The National Government, through the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB), has made a timely donation of K100, 000 to Papua New Guinea's international singer Anslom Nakikus, to assist with his international tour, as part of the State’s efforts to promote the music and entertainment industry in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The Minister for NGCB and Bougainville Affairs, Manasseh Makiba presented the cheque to the well-known PNG singing sensation and his band on September 21st. Anslom expressed his gratitude to the government and NGCB for believing in his band and promoting his music, which has made its mark on the international music scene as one of the top bands and a force to be reckoned with. "I am deeply humbled to receive such support from the government, and I thank Prime Minister James Marape, Minister Makiba, and Chairman Clemence Kanau for the timely sponsorship, which will greatly aid my Band in our upcoming international tour." Anslom, the band's lead vocalist and songwriter, was born Ronald Nakikus in Rabaul, East New Britain Province. Reggae and Rastafarian culture have a significant influence on the band’s music, and his lyrics frequently address issues of social justice, peace, and unity. At the 2023 International Singer Songwriters Association (ISSA) in the United States of America, Anslom won three international music awards, including Band of the Year. A few weeks later, he won two additional American music awards at the InterContinental Music Awards (ICMA), including the ICon Award, the highest honor in the ICMA's international music community, and the Best of America Award for Reggae with his song "Love Me Again." Minister Makiba congratulated Anslom on his achievements. “The Marape-Rosso Government is proud of these accomplishments and pleased to support Anslom and his band as they continue to promote PNG on a global scale.” “This is due to the fact that he independently promoted our nation worldwide and helped it become well-known in the music industry .He is giving the younger generation an excellent example of how to compete globally and create the highest caliber of music, rather than just thinking locally.” “As a Government, we try to promote our country in different ways, and music is one of the ways we can promote Papua New Guinea's culture, and talent.” “On a global scale, you (Anslom) essentially serve as an ambassador for Papua New Guinea and even the Pacific.”