Minister for Police and Internal Security Sir John Pundari has outlined seven key national security priorities that will guide policing and public safety efforts as Papua New Guinea prepares for the 2027 National General Election and responds to emerging challenges facing the country.Speaking during a media conference at the Parliament Haus State Function Room on Thursday, August 6, Sir John addressed seven significant matters concerning national security and the future direction of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.The priorities include the National Firearms Amnesty, election security, Pacific policing cooperation, El Niño preparedness, police performance, provincial police accountability and efforts to move Papua New Guinea beyond the Financial Action Task Force grey list.Firearms AmnestySir John said the National Firearms Amnesty and Gun Buy Back Program remains one of the Government’s major priorities, with the amnesty period running from February 28 to September 16, 2026.He said the program allows people to surrender illegal firearms without arrest while supporting efforts to reduce illegal weapons through intelligence-led operations, community engagement, weapons tracing and prosecution.The Minister called on all levels of government, churches, businesses, non-government organisations and citizens to take responsibility in addressing the threat posed by illegal firearms.“I make a call across this nation that everyone must rise up and make it your business to say we have had enough of illegal guns because it is a beautiful country and it is a blessed country.”“It is a time that all of us make peace and order in this country our number one priority.”Sir John said removing illegal firearms from communities is a shared responsibility and requires cooperation from all sectors of society.2027 National General Election SecurityLinking the firearms issue to the upcoming election, Sir John said the RPNGC will lead security operations to ensure the 2027 National General Election is conducted in a safe, fair and credible environment.He said police will work to maintain public confidence, protect the electoral process, prevent criminal activities, counter misinformation and work closely with community leaders, churches and youth groups to promote peace.The Minister warned that candidates or individuals who attempt to use firearms to influence the election process must face the consequences.“Sitting members wishing to contest the 2027 elections who rely on the barrel of a gun are unworthy and should consider themselves criminals.”Pacific Policing PartnershipSir John said Papua New Guinea will continue strengthening its policing partnerships with Pacific nations as the country prepares for the 2027 National General Election.He said regional cooperation will play an important role in supporting election security, with Pacific partners ready to assist PNG during this important national event.“When Papua New Guinea goes into election, our brothers will help us.”He said an estimated 300 regional security personnel could support election security operations.Sir John said PNG’s involvement in the Pacific Policing Initiative and its election to the INTERPOL Asia Regional Committee demonstrates the country’s commitment to strengthening regional law enforcement cooperation.He said these partnerships will also support efforts to address transnational crime across the Pacific.El Niño PreparednessThe Minister warned that Papua New Guinea could be facing one of its most serious El Niño weather events and urged communities to prepare for possible impacts.He said possible consequences include prolonged drought, delayed wet seasons, water shortages, power rationing, increased bushfires, food insecurity and social tensions.Sir John said police are working with the PNG Defence Force, disaster authorities, provincial governments and regional partners to prepare for emergency responses.He called for unity and cooperation across the country during challenging conditions.“Right around this country, we must show the true Melanesian culture. The water that runs throughout the country is not owned by the landowner; it is owned by the State and belongs to every Papua New Guinean.”Police Performance ReportSir John also provided an update on police performance and reforms, saying the Government’s law and order priorities are becoming more aligned with the operational direction of Police Commissioner David Manning.He said ongoing reforms are focused on increasing police numbers, improving investigations and prosecutions, strengthening accountability, expanding forensic capability, modernising infrastructure and supporting Provincial Police Commands.The Minister said continued investment in the Constabulary is necessary to ensure police are equipped to meet future national security challenges.Provincial Police Commander AccountabilitySir John called for stronger performance and accountability from Provincial Police Commanders and senior police leaders.He said Government investment in policing must be matched by effective leadership and delivery of services at the provincial level.The Minister expressed confidence in Commissioner David Manning and his deputies to address underperformance and ensure police commanders remain focused on serving communities.Moving Beyond FATF Grey ListingSir John said removing Papua New Guinea from the Financial Action Task Force grey list remains a key national priority.He said addressing the issue requires cooperation between law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, government departments and regulators.The Minister said financial institutions must strengthen reporting of suspicious transactions so authorities can investigate, freeze and confiscate proceeds linked to criminal activity.He warned that organisations failing to meet their legal responsibilities could face prosecution.Sir John said the Government remains committed to strengthening PNG’s financial integrity and working with stakeholders to remove the country from the FATF grey list.

Western Highlands Province (WHP) is set to become the first province to host the Miss Bird of Paradise (MBoP) Papua New Guinea National Pageant under a newly introduced provincial hosting model announced by the organization.Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Chairlady Anna Bias said future national pageants will no longer be held at a fixed location but will rotate annually to the home province of the reigning Miss Bird of Paradise PNG.Western Highlands, home of reigning queen Iampela Popena, will host the 2026 National Pageant Week from November 22nd to December 3rd, culminating in the national crowning on December 3rd.According to Ms. Bias, the decision is aimed at creating opportunities for provinces while promoting tourism, culture, and local economic development.“Instead, the honour of hosting the National Pageant will rotate annually to the province of the reigning Miss Bird of Paradise PNG.”“This strategic decision is about much more than changing a venue. It is about creating opportunities for our provinces.”“It is about boosting local tourism. It is about stimulating provincial economies.”“It is about showcasing the rich cultures, traditions, arts and hospitality that make Papua New Guinea one of the world’s most culturally diverse nations.”She said the pageant has grown into a national movement since its establishment in September 2023, promoting leadership, creativity, culture, opportunity, and inclusion among young Papua New Guineans.“Miss Bird of Paradise has never been simply about crowning a queen.”“It is about discovering potential, creating opportunities, building confidence, nurturing leadership and inspiring young people.”The organization has intentionally continued crowning its national queen on December 3rd each year to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reflecting its commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities.“Our crown has always represented more than beauty. It represents service. It represents inclusion. It represents hope. It represents opportunity,” Ms. Bias added.The official announcement was made during the launch of the countdown to the inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise Talent and Fashion Show, which will be held at APEC Haus in Port Moresby on Saturday, August 8th.

Fifteen contestants will compete in the inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise (MBoP) Talent and Fashion Show at APEC Haus in Port Moresby this Saturday, August 9th, as organizers launch a new platform to promote Papua New Guinea's creative industry ahead of the 2026 Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant.The event comes ahead of the fourth Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant, which will be held in Western Highlands Province from November 22nd to December 6th.Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Chairlady Anna Bias said the Talent and Fashion Show was created to provide opportunities for Papua New Guinea's creatives, including fashion designers, sarong designers, dancers, choreographers, models, photographers, artists and musicians."There is a lot of creativity in this country. The problem is opportunity. What we are here to do is provide a pathway for them and bring in those talents," Ms. Bias said.Held under the theme "Where Creativity Creates Opportunity," the event forms part of the organization's long-term vision to strengthen Papua New Guinea's creative industry by turning talent into employment and business opportunities.Ms. Bias said Papua New Guinea should embrace its own cultural identity rather than imitate overseas trends."We have so much to offer. When we try to be like other countries, we can't compete with them. But when we use our culture and stories in garments, plays and all these creative expressions, it sets us apart and lifts us up. That's what we want to do with the creative industry in PNG," she said.She said many Papua New Guineans involved in traditional creative arts possess exceptional talent despite having little or no formal education."Most of the talents doing traditional creative work may have little or no formal education, but it's their talent and skill that they have to offer and contribute to the development of this country."Ms. Bias said the creative industry should be recognised as an economic driver, noting it generates billions of dollars globally and employs millions of people."Our challenge has never been talent. Our challenge has been opportunity."The MBoP Talent and Fashion Show seeks to bridge that gap by providing a national platform where creativity meets opportunity, where talent becomes enterprise, where ideas become businesses, where culture becomes tourism, and where passion becomes purpose."The inaugural competition will feature three categories: Talent, Sarong Design and Traditionally Inspired Dress.The Talent and Sarong Design categories will each award K7,000 for first place, K5,000 for second and K3,000 for third, with K1,000 consolation prizes for the remaining finalists. The Traditionally Inspired Dress winner will receive K10,000.Ms. Bias acknowledged Platinum Sponsor LJ Hooker Papua New Guinea, the National Youth Development Authority and other corporate partners for supporting the event. She also invited Papua New Guineans, including those living overseas, to watch the competition live on the official Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Facebook page."Together, let us focus on building our people because our people will build Papua New Guinea," she said.

Hela Province has become the first province in Papua New Guinea to develop a strategic plan to prepare for the impacts of the developing El Niño weather pattern.In an interview with Hela Provincial Administrator Ronny Angu following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Hela Provincial Government, the PNG Fire Service and the National Airports Corporation to keep Tari Airport and the new Tari Town fire safe.Mr. Angu said the province moved quickly after Prime Minister James Marape directed all provinces and districts to prepare for a possible, prolonged dry season."We have the El Niño program which is affecting the province and, under the leadership of the Governor, we are the first province in the country to plan for it. We also have the strategic plan that is now being implemented."He said the Provincial Executive Council approved the strategy just one week after the Prime Minister's directive."One week after the decision, under the leadership of Governor Philip Undialu, we held a PEC meeting, passed the resolution and the first thing we had to do was develop the strategic plan."The plan covers 2026 and 2027 and will be implemented in three stages, beginning with preparedness.Mr. Angu said the province has already begun purchasing water trucks, water tanks, cement bags, and plumbing materials to support vulnerable communities."We are currently supplying schools with water tanks and plumbing fittings, while water trucks are travelling around the province helping schools, churches and other critical infrastructure."He said the strategy also provides a framework for government agencies and development partners to identify where support is most needed."When we have a strategic plan, the plan tells us who should come in to support because this is a nationwide issue."Mr. Angu said the newly signed agreement with the PNG Fire Service and National Airports Corporation would further strengthen the province's disaster preparedness, particularly in protecting critical infrastructure."If fire catches one of these important infrastructures, we are in trouble. This MOU signed by the Governor will help us moving forward."He said the Provincial Government and District Development Authorities will lead implementation through disaster committees, with support from resource companies operating in Hela."We are not going to wait. That's the way we want to go."The Hela Provincial Government says the strategy is designed to improve the province's readiness and response as El Niño conditions continue to develop across Papua New Guinea.

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) has launched its Governance Committee Charter and Terms of Reference, introducing a governance framework to strengthen accountability, transparency and decision making across the organisation.The charter was launched at the City Boutique Hotel in Port Moresby by Deputy Secretary for Compliance and Standards Dr. Dora Lenturut, representing Health Secretary Pascoe Kase. Approved by the NCDPHA Board, it is the first major policy launched under Chief Executive Officer Dr. Robin Oge and supports the authority's vision of "Healthy people, thriving communities in the NCD and Motu Koita areas."Dr. Oge said the charter establishes a clear system for decision making, assigning responsibilities and managing risks as NCDPHA continues to grow."The purpose is to give a clear and consistent system. Part of management's responsibility is to create a system for us in making decisions, managing risks, assigning clear responsibility and ownership of those decisions, and then holding those who have that responsibility accountable for the results, whether it's success or failure."He said the document removes uncertainty around committee responsibilities and reporting lines."We must know who is responsible for what, which committee should consider an issue, how recommendations should reach the senior executive management, and how those decisions must be recorded, communicated and implemented."The framework covers clinical services, public health, corporate services, finance, audit, risk management and partnerships while outlining reporting structures and governance procedures.Dr. Oge urged managers to put the charter into practice."Good governance does not simply mean having more meetings. It means that the right people are considering the right issues with the right information and then making the right and timely decisions that are followed through."He also announced that NCDPHA had secured its Health Services Improvement Program (HSIP) Trust Account after several years of work."We've been fighting for this account for the last three or four years, and we finally got it two weeks ago."He said the new HSIP Finance Committee will oversee the management of those funds and reminded staff that the document would only succeed if it is implemented."I expect all of you to read it, understand it and apply it."Dr. Oge said while patients may have never read the governance charter, they would benefit from the systems it creates."Our patients will never read this book, but they will experience the results that come out from the systems and processes embedded in this book."Dr. Lenturut described the charter as a living document that will guide NCDPHA for years to come."One thing I noticed when I picked up this book is that it has no time frame. It is a living document."She said effective healthcare depends on strong corporate, clinical and public health governance and reminded staff that leadership exists at every level of the organization."It doesn't mean that if the officer in charge is not there, there is no leadership. Each of us is a leader in our own right."The governance charter is expected to strengthen leadership, accountability and decision making across NCDPHA while supporting improved healthcare services for people in the National Capital District and the Motu Koita Assembly areas.

Marriott International stated that Papua New Guinea has all the right ingredients for the Sheraton brand to succeed, following the soft opening of Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites.Speaking at the launching, Vice President of Development for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Richard Crawford, described the new Sheraton Port Moresby Stanley Hotel & Suites as “the meeting place for PNG.”The hotel marks a four-year dialogue between Marriott International and RH Group, to bring the Sheraton brand to Papua New Guinea.In his opening address, Mr. Crawford spoke about Marriott International’s global vision and the company’s position as the world’s largest hotel group before turning his attention to the significance of the Sheraton brand.He described Sheraton as one of Marriott International’s loyal brands and said PNG’s time had come to join the global network.“Now it is Papua New Guinea’s turn to raise the Sheraton flag,” Mr. Crawford said, explaining that the brand was selected for what it represents.“Why we chose Sheraton is because it brings people together.”Mr. Crawford said the reimagined hotel was designed to become more than a place for visitors to stay.“This is your hotel. This is for the locals, a place to unite, to celebrate, to have fun, to work.”RH Group’s redevelopment reflects the Sheraton brand, highlighting the hotel’s public spaces, club lounge, recreational facilities, nearly 400 guest rooms, dining venues and Papua New Guinea’s largest ballroom.“Dining venues and the biggest ballroom in PNG. This is about connectivity. It is about bringing people together,” Mr. Crawford noted. “This is the meeting place for PNG. In that, I see some ingredients that are very important for success.”Mr. Crawford also addressed the challenges of delivering large hospitality developments.“We used to celebrate hotel signings. Now we only celebrate hotel openings. There is a reason for that.”“To go from vision to opening is very, very difficult. Construction costs are high. Supply chains are challenged. RH Group got it done when other people could not.”He further stated that the opening was being celebrated because of RH Group’s commitment to delivering the project.Under the partnership agreement, RH Group retains full ownership while Marriott International manages its daily operations under the Sheraton brand.“RH Group continue to own this asset. They continue to own the business. They are just throwing us the keys and saying, ‘Please run this asset for us now’- and our message to you is we will not let you down.”In conclusion, Mr. Crawford thanked the Papua New Guinea government for its leadership and congratulated General Manager Shin Ching and the hotel staff.“Every great hotel needs a great general manager. To Shin Ching, good luck, my friend. Congratulations on what you've done so far.”He further acknowledged team members who had been with the hotel since it first opened in 2016 and the new staff joining the Sheraton brand, wishing them success as the hotel begins its next chapter.

Outgoing Civil Aviation Minister Hon. Wake Goi, MP, has handed over the aviation portfolio after 14 months in office, challenging incoming Minister Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa, MP, to continue reforms that have strengthened aviation safety, expanded infrastructure and improved rural air connectivity across Papua New Guinea.Speaking during the official handover ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, Goi thanked ministry staff, aviation agencies, board members and industry stakeholders for supporting the sector's progress."I must thank my first secretary, my chairman, deputy chairman and board members. Your presence today shows the commitment you have given me and the work we have done together," Goi said.During his tenure, Papua New Guinea recorded significant improvements in international aviation performance. The country's ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme Effective Implementation score increased from 60.7 percent to 80.55 percent, while its aviation security audit score rose from 35.67 percent to 62.95 percent. Papua New Guinea also cleared all previously identified Significant Security Concerns."These improvements are not simply statistics. They represent stronger regulatory oversight, greater compliance, improved aviation security and increased confidence in Papua New Guinea's aviation system," Goi said.He said the ministry also maintained a strong focus on infrastructure, including the K3.32 billion Port Moresby International Airport Redevelopment Project, rehabilitation works at Kagamuga Airport and upgrades at Kiunga, Hoskins, Wewak, Finschhafen, Jacquinot Bay and Hayfield airports.Goi said rural airstrips remained vital to connecting isolated communities, with 21 rehabilitation projects completed during his time in office."Our rural airstrips are lifelines. For many of our people, particularly in remote areas, an airstrip is not a luxury. It is the only practical connection to health, education, markets, government services, and emergency assistance," he said.He urged the new minister to maintain the momentum."We have to make sure the work continues. The projects we have started must not stop. They must continue for the benefit of our people and for the future of this country," Goi said.The outgoing minister also acknowledged the contributions of aviation workers across the country."I want to thank everyone who made things happen. From our airport workers, our security, our cleaners and everyone who works behind the scenes, you have helped make this sector move forward."He said maintaining high safety standards must remain the sector's priority."Safety must always be there for us. We must continue to maintain it and continue to improve."Goi formally welcomed Tomuriesa as the new Civil Aviation Minister, expressing confidence that the reforms already underway would continue."I formally hand over the Ministry and the work now underway with confidence that the incoming Minister will build upon the progress achieved."Tomuriesa assumes the Civil Aviation portfolio following the July 2026 Cabinet reshuffle, while Goi moves to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

A new educational boardwalk through one of Papua New Guinea's richest mangrove ecosystems has officially opened at Bautama in Central Province Today July 29th, creating a space where visitors, students and local communities can learn about conservation while experiencing nature firsthand.The Bautama Mangrove Educational Boardwalk is a joint initiative between the Central Papua Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and The Nature Conservancy (TNC). The project aims to protect the mangrove ecosystem while promoting environmental education, recreation, and community engagement.Speaking during the launch, Central Papua Conference President Pastor Lonol Winnie described mangroves as one of nature's greatest gifts."Mangroves are amongst God's greatest gifts to humanity. They protect our coastlines from erosion, provide breeding grounds for fish and marine life, improve water quality, and help reduce the effects of climate change," he said.He said protecting the environment is a responsibility shared by everyone."As caretakers of God's creation, we have a sacred responsibility to preserve these natural treasures for future generations."Pastor Winnie said the boardwalk has been designed as an outdoor classroom where students can learn directly from nature while encouraging visitors to appreciate the importance of environmental stewardship."It is our hope that everyone who walks these paths will leave with a deeper appreciation of God's creation and a stronger commitment to protecting it."He said the project is only the beginning, with plans to eventually expand the boardwalk to approximately three kilometres, transforming the site into a major conservation, tourism and educational destination for Central Province and Papua New Guinea.Pastor Winnie also acknowledged the support of The Nature Conservancy, the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), traditional landowners, development partners, volunteers and church members who helped make the project possible.Representing The Nature Conservancy, Asia Regional Director Will McGoldrick described the project as years in the making."It is a real pleasure to be here today to launch this very special project that has taken years to develop."Mr. McGoldrick said Bautama's mangrove forest is globally significant because Papua New Guinea is home to some of the world's highest mangrove diversity."What we are about to see is a really special place. A mangrove forest is unique and incredibly important, and it is remarkable that it exists so close to Port Moresby."He said Papua New Guinea contains around half of the world's mangrove species, making sites such as Bautama internationally important."These 27 hectares of mangroves are a reminder that nature is still here with us."Mr. McGoldrick also reflected on his personal connection with Papua New Guinea, saying his childhood memories of the country were shaped by its natural environment and that returning for the launch made the occasion especially meaningful.The launch also included the opening of a new resource centre, the unveiling of Blue Carbon ecosystem information signage, the official opening of the boardwalk, and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.Representatives from the Central Provincial Government and the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority attended the event.

The suspended Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) recruitment training program is expected to resume as early as September, says the new Defence Minister Elias Kapavore.Minister Kapavore announced the recruitment update during his welcome parade at the Murray Barracks today in Port Moresby, saying that addressing recruitment remains one of the most pressing issues facing the Defence Force.He said the recruitment process must continue to ensure the PNGDF can train, grow and develop its personnel in line with Government direction.“I am pleased to advise that the suspended recruitment training for this year is expected to resume as early as September,” Minister Kapavore said.However, he said the resumption remains subject to the completion of necessary administrative processes, including removing recruits who are considered unfit to continue.“Once these matters are resolved. We will move forward and ensure that the recruitment and training continuum remains active and effective,” he said.The Defence Minister said strengthening recruitment is part of the broader goal of growing the PNGDF to 10,000 personnel by 2030.He added that reforms, including reviews of the Defence Act, Defence White Paper and Defence Doctrine, will help guide the future growth, modernization and capability development of the organization.

The new Defence Minister, Elias Kapavore, officially assumed office today, July 28th after being received by a ceremonial welcome parade at the Murray Barracks in Port Moresby, hosted by Commander of PNGDF- Rear Admiral Philip Polewara.Addressing officers, soldiers and invited guests, he said he accepted the responsibility with humility and determination, promising to work closely with the Defence Force, the Department of Defence and international partners."This appointment comes at a significant moment in our nation's history. We have now crossed into the next 50 years of this great institution, and together we can chart a clear path for the future," he said.Minister Kapavore reaffirmed the Government's commitment to ongoing defence reforms, saying improvements in governance, operational effectiveness, and institutional capacity would remain a priority.He also acknowledged the contribution of former Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph, particularly in advancing the Mutual Defence Treaty and strengthening Papua New Guinea's defence partnerships.The Minister reaffirmed Papua New Guinea's commitment to maintaining strong defence ties with Australia, New Zealand, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Japan, Indonesia, China and other partner nations.He said the recently signed Statement of Intent on Defence Cooperation with New Zealand must now be translated into practical outcomes through joint training, maritime surveillance and defence cooperation.Minister Kapavore also praised PNGDF personnel serving across the country, including troops supporting the Highlands security operations, Operation Highwire, maritime patrols, disaster response and humanitarian missions.He assured every member of the Defence Force that he would advocate for improved welfare, resources, and operational capability."I will be your voice in Parliament. I will advocate for your interests, your welfare, your capability requirements, and the resources necessary for you to continue performing your duties effectively."He concluded by reaffirming the Government's vision of building a modern, capable and professional Defence Force that is prepared to safeguard Papua New Guinea's national interests.

Papua New Guinea's ICT sector entered a new chapter following the ministerial handover between outgoing Information and Communications Technology Minister Timothy Masiu and incoming Minister Robert Naguri at the National Broadcasting Corporation headquarters in Five Mile, Port Moresby.The ceremony marked the end of nearly seven years of Masiu's leadership, during which he oversaw major digital reforms, national ICT policies and regional cooperation that helped shape Papua New Guinea's digital transformation.Reflecting on his departure, Masiu said his exit was a government decision and not because of his health."I got sick not because I was not doing my work. I got sick because I worked hard. The body was tired because it did not get enough rest," he said.Masiu recalled that his final official assignment took him through Japan, New Zealand, Australia and the Philippines before he fell ill."My last work I did was July 5. From there I travelled from Japan, New Zealand, then to Australia. From Canberra I went to Manila and got sick."Despite leaving office, Masiu urged staff from the Department of ICT, NICTA and NBC to continue the reforms already underway."I must not diminish the big achievements and big plans that we have made. This plan must continue."During his time as minister, Masiu oversaw key reforms including the Digital Government Act 2022, the Digital Transformation Policy, National Cloud Policy, National Cyber Security Policy and Strategy, and the National Media Development Policy.He also led Papua New Guinea's hosting of the 2023 Pacific ICT Ministers Dialogue, which produced the Lakatoi Declaration, giving Pacific nations a stronger collective voice on digital development."Our dream was to have one voice in the Pacific. Through working together with ICT ministers, we made sure our voice was heard."DICT Secretary and CEO Steven Matainaho also paid tribute to Masiu, recalling how their professional relationship began."During my first week, I did not meet with the minister. On the third day, he called me in and scolded me for not coming to see him."Matainaho said that conversation became the foundation of a strong working relationship."From that day, we developed good communication. I learned a lot under his leadership."The ceremony also recognised Masiu's support in strengthening the National Broadcasting Corporation, including expanding provincial radio services to improve access to information across Papua New Guinea.In handing over the portfolio, Masiu expressed confidence in his successor and the future of the ministry."I hand over this ministry with pride and confidence. I hand over this ministry knowing that you are a capable leader and minister, and you will continue to connect our country," he told Minister Robert Naguri.With Robert Naguri now assuming the ICT portfolio, officials said the focus remains on continuing Papua New Guinea's digital transformation agenda while building on the reforms introduced under Masiu's leadership.

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly changing the music industry, but Pacific artists performing at the Nesian All Stars say while AI is becoming part of music production, it can never replace the emotion, creativity and stage presence of real artists.Speaking before the night's performances at Lamana Gold Club, Solomon Islands and PNG artists shared their views on how AI is reshaping the music industry.Headlining artist Sharzy said many musicians were initially skeptical of AI, but attitudes have changed as more artists begin using it as a production tool."At first, musicians were saying AI wasn't good. But now everyone uses it in some way. It helps improve audio quality and gives you the ideas before you record the final version. AI is here to stay, and it helps raise the standard of music."Sharzy said he sees AI as a creative assistant rather than a replacement for musicians.Agreeing Solomon Islands artist Trabol Sum said AI is becoming part of the industry but believes listeners will always recognise genuine music."When you create a song yourself, you put your soul and feelings into it. AI doesn't have that. As time goes on, fans will know the difference between original music and songs generated by AI."He said audiences would ultimately decide which music they value most.On the other hand, PNG artist Viginuts said AI brings both opportunities and challenges.He said younger generations are embracing the technology, but he also worries it could reduce appreciation for musicians who spent years developing their talent without modern tools."There is a good side and a bad side. AI can help, but we must also respect the struggles of artists who worked hard to develop their music long before these technologies existed."While adding on their views, joining in is Venue Host, Lamana Hotel General Manager Jacquie Simons who said AI should not be viewed only as a threat because it can also help artists develop new styles and improve production.However, he believes live performances will always separate genuine performers from artists who rely heavily on technology."The charisma, the soul of the music and the connection with the audience happen on stage. That's what will show who the real artist is."While each artist had a different perspective, they shared one message, AI is becoming part of the future of music, but originality, emotion and live performance remain qualities that technology cannot replace.