Head of the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Cultural Contingent to Vanuatu, Mr. Steven Enomb Kilanda, has expressed satisfaction with the progress of PNG’s participation at the 7th Melanesian Arts & Cultural Festival in Port Vila. He thanked all the participants for showcasing the country’s heritage with pride and great enthusiasm. Mr. Kilanda, who is also the Executive Director of the National Cultural Commission of Papua New Guinea was impressed with the performances and display of PNG’s cultural heritage. He said the delegation that accompanied the Minister for Tourism Arts & Culture Isi Henry Leonard, is made up of persons with high caliber. Included in the delegation were academics Dr. Leo Marai and Dr. Michael Mel, who attended the symposium on the National Cultural Policy 2022-2032, which also covered the Melanesian Arts & Culture Festival. Both academics are also members of the Board of National Cultural Commission. Mr. Kilanda thanked the Chief Executive Officer of the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority, Eric Mossman Uvovo and his officers for being part of the delegation, enhancing the tourism aspect of the festival. He said he is happy to have brought the biggest contingent, compared to other Melanesian countries, thus reaffirming PNG’s participation as the “big brother” Melanesian country in the Pacific region. He added that the presence and the participation of PNG adds further excitement and meaning to the other Melanesian participating countries. “Our individual artists are doing live paintings, power bands are performing and traditional dancers from West New Britain, Hela and the Autonomous Regional of Bougainville are giving their best, showcasing the cultural heritage of an amazing and unique nation of Papua New Guinea.” Papua New Guinea arts and craft that were on display at the Convention Centre, sold out fast. “We will continue to showcase our arts and culture at regional and international fixtures because ours is the most unique and the biggest in the region and the world.” Mr. Kilanda finished off by saying that PNG has a deep and detailed cultural heritage that is diverse, authentic and unique.