A newly established white copra buying point has been opened recently in Rabaul town in East New Britain to cater for coconut farmers in the district.Located at Palatirip along the Tunnel Hill Road of Balanataman Local Level Government (LLG), the buying point will be operated by the Coconut Resource Limited (CRL), a business arm of the Kokonas Indastri Koporesen (KIK). The farm gate price per kilo is K5 for Rabaul district farmers while others will be at K4 per kilo. The subsidized price is aimed at assisting the local farmers and encourage families to venture into white copra production. Speaking during the opening of the white copra shed on September 23rd, 2025, the District Administrator Freddy Lemeki, said that the district has outsourced the operations to CRL to manage, however will continue to provide coordination and financial support. He added that the districts’ coconut plantation at Ramandu in North Baining of Gazelle district will also be producing white copra and selling at the new buying point. Lemeki further urged CRL to immediately begin with the operations and encouraged farmers to start selling their white copra. “Most of the time we launch projects or commission buildings, but we do not utilize it or sustain it, and now we must make sure that the shed is open for business.” Meanwhile, the CRL General Manager Ephraim Tade, who was also present to officiate the opening thanked the district administration for partnering with them in such vital economic projects. “We need to get quality white copra coming out of this shed and we encourage our farmers to meet all the required standards.” “We ensure that the moisture content is maintained, and all other requirements are met.” He further said that by November of this year, the district is expected to export a container and encourage farmers to continue meeting their weekly targets. Tade also mentioned that there are also plans to tap into other products using coconut water, coconut husks and coconut shells; however, more study and trainings must be done first.

The Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has confirmed that Royal Papua New Guinea (RPNGC) and Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) continue to strengthen counter-terrorism operations in the Highlands region.With a heightened security forces presence in the upper Highlands region, joint security operations have been consolidated with the appointment of Commander Anthony Wagambie Jr. as operation commander. “Protecting the innocent men, women, and children of the Highlands Region is the priority of deployed police and soldiers.” "With a significant joint security force presence building in the upper Highlands region and concurrent investigative activity, it is appropriate that on-the-ground command of this operation be supported by an experienced operational commander.” “After a period of time away from command duties, Mr Wagambie has today been commissioned to the rank of Commander and assigned to spearhead the operational command against these acts of terrorism.” “This appointment reflects Commander Wagambie's extensive policing experience.” As operation commander of the joint security response, Commander Wagambie will deliver on-the-ground command to ensure that the rule of law is respected by communities in this region. “Commander Wagambie knows what is expected of him in coordinating operations.” “Upholding the rule of law, protecting innocent communities, and bringing to justice those who have sought to hold our nation to ransom.” Meanwhile, Commissioner Manning said that the government has declared there must be zero tolerance in dealing with those who terrorise our communities, and our security forces are meeting this objective. Further details on this ongoing operation will be provided at an appropriate time.

The Rabaul District Administration has recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the East New Britain Savings & Loans (ENBSL) for the districts’ micro- finance credit facility program.The credit facility creation is a strategic development program aimed to provide financial assistance to local SMES and support women and youth entrepreneurship at the community level. This program initiated by the district commerce sector was allocated K500, 000 under the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) funding with K450, 000 for the micro credit facility creation and K50, 000 for the administration of the program. The MOA outlines the conditions & terms of the agreement and how ENBSL is expected to rollout the program. There are three loan categories which includes, K500-K1000 range, K1001-K3000, and K3001-K5000. Requirements for SME’s include business plan and cash flow, 30% equity, technical certificate (TVET/Financial Literacy certificate), K50 (Local Level Government (LLG) registration, Ward Development Committee recommendation and Respective LLG Manager with LLG Business Development Officer endorsement.For the second & third category, meeting minutes for SME groups and Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) registration is required. Speaking during the signing of the MOA at the districts’ headquarter this week was the Manager- Member Service & Branch Support Lopa Alua who thanked the Rabaul District Development Authority (DDA) and the district administration for having the trust in ENBSL and partnering with them. “This is our first shared commitment in fostering financial empowerment to our people at the ward levels in Rabaul district and we aim to provide full banking services to our economically challenged individuals, farmers, SMEs, etc. to help their business grow and improve livelihoods.” Meantime, Rabaul district Administrator Freddy Lemeki thanked ENBSL for the partnership and said the credit facility program will enable SME’s, women’s and youths who lack proper financial assistance expand their growth. He further urged those who were willing to apply to meet all the requirements and encouraged them to have a business operation plan in place to sustain their SMEs. Public servants and registered businesses/companies are not allowed to apply for the micro-credit facility program.

The Rabaul District Administration officially opened two new police duplexes this week at the Kurakakaul barracks, located at the district headquarters along the North Coast Road in East New Britain province. The new accommodation aims to address the critical issue of inadequate housing for local police personnel.The two three-bedroom duplexes were successfully completed last month by Paveks Construction Limited and Last-Born Enterprise Limited at a total cost of over K1.2 million, which included fencing works. The project was co-funded under the District Infrastructure and Law and Order program through the Provincial Services Improvement Programs (PSIP) and District Services Improvement Programs (DSIP).Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, District Administrator Freddy Lemeki highlighted the project's timely nature.“This is a timely project as our police personnel are being faced with inadequate housing and other related accommodation issues affecting their overall welfare.”He added that the duplexes will provide a much-needed home for officers and their families, which in turn will enhance their performance for effective policing.The new buildings will complement the existing police staff house, which currently accommodates the Rabaul Police Station Commander. Mr. Lemeki also urged families and nearby communities to be responsible and look after the new buildings.Meanwhile, Rabaul Police Station Commander Chief Sergeant John Hapot, who also witnessed the ceremony, thanked the district social sector and administration for their continuous support.“With the recent rise in law-and-order issues in Rabaul and nearby villages, the project will help beef up our manpower by immediately responding to issues in the nearby communities.”The completion of the two duplexes is part of a broader effort to improve the district's law and order infrastructure. Moreover, they will stand alongside the newly refurbished district courthouse and the Seif Haus, both located at the Kurakakaul district headquarters.The administration also announced plans to build similar police duplexes in the future to cater for more police officers.

Students of St Mary Star of the Sea Primary School in Balanataman Local Level Government (LLG) in Rabaul District, East New Britain (ENB) province, can now access a better learning environment with the opening of their newly constructed four-in-one classroom.During its official opening on September 23rd, Rabaul District Administrator Mr. Freddy Lemeki, said the building was funded through the District Services Improvement Program at a cost of K450, 000.“St Mary Star of the Sea Primary School has its own humble story to tell being that one of its classroom and teacher’s house were built from community-driven efforts alone with minimal government support.”Mr. Lemeki said the school located along Rapolo Tavana accommodates a growing number of student population and is in need of additional school infrastructure therefore the Rabaul District Development Authority (RDDA) resolved to support the school with infrastructure and enhance academic learning.The construction of the classroom was done by contractor 89 Consultancy & Engineering.Meanwhile, Senior Professional Assistant for Primary Schools with the Provincial Division of Education, Mr. Kilala Wartovo commended the RDDA for prioritizing education infrastructure.He commended the school from progressing from elementary to primary school status and recently graduated its pioneer Grade 8s who performed exceptionally well.“The Education Division is trying its best to bring education services closer to the people and such initiatives by districts help us to achieve this.”The Education Division is working tirelessly to have three junior high schools by next year in ENB.Furthermore, Mr. Wartovo said the St Mary Star of the Sea has the potential to become a junior high school in 2027 due to influx of students from the area and nearby wards facing issues commuting daily to Kokopo Secondary School.

The Rabaul District Administration has launched a total of ten Rural Service Delivery Projects (RSDP) on September 22. These projects include four ward halls, a women’s resource centre and five water catchment areas in the Balanataman Local Level Government (LLG). The Rural Service Delivery projects launched were Raluan No.2 Ward Hall, Malaguna No.3 Women’s Resource Centre, Malaguna No.2 Ward Hall and Nonga village Ward Hall. Water catchment project areas included Raluan No.1 Ward, Malaguna No.3 Ward, Tavui 1 & 2 Wards and Iawakaka Ward. Speaking during the closing of these projects launching yesterday at Iawakaka ward was RSDP Coordinator Mr. Paul Kapa, who explained that Balanataman LLG of Rabaul district was selected to pilot the program. “This RSDP program is world bank funded and looks at community driven projects that can benefit communities; and it complements the provincial administrations’ focus on ward governance.” He further announced that Rabaul is the first district to have completed all its 12 RSDP projects and added that for Volavolo and Ratavul ward halls, the launching will be on a later date due to on-going law and order issues. The RSDP Coordinator commended the wards for meeting all the compliance requirements and handed over the certificate of completion and audit reports. Meantime, Rabaul District Administrator Freddy Lemeki, commended the RSDP and the district team in ensuring that all projects met compliance requirements and was completed on time. He said that most of these wards have been without proper ward halls and water catchments for a long time and added that these projects also fulfil some of the ward minimum standards that are required by the government. Lemeki further encouraged wards to look after the newly launched projects and urged communities to take ownership of each project by having their operation and maintenance plans in place.

Kessy Sawang MP, Minister for Labour and Employment and Member for Rai Coast Open, has expressed her deepest condolences on the passing of Luther Wenge MP, Governor of Morobe Province. Sawang said he was a leader of principle and courage who served Papua New Guinea (PNG) with distinction in two arms of government, as a Member of Parliament and as an Acting Judge of the National Court. “He was one of the few leaders in our nation’s history who made profound contributions not only to the creation of our laws but also to their interpretation and application.” As a trained lawyer and magistrate, he brought exceptional legal insight to public service, ensuring that legislation served the people fairly and justly. Sawang also expressed that Governor Wenge’s fearless advocacy in the courts and principled leadership in Parliament reflected a deep commitment to justice, democracy, and the rule of law, leaving a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire future generations of Papua New Guinean leaders. In Parliament, he was a colorful orator whose voice and convictions commanded attention and respect. “As a three-term Governor of Morobe, the largest province in PNG, he carried great responsibility and served his people with dedication and distinction.” “His lifelong commitment to justice, democracy, and the wellbeing of our people has left an enduring legacy.” “His passing, so close to our 50th Independence anniversary, is a great loss not only to Morobe but to the country as a whole.” “On behalf of the people of Rai Coast, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and the people of Morobe Province.” “May his legacy continue to inspire us and may his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Air Niugini has advised all valued customers that in view of Super Typhoon Ragasa’s expected adverse impact on Hong Kong later this week, the airline regrets to inform that flights PX 008 and PX 019, scheduled for Wednesday September 24, have been cancelled. Passengers who hold bookings on these flights will be given the option to either rebook on a later date at no extra charge or receive a full refund. At present, Super Typhoon Ragasa is located east of Luzon in the northern Philippines, having developed from a tropical disturbance on September 17, 2025. It is forecast to track west-northwest into the South China Sea before affecting Hong Kong mid-week. Air Niugini apologizes for any inconvenience and has thanked everyone for their understanding as safety remains their foremost priority. For further details on rebooking and refunds, can get in touch with Air Niugini’s Commercial Service Centre on email, csc@airniugini.com.pg Air Niugini will continue to monitor the weather situation closely in coordination with the relevant authorities and provide further updates as necessary.

The East New Britain (ENB) Governor's Softball Tournament, sponsored by Governor Michael Marum, ended on a high note on Wednesday, September 17, at Queen Elizabeth Park in Rabaul town. The tournament, which coincided with Papua New Guinea's (PNG) 50th Independence Anniversary and the 31st Anniversary of the Twin Volcanic Eruption, featured exciting matches in both the men's and women's divisions. Men's Division Results: • Diamond 1: Ivarak Gold defeated Gazelle 8-5 • Diamond 2: Kikila Cats defeated Victims-94 7-4 The final standings for the men's division were: • 1st Place: Ivarak Gold - K2,000 • 2nd Place: Gazelle - K1,000 • 3rd Place: Kikila Cats - K500 • 4th Place: Victims-94 - K250 Women's Division Results • Diamond 1: Mini Chiefs defeated Gazelle 18-6 • Diamond 2: Victims-94 defeated Tarangau 10-7 The final standings for the women's division were: • 1st Place: Mini Chiefs - K2,000 • 2nd Place: Gazelle - K1,000 • 3rd Place: Victims-94 - K500 • 4th Place: Tarangau - K250 Local company Gugu Hire Cars & Construction Limited proudly sponsored the prize money for the winners. Tournament Director Mr. Dickson Kondaul, said the tournament was a success, showcasing the skills and sportsmanship of the participating teams. He also expressed gratitude to Governor Marum for his support. “His support has enabled us to bring together talented softball players from across the province promoting healthy competition and community engagement.” “The Rabaul Softball Association also appreciate the generous support of Gugu Hire Cars & Construction Ltd, who kindly sponsored the prize money for our winners.” “Their contribution has made this tournament even more special, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in future events.”

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) is continuing to improve the lives of Papua New Guineans through its Infrastructure Tax Credit (ITCS) Scheme. Working in partnership with the government, these projects will now enable people to have easy and fast access to basic goods and services that have been lacking. Speaking at the official opening of the Tabubil Telefomin road, Ok Tedi Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit, said Ok Tedi is 100% PNG Owned company and will continue to deliver infrastructure development to Papua New Guinea in the coming years. Prime Minister James Marape officially attended the opening and also launched the Telefomin-Oksapmin- Kopiago road construction with a ground-breaking ceremony and unveiled the Telefomin town masterplan. The 75-kilometer Tabubil-Telefomin road was delivered at a cost of K267 million under the Government’s Connect PNG program in partnership with Ok Tedi through its Tax Credit Scheme serves as a critical link connecting Telefomin to Tabubil. Telefomin will be further linked to other parts of the country with more upcoming planned road developments in the area, including the Telefomin to Hela Road and Telefomin to Vanimo roads. Mr. Ilimbit said this road is expected to transform the lives of the locals, providing them with better access to cheaper goods and services that foster social and economic growth. “I used to walk days to attend school here at the Telefomin Secondary School years ago." "Today kids from our nearby Min communities can travel to school easily by road, the people will have access to markets, there will be further basic services improvements including education and health and generally an improved standard of living for the Min people.” “That is a dream come true for all the locals here and a very momentous occasion in our history.” Mr. Ilimbit acknowledged everyone who contributed to the delivery of this infrastructure especially the contractors who led the construction of this road and commended the government for its support towards TCS funded projects in the country. “Although Ok Tedi is commended for being the major player in this infrastructure development, without government support, Ok Tedi would not have been able to deliver the project anyway." “Therefore, on behalf of the local Min people, thank you to the current Member for Telefomin and Works Minister Solan Mirism as well as Prime Minister James Marape and the PNG government for this milestone infrastructure delivery.” Since 1997 Ok Tedi has contributed PGK948.7 million towards development in Western province and Telefomin (West Sepik) in various sectors such as health, education, law and justice, and transport. Ok Tedi’s support to projects in Western Province and Telefomin District is delivered through its Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme program, Ok Tedi Development Foundation and in partnership with various development partners. Ok Tedi is 100% PNG owned and is proud to have grown with the nation while remaining committed to supporting and contributing to nation-building in the next fifty years.

Prime Minister James Marape has announced bold reforms to harness Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive efficiency, accountability, and fairness in Government decision-making as Papua New Guinea (PNG) begins its next fifty years of nationhood. Reflecting on his message at Independence Hill during the 50th Anniversary celebrations, Prime Minister Marape said his government is committed to eliminating nepotism, corruption, and favouritism from public institutions by embedding AI into the core of governance. “The Marape-Rosso Government, under Pangu’s leadership, is looking at Artificial Intelligence as a platform to build a merit-based society.” “A meritocracy means appointments, contracts, and government decisions are made on ability and qualification, not on tribe, family ties, or favouritism.” “This is the legacy I want to leave behind.” The Prime Minister revealed that the government is already engaging with international partners such as the Queensland University of Technology and Israeli experts to design an AI-powered ICT system. He outlined four key areas where AI will be introduced at the earliest. The first area is Public Service Appointments – Applications for senior public service roles will be managed through an AI platform, which will select the most qualified candidate based on merit. “I don’t care where you come from, what religion you practice, or what orientation you hold. If you have the best qualifications and experience for the job, you will get the job.” The second area is Public Procurement – Government tenders and contracts will be handled through an ICT system that removes personal preferences. AI will rank contractors objectively, ensuring transparency and fairness. “We want to eliminate human interference. A tender will go out, and the system will pick the best contractor based on qualifications and not on who you know.” Third is Government Policy Submissions – All submissions to Cabinet will be received through a single ICT portal monitored by AI. Only those aligned with the Constitution and national development priorities will progress. “Too often, good submissions are delayed because someone demands a favour, while bad submissions slip through.” “With AI, we will have a national filter to ensure only policies in the national interest reach Government.” The fourth and final area is Cyber and Crime Reporting Platform – A national ICT-based Police Station will allow citizens to lodge complaints, from corruption to domestic violence. AI will link cases to the justice system, ensuring accountability and visibility across all levels. “Whether it is corruption, theft, or violence, every complaint will be visible to the Police Minister, Commissioner, and government.” “No case will be hidden.” In addition, PM Marape said these reforms are part of his Government’s Jubilee commitment to Reset Governance for the future. “Technology is here to be used. In the next two years, we will mature these reforms so that by 2027, AI and ICT fuel efficiency, transparency, and accountability in our country.” “This will be our 50th Anniversary legacy.” He added that AI will help overcome the negative aspects of the “Wantok” system, which, while valuable for community life, has undermined governance when applied to public service. “The Wantok System has its good side, but in government, it breeds inefficiency and corruption.” “We must tidy this space so that our children inherit a system where merit and fairness prevail.” Furthermore, the Prime Minister concluded by assuring the nation that these innovations will anchor PNG’s journey to economic independence. “The 1975 generation gave us political independence. My generation must deliver economic independence.” “ICT and AI will be our tools to fight corruption, strengthen governance, and build a truly merit-based Papua New Guinea.”

Air Niugini has advised that flight PX205, operated by a Dash 8 aircraft (P2-ANP), from Rabaul to Port Moresby experienced a technical issue with the aircraft’s nose landing gear door this evening, Sunday 21st September, at approximately 6:23pm. In line with the airline’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), the pilots and crew safely managed the situation and carried out an emergency landing in Port Moresby. The aircraft landed safely and as a precaution, was later towed to the parking bay. Also, as part of precautionary measures, emergency services, including fire trucks and an ambulance, were on standby prior to landing and throughout this period. Air Niugini confirmed that all 46 passengers and three crew members on board are safe, with no injuries sustained. "We sincerely acknowledge the concern this incident may have caused to our passengers and their families and thank everyone for their patience and understanding." Air Niugini also stated that the safety of their passengers and crew remains their highest priority.