Mahlon WINSTON

Prime Minister James Marape has called on leaders and citizens across Papua New Guinea to embrace a national “reset” of the heart, mind, and character, saying genuine change in the country must begin with individuals and those entrusted with leadership.Speaking at the National Day of Prayer and Repentance, Prime Minister Marape appealed to leaders from both the public and private sectors to reflect on their responsibilities and commit themselves to building a better Papua New Guinea.He emphasized that the call for a national reset was not simply about changing policies or systems, but about transforming the mindset, character, and hearts of the people.“Reset means a reset of mindset, character and the heart for change to take place,” Prime Minister Marape said.He stressed that the responsibility for the country’s future did not rest solely with the government but belonged to every Papua New Guinean.According to the Prime Minister, “Reset PNG” belongs to everyone, with leaders, families, communities, churches, businesses and individuals all having a role to play in bringing about positive change.He reminded the nation of Papua New Guinea’s Christian foundation, saying Christianity had been embraced by the country’s forefathers and had remained an important part of the nation’s identity.“PNG is declared a Christian country when our forefathers accepted the Christian faith,” he said describing Christianity as a unifying force capable of bringing people together despite the country’s many differences.Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that the nation had experienced numerous challenges and major disasters over the years, with many Papua New Guineans enduring hardship and suffering.However, he said the resilience of the people had enabled the country to survive difficult periods and continue moving forward.“PNG has faced so many major disasters. The people have suffered terrible ordeals, but we survived and made it through.”He encouraged Papua New Guineans to draw strength from their faith and to allow Christian principles to guide the country's leadership and development.The Prime Minister called on leaders to place Christ at the centre of their decision-making, urging them to allow faith and moral values to influence decisions affecting the nation.“Let Christ take the lead of every leadership decision, every family, every community and every development of this nation.”He also delivered a message to the young people and children of Papua New Guinea, encouraging them to remain faithful to God as they grow and take up their responsibilities in the future.“To the young children of this nation, never leave God. Always walk with God.”Prime Minister Marape concluded that the National Day of Prayer and Repentance should not be viewed simply as a one-day event, but as an opportunity for every citizen to reflect on their lives and make a renewed commitment to positive change.He urged those who participated in the event to leave with a renewed sense of purpose and a transformed outlook.“Leave this event today with a new, reset heart and mind,” he said.The Prime Minister’s message placed emphasis on personal responsibility, national unity, faith and leadership, calling on Papua New Guineans to collectively work towards a nation guided by stronger values, integrity and a commitment to positive change.He said the future of Papua New Guinea depends on the willingness of its people and leaders to make that change beginning with themselves.

Further investigation by the East New Britain Police into the recent boating accident in the Pomio District has revealed that the number of victims is more than previously stated.Police confirmed today that there were eleven (11) people on board the boat at the time of the incident, correcting earlier reports that suggested only six passengers.Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Amanda Kates revealed to PNG Hausbung to set the record straight.“The initial report of six people being on board at the time of the accident was incorrect. There were unequivocally eleven people on board when the accident occurred,” stated PPC Kates.According to the statement provided by the boat’s skipper, the vessel departed from Palmalmal with six individuals. En route, the boat stopped at Keke in Pomio village, where it picked up five students from Pomio Junior High School, bringing the total number of persons on board to eleven.PPC Kates also discredited rumours suggesting a higher casualty count. She emphasized that reports circulating in the community claiming fifteen people were involved in the accident are incorrect and misleading.As of today, the situation remains grim as search and rescue operations continue. The current confirmed figures remain as 2 confirmed dead, with identities to be verified and released once formalities are complete. Seven have survived and 2 are still missing as search efforts are ongoing.Rescue teams have successfully located and retrieved both the dinghy and its motor engine, which are now being preserved as evidence for the investigation.The boat operator, a 53-year-old male from Central Pomio, is currently in police custody and is assisting with the investigations.PPC Kates stated that the operator is likely to face charges of manslaughter pending the conclusion of the full investigation. Authorities are examining whether negligence played a role in the sinking.In light of this tragedy, the East New Britain Provincial Police have issued a stern reminder to all small boat operators across the province to take heed of strong wind warnings and observe sea conditions.Operators must strictly follow weather reports and warnings issued daily by the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) and the Weather and Disaster Centre. All boats must carry appropriate safety equipment on board for all passengers if they wish to go out to sea. Failure to do so puts lives at unnecessary risk.The investigation is ongoing, while search efforts are continuing for the 2 missing.

Two people have been reported dead, two remain missing, and two have been rescued following a boating incident in Jacquinot Bay, Pomio District, East New Britain Province.The incident occurred between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Friday when a 23-foot dinghy departed from Palmalmal in West Pomio Local Level Government (LLG), bound for Central Pomio LLG.According to police reports, the vessel capsized due to very rough sea conditions with high swells that swamped the boat. Authorities believe the boat was also overloaded with cargo.East New Britain Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Amanda Kates, confirmed with PNG HAUSBUNG that as of Sunday, August 23, two bodies have been recovered, while search efforts continue for the two missing passengers.The two survivors include the boat’s operator, a 53-year-old male from Central Pomio, who is currently in police custody assisting with investigations.PPC Kates stated that the operator will face manslaughter charges pending the outcome of the investigation.Reflecting on the tragedy, PPC Kates noted that while today marks a sad day for East New Britain, the situation could have been far worse.She revealed that several Pomio students had been dropped off at their destinations prior to the boat’s departure from West Pomio.Had these passengers remained on board, the death toll would likely have been higher.Chief Superintendent Kates issued a stern warning to all small boat operators that the maritime laws and safety protocols do exist, particularly during this period affected by the El Niño weather pattern.“If no death occurs and the boat operator still goes out despite warnings in place, he or she can be severely fined under the Small Craft Act.”“However, if the operator goes out and causes serious injury or death, it becomes a criminal offence.”“They can be charged under the Small Craft Act and the Criminal Code, up to manslaughter.”She urged all boat operators to heed wind warnings, monitor sea conditions, and ensure appropriate safety equipment is on board for all passengers.“I encourage all boat operators to please take heed of the wind and weather warnings. Failure to do so will result in heavy fines, and if death or injury occurs, a lengthy prison sentence awaits you,” she added.Meanwhile, East New Britain Governor Michael Marum expressed his sincere condolences to the families of the victims from the Pomio incident.He delivered the message while addressing the families and relatives of the 27 victims of the July 18 Pang Pang Island boating tragedy, who had gathered for a memorial service at Nonga General Hospital in Rabaul earlier today.Governor Marum highlighted the rising toll of accidents in the province, noting that since the start of the year, East New Britain has recorded just over 54 deaths related to natural disasters both at sea and on land.

The Papuan LNG Leaders and stakeholders met with the Minister for Provincial and Local Government Affairs and Member for Kikori, Soroi Eoe at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby yesterday to iron out their outstanding issues.Accompanying Minister Eoe was Minister for Energy and Member for Kairuku, Peter Iso-Aimo and the Secretary for the Department of Provincial and Local Government Affairs, to provide their necessary support with the conversations around the Papuan LNG Project.After all the concerns raised and resolutions put forward, the disgruntled Leaders and Landowners still showed frustration over the no show of Minister for Petroleum, Jimmy Maladina and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA).The Landowners and their leaders expressed their frustration as to why NPA and the Minister for Petroleum did not turn up at their meeting, as they are the rightful people responsible to respond to their concerns and issues raised.Minister Soroi told the landowners and their leaders that the government’s current focus is on a very critical national issue that could affect the movement and interfere with the business of what they are trying to achieve.He made it clear that there is no discrimination involved in the conversation of the Papuan LNG Project, if that was how they feel towards the government. It is all about the availability of resources to assist where they are.“For the time being, funds are already allocated, and the National Petroleum Authority has been given money, and it should be now addressing the outstanding issues that you are confronted with. Apart from the NPA, the Gulf Provincial Government has also been given money. The same type of assistance packages that the government has given to NPA. So those issues have now been addressed, and I want to give you the assurance,” clarified Minister Eoe.In relation to the distribution of equities and who benefit from the project, few ILG’s from the Baimuru and Ihu LLG raise the issue of inclusiveness and ensuring everyone benefits.Ministers Eoe, supported the concerns raised and emphasized that it is important that those that are not within the development corridor have to, in one way or the other be included, so that everyone is happy.However, the Minister reminded the people that the process has just started, and it will take more than five to ten years before the actual benefits will be seen or received by the people. He said it is important that whatever decisions that we make are for the future of our children as many of the elders that have started this process would not be around to enjoy the benefits from this project.Eoe also made it clear that the government’s policy direction is clear, ‘No One Is Left Behind”. And based on that policy, all processes must be done with careful considerations and directions so that everyone is happy.He added that, “The power lies with you. Whatever you say or however you want things done, the government will listen to you. If you feel the current developers are not the right ones, it is up to you to say no, and we can always go to another. But in order to keep the conversation moving, I urge all of us to work together. Let us all work in unity and ensure everything is done right before any final decisions are made.”In supporting Minister Eoe’s sentiments, Kairuku MP and Petroleum Minister, Peter Iso-Aimo reminded the people of Gulf to make decisions based on their children’s future. He said the benefits to come will be overwhelmingly huge and will continue for years."That is why it is important to make good decisions today, so that your children will not have problems in the future."The Member for Kairuku, however, commended the people of Gulf for been calm and collective on the Papuan LNG issue, through their careful participation in the discussion and standing together and working together, with one common interest.With the opportunity presented, Minister Iso-Aimo also vouched for his people of Kairuku, especially the ones within the pipeline corridors of the Papuan LNG project. He said his people want at least a little bit of what the people of gulf will get, as they are also part of this project.As Minister Iso-Aimo acknowledged the people of Gulf for allowing him to include his people’s concerns in the discussions, he also expressed his disappointment on fellow cabinet Minister for Energy together with National Petroleum Authority for not turning up to face the landowners and respond to their concerns.Meanwhile, an agitated elder and leader of the people of Muro in West-Ihu LLG raised the issue on the K100 million funding allocated to cater for this forum and cater also for the landowners that are in attendance.Mr. Dominic strongly urged that the National Petroleum Authority, and the Petroleum Minister must reveal to the landowners as to what happened to the K100 million and demands the authorities or organizers to get these sorted out as soon as possible.He said the treatment they are receiving is not even near to what they had expected as the custodians of the resources that will have a lasting legacy to changing Papua New Guinea and the world.For the meantime, the forum has been put on hold until the current issues and matters are addressed.

Provincial Administrators and other Provincial Executives from the Southern Region, received a reality check on their integrity, performance and leadership priorities during the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) Commissioners’ Breakfast held on Tuesday at the Gateway Hotel in Port Moresby.Acting Commissioner Don. Sawong, in his opening remarks, emphasized that the role of ICAC deals with corruption in a criminal sense.Although there may be different perspectives or meanings of common understanding of what the word “corruption” means, it is simply defined as the use of power and failure for personal benefit, rather than the benefit of the public.Mr. Sawong reassured the administrators and other provincial officers that ICAC's role is not to interfere with their daily duties and responsibilities.Instead, ICAC’s objective will assess and examine individuals on all practical levels and to investigate any form of practices that lead to corruption.He noted that the provincial and Local Level Governments (LLGs) are at the forefront of delivering services to the people.“In order for us to deliver better service, build strong institutions, and master public support and trust, we must avoid corruption and build integrity in the history that we administer.”“50 years ago, government services were guided by integrity, loyalty, and discipline in how they conducted the business of government.”“Government services were generally delivered through systems that were clear, that were structured, that were intended to serve the public.”“Corruption existed, but the nature and spirit of that risk was either non-existent or very small.”Over the years, the public administration has become more complex, where there were oversight, accountability, and administrative controls that have weakened, and gaps emerged.“Those gaps have created opportunities for repetition, rivalry, conflict of interest, and abuse of authority.”Mr. Sawong pointed out that corruption is no longer just a concept, as its consequences are visible every day in hospitals, schools, roads, and other public services.It undermines national development, waste partner resources, and limits opportunities for the people.“We cannot put an edged figure on the total value of family funds lost through corruption in Papua New Guinea.”“But when we consider the value of government spending procurement, infrastructure, and public services affected by corrupt behavior over many years, the potential loss to the country is very significant, and could, and I dare say, run into billions.”Furthermore, Mr. Sawong clarified that ICAC was established simply to be another government institution.It was established to centralize the integrity of public administrations and ensure the public funds are used for their internal purposes and in the best interest of the nation.Their role is to help ensure that the system processes and controls are effective in preventing the use of public resources, abuse of authority, and corrupt practices.In addition, by preventing, reducing, and combating corruption, the commission helps ensure that the government serves with honesty, fairness, integrity, and responsibility.In conclusion, Commissioner Sawong reiterated that provincial and district administrations are at the forefront of delivering government services effectively, fairly to the people.

Thailand Women have secured a convincing five-wicket victory over the PNG Lewas after successfully chasing down Papua New Guinea’s target of 123 runs in just 27 overs at Amini Park, in Port Moresby, yesterday.PNG, batting first, were bowled out for 122 runs in 47 overs, with Pauke Siaka top-scoring with an unbeaten 57.PNG struggled to build partnerships throughout their innings, losing wickets at regular intervals as Thailand’s bowling attack kept the pressure on.Pauke Siaka was the standout batter for PNG, producing a determined unbeaten 57 from 76 deliveries. Her innings included six boundaries and accounted for almost half of PNG’s total.Opening batter Hollan Doriga provided early resistance with 21 from 34 balls, including two fours, before she was caught by O Kamchomphu off the bowling of Thipatcha Putthawong.Kevau Frank was dismissed for four after facing 31 deliveries, while captain Brenda Hoi Tau made nine from 31 balls before being bowled by Onnicha Kamchomphu.Tanya Ruma added eight runs, with the wickets continuing to fall as Thailand’s bowlers maintained their discipline.Henao Jean Thomas contributed 10 from 36 deliveries before being bowled by Putthawong, while Dika Lohia made five and Hane Lohia Tau scored two.Erani Pokana and Sibona Jimmy were both dismissed without scoring, while Buruka Vicky was the final wicket to fall, lbw to Phannita Maya for a duck.Thailand made light work of the chase, reaching 126 for five in 27 overs to complete the victory.| Thailand Women's Team after the matchOpening batter Natthakan Chantham led Thailand’s run chase with a well-made 48 from 52 deliveries, striking nine boundaries. She provided the foundation for the visitors’ successful pursuit before being caught by Dika Lohia off the bowling of Buruka Vicky.Wicketkeeper Nannapat Khoncharoenkai also made a valuable contribution, scoring 32 from 38 balls, including three fours, before being dismissed lbw by Henao Jean Thomas.Thailand captain Naruemol Chaiwai added 16 from 35 deliveries, hitting one boundary, but was also dismissed by Thomas, caught by Hollan Doriga.Thomas was the standout bowler for PNG, claiming four wickets for 28 runs from her six overs. She dismissed Khoncharoenkai, Chaiwai and Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, as well as another wicket earlier in the innings.Buruka Vicky claimed the other Thailand wicket, finishing with one wicket for 28 runs from six overs.Despite losing five wickets, Thailand remained in control of the chase. Chanida Sutthiruang finished unbeaten on seven, while Nannaphat Chaihan struck the winning runs with an unbeaten four from just two deliveries.Thailand reached 126 for five after 27 overs, finishing five wickets down but with 23 overs to spare.The result gives Thailand another strong performance against the PNG Lewas, with their win securing a wonderful ODI Series, winning all three matches. The series win also sees the Thailand women register valuable points to increase their placing on the ICC Women’s ODI rankings.

The PNG Ports Corporation has officially joined the Hiri Moale Festival as a Silver Sponsor following a K50, 000 sponsorship presentation at their Head Office in Port Moresby.Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Neil Papenfus began his opening remarks by thanking the Motu-Koitabu people as the traditional custodians of the land on which they allow their business to continue to operate.He emphasized the importance of the Hiri Moale Festival and the significance the festival has on the people of Motu-Koitabu.“The Hiri Moale Festival celebrates one of Papua New Guinea’s most significant cultural traditions. The historic Hiri Trade voyages of the Motu-Koita people, and the resilience, seamen-ship and enterprise of their ancestors.”“It is a celebration of identity, heritage and community, and bringing together the Motu-Koita people on a wide National Capital District in a shared moment of pride.”He stressed the importance of festivals such as the Hiri Moale as it keeps the culture alive in the younger generation and strengthens the social fabric of the communities that businesses operate alongside.Mr. Papenfus also referred to the Motu-Koita people as the neighbors of following the Motukea Ports that operate their customary land and waters.“Supporting the Hiri Moale Festival is one tangible way we honor that relationship and recognize the Motu-Koita people’s roles, customary hosts of our operations at Motukea.”“The Ports exist to serve communities, and that means not only investing in infrastructure but also in the culture and identity of the people amongst whom we operate,” said the PNG Ports CEO.This sponsorship reflects PNG Ports’ broader commitment to supporting community, cultural, and social well-being, alongside their core role which enables trade and economic activities throughout the country.Meanwhile, Chairman of Motu-Koita Assembly Mr. Russell. S. Wavik, thanked the CEO of PNG Ports as he extended his sincere appreciation on behalf of the people of Motu-Koitabu and the Motu-Koita Assembly for their generosity and commitment.He noted that the festival provides a platform for shared national identity that provides an opportunity to celebrate the history, the traditions, and cultural heritage of the Motu-Koita people.“While crafting a platform for culture exchange, community participation and national unity, we particularly value the partnership of PNG Ports because of the strong connection between our people, the maritime heritage and the history of Hiri voyages.” “Your support demonstrates a meaningful commitment to preserving and promoting Papua New Guinea’s cultural heritage.”Mr. Wavik concluded by thanking the PNG Ports board, management, and staff for their commitment and confidence towards supporting the festival.PNG Ports stands as the third corporate sponsors towards the 2026 Hiri Moale Festival, which is scheduled to run from September 8th-13th, 2026.

The people of Gulf Province are committed to fully participate in this year’s 53rd Hiri Moale Festival celebrations in September after being invited by the Motu-Koita Assembly. The commitment was shown yesterday through a small partnership and sponsorship announcement ceremony held at the Motu-Koita Assembly office at City Hall in Port Moresby city.A separate contribution of K100, 000 each was committed by the Gulf Provincial Government and the Kerema District Development Authority, with the presentation said to be done at a later date.Representing the people of Gulf to affirm their partnership and commitment was Kerema Open Electorate Member and Minister for Finance – Thomas Opa, President of Moripi Local Level Government (LLG) and representing Acting Gulf Governor and the Gulf Provincial Government – Mr. Ross Miva, accompanied by other Gulf Provincial Assembly Members and the Moripi Council of Chiefs.Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Miva expressed his gratitude to the Motu-Koita Assembly for the invitation.“This year we are delighted that we have been brought back in to be part of the festival celebrations. My presence here signifies the Gulf Provincial Government’s commitment and the people of Gulf to renew and to rewrite the Hiri Trade story of our forefathers. And I hope that with the right leadership, we will continue this partnership, relationship and friendship that we have established from back then during the Hiri Trade,” said Mr. Mivo.On behalf of the Gulf Provincial Government, Mr. Mivo announced a commitment of K100, 000 to the Festival celebrations, with the official presentation to be done on a later date.In his opening remark, Minister Opa said that this is a long time coming for the people of the Gulf to be participating in the Hiri Moale Festival after watching from the sideline for many years. And this partnership with the people of Motu-Koita is of significant importance, especially for the people of Elema in the Gulf.He said the Elema Tribe were the people of a bigger part of the Gulf province from Baimuru, the Orokolo Bay in Ihu all the way to Moripi that were originally responsible for the Hiri Trade back in the ancestral days.“This signifies a very important recognition of the relationship and the strong bond that we continue to share between our people. I just wanted to stress the important bond that we (Gulf people) have with the people of Motu-Koitabu. It goes many generations back.”Minister Opa highlighted that the Hiri Trade had brought many of the Gulf people to Motu-Koitabuan villages and many have settled in those villages, like Vabukori, Gabi, Baruni, Tatana, Elevala and Kira Kira – Horse Camp. That is where you will find the Gulf people.He further stated that the last Hiri voyage in recent times, took place in the 1940’s and the 1950’s. And it is now part of their responsibility to learn more about the history, heritage and culture and celebrate it through the festival.Member for Kikori Open Electorate and Minister for Department of Provincial and Local Government Affairs (DPLGA) – Soroi Eoe was expected to be part of the ceremony but was in attendance to other matters related to the Papua LNG Development forum, and passed on his sincere apology to the Motu-Koita Assembly and fellow Minister.The 53rd Hiri Moale Festival will be celebrated from September 8th to the 13th in Port Moresby, with Ela Beach (Era Kone) to be the main centre for all celebrations.

In a display of clinical bowling and disciplined fielding, the Thailand women’s cricket team successfully defended their total of 237, restricting Papua New Guinea (PNG) to a disappointing 116 all out in just 35.3 overs, at the Amini Park, Port Moresby city.The comprehensive 121-runs victory yesterday gives Thailand a 1-Nil lead in the Best of three One Day International (ODI) series.Thailand displayed a resilient and tactical batting to post a competitive total of 237 for 8 wickets in their allotted 50 overs, anchored by a brilliant 82 runs of 98 balls from skipper Naruemol Chaiwai.Batting at number four, Chaiwai showcased patience and precision, hitting 6 fours and maintaining a strike rate of 83.67. Her innings was crucial in stabilizing the innings after early wickets fell, allowing her to accelerate in the middle overs before being dismissed.Thailand began their innings with caution, as opener Phannita Maya departed early for 8 runs (18 balls), run out by a sharp fielding effort involving Vicky and Ruma. This early setback threatened to derail the innings, but Natthakan Chantham stepped up to provide stability. Chantham scored a gritty 30 runs off 65 balls, contributing 2 fours before being caught and bowled by H. Thomas.The turning point came when Nannapat Khoncharoenkai joined Chaiwai at the crease. Khoncharoenkai played a vital supporting role, scoring 54 runs off 72 balls with 4 fours. Her partnership with Chaiwai laid the foundation for Thailand’s strong finish. However, Khoncharoenkai fell to H. Tau, leaving Thailand at a crucial juncture.Despite facing disciplined bowling from PNG, Thailand’s middle order ensured they remained competitive throughout the innings.PNG’s bowling attack, led by Henao Lohia Thomas (who took multiple key wickets) and Hane Lohia Tau (who broke crucial partnerships), maintained pressure throughout. Buruka Vicky also picked up important wickets, including that of Chanida Sutthiruang. The tight line and length prevented Thailand from dominating the powerplays, forcing them to build their innings through accumulation rather than outright aggression.Papua New Guinea began the chase with high hopes, but from the outset, Thailand’s bowlers executed their plans with precision. The new ball proved problematic for the PNG openers, who failed to find their rhythm against the swing and seam movement provided by Thipatcha Putthawong and Phannita Maya.The early breakthrough came when both openers, Konio Oala and Naoani Vare, fell cheaply. Oala was trapped LBW by Thipatcha Putthawong for 11 runs off 20 balls, while Vare followed suit shortly after, also LBW to Putthawong for 11 runs off 22 balls. These early wickets prevented PNG from building any significant platform.Captain Brenda Hoi Tau attempted to stabilize the innings, playing a cautious knock of 6 runs off 17 balls before being LBW to Sunida Chaturongrattana. Her departure further dampened PNG’s spirits. Sibona Jimmy also fell to Chaturongrattana, caught 5 runs off 16 balls, leaving PNG reeling at a precarious position.It was Tanya Ruma who offered the most resistance for PNG. She played a determined innings, scoring 29 runs off 56 balls, including 3 fours. However, her efforts were not enough to shift the momentum. Ruma was eventually run out due to a sharp direct hit from Aphisara Suwanchonrathi and Phannita Maya, ending her stand.Thailand’s bowling attack was led by three key performers who shared the 10 wickets:Thailand’s fielding was equally impressive, with several catches taken in the deep and sharp runouts that disrupted PNG’s rhythm. The combination of tight bowling and exceptional fielding ensured that PNG never had the opportunity to accelerate.Papua New Guinea’s total of 116 all out in 35.3 overs was a stark contrast to Thailand’s competitive 237/8. With extras accounting for 13 runs (7 byes, 1 leg bye, 5 wides), the bulk of the damage was done by the batsmen’s inability to capitalize on opportunities.This victory underscores Thailand’s dominance in this encounter, showcasing their balanced team performance with both bat and ball.For PNG, the challenge will be to regroup and improve their batting depth and resilience for the remaining two matches.The second ODI match will be played on Saturday 15th August 2026 and the third match on Monday 17th August 2026.

The iconic Kira-Kira Cricket Oval in Port Moresby city will be undergoing a major upgrade and developed into a mini cricket stadium, thanks to BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) through its 50for50 Givim Bek initiative.The Official Groundbreaking ceremony took place yesterday, Wednesday 12th, August, witnessed by the Kira Kira people, BSP staffs and Executives, Motu-Koita Assembly Executives, and clan elders of Kira Kira village.Goasa Geita – Vaga Clan Elder of Kira Kira village shared a brief history on the cricket oval from its humble beginnings to recent times and how it holds memories to have produced so many great cricket players, past and present that have gone on to represent PNG, both men and women.  Opened in 1974 by Papua New Guinea's first Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, who then was Chief Minister, it holds a significant part of the history of the people of Kira Kira and Port Moresby city. It is also believed to be one of the oldest cricket ovals in the country.Kira Kira Ward Councilor and Deputy Chairman of the Motu-Koita Assembly, Mr. Babani Harry said the oval holds significance to their history and culture as well.He went on to thank the BSP Group for their wonderful 50fo50 Givim-bek initiative which will help them to upgrade and construct a new look cricket stadium for the present and future generations of young talents in Kiri Kira village.In his main address, Mr. Jonathan Harvey, BSP Group General Manager – People & Culture Division, told the people that he understands the importance of this field.“Beyond sports, this field has been a gathering place where relationship have been strengthened, local economic activities are being encouraged and communities have come together, in a spirit of unity and mutual trust. Recognizing the importance of this landmark, BSP is proud to support the restoration of this wonderful cricket ground, through our BSP 50for50 GivimBek Initiative,” said Mr. Harvey.He added that as PNG commemorates its 50 years of Independence anniversary, BSP is investing K2.5 million to deliver 50 community projects across the country, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.“This initiative provides an opportunity for BSP staffs to give back to the communities that shape them, and to contribute to projects that make a meaningful difference. And the Kira Kira cricket field upgrade project represents that vision,” said Mr. Harvey.Chairman of Motu-Koita Assembly, Mr. Russell Wavik thanked Mr. Harvey and the BSP Financial Group for bringing such wonderful community development initiatives down to the communities.He said that for BSP to choose Kira Kira village is a bonus for the Motu-Koita people and a very historic moment also with the ground-breaking of the iconic cricket oval.BSP has committed K50, 000 through the 50for50 GivimBek Initiative with a further K30, 000 each from BSP’s Finance & Strategy and Corporate Business Units respectively. Bringing the total to K110, 000 committed from BSP.Furthermore, Mr. Wavik has also announced that Motu-Koita Assembly will meet the 50for50 initiative with a commitment of K110, 000, bringing the total amount committed, up to K220, 000 for the Kira Kira Cricket Oval upgrade project.

Papua New Guinea’s women’s cricket team, the PNG Lewas, are hosting Thailand’s women’s team for a five-match international series here at the Amini Park in Port Moresby city.The series features two T20 Internationals and three One Day Internationals (ODIs) over 50 overs.The two teams have completed the T20 International leg of the series, with the Lewas winning the opening match on Monday before Thailand bounced back to claim victory in the second match on Tuesday. The result leaves the T20 International series level at one-all.With the T20s now completed, both teams have a day to rest, regroup, and prepare for the much-anticipated ODI series, which carries significant importance for both nations.The three ODI matches are sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and will contribute towards the teams’ Women’s ODI World Rankings.The closely ranked teams are therefore expected to produce another competitive contest when the ODI series gets underway.Speaking immediately after Tuesday’s T20 International, Lewas captain Brenda Tau highlighted the importance of the upcoming ODI matches and called on the people of Port Moresby to come out and support the national women’s team.Tau said she would love to see more cricket fans and Port Moresby residents at Amini Park on Thursday to get behind the PNG Lewas.She further added that the girls will be representing the country on home soil, which is huge for the players. And just to have the home fans turning up in numbers to cheer them on would be good for the girls and boost their performance as well.The first ODI is scheduled for Thursday 13th August, at Amini Park, with the Lewas looking to use home-ground advantage and strong local support as they begin the crucial three-match series against Thailand.

Thailand has levelled the two-match T20 International series against the Papua New Guinea Lewas after securing a convincing six-wicket victory at Amini Park in Port Moresby today.After being sent into bat first, the Lewas struggled from the outset as Thailand's bowlers produced an outstanding performance to restrict the home side to just 87 runs for the loss of nine wickets from their 20 overs.Thailand's 22-year-old fast bowler Phannita Maya was the standout performer, claiming three crucial wickets inside her opening two overs to dismantle PNG's top order. Her impressive spell earned her the Player of the Match award.PNG lost openers Konio Oala and Hollan Doriga, followed by captain Brenda Tau, leaving the Lewas in serious trouble midway through their innings.At the 10-over mark, PNG were struggling for runs, but middle-order batters Nao Ani Vare (25) and Tanya Ruma (28) attempted to rebuild the innings.Despite their efforts, runs remained difficult to score against a disciplined Thailand bowling attack, while their fielding was equally impressive as they denied the Lewas opportunities to build partnerships.PNG eventually finished their 20 overs at 87 for nine, leaving Thailand needing just 88 runs for victory.PNG made an early breakthrough in the second innings when Henao Thomas struck with her second delivery of the opening over, dismissing Thailand's dangerous opener Phannita Maya.However, the early wicket did little to halt Thailand's chase.Thailand's batters remained composed, rotating the strike with quick singles and doubles while finding regular boundaries to keep the scoreboard moving.They reached the target in the 19th over, finishing on 88 for four to seal a six-wicket victory and level the T20I series.For PNG, Thomas finished with two wickets, while Isabell Toua, who was named Player of the Match in yesterday's opening T20I, also claimed two wickets.A disappointed PNG captain Brenda Tau admitted that the Lewas did not produce their best performance of the series.Tau acknowledged that both their batting and fielding fell below the standards they had set for themselves, while congratulating Thailand on a well-deserved victory.She described Thailand as a tough and worthy opponent and said the Lewas enjoyed the two-match T20I series.Tau said the team would now go back to the drawing board, review their performance and reset and refocus ahead of the upcoming 50-over matches.Thailand coach Peter Jansen was delighted with his team's performance and result.Jansen thanked PNG for providing strong competition throughout the two-match T20I series, saying his players showed courage and continued to believe in themselves.That belief, he said, was evident in their successful run chase today.With the T20I series now completed with one win apiece, both teams will shift their attention to the 50-over One-Day Internationals (ODIs).The ODI series will be played at Amini Park on:Thursday, August 13Saturday, August 15Monday, August 17Both teams will now look to regroup and prepare for the longer format as the battle between the PNG Lewas and Thailand continues.