The 2026 Oceania Athletics Championships wrapped up in Darwin on Saturday after six days of competition, with Team PNG producing several standout performances, including two new national records and a number of personal best results.Leading the charge was Lakona Gerega, who broke the national javelin record for the tenth time in his career, improving the mark by an impressive 3.35 metres.PNG’s men’s 4x100 metres relay team, made up of Pais Wisil, Timothy Tuna, Leroy Kamau and Daniel Baul, also set a new national record, improving on the time established in Palau last year.PNG Athletics President Tony Green said the focus of attending the championships was not solely on winning medals, but on giving athletes valuable international competition experience.Mr. Green explained that the team sent to Darwin was smaller than the squad that attended the 2024 championships due to rising costs associated with visas, travel, accommodation and meals, worsened by the declining value of the Papua New Guinea kina.He said with Australia and New Zealand fielding strong teams, PNG selected athletes capable of competing well and benefiting from the high-level competition. He also noted that several female athletes in the national squad were either not eligible for the Under-20 or Under-18 divisions or were still developing towards that level, with another competition being planned for them next month.Aside from the record-breaking performances, several athletes also impressed with strong individual results.Jiuteis Robinson delivered an outstanding performance in the 800 metres, competing strongly against experienced Australian runners and recording a major personal best time of 1 minute 50.26 seconds.Young sprinter Hephzibah Romalus also showed significant improvement in the women’s 100 metres, while veteran hurdler Robert Oa clocked a personal best of 14.40 seconds in the 110 metre hurdles against a quality field.Meanwhile, Daniel Baul once again impressed in the men’s 400 metres, posting an excellent time of 47.82 seconds in what was regarded as one of the strongest 400 metre races ever staged at the Oceania Championships. The first four athletes in the event all broke the previous championship record.Mr. Green said Baul’s performance was especially commendable given it was his first major race of the season.Seventeen-year-old Brisbane-based sprinter Ethan Asimba also made a strong impression, recording a personal best of 10.99 seconds in the 100 metres to claim a bronze medal in the Under-20 division against older competitors.Several members of the PNG squad preparing for the upcoming Commonwealth Games are expected to compete again at the Philippine Open in Clark City from June 10 to 14.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited has announced the appointment of Ben Burger as the new General Manager of its subsidiary, Misima Minerals Limited.Mr. Burger previously served as General Manager Operations at Ok Tedi after joining the company in 2024 during a major period of organisational transition. During his time in the role, he established the company’s new Operations Business Unit, provided strategic leadership and contributed as a member of the Executive Leadership Team.Under his leadership, Ok Tedi Operations achieved strong operational results between 2023 and 2025.Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit described the appointment as an important leadership step in progressing the operations of Misima Minerals Limited.Mr. Ilimbit said the achievements delivered by Mr. Burger and his operations team demonstrated his strong leadership abilities and expressed confidence that his experience would help guide Misima Minerals towards becoming an operating mine within the next two years.Mr. Burger said he was honoured to take on the position and remained committed to advancing the Misima Project for the benefit of the Ok Tedi Group and Papua New Guinea.He said Misima Minerals presents an important opportunity for the company’s future and he looked forward to working closely with employees, stakeholders, and partners to responsibly move the project towards operations in line with Ok Tedi’s Vision and Growth 2050 Strategy.Mr. Ilimbit also acknowledged Mr. Burger’s contribution to Ok Tedi Operations and wished him success in his new role leading Misima Minerals.Meanwhile, Mr. Alan Bong will step into the role of Acting General Manager Operations while continuing his current duties as General Manager Strategic Business Development and Optimisation.The company said Mr. Burger’s appointment reflects Ok Tedi’s ongoing focus on strong leadership, sustainable growth, and responsible management of its subsidiary operations.As Misima Minerals moves closer towards operational delivery, the leadership transition is expected to strengthen the implementation of the Ok Tedi Group’s long-term Vision and Growth 2050 Strategy.Mr. Ilimbit said the company remains focused on building leadership capacity, strengthening organisational capability, and ensuring alignment across the business to secure Ok Tedi’s future and deliver lasting value for Papua New Guinea.

The Connect PNG Programme continues to establish links for the remotest parts of the country to the main centers, enabling connectivity and economic growth.Prime Minister James Marape said the National Government’s flagship road and infrastructure programme is now delivering one of the largest roads and bridge expansion programmes in the country’s history. The Prime Minister highlighted major transport corridors currently being upgraded or connected, including: Lae to Port Moresby Port Moresby to Alotau Kimbe to Kokopo Wewak to Vanimo Major upgrades along the Highlands Highway from Lae to Mount Hagen and onward to Tari and Enga Province Kiunga to Telefomin He said similar infrastructure expansion is also taking place in Bougainville, Manus Province, and the New Ireland Province. “These are economic arteries for national growth and development. Papua New Guinea’s road network today is significantly more advanced than it was a decade ago,” the Prime Minister said.

The prime minister in highlighting the achievements of his government since taking office in 2019, says the government continues to focus on education with the aim to ensure young people have access to quality education and a brighter future.Prime Minister James Marape said the Pangu-led Marape-Rosso Government has delivered the largest education assistance programme since Independence in 1975 and continues to fund free education from elementary to secondary school level, including the removal of project fees in many schools to reduce pressure on parents.“Our government is paying free school fees from elementary all the way to secondary school because education is the biggest investment we can make into our future,” the Prime Minister said. At the tertiary level, the government continues supporting students through the Higher Education Contribution Assistance Scheme (HECAS), the Tertiary Education Student Assistance Scheme (TESAS), and the Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP). The HELP student loan programme, administered through the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, has already assisted more than 20,000 tertiary students across 55 higher education institutions since its introduction, with more than K200 million in student loans approved between 2020 and 2025. The prime minister said the government has also expanded HELP to postgraduate, Masters, and PhD studies to help build Papua New Guinea’s future professional workforce. “We are now supporting undergraduate, postgraduate, Masters, and PhD students because we want Papua New Guinea to develop its own highly skilled workforce,” he said. This massive support in the education sector is a testament to the Pangu Pati’s values and focus, as the country prepares for the 2027 National General Election.

Papua New Guinea’s lone representative at the 2026 Oceania International Invitational Wushu Championships, Tony Mitu Jr, has secured a bronze medal in the men’s 70kg Sanda division in Brisbane, Australia.The championships, held in Chandler, Brisbane, began on May 21 and conclude today, with Mitu proudly carrying Papua New Guinea’s flag as the country’s sole competitor at the regional tournament. Speaking after his performance, Mitu thanked Papua New Guineans for the overwhelming support and encouragement he received throughout the competition. “Before wearing the national colours, I used to watch other Papua New Guinea athletes proudly represent the country while everyone back home cheered them on. This time I experienced that myself, and it was a humbling experience.” Mitu said the support motivated him to give his best in the ring despite facing a difficult opponent from China in the bronze medal bout. “All glory goes to Papa God. I have learned much from this and I look forward to the next challenge,” he said. Mitu’s coach, Andrew Molen, was unable to attend the championships after delays in the processing of his Australian visa application prevented him from travelling. Despite the setback, Molen praised Mitu’s efforts, saying the athlete performed strongly against an opponent with a height and weight advantage. “He fought well despite his opponent’s height and weight advantage. We had a strategy for the match but it’s difficult to manage that from another country.” “It was Tony’s first time, so he needed that close support. I’m happy with him but disappointed about the visa delays.” Molen also acknowledged the support shown by family members, friends, teammates and the public, saying their encouragement played a major role in motivating the young fighter. Special recognition was also given to Samoan athlete Asomua Saili, who assisted Mitu during the tournament in Brisbane. Saili also impressed at the championships, winning silver in the men’s 85kg Sanda division. President of the Kung Fu Wushu Association of Papua New Guinea, Geoff Hui, called the tournament a valuable learning experience for both Mitu and the association. Hui acknowledged the Oceania Kung Fu Wushu Federation and Kung Fu Wushu Australia for helping make Papua New Guinea’s participation possible. He said the experience would help strengthen future programmes for the sport in Papua New Guinea.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited has officially brought its 2026 90-Day Live Well Campaign to a close with an energetic walkathon that united employees in promoting health, wellness, and teamwork.The event was spearheaded by former Papua New Guinea rugby league star Justin Olam and attracted enthusiastic participation from staff and business partners throughout the operation.The walkathon highlighted the strong spirit and collective commitment of participants towards healthier living, marking the end of a 90-day initiative centred on discipline, resilience and prioritising people’s wellbeing.As part of the campaign finale, awards were also presented to winners of the 90-day Futsal competition, recognising teams and individuals for their dedication, fitness and teamwork. The competition became one of the campaign’s standout activities, helping to strengthen workplace relationships while encouraging active lifestyles and collaboration.Throughout the three-month program, the Live Well Campaign encouraged positive lifestyle changes across the company. A key feature of the initiative was the introduction of the Live Well App, which allowed employees to set personal goals, monitor activities and access information on fitness, nutrition, and mental wellbeing.Ok Tedi Health Services Manager Raymond Singamis said the campaign’s success reflected a growing awareness among employees about the importance of maintaining their health and wellbeing.Mr. Singamis said the initiative demonstrated what could be achieved when workers were provided with the right support systems and resources.He added that the strong participation from the launch through to the final walkathon highlighted a positive shift towards healthier living within the workforce.Speaking during the closing event, Mr. Olam praised employees for their commitment and consistency throughout the campaign and encouraged them to continue practising healthy habits beyond the 90 days.Mr. Olam said maintaining good health was important not only for individuals, but also for their families, communities and future.The conclusion of the 2026 90-Day Live Well Campaign further reinforces Ok Tedi’s commitment to creating a safer, healthier and more productive workforce. Employees are now being encouraged to continue using the Live Well App to maintain the positive lifestyle changes achieved during the campaign.

The Markham Tertiary Students Union has commended the Markham District Development Authority (MDDA) and the Isikia Scholarship Scheme for their timely and decisive support towards students in the 2026 academic year.Speaking on behalf of Markham students studying across the country, University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Markham Students Association Chairman Haggai Ranga Morris acknowledged the district’s early payment of tuition fees on April 26, describing it as a clear demonstration of responsible and forward-looking leadership. “At a time when many districts are still facing delays, Markham has shown strong commitment to its students by ensuring fees were settled early,” Morris said. He said the timely intervention had significantly reduced the financial burden on both students and parents, allowing students to return to their studies with confidence and focus. “This support has enabled us to concentrate fully on our academic responsibilities without the usual uncertainty associated with late payments,” he said. Morris added that the action by the MDDA reflects a genuine investment in human resource development and sets a positive benchmark for other districts. Students across various universities and colleges have already felt the impact, continuing their studies without disruption and with renewed motivation. While expressing appreciation, the student representative also highlighted the importance of building clear pathways for graduates to contribute back to the district. He noted that a number of Markham students are graduating this year and in the coming year in key sectors including education, health, engineering, business, agriculture, and public administration. “As beneficiaries of the district’s support, we are eager and ready to contribute meaningfully to the development of Markham,” Morris said. He respectfully encouraged the MDDA to consider strengthening arrangements for graduate engagement through internship programs, job placements, and professional attachments aligned to district priorities. Such initiatives, he said, would not only support young professionals in gaining experience but also ensure that the district benefits from a skilled and educated workforce. “Creating opportunities for graduates to return and serve will further strengthen the impact of the district’s investment in education,” he added. Morris said Markham has the potential to build a capable and committed workforce drawn from its own people, who understand the local context and development needs. He concluded by expressing gratitude to the MDDA Board, the Isikia Scholarship Scheme team, and all officers involved. “Danki Tchira Bingan, your continued support is shaping the future of our district, and we stand ready to serve,” Morris said.

Remington Group has announced the promotion of its longest-serving employee, Mr. Tom Mugwasawa, to the position of Country Commercial Manager.Mr. Mugwasawa has been part of Remington Technology for more than 35 years and has built a strong reputation during his time as an Account Manager. The company said his commitment, professionalism and dedication to clients and the organisation’s values have been evident throughout his career.Remington Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Justin Kieseker, congratulated Mr. Mugwasawa on his new role, describing the appointment as recognition of his years of hard work and contribution to the business.Mr. Kieseker said Mr. Mugwasawa had played an important role in strengthening the Remington brand across Papua New Guinea over many years of service.The appointment also reflects the company’s continued focus on developing local talent and supporting Papua New Guineans to take on senior leadership positions within the organisation.With his extensive experience and understanding of the industry, Mr. Mugwasawa is expected to lead the company’s commercial operations and help drive its strategic direction forward.Speaking on his promotion, Mr. Mugwasawa said he was honoured by the appointment and looked forward to working closely with his team to achieve the company’s goals and long-term vision.Remington Group says it remains committed to investing in its workforce, supporting communities, and providing technology solutions throughout Papua New Guinea as the company continues to expand.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has expressed his appreciation to the Government of France, the French Development Agency (AFD), and the European Union for supporting the proposed redevelopment of Rabaul Port in East New Britain Province.He described the project as one of Papua New Guinea’s most strategically vital economic infrastructure investments. According to PM Marape, the proposed K400 million redevelopment work will transform Rabaul Port into a modern regional maritime and logistics hub. The upgraded facility will support PNG’s growing fisheries, agriculture, forestry, and export industries, while positioning the country as a strategic gateway into the Pacific. The Prime Minister noted that Rabaul Port is already one of the country’s busiest hubs, handling significant volumes of coastal shipping, tuna operations, and regional cargo annually. "Rabaul Port is not just an East New Britain asset; it is a strategic national deep-water harbor with enormous regional potential," Prime Minister Marape said. "We thank our European partners for helping mobilize around K400 million to redevelop this vital port into a modern facility for the future." PM Marape emphasized that the project demonstrates the practical value of strong bilateral relations, defending the necessity of official overseas travel by national leaders to secure trade and development partnerships. "People must understand that when the Prime Minister travels overseas, it is not for leisure—it is for state business," he stated. "At the core of government-to-government relations is the promotion of trade, investment, and economic cooperation for the benefit of our people." He added that regular engagement with global partners like France, China, the United States, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Indonesia is essential for creating such opportunities. "Since becoming Prime Minister, I have consistently maintained that Papua New Guinea should not depend on handouts or aid. We are pursuing meaningful economic partnerships that will grow our economy," Marape said, noting that his travel itineraries are often highly compressed, involving long transit hours and short turnarounds. The Prime Minister concluded that the Rabaul Port redevelopment will serve as a major catalyst for economic growth in the New Guinea Islands region while boosting PNG’s long-term maritime and export capacity.

The PNG Chiefs have strengthened their coaching ranks ahead of their inaugural campaign, announcing the appointment of former NRL star Luke Burt as Assistant Coach from November 2027.Burt joins the club with an impressive rugby league résumé, highlighted by a distinguished 14-year playing career with the Parramatta Eels. During his time at the Eels, he made 264 appearances and scored 124 tries, cementing his place as the club’s all-time leading try-scorer. He also featured in Parramatta’s Grand Final campaigns in 2001 and 2009. Widely regarded as one of the game’s most reliable goal-kickers during his playing days, Burt will also take on responsibilities as the Chiefs’ goal-kicking coach. Since retiring from professional football, Burt has built a strong coaching career. He previously held coaching roles with the Parramatta Eels and the Gold Coast Titans, including a stint as interim head coach in 2019. In 2020, he joined the Burleigh Bears before being elevated to Head Coach ahead of the 2023 season. Under Burt’s leadership, the Bears enjoyed immediate success, securing the Minor Premiership and reaching the Grand Final in his first season in charge before winning the premiership the following year. PNG Chiefs General Manager of Football Michael Chammas welcomed the appointment, describing Burt as a key addition to the club’s long-term plans. “He had an exceptional career as a player, but what excites us the most is what he has done as a coach,” Chammas said. “He has shown he can develop players and build a winning culture through what he has done at the Burleigh Bears.” Chammas also revealed that Burt and his partner, Madelin, recently visited Papua New Guinea and were enthusiastic about joining the club’s journey. “Luke and his partner Madelin visited PNG recently and absolutely loved their time in the country. They are excited about the opportunity to build something special with the Chiefs alongside our head coach, Willie Peters,” he said. The appointment marks another major recruitment win for the PNG Chiefs as the club continues laying the foundations for its anticipated entry into the competition in 2028.

Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu, has officially launched the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council’s new solar grid and solar-class Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the Melanesian Haus. The Chief Secretary stated that the launch signifies not only the inception of this cutting-edge technology within the Public Service but also the successful completion and handover of the Solar + BESS System to the Department of the Prime Minister and NEC. The event was attended by key dignitaries, including the Director for the National Energy Authority Ronald Meketa, Huawei PNG Chief Executive Officer Angelo Zhang, Ezy Land Management, Chief Executive Officer of National Monitoring and Coordination Authority David Wereh, and staff of the Department. During the event, a live demonstration proved the system’s immediate capability by seamlessly switching to backup power during a real-time simulated green power interruption. The demonstration showed that building operations, including elevators, remain fully functional during unexpected power outages. This reliability is vital for departmental continuity, particularly as the facilities regularly host the Prime Minister and visiting Ministers of State. Chief Executive Officer of Huawei Limited PNG, Angelo Zhang, informed the Chief Secretary that it only takes milliseconds for the Solar + BESS Plant to pick up when there is a break in power. “We can see the elevators still operating normally, without a single second interruption, no elevator traps, no panic, just absolute continuity,” he said. “This is the first commercial and industrial project in PNG to achieve seamless switching between on-grid and off-grid status.” “Huawei’s project can respond in milliseconds to ensure your power never stops.” In his speech during the event, Chief Secretary Pomaleu said the event theme, ‘Leading the Green Transition, Resilient Energy for Sustainable PNG’ resonates well around the government’s commitment in utilizing advanced solar and battery energy storage technologies that can provide reliable critical power supply and bolster our nation's energy resilience. “From this department’s perspective, this set up will significantly benefit the department with substantial cost savings on electricity bills which will free up financial resources for other critical areas or projects within our mandate,” the Chief Secretary said. He added that the solar power set-up will assist the department in mitigating risks associated with power outages or supply disruptions and ensure its role in overseeing delivery of essential services to the country continue uninterrupted, particularly during emergencies or natural disasters, demonstrating the department's commitment to maintaining stability and efficiency in governance. Chief Secretary Pomaleu added that sustainable and reliable electricity is essential for government agencies to fully function and ensure that service delivery is reaching our citizens, including those in the remote areas. “The broader positive impact is that it supports and complements the government’s Connectivity Agenda in the Energy Sector as well as development of other enabling infrastructure such as roads & bridges, seaports & jetties, airports and information and communication technology, which are critical enablers to economic growth,” he said. “By harnessing solar power development and electricity transmission, we will empower rural communities and promote the development of small and medium-sized enterprises that will, in turn, open up economic opportunities for our citizens.” The Chief Secretary further added that the shift in the government’s focus towards clean energy developments supports our international obligations on climate change, of which our Prime Minister and respective State Ministers have been very supportive of at regional and global forums. He said the National Determined Contributions means that PNG must maintain commitment to the Paris Agreement and the energy mitigation plan to transition to clean and renewable. On that note, he urged power supplier PNG Power Limited, to work in partnership with private sector investors under the regulatory regime that the National Energy Authority is pushing to make this government agenda through a mix of important products including solar power plants, to expand and help transition distribution networks and hence regional interconnections nationwide. He therefore stated that it is important that the National Energy Authority is part of this process to facilitate regulatory and regulatory licensing for private sector investors involved in the renewable energy domain, including solar and wind farms. Meanwhile, he also extended his congratulations to those who were involved in delivering these outcomes and concluded his speech by thanking all those who worked hard to complete the project.

The Bank South Pacific (BSP) continues to honour its annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by supporting communities across the country with vital development projects. In East New Britain Province (ENBP), the Livuan Day Clinic- located in the Livuan Local Level Government (LLG) within the Gazelle District, recently became the proud recipient of two 500-litre water tanks and four 500-watt solar lights donated by the bank. Access to clean water has been an ongoing challenge for the clinic in delivering essential health services to its 13 surrounding wards, as the facility previously had to rely entirely on rainfall. The clinic has long faced an unreliable electricity supply. The newly installed solar lights will drastically improve lighting access for staff attending daily medical chores and significantly boost security around the premises. Representing BSP to hand over the donation to the Livuan Day Clinic staff and local community were NGI Regional Manager, Mrs. Kalat Tiriman, and Rabaul Branch Manager, David Pilai. During the presentation, Mr. Pilai emphasized BSP’s deep commitment to its customers and the communities in which the bank operates. “Today, we are donating the water tanks and solar lights here at Livuan Day Clinic, said Mr. Pilai. “This project and other support show BSP's commitment, ensuring that our customers and stakeholders are looked after.” However, Mr. Pilai also issued a strong appeal to both the clinic staff and the wider community to take ownership of and protect the new installations. “On behalf of BSP, I appeal to the Livuan Day Clinic and the community around here to look after the facility.” “If it is looked after, in the long run it will be of beneficial further to others in the years to come.” Expressing gratitude on behalf of the East New Britain Provincial Health Authority, Health Promotion and Preventative Manager Xavier Hombhanje praised the initiative, noting that BSP’s support represents a meaningful partnership and a shared commitment to community well-being. “Livuan Day Clinic plays an important role as being health care providers to this community and to be recognized by BSP for its service, is remarkable.” “So, on behalf of the health staff, patients and the wider community, thank you BSP for the generous and thoughtful donations.” “It shows BSP is a caring partner in community development, and you have demonstrated your commitment in supporting health, improving lives and empowering the community.”