The National Cultural Commission (NCC) and the New Ireland Provincial Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today in Port Moresby – a critical step taken in protecting, promoting, developing and safeguarding New Ireland and Papua New Guinea’s cultural heritage.

Speaking during the signing, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Belden Namah said provincial governments remain important strategic partners in delivering cultural services and preserving traditions at the community level.

“Without strong provincial partnerships, our national cultural policies remain words on paper.”

He said New Ireland is home to some of Papua New Guinea’s most significant intangible cultural heritage, particularly the internationally recognised Malagan culture, known for its carvings, masks, ceremonies and oral traditions.

“I believe with this memorandum of understanding; we will be able to deliver the outcomes that the people of New Ireland want through the request of the Governor and the Provincial Government.”

This Memorandum of Understanding will deliver the following outcomes:

Policy Alignment – Align New Ireland Provincial Government and National Cultural Commission policies with national cultural frameworks.

Resource Mobilization – The National Cultural Commission will provide support, training and access to the National Cultural Research Fund for New Ireland-based researchers and cultural practitioners.

Festival Development – Work together to strengthen and certify New Ireland’s cultural festivals, including the Malagan Festival and Shark Calling Festival, to meet national standards for tourism promotion, cultural authenticity and economic benefit.

Infrastructure Support – Support establishment of a New Ireland Cultural Centre and archive to house Malagan artefacts, audio-visual records and documentation.

Intellectual Property Protection – Begin registration systems under the Protection of Traditional Knowledge and Expressions of Culture Act 2016 to protect Malagan designs, shark-calling chants and traditional governance systems.

“The signing of this memorandum is not merely just a ceremonial thing – it is a commitment of resources, responsibility, and respect from the national level to the provincial level and to the people of New Ireland Province.”