The founder of the Papindo Group of Companies, Sir Soekandar Tjandra passed away on Friday, August 9th in Singapore. Papindo started as a retail store outlet in Lae in 1974, and has grown into one of the largest nationally owned retail chain, with supermarkets and department stores across the country. Expressing heartfelt condolences on the passing, Prime Minister James Marape issued a statement on behalf of the people of Papua New Guinea to the family, friends and business associates of the esteemed businessman, Sir Soekandar. Sir Soekandar, together with his wife, Lady Susan Tjandra, founded the Papindo Group of Companies in Lae with its humble beginnings on 7th Street, Lae, as a single retail store in 1974 Its headquarters remain in Lae, providing employment to hundreds of Papua New Guineans. “Sir Soekandar and Lady Susan Tjandra were well-known for their continuous support of the people of Lae City and Papua New Guinea, for which we are all grateful." “Sir Soekandar and Papindo have done so much for the country, and at the same time, have endured senseless violence and looting over the years, the most recent being on January 10, 2024.” “I urge the people of Papua New Guinea to reflect on Sir Soekandar’s contributions to our country and work towards a better future as we prepare to celebrate 50 years of independence — a milestone he will, sadly, not be with us to celebrate." “Thank you, Sir Soekandar, for your many contributions to Papua New Guinea.”