Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) sets its eyes on preparations for the inaugural King’s Baton Relay (KBR), marking a new chapter in Commonwealth Games tradition under the reign of His Majesty King Charles III.
Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG, PNGOC Games Coordinator, Joseph Ikufu proudly confirmed that planning and works are already underway to conduct an exciting commonwealth games tradition under the reign of His Majesty King Charles III.
The King’s Baton Relay will see the baton travel through 74 Commonwealth nations. The Papua New Guinea Governor General H.E. Sir Bob Dadae will officially commence its opening as His Majesty’s representative in the country, scheduled from January 2026.
“We will have it in Port Moresby from the 8th and 13th, and then from the 9th to the 12th, we take it out to the province that’s selected,” Ikufu explained.
While the final province is yet to be announced, Ikufu stressed the importance of careful planning.
“We have to take security into consideration, we have to take travel, everything goes into this. It’s a big job. And for this inaugural King’s Baton Relay to be successful, we have to plan properly.”
According to Mr. Ikufu, the baton, made of ash wood will be engraved with a special message from His Majesty, will be officially unveiled by Governor General Dadae. He pointed out the event follows on from previous standout participation in the 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay, which received global recognition.
“The unveiling of the baton will take place at the Governor General’s residence on the 8th,” Ikufu confirmed.”
“If you take a look back at the 2022 media coverage of the Queen’s Baton Relay, our country had the most views. That’s a testament to our culture, it’s vibrant, full of energy,” Ikufu said.
As preparations intensify, PNGOC is coordinating with stakeholders, sponsors, and local governments to ensure both Port Moresby and the selected province are inclusively represented.
“We want to make sure we pick the place that’s going to show PNG culture on the world stage, because that’s what this is all about, unifying all nations through sport,” Ikufu emphasized.