PNG Happenings Today

09/12/2024

A man lost his precious diamond when a rat swallowed it. Desperate to get it back, he hired a skilled rat hunter to find and kill the rat.

When the hunter arrived, he saw a large group of over a thousand rats crowded together. But one rat sat alone, far from the rest. Without hesitation, the hunter aimed for the loner and killed it.

To the owner’s amazement, the hunter cut open the rat and found the diamond inside.

Shocked, the owner asked, “How did you know it was this one?”

The hunter smiled and said, “It’s simple. When fools get rich, they like to separate themselves from the crowd!”

This wise and humorous reply left the owner thinking deeply about the meaning of wealth and humility.

Author: Unknown

04/12/2024

It’s been quite a challenging journey that we’ve traveled together. Soon, our beloved Papua New Guinea will celebrate its 50th anniversary. This milestone presents a wonderful opportunity for us to come together and collaborate. Let’s unite our efforts to build a stronger and more prosperous nation, ensuring that we leave a legacy of growth and improvement for future generations. Together, we can make Papua New Guinea bigger and better.

04/12/2024

04/12/2024

Good evening everyone, in a time of so much divide , I want all of us to tolerate diversity of opinions. I ask all to defeat hate with kindness in all we do, our country will be a better place if all educated sons became kinder to each other.

Times tough and Government is looking at every measure to help people at the same time grow our country.

I thank all MPs who set right through parliament passing the budget , I will write on the budget later tonight or early in the morning.

Trying our best for PNG in tough times.

PMJM 4/12/2024

23/11/2024

The finance minister told Governor Bird to get the facts straight to back up your accusation before speaking out in public forums. It’s important to ensure that any claims made are supported by solid evidence, as this will help maintain credibility and avoid unnecessary controversy. Clear communication and accurate information are key when addressing such serious matters, especially in public discussions where the stakes are high.

22/10/2024

Fiji’s economy is significantly boosted by tourism. The beautiful islands in the Pacific attract visitors from around the world, not just because of their stunning landscapes, but also due to the warm and welcoming attitude of the Fijian people. The locals treat their visitors with respect and kindness, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.

In contrast, Papua New Guinea is home to some of the most breathtaking island provinces that could also draw in tourists. However, a key factor in improving tourism in our nation lies in transforming our attitude towards foreigners. It is vital for us to shift our mindset and behavior, embracing respect and hospitality for those who choose to visit our shores.

Tourism is a pivotal pathway for strengthening our economy. Often referred to as the “island of gold,” floating on a sea of oil and powered by gas, Papua New Guinea possesses immense potential. With our stunning island provinces, we have the chance to emerge as one of the richest black nations on earth. Nevertheless, this can only be realized if we prioritize a change in our attitudes towards visitors.

Papua New Guinea has the potential to be the pearl of the Pacific, showcasing our natural beauty and cultural richness to the world.

RY

20/10/2024

Wow, this is truly vibrant! PMJM, as the Leader of all Leaders, you have represented our country exceptionally well on the international stage. Your efforts and dedication are commendable, and it’s inspiring to see how you carry our nation’s values and aspirations with such pride. Well done, Hulukumaya PMJM. Your leadership is making a significant impact, and we look forward to witnessing more of your achievements. Keep shining.

15/10/2024

Those who stand for truth and justice, even when it’s difficult, are the ones who ultimately build a lasting legacy. When you encounter challenges, resist the temptation to take the easy way out or seek shortcuts that compromise your integrity. Instead, confront your struggles with honesty and determination. By doing so, you not only uphold your values but also set a powerful example for others. Remember, karma has a way of rewarding those who remain steadfast in their principles. Embrace the journey with courage, and trust that your commitment to doing what’s right will lead to positive outcomes in the long run.

Good night and God bless you all.

14/10/2024

Hides PDL1 Leaders,

This message is in response to Augustine Mano's statement on MRDC Letterhead...

The devil is in the details. MRDC response above is very shallow. MRDC not only hold our oil and gas interest in trust as Trust Managers, but they perform the functions as Trust Investment Managers as well. THAT'S WHY MANY OF MRDC INVESTMENTS ARE NOT DELIVERING DIVIDENDS TO LANDOWNERS.

NO KUTUBU, GOBE, OR MORAN LANDOWNERS WILL TELL YOU HOW MUCH CASH RESERVE THEY HAVE FOR THE CURRENT AND FUTURE GENERATION IF THEIR OIL RUNS OUT TOMORROW. Landowners will all go broke 💔.

There are NO checks and balances on how our Future Generations Funds, Community Infrastructure Funds, and Cash Components are managed. MRDC are authority unto themselves.

The PR and GR company Constitutions and Trust Deeds are drafted by MRDC and will show exactly what I am talking about. Not one PRK , PRG or PRM, or even GR Hides 4 Directors have sighted any of these two documents (Constitution/Trust Deed) or even have a copy on hand.. It is so secretive but will get them legally. No Landowners and their lawyers were involved in drafting up these documents either..

MRDC stated that Ex-Officio Directors have the same power under the companies' Act. This allowed them to expense our PDL1 money without Landowers directors. MRDC Authorisation Act gave them that unilateral powers to do what the hell they want.

*First MRDC did not explicitly state that PDL1 money is 100% intact* . *Secondly, MRDC did not explicitly say that they did not spend PDL1 money in the failed Dirio Power Project with our permission.*

We will get to the bottom of this.

Obviously, Augustine Mano, David Manau, and Phil Undialu are directors of PDL1 GR Company with full powers mandated the MRDC Authorisation Act. They also have the legally responsibility to act in good faith.

They are now running the LOBID and election of PDL1 company directors and working their butt's off to elect Governor Undialu as Chairman of Wita Clan and seal their affairs on GR Hides PDL1 company. This is the reason why PDL1 LOBID was and is still delayed. They are looking for ways and means to push Governor Undialu to be Chairman of Wita. How low can you go???

Do you guys think we, the landowners of PDL1, the Custodians of Gigira Laitebo Gas that stupid and dumb 🤔🤪...??????

THINK AGAIN

Larry Andagali
Hiwa Chief
PDL1 - Hides Gas Field

13/10/2024

Jimmy Maladina is a politician endowed with wisdom and extensive knowledge, making him exceptionally qualified to oversee the petroleum industry. His deep understanding of the complexities involved in this sector positions him as the right person to promote stability within the Landowner groups.

His experience and insight allow him to navigate the intricate challenges that landowners face, and he is genuinely committed to addressing their concerns. By prioritizing their needs and advocating for their rights, Jimmy Maladina emerges as a viable solution to the issues that have long plagued landowners. His ability to connect with the community and grasp the nuances of their struggles is what sets him apart as an effective leader.

It is important for us to recognize the significance of having someone like Jimmy Maladina in a leadership role, as he embodies the qualities necessary to bring about positive change and stability for landowners. I hope this provides a clearer understanding of why he is seen as a key figure in resolving these issues.

RY

12/10/2024

Interested Researchers, Academics and Research Officers

TheNRI is organising opportunity for presentation in seminar on cause and solutions to youth bulge with emphasis on figures and data.

The NRI will invite all Univerities and Research Institutes and affected Departments.

Being involved with rural industries and the community, some areas I see the need for research or desktop review are following areas that could explain the youth bulge and recommendations to address the issue.

1. TvET Centre in each District and Province and the courses offered and the enrolled students and graduates in last five years.

2. Technical College, Nursing and Teachers and Business and Agriculture College and programs offered and students enrolled in 2024 and graduates in the last 5 years

3. Enrolment figures for last 5 years for each District and province and numbers pushed out at Grade 3, 6,8,10 and 12

4. Enrolment at all Universities and programs offered and graduates in each program over last 5 years

We need figures from Education, Dherst on primary and high school, Vocation Training and Technical and Industrial Training.

5. Check DPM to get total positions in Public Service and job on strength and vacancies over 5 years.

6. Check Teaching Service Commission for total positions in education system, jobs currently filled and vacancies

7. Check Department of Labour and Employment on total job requirements in private sector and positions filled and vacancies over 5 years

8. Check DLE and National Apprenticeship Board on total apprenticeship and vacancies and those trades under training for 5 years

9.Check Kumul Consolidated Holdings for total jobs required in all SOE, currently occupied and vacancies

10. Define Youths as per Youth Act and Department of Labour and what is salary levels

11. Literature review on the former National Service Corp under Col Ian Glanville and why abandoned

12. Literature review on National Youth Service and why abandoned

13. Literature review on the Villages Service Scheme under Nilkare and why abandoned

14. Literature review on work on urban youth issues by Diane Howlett and Louise Morauta and others

15. Why youth issues in Madang with long history of colonial contact, mission and education

16. Literature review on the World Bank or ADB funded Youth Employment Scheme trialled in NCD and it's outcomes and future

17. Review on the National Youth Service under the National Youth Act and now NYDA and why it exist or doesn't exist

18. Use of Reserve Battalion overseas and whether applicable in PNG DF

19. Reserve Battalion in PNGDF and it's use to deal with youth bulge

20. National or Compulsory Service in Asia or Africa and implications for PNG

21. How do we utilise employment opportunities in the public service and private sector and whether we have the required skills

22. How do we utilise youths in national service or compulsory service and where do they go after exit

We need research data from countries with such systems and who employs them after Compulsory Service..

Anyone interested to provide need facts and figures and Need all researchers to provide solid facts and solutions.

Hope we have good outcomes.

Wilson Thompson

12/10/2024

PRESS STATEMENT

SECURITY INCIDENT AT THE YAMBALI LANDSLIP AREA - FRIDAY 11TH OCT, 2024

I was profoundly shocked to be awakened at 5 am on Friday 11th October 2024 to learn that officers of the State Security Forces (SSF) working in the State of Emergency (SOE) Operations in Porgera/Paiela were set upon and ambushed by a group of armed gang members believed from Kipul clan near Yambali Emergency Slip Road.

These SSF officers were executing a lawful task authorised by me as SOE Controller at the time of this criminal attack. They were escorting 24 new light vehicles and six 30-seater buses for New Porgera Limited (NPL) from Mt Hagen to Porgera and were passing through the Emergency Access Route past the Mulitaka Disaster area when armed men blocked the road with rocks and felled trees and opened fire on them with high-powered automatic and semi-automatic weapons. The SSF officers were obliged to return fire in self defence against this unprovoked, vicious and criminal act.

I give praise and thanks to our Lord God Jehovah for his mercy and protection over my officers who were simply doing their duty in accordance with my explicit and lawful directions. It was truly miraculous that during the entire exchange of heavy gun fire which lasted for several minutes, not one single SSF officer was injured.

Reports reaching my office indicate that one armed criminal died in the incident and 5 others sustained serious bodily injuries. Eight SSF vehicles and one of the new NPL vehicle had sustained broken glasses. But all the 30 new vehicles for NPL were safely delivered to Porgera Mine Site. Sadly, the Heli pad and two heavy vehicles were destroyed in an act of wanton destruction which has no benefit whatsoever to anyone but which will cost the company significant loss and cost in replacement.

As SOE Controller, I am appealing to and advising the public that officers of the SSF are not here to be your enemies. We were not sent here to fight against you. We understand that it is not all of you who are engaging in criminal actions and anti-social behaviour. Anyone who is aggrieved by actions of government authority have the right seek justice in the Court of Law.

Attack on members of SSF whilst on lawful duty is a direct attack on the State and as Controller SOE, I will not permit this in any way shape or form. State agents responsible for enforcing the law will mitigate and neutralize all threats appropriately.

I will not hesitate to use greater force against any person or group who thinks they can use any excuse or grievance they have against any other person or entity as justification to resort to criminal actions. That will not help with anything and only make matters worse for all concerned. I will also ensure that such persons and parties will be hunted down to their hideouts and they will face the full force of the law.

What happened today is actually the second incident involving the same new vehicles when two weeks ago and in the same area, they were refused entry and had to be taken back to Mt Hagen.

Later on, some persons claiming to be landowners sent a letter wherein they demanded that NPL pay K500,000.00 towards the Haus Kari (for the Mulitaka disaster) before they will allow the new vehicles through. This is simple criminal extortion. NPL is not obligated in anyway to pay this money again as they have not created the Mulitaka disaster. And to add to this, NPL had already donated K500,000.00 to the Mulitaka Disaster Haus Karai.

As SOE Controller, I had strongly warned the authors of the letter against this. I had appealed to them that in true Engan custom, we must respect and treat kindly those coming to our Haus Karai with cash and kind in our hour of need. We cannot demand more money from NPL when they firstly were not involved directly or indirectly in the landslip that killed the loved ones and secondly when they had demonstrated their friendship and concern by contributing significant cash already?

While the unfortunate death of one man is truly regrettable, my officers reacted to a criminal act in self-defence. This is very much regretted however; the truth will be revealed in an independent investigation which will be conducted into this matter.

While I do not fully understand the position of the Kipul tribe in this and why they have resorted to this, I have passed on the demands and concerns of the Kipul tribe to the appropriate authorities to be assessed to see it addressed in accordance with the law.

Furthermore, I am prepared to meet with all Kipul leader to hear their concerns regarding this and other matters they care to bring up on Monday October 14, 2024. And I look forward to receiving them then.

JOSEPH T. TONDOP., DPS. QPM
Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)
Western End Divisional Commander
Special Policing Zone (SPZ) Commander &
Controller/Porgera State of Emergency 2024*PRESS STATEMENT*

*SECURITY INCIDENT AT THE YAMBALI LANDSLIP AREA - FRIDAY 11TH OCT, 2024*

I was profoundly shocked to be awakened at 5 am on Friday 11th October 2024 to learn that officers of the State Security Forces (SSF) working in the State of Emergency (SOE) Operations in Porgera/Paiela were set upon and ambushed by a group of armed gang members believed from Kipul clan near Yambali Emergency Slip Road.

These SSF officers were executing a lawful task authorised by me as SOE Controller at the time of this criminal attack. They were escorting 24 new light vehicles and six 30-seater buses for New Porgera Limited (NPL) from Mt Hagen to Porgera and were passing through the Emergency Access Route past the Mulitaka Disaster area when armed men blocked the road with rocks and felled trees and opened fire on them with high-powered automatic and semi-automatic weapons. The SSF officers were obliged to return fire in self defence against this unprovoked, vicious and criminal act.

I give praise and thanks to our Lord God Jehovah for his mercy and protection over my officers who were simply doing their duty in accordance with my explicit and lawful directions. It was truly miraculous that during the entire exchange of heavy gun fire which lasted for several minutes, not one single SSF officer was injured.

Reports reaching my office indicate that one armed criminal died in the incident and 5 others sustained serious bodily injuries. Eight SSF vehicles and one of the new NPL vehicle had sustained broken glasses. But all the 30 new vehicles for NPL were safely delivered to Porgera Mine Site. Sadly, the Heli pad and two heavy vehicles were destroyed in an act of wanton destruction which has no benefit whatsoever to anyone but which will cost the company significant loss and cost in replacement.

As SOE Controller, I am appealing to and advising the public that officers of the SSF are not here to be your enemies. We were not sent here to fight against you. We understand that it is not all of you who are engaging in criminal actions and anti-social behaviour. Anyone who is aggrieved by actions of government authority have the right seek justice in the Court of Law.

Attack on members of SSF whilst on lawful duty is a direct attack on the State and as Controller SOE, I will not permit this in any way shape or form. State agents responsible for enforcing the law will mitigate and neutralize all threats appropriately.

I will not hesitate to use greater force against any person or group who thinks they can use any excuse or grievance they have against any other person or entity as justification to resort to criminal actions. That will not help with anything and only make matters worse for all concerned. I will also ensure that such persons and parties will be hunted down to their hideouts and they will face the full force of the law.

What happened today is actually the second incident involving the same new vehicles when two weeks ago and in the same area, they were refused entry and had to be taken back to Mt Hagen.

Later on, some persons claiming to be landowners sent a letter wherein they demanded that NPL pay K500,000.00 towards the Haus Kari (for the Mulitaka disaster) before they will allow the new vehicles through. This is simple criminal extortion. NPL is not obligated in anyway to pay this money again as they have not created the Mulitaka disaster. And to add to this, NPL had already donated K500,000.00 to the Mulitaka Disaster Haus Karai.

As SOE Controller, I had strongly warned the authors of the letter against this. I had appealed to them that in true Engan custom, we must respect and treat kindly those coming to our Haus Karai with cash and kind in our hour of need. We cannot demand more money from NPL when they firstly were not involved directly or indirectly in the landslip that killed the loved ones and secondly when they had demonstrated their friendship and concern by contributing significant cash already?

While the unfortunate death of one man is truly regrettable, my officers reacted to a criminal act in self-defence. This is very much regretted however; the truth will be revealed in an independent investigation which will be conducted into this matter.

While I do not fully understand the position of the Kipul tribe in this and why they have resorted to this, I have passed on the demands and concerns of the Kipul tribe to the appropriate authorities to be assessed to see it addressed in accordance with the law.

Furthermore, I am prepared to meet with all Kipul leader to hear their concerns regarding this and other matters they care to bring up on Monday October 14, 2024. And I look forward to receiving them then.

JOSEPH T. TONDOP., DPS. QPM
Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP)
Western End Divisional Commander
Special Policing Zone (SPZ) Commander &
Controller/Porgera State of Emergency 2024

12/10/2024

PMJM is the public service oriented Prime Minister, and his interest is to serve the well being of our country. It’s important to recognize that while leadership at the highest level is vital, the effectiveness of governance also hinges on the strength of local leaders. Each elected politician has a responsibility to engage with their communities, understand their needs, and work collaboratively to find solutions.

When leaders take ownership of their roles and prioritize the well being of their people, they can significantly impact the challenges faced in their districts and provinces. Instead of shifting blame or engaging in political point scoring, we should encourage a culture of unity and open communication. This way, every leader can contribute meaningfully to the development and stability of our regions.

If our elected politicians provide strong leadership back in their districts and provinces, then there won’t be any issues. Weak leadership is often the root cause of the problems we face. We must not blame PMJM for the shortcomings of local leaders; instead, let’s hold them accountable and support them in their efforts to serve the community. By promoting a commitment to unity and collaboration, we can create a healthier environment for everyone in Enga Province and beyond.

RY

12/10/2024

James Marape is not a businessman PM neither do I have an interest in business. I have never owned a company in the entire 18 years I have been in elected office. You ask the Ombudsman and BSP and Kina bank and they will confirm that my account is never a million Kina accounts and I live off my salary. I am happy with that and don’t lose sleep over that.

For those who worked with me as my District CEOs or District Treasurers, Province PAs or Departmental heads like Education Secretaries, Finance Secretaries or Chief Secretaries know that I don’t cut corners and make illegal directions for personal gains. All my Ministers today know that I don’t direct them for personal interest or go straight to their departmental heads for personal interest and I direct them to work for the country. You ask all of them.

When I was education minister from 2008 to 2011, I delivered second change education for school leavers making Fode Pathway a real program to address school dropouts, I introduced STEM and SOE for best students, I introduced qualifications pay structure for teachers, I introduced UBE at year 8, education was the first national function to be transferred to Bougainville and technical schools became my focus including the introduction of Polytechnic colleges and IPTC in Pom Technical College.

When I was in finance I introduced local contractor priorities and the ceiling of national’s only contractors to 30m, I stopped Paraka payments, cleaned out finance of illegal payments, introduced the new procurement law, shortened the close of accounts, and reopening of account at the shortened period, I introduced electronic cash transfer at public pay offices, plus other PMFA reforms we did to stop corruption including putting whistleblowing markers in Finance Department.

As Minister from 2008 to 2018 those are a few things I have done and at every step along the way, James Marape has never balanced business and public service work, I dedicated myself full-time to the public.

Prime Minister

12/10/2024

PMJM IS A BLESSING TO OUR NATION

We should all be grateful to have a Prime Minister who consistently prioritizes the wellbeing of our citizens. It's crucial that our people do not fall prey to the misleading narratives spun by opposition spin doctors who are merely vying for power.
There is a significant spiritual battle between good and evil, and those who believe in the salvation work of our Good Lord understand what I mean. Whenever our PMJM endeavors to implement positive changes for our nation, there always seems to be an opposing challenge or obstacle in the way.
We must recognize that PMJM is a chosen leader, here with a divine purpose to fulfill his mission of ensuring a brighter future for our country. Despite the opposition and foreign powers attempting to undermine him, he has stood strong after five attempts to remove him. This resilience is a testament to his divine selection to complete his mission. PMJM’s primary concern is to see our nation achieve financial independence one day, and we must support him in this noble pursuit.

RY

10/10/2024

Selling Like Hot Cakes?

The Maseratis were purchased by the PNG government in 2018 as part of the preparations for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit that was held in the country that year.
The purchase of these luxury vehicles was a controversial decision, as it was seen by many as a wasteful expenditure, especially considering the significant infrastructure needs of the country. The government defended the purchase, arguing that it was necessary to provide a high-quality experience for the visiting dignitaries.

However, despite the initial justification, the Maseratis have proven to be a financial burden for the government. Many of the vehicles remain unsold, and the government has struggled to find a suitable use for them. The purchase has also been criticized for its potential negative impact on the country's reputation.

10/10/2024

Has Peter O'Neill declared ownership of Crowne Hotel?

Crowne Hotel or Crown Plaza Hotel as formerly known, is a premier hotel within the downtown Port Moresby.

The Crown has 153 accommodation rooms, meetings and conference facilities, bars and gaming facilities, best restaurants, etc. It is currently worth around K80million.

It is now public knowledge that new owner is none other than Hon. Peter O'Neill, former PM.

The questions are;
1. When did PO bought the hotel?
2. How much did he paid for?
3. If there are other partners, who are they and what are their shareholding structure like?
4. Is it true that PO was offered free 40% ownership of both Crowne Hotel and Madang Timber's other businesses including Fugui Restaurant at Gordens in exchange of some large Timber Permits in West Sepik, Madang, Western Province, WMBP, Oro Province and his own Pangia Forestry worth over few billions of Kina?
5. Has PO declared his interest at Ombudsman Commission? If he didn't, can OC enquire into this for public interest?
6. If PO is not willing to corporate, can ICAC question him and other shareholders including the Malaysian Businessman who owns Madang Timbers, Fugui Restaurant and the large property development near the International Convention Center, Waigani?
7. If these do not happen, can this Crowne Hotel be considered State property under the Undisclosed Wealth Act?

*_Note:
Whilst we respect PO as prominent business man, it is important for him as leader entrusted to manage our nation and it's wealth must be put to public scrutiny and subject to the laws of laws.

Such a shady deal operator must be named, shamed and exposed. He doesn't own PNG and it's wealth. He and his children must work and earn living just like rest of us.

What right does he has to sell off billions worth of our Forest resources to foreign interests?

Thank you.

10/10/2024

In 2008, when my daughter was just three, we lost her mother 💔. She stood beside me, her tiny hand in mine, as we laid her to rest 🌸.

At her grave in Irupi Village, along the Torres Strait near the sea border with Australia 🌊🇦🇺, I made a promise—a promise to care for our children and ensure they’d grow up strong and educated, just as she dreamed 🎓❤️.

That little three-year-old girl has gone beyond anything I could have imagined 🌠. She has excelled as a top student from prep through to Grade 10, through Port Moresby National School of Excellence as a proud STEM student 📚🔬. She earned her place at the University of Technology in Lae, and now, she’s embarking on a new journey to university in China 🇨🇳✨.

Just a few days ago, her mother came to me in a dream 🌙. She kissed me softly and whispered, “Thank you.” 💞

I opened my eyes, and she was gone 🕊️. But I know she’ll always be here with us, watching over, her love surrounding us like a warm embrace ❤️.

📝 Malum Nalu

Take care of your offspring.
They are innocent. Be a good parent and reap your investment in future.