The Lihir Landholders are Supporting the New Mining Bill 2025 stating it is a Step Forward for their People and Future Generations. Lihir Tenement Association Chairman Newman Sana said the Lihir Tenement Association, representing the customary landholders of Lihir Island, the host of the Lihir Gold Project, warmly welcomes and supports the newly proposed Mining Bill 2025. Mr. Sana said the inclusion of resettlement provisions for landholders and the increase in royalty rates from 2% to 10% are long-overdue and critical reforms. He said these changes are not only justifiable but essential to restoring fairness, dignity, and long-term security to resource-owning communities across Papua New Guinea, particularly those of us living in remote island settings. “As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary, this landmark legislation is a timely and bold statement of intent: that the next 50 years must prioritize sustainable development, equitable wealth distribution, and the empowerment of landowners. For the people of Lihir, this Bill recognizes the immense contribution and sacrifices made by host communities. It responds to years of calls for fairer treatment, proper relocation processes, and meaningful participation in the benefits of the resources extracted from our land. We believe that the proposed royalty increase is not excessive, it is a reflection of the true value of the minerals taken from our land and seas. This increase will support education, infrastructure, health services, and other critical needs for our future livelihoods and that of the next generation,” Mr. Sana said. He said the inclusion of resettlement provisions in the Bill is particularly important for island communities like theirs, where land is finite and ancestral. “The absence of clear resettlement policies has, for too long, left landowners vulnerable to displacement without proper compensation, planning, or support. These new provisions signal a more humane, respectful, and sustainable path forward. The Lihir Tenement Association commends the Government and the drafters of the Mining Bill 2025 for their courage and vision. We urge all Members of Parliament to stand with landowners and pass this Bill without delay. It is time our resource laws truly reflect our national identity, values, and the rightful aspirations of our people,” Mr. Sana added.