additional funding has been allocated to ICAC to expand its reach and enhance its investigative capabilities. He also confirmed that key legislative measures are being introduced to further strengthen ICAC’s authority, ensuring that it can operate independently and without political interference. “As we work to improve governance and transparency, we are committed to enforcing strict anticorruption laws and holding those responsible for financial misconduct accountable." "ICAC is central to these efforts, and we urge the public and international partners to support this institution in its mission." Mr. Marape acknowledged the findings of the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) which ranked Papua New Guinea with a score of 31 out of 100. While this reflects a slight improvement from the previous year’s score of 29, the ranking underscores the continued need for stronger governance, transparency, and accountability in public administration. The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to fighting corruption, emphasizing that recent reforms and enforcement efforts are beginning to show progress. However, he also recognised that the battle against corruption remains a significant challenge. Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that his government remains steadfast in implementing anti-corruption measures, including strengthening ICAC, enforcing transparency in government contracts, and prosecuting those involved in financial misconduct. “As a government, we are taking concrete steps to address these concerns." "The fight against corruption is not just about improving our global ranking—it is about securing a better future for Papua New Guineans and ensuring that resources meant for the people are not stolen by a few." He called on all sectors of society, including businesses, civil society organisations, and the public, to work together in promoting transparency and accountability. “We must stand united in tackling corruption and ensuring that Papua New Guinea moves forward as a nation of integrity."