The old Rearea wooden footbridge in the Central province is being replaced with a more modern bridge, something which the local Member of Parliament (MP) for Hiri- Koiari, Keith Idihu, is proud of. Mr. Iduhu said this milestone is a direct result of his commitment to fight for local benefits and to create opportunities for his people. He said each phase of this project was guided by the desire to improve the lives of those in the community and provide them with the essential connections they need to flourish. "I must express my sincere gratitude to Turra Holdings Limited. Their dedication and top-notch services have made a significant impact on the residents of Hiri West. Thanks to their skilled work in design, engineering, and construction, we now have this footbridge that not only meets but sets new standards for infrastructure in our region. It’s uplifting to see how their innovative approach has brought this vital structure to our community. This footbridge is more than just a physical link; it stands as a symbol of hope, connection, and opportunity. Our collaboration with partners like the National Department of Works and Highways, supported by the ExxonMobil PNG Ltd tax credit scheme, has made this project a reality," Mr. Iduhu said. He added that by working hand in hand, they have delivered something truly special for the people of Lealea village. "This infrastructure opens up new avenues for accessing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, ultimately empowering our residents for many years to come. This initiative reflects my deep commitment to ensuring that progress reaches our local community. By involving local workers and businesses during the construction, we've nurtured a sense of pride and ownership that is essential for long-term growth. When our people actively participate in projects that impact their lives, it lays the groundwork for sustainability and lasting benefits," he said. Mr. Iduhu said as Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate its 50th Independence anniversary, he can think of no better gift for the people of Hiri Koiari than this footbridge. " It’s not only a vital connection but also a proud reminder of our resilience and progress as a nation. This project represents the unity and determination we have all shown on our journey toward a brighter future. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each one of you for your support throughout this project. Together, we will continue to strive for progress and opportunities for Hiri Koiari. Let’s celebrate this achievement and look forward with optimism for what lies ahead. Our quest to build a better, more equitable community is just beginning, and I’m honored to walk this path alongside all of you," Mr. Iduhu said.

The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) is broadening its community infrastructure initiatives in areas where beneficiaries of resource projects reside. Since 2017, MRDC has delivered close to K80 million worth of infrastructure projects. This investment is managed through the 30% component of landowner benefits allocated to the Community Investment Trust Fund (CITF), with projects receiving board approval from MRDC's subsidiary companies in project impact areas. MRDC Managing Director Augustine Mano emphasized the company’s strategic priorities, stating: “Our investment approach is about securing long-term value while directly uplifting the communities where our beneficiaries reside. We focus on delivering critical infrastructure that improves quality of life. In the past year alone, we invested nearly K40 million in community initiatives — with over half of that directed towards supporting schools in remote project areas.” MRDC General Manager for Community Investments Reginald Ope confirmed that these investments span the oil, gas, and mining sectors. "The Community Investment Trust Fund program—the most common mistake people make is they call it the infrastructure trust fund. It’s the Community Investments Trust Fund. The program is designed to "compliment Government services in the areas where our beneficiaries live" and "the program goes out of its way to provide those services that are not being paid attention to. The CITF program is guided by four key pillars- Education, Health, Social and Economic Programs, and Renewable Resources. "Traditionally, the priority has been education, but the focus and scope are now expanding to include the other three pillars," Mr. Ope stated. He elaborated on the shift, "Currently, we are investing heavily in education programs. That’s been our focus for some time, and we are now shifting from education to health, social and economic programs, and renewable resources. For education, we have been building classrooms and staff houses in communities in the Kikori and Gobe, Simberigi areas. The current major project is Waro Junior High School." This strategic expansion is not just programmatic — it’s geographic and deliberate. “We are actively extending our footprint into Hela Province, with a strong focus on the Hides region,” said Mr. Ope. “This includes Petroleum Development Licenses (PDL) 1, 7, and 8. These are not just map points — they are priority zones. We’re intensifying our efforts in these areas with a clear roadmap of community-focused activities planned over the next two years. Underscoring the long-term ambition behind these moves. The core vision driving the Community Investment Trust Fund is to fundamentally uplift the quality of life for MRDC’s project beneficiaries. Everything we do flows from that purpose,” Mr. Ope reaffirmed.

Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Soroi Marepo Eoe presented to Parliament a consolidated Annual Provincial Governments Performance Report (APGPR) for the years 2018 to 2022. Minister Eoe stated that this is the third report since the inception of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Government (OLPLLG) in 1995. He said it is concerning that there is a 27-year gap in reporting on Provincial Government performance and this lapse is attributed to challenges including political interference in Provincial Administrator appointments, chronic votes of no confidences, funding constraints and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. “Despite the challenges, 10 provinces have consistently complied with requirements of the OLPLLG with timely submission of their S119 reports over a 10-year period from 2014 to 2023. I assure this Honorable House that this report will be presented annually going forward. Regular reporting will enable my department to proactively identify risks and compliance issues, preventing legal penalties and reputational damage to Provincial Governments, while strengthening governance and enhancing service delivery. Section 119 of the OLPLLG mandates Provincial Governments to submit a performance report by June 30th each year. Compliance is critical to the regulatory framework for service delivery at the provincial level, ensuring systemic documentation of adherence to the Organic Law and delivery of the Minimum Priority Activities (MPA),” Minister Eoe stated. He said the six (6) MPAs are: Governance Education Health Works and Transport Law and Justice Primary Production “The National Government allocates annual funding to Provincial Governments for the delivery of these essential services. Compliance reporting on the MPA improves accountability and builds trust between Provincial Governments and the people they serve, enhancing relationships and building confidence in service delivery. This is the six (6) major findings of the report: Provincial Government lack compliance with Section 119 Decline in Basic Health and Education services Decline in Primary Production Decline in Law and Order and Justice Services Decline in Transport Services Decline in Governance services These significant issues stem from a lack of compliance with Section 119 of the Organic Law. The majority of provinces (65%) are not submitting reports on time or not at all, hindering transparency and accountability,” he said. Minister Eoe stated that to address these challenges, his department is: Permanently relocating 20 officers to be based in the provinces Digitizing S119 and other subnational reporting templates Strengthening governance frameworks at the provincial and local levels Ensuring better planning and budgeting processes Implementing localized policy interventions at the ward level to ensure equitable access to health and education services.

Seven anchor sponsors pledged their support for the upcoming 2nd Papua New Guinea Special Economic Zones Summit (2nd PNG SEZ Summit) that will be hosted at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby from August 31st – September 3rd, 2025. These foundation sponsors are Teachers Savings and Loan Society (TISA), Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited, Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited, Paga Hill Estate, Air Niugini, Special Economic Zone Authority and the Department of National Planning and Monitoring. The 2nd PNG SEZ Summit will be hosted by the Government as part of the 50th Independence Celebrations, under the theme: “Reflecting on Our Past 50 Years and Charting our Next 50 Years”. This Summit will be preceded by the launch of the PNG SEZ Foundation Policy on Sunday, June 15, 2025. Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru, highlighted that the main purpose of this Summit is to take a stock take of PNG’s journey in the last 50 years in terms of economic development to know where we are now. Minister Maru said that Speakers from various countries will also be invited to speak at the Summit including Indonesia, Malysia, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, Rwanda, and others to talk about their economic success and the key strategies they deployed like using SEZs as the main driver for massive economic growth. “The international speakers will also include representatives from some of the world-class SEZs like Java Integrated Industrial and Port Estate in Indonesia and international financiers like the International Finance Corporation and Japan Bank for International Cooperation, and local banks like the TISA Group. We will also speak on our six SEZs which will be licensed this year, including Sepik Plains SEZ, Madang Integrated SEZ, Finschhafen Integrated SEZ, Used Lead-Acid Battery recycling plant SEZ in Central Province, Sea Park SEZ, and the Central Province Industrial Park (apart from Paga Hill SEZ which is already licensed),” said Minister Maru. He said the summit will also market investment opportunities in sectors like fisheries, forestry, manufacturing, hydro and solar energy, mining and petroleum projects, and more to the investors from around the world who will be invited to attend the Summit. “The program for the Summit is now being finalized. Meanwhile, we are seeking sponsors to sponsor this very important Summit. We will only have one level of sponsorship and that is Gold Sponsorship at the cost of K200,000. Every sponsor will be given an opportunity to speak at the Summit, they will be recognized in all our promotional materials, they will be given priority to set up their booths to promote their goods and services, and five of their representatives will have unlimited access to the Summit as delegates,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru thanked the foundation sponsors for coming on board to support the Summit as Gold Sponsors at the cost of K200,000 each. “We look forward to hosting a successful Summit with the backing of our sponsors, starting with our seven foundation sponsors,” said Minister Maru. The official website for the Summit was also launched on Monday 2nd June. Minister Maru called on those who wish to attend the Summit to register through the website https://pngsezsummit2025.com

PNG Air will celebrate its 38th anniversary this month, honoring nearly four decades of connecting the people and places of Papua New Guinea (PNG). PNG Air stated that this year’s anniversary holds extra meaning as it coincides with Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence — a national milestone that underscores the importance of belonging, perseverance, and ambition. "Today, PNG Air serves 23 destinations across the country with a mixed fleet of Dash 8-100s and ATR 72-600s, carrying close to 500,000 passengers annually prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and supported by nearly 600 employees across the nation. In addition to scheduled passenger flights, PNG Air plays a critical role in providing economic support through its Charter and Cargo services, helping local industries, businesses, and communities thrive. Looking ahead, PNG Air is positioning itself for a new phase of growth, including the transition to an all-ATR fleet to strengthen operational efficiency and enhance service on domestic routes while exploring new regional opportunities," PNG Air said. Brian Fraser, CEO of PNG Air, shared: “For 38 years, PNG Air has been proud to serve as the connective thread of our nation, helping people reach their loved ones, businesses expand their reach, and communities thrive. He said as Papua New Guinea marks its 50th year of independence, they are reminded that true independence is built on connection. "With our planned fleet expansion and continued investment in Charter and Cargo services, we are reaffirming our commitment to support the economic future of Papua New Guinea with passion, dedication, and pride.” PNG Air remains deeply grateful to its passengers, employees, and partners for their trust and support over nearly four decades. Throughout the month of June, the airline will celebrate this milestone with engaging contests, exciting promotions, inspiring stories, and a few special surprises for its loyal and new customers," he said. Mr. Fraser said to the airline looks forward to carrying Papua New Guinea into the decades ahead, strengthening its role as a lifeline for the nation.

Medical drugs and supplies that were supposed to go to the Public Health System are seen sold on the streets and the Health Minister; Elias Kapavore, is discouraging this illegal act. “I want to announce that we have found out that a lot of people are selling these medical drugs and supplies on the streets, is increasing. Those medical drugs and supplies were supposed to go to the hospital, but they are seen sold at a lot of marketplaces in the country, one of those places is Goroka Market. All these medical drugs and supplies bought by the government should be or go straight to the hospital and not for anyone to carry and go sell them at the street market, and this is an important statement I am making,” Minister Kapavore stated in Parliament last week when responding to questions. He said that the police are arresting people who are selling these medical supplies in the street and the department of Health will come down hard to make sure that the medical supplies that government pays for will go straight to the place it needs to go to, and people can receive them through the proper way. “I want to say again that stealing medical drugs and supplies that should be going to the public health system is illegal and the police and the Department of Health have teams in place to make sure they will control this and improve our health system,” he said. He added that the reason few hospitals are running low of medical drugs and supplies is due to people stealing them and selling them on the streets. “For Medical supplies the government has committed funding of K280 million from this year's budget. To date the government has released the K116 million for medical supplies worth of funding. The government is trying its best in the very difficult situation we are going through. According to statistics from the Health Department, about 80% of our medical supplies are currently available in our health system. As I speak, there are different logistics companies who are engaged in supporting or delivering medical supplies to four of our regions. I want to say that the government is trying its best to ensure the funding is coming through and to date up to 40% of the medical supplies funding has been released. From the Department of Health and the PHAs who are struggling to provide better health care to our people, we have seen a lot of increase in medical drugs and supply sold on the streets where the medical supply or drugs are coming through the medical system. For some reason especially antibiotics and anti-malarial medications or drugs are being sold on the street. The Department of Health and Police are working together to control this issue and arrest those that are committing this illegal act,” he added.

The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) has announced that the Waro Junior High School, an education investment in Kutubu, Southern Highlands Province (SHP), is nearing completion. The facility is an initiative under MRDC’s Community Investments Trust Fund (CITF) and funded by its subsidiary Petroleum Resource Kutubu (PRK). Managing Director of MRDC Augustine Mano emphasized the company’s commitment, saying MRDC is committed to their project areas, and Waro Junior High School demonstrates this dedication. “The facility is being built by Petroleum Resource Kutubu, a company that belongs to impacted villages. Our focus remains on delivering impactful infrastructure in the health, education, and economic sectors.” With a budget of approximately K13 million, the project, situated on two hectares of land, aims to enhance the learning environment. Already, nearly 90 enrolled students are using a completed double classroom block,” he said. Reginald Ope, MRDC’s General Manager for Assets and Infrastructure who outlined the scope of the project, said that they are building 10 staff houses and four double classroom buildings giving a total of eight classrooms, a dedicated science building, and an E-Library as well. He added that there will be an administration building, three student dormitories – two male and one female – with ablution blocks, and a mess to cater for boarding students from the surrounding communities of Fogomaiyu, Tamatiki, Kantobo Sisibia and Moro. Planny Moro, the Headmaster of Waro Junior High School said the transformation from basic bush huts to a modern campus is substantial. “We had only five or six houses built from bush materials. The conditions were bad,” Mr. Moro said. He noted the high turnover of teachers unwilling to endure the rudimentary living situations. The move to a boarding school model is also a practical response to the geographical challenges faced by students, some of whom travel for two to three days from areas as distant as Bosavi. “We try to make it a boarding school because students come as far as Bosavi and other areas. They have to travel between two to three days, so we accommodate them in the teachers’ houses," he explained. Currently, the project is approximately 70 percent complete, according to MRDC Project Engineer Luke Kawale. “Most of the buildings are already completed. There are a couple more buildings to complete, including civil works. All buildings [are] to have solar system installed water tanks,” Mr. Kawale added, also mentioning plans for solar streetlights along a ring road and perimeter fencing. He said the project has provided local employment and skills development and of the 46 workers currently on site, 28 are local engagements and 15 employed as casual works, on a need's basis. “Skilled labor was brought in from larger urban centers like Port Moresby, Lae, and Hagen. These are specially trained laborers. At the same time, we are training the local employees, so, by the time the work is complete, they will have a local knowledge that would enable them to carry out maintenance on the facilities, after construction,” Mr. Kawale said. The anticipation within the community is palpable. Rex Otto, a parent and the deputy chairman for the school, spoke of the hardships previously faced. “We parents have struggled because we take our children out to other schools to learn. We try our best to find money for school fees, accommodation, transportation and other expenses for our children. Some of our children go to school but don’t make it through the year; they leave school and return home. We, the community, are now very happy with the development. We are privileged that we now have this school,” he said. Mr. Kawale acknowledged the inherent difficulties of such an undertaking in a remote area. “There are challenges, but after all, credit must be given to the community. To build a school like Waro Junior High School is a challenge, but we will deliver. The target for completion is set for August of this year,” he said. For Headmaster Moro, the new facilities represent more than just buildings. “The current development will boost student learning. These will attract a lot of students and teachers as one of the best places to come and learn,” he said.

On Saturday, 31st May 2025 Member for Hiri-Koiari Keith Iduhu officially kicked off the DABARIS KI Hiri-Koiari Cup Rugby League at Papa village in the Central Province. Mr. Iduhu stated that rugby league is vital for community building, particularly in rural areas, as it fosters social cohesion, shared identity, and a sense of belonging. He said rugby league also provides opportunities for physical and mental wellbeing, education, and positive social change. “The sport's popularity and community program offer platforms for promoting health, respect, and education. The KI Hiri-Koiari RL Cup 2025 will consist of: - Open Men's - Open Women's - Schools - DIV Grade 11/12 - DIV Grade 10/9 - DIV Grade 7/8 We are proud to be supporting Rugby League as a social development platform and a direct feeder league to the Gas Resources Central Dabaris for our Hiri-Koiari youths,” Mr. Iduhu said. He added that they are also proud to be building communities through sports in their Hiri-Koiari District. “The program is rolled out in partnership with the Central Dabaris franchise in all three Local Level Government areas of Hiri, Vanapa Brown and Koiari . We acknowledge and thank the Central Dabaris franchise for the partnership to provide a feeder program,” Mr. Iduhu said.

The Cricket PNG Selection Panel has officially announced the PNG Lewas National Team Train-On Squad, following an intensive selection process aimed at preparing for upcoming international fixtures. Cricket PNG stated that the announcement was made on Wednesday 28th May. The 2025 PNG Lewas Train-On Squad is as follows: 1. Noani Vare 2. Hane Tau 3. Brenda Tau 4. Dika Lohia 5. Pauke Siaka 6. Miriam Raio 7. Holland Doriga 8. Henao Thomas 9. Isabel Toua 10. Geua Tom 11. Buruka Vicky 12. Erani Pokana 13. Mahuta Japhert 14. Konio Oala 15. Cathy Ute 16. Melanie Ani 17. Mairi Tom 18. Sentaful Kila 19. Kevau Gabe 20. Laksmi Raja 21. Gabe Thomas 22. Brenda Elly 23. Lesia Ray 24. Morlong Hobart 25. Sibona Jimmy Cricket PNG National Coach Time Nielsen whilst commenting on the announcement, said the selection of the Lewa’s squad is an important moment in the squads’ progress and they are excited to welcome the group together. “Graduating to One Day International cricket is a huge achievement, and we are excited about the challenges that lie ahead. The individuals have earned their positions, and the team is preparing well for upcoming challenges.” “The PNG Lewas currently hold One Day International (ODI) status, a prestigious recognition awarded by the International Cricket Council (ICC), allowing them to compete in official ODI matches and paving the way for greater opportunities in world cricket.” This status highlights the team's achievements and also reflects the growing strength of women's cricket in Papua New Guinea. Meanwhile, Cricket PNG is also proud to confirm that the Lewas are among the nominees for the SP Sports Awards 2025, recognizing their exceptional performances as a team to the sport over the past year. Cricket PNG congratulates all selected players and looks forward to an exciting season ahead as the Lewas continue to make history on and off the field.

The Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) has officially launched Project Master, a nationwide audit initiative designed to strengthen compliance with Salary and Wages Tax (SWT) obligations across Papua New Guinea. IRC Commissioner General Sam Koim stated that as part of this major enforcement effort, 65 entities have been identified and will be receiving formal audit notification letters this week in the initial phase. “These audits will focus on verifying the accuracy of tax calculations, application of the salary packaging policy, exemptions under the Citizens First Home Buyer scheme, the timely lodgment of SWT returns, and the full disclosure of employee tax information,” he said. Commissioner General Koim emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating that the Project Master is part of the IRC’s broader strategy to close the compliance gap, expand the taxpayer base, and level the playing field for all. “For too long, compliant taxpayers shouldered the burden while others evade their obligations. By targeting revenue leakages like SWT non-compliance, we aim to restore fairness, protect national revenue, and lay the groundwork for responsible tax relief in the future. The audit letters will outline specific compliance requirements and timelines. The IRC strongly encourages all businesses to proactively conduct internal reviews, correct any discrepancies and ensure that all SWT obligations are current,” he said. Mr. Koim added that gone are the days when it took weeks to audit a single taxpayer. “The IRC is now adopting and using smarter, data-driven tools to detect non-compliance swiftly and precisely. Taxpayers must not operate under the illusion that they are still hidden in a thick jungle, where no one will find them. Those days are over, we see more, know more and will act decisively,” Mr. Koim said.

Mineral Resources Madang (MRM), a subsidiary of the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), has provided a K50,000 sponsorship for the Madang Town Basketball Association (MTBA) to facilitate its 2025 season. MRDC stated that the initiative is part of MRM's commitment to community development, aiming to engage youth in positive sporting activities and reduce social issues. The sponsorship was formally presented by MRM directors to MTBA officials at the Laiwaden basketball courts in Madang. Gary Litz, President of the Madang Town Basketball Association, praised the contribution. "This amazing support has truly brought our basketball community together. The K50,000 will be instrumental, allowing us to provide new uniforms for all teams and our Madang representative squads. These uniforms will proudly feature the MRDC-MR Madang logo. We are also purchasing new competition-grade basketball rims and nets and commissioning a large sign to prominently thank MRDC-MR Madang, our major sponsor. A portion of the funds will also address essential court infrastructure improvements,” Litz detailed further investments. He said the sponsorship is already showing benefits as their league has grown from seven to nine clubs, and they anticipate further expansion, which means more youth are getting involved. Litz explained that for many in the outer regions, affording uniforms is a major challenge. “This support removes that burden, allowing players and clubs to arrive in style, unified, and ready to compete. The CODE in Madang also continues to play a vital role in assisting clubs and promoting participation,” he said.

Mineral Resources Madang (MRM), a subsidiary of the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), has delivered a fully kitted ambulance to serve the people of Ward 22 in the Bundi district of Madang Province. MRDC stated that the ambulance, purchased with a combined K298,000 (K98,000 from MRDC and K200,000 from MRM), will be managed by the Madang Provincial Health Authority (PHA) and stationed at the Enekwa Health Centre. “It is fully equipped with basic medical supplies and will serve approximately 7,000 people in remote areas,” MRDC said. MRM Director John Tigavu emphasized the critical impact of this contribution and said the community previously had no ambulance to serve them and many have died while being carried along the road, trying to cross the Ramu River, due to no ambulance service. Mr. Tigavu highlighted the perilous journeys faced by residents, stating, "Pregnant mothers walk from the Kumbukari mine site down to Ramu, cross the river to Usino. It takes about 8 to 9 hours to walk, and many have lost their lives on the road." The ambulance is registered under the Madang PHA. "We are working on an agreement with the PHA to have the ambulance based at the Enekwai Health Centre and for the PHA to maintain the ambulance," Mr. Tigavu added.