Two band members from the newly established PNG Defence Force Military Brass Band will journey to Tokyo next month for advanced training in music composition. This opportunity highlights the significant progress made through the recent Military Band Cooperation Project, which was successfully completed on September 9, 2024, with substantial support from the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force. The project has been a major success for the PNGDF, involving the training of 37 band members and providing leadership development for five candidates. This initiative, which began in 2014 at the request of former Chief of Defence Force Major General Gilbert Toropo, aimed to form, train, and equip a new military brass band for the PNGDF. Colonel Bruno Malau, standing in for Acting Chief of Defence Force Commodore Philip Polewara, conveyed his deep appreciation to the Government of Japan, the Japanese Ministry of Defence, and the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force during the closing ceremony held at Murray Barracks. “The formation of the PNGDF Military Brass Band with the assistance of the Government of Japan and its people is a success story,” said Malau. The newly formed band has already made notable contributions, including performances at high-profile events such as APEC 2018 and the recent visit of His Holiness Pope Francis. This involvement underscores the band's growing importance in representing the PNGDF at prestigious events. Lieutenant Colonel Shinobu Takahashi of the Japanese Ministry of Defence praised the strong people-to-people connection that facilitated the project's success and thanked the PNGDF for their collaboration. Japan’s Ambassador to PNG, His Excellency Nobuyuki Watanabe, who attended the closing ceremony, congratulated the band members and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to continuing their support and collaboration with the PNGDF. The project exemplifies the fruitful partnership between PNG and Japan, highlighting the positive impact of international cooperation on enhancing the PNGDF's capabilities and international representation.