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Jordan VELA

Jordan VELA

FLORENCE JAUKAE KAMEL TO LEAD PNG FASHION FLORENCE JAUKAE KAMEL TO LEAD PNG FASHION
Acclaimed Papua New Guinean designer and cultural advocate Florence Jaukae Kamel, widely known as the Bilum Meri, has been announced as the headline designer for PNG Fashion Week 2025 and will also represent Papua New Guinea at Fiji Fashion Week, stepping in for fellow designer William Maba Bray under the PNG Fashion Week banner. A passionate voice for cultural preservation and women’s empowerment, Florence has consistently elevated traditional bilum weaving in the contemporary fashion world. Her feature runway show in Port Moresby will unveil a new couture collection that combines ancestral techniques with modern design and is expected to be one of the major highlights of the event. The collection will showcase bilum craftsmanship with innovative silhouettes and natural fibers. Each piece will tell a story, celebrating the generational knowledge of women across Papua New Guinea. From her beginnings in Goroka to international exhibitions in Brisbane, Auckland, and Sydney, Florence has championed bilum not just as art, but as identity. “Bilum is more than fashion—it’s identity, it’s womanhood, and it’s power,” Florence said. “To headline PNG Fashion Week and represent PNG in Fiji is a great honor I carry for all our women.” In addition to its cultural significance, Florence’s headlining show will also serve as a fundraiser for the PNG Fashion Designers Association (PNG FDA). This newly formed body aims to support local designers through industry standards, collaboration, and professional development. “This is not just a runway show—it’s a movement,” said Philma Kelegai, Managing Director of PNG Fashion Week. “Florence’s leadership and creativity will help build the foundation of PNG’s fashion future.” As part of a regional fashion exchange promoting Pacific designers internationally, Florence will travel to Suva to showcase her collection at Fiji Fashion Week 2025. She steps in for William Maba Bray, who is unable to attend due to personal commitments. While Bray won’t be travelling, PNG Fashion Week confirmed that he will debut a new collection later this year at the Bilum Festival in Goroka. “Florence is a natural choice,” said Kelegai. “She represents craftsmanship, culture, and purpose. We are proud to have her represent PNG.” Florence is also the founder of Jaukae Bilum Products, a social enterprise that works with women artisans across Goroka, Lae, Madang, Mount Hagen, and Chimbu. Through her work, she promotes economic independence—particularly for single mothers and women in rural areas. “I started weaving to support my children,” Florence said. “Now I do it to uplift others. Bilum is no longer just for survival—it’s a symbol of transformation and dignity.” Her headline show at PNG Fashion Week is scheduled for Friday, 19th September 2025 at APEC Haus. It is expected to be a signature event in the country’s fashion calendar, celebrating Kastomi, creativity, and community. Proceeds will support infrastructure, mentorship, and advocacy initiatives under the PNG Fashion Designers Association.
Published on May 25, 2025
BOY FROM THE BUSH READY TO MANN UP AND PLAY HIS ROLE BOY FROM THE BUSH READY TO MANN UP AND PLAY HIS ROLE
With 205 NRL games to his name, Canterbury lock Kurt Mann knows what it takes to win on the football field. Since moving to the Bulldogs in 2024, his game has gone from strength-to-strength and his grit and determination has seen him picked as 18th man for Billy Slater’s Queensland Maroons. The country kid from Winton – “a town where footy is religion” - was first called into a Maroons camp during the COVID bubble for Game III of 2021 by Paul Green, and he has been itching to be back since. [caption id="attachment_65948" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Kurt Mann in the line up during the 2021 State of Origin series. ©Scott Davis / NRL Images[/caption] Hopeful of being in the frame and spurred on by his older brother Joel who had full faith he would be picked, Mann – comfortable and confident in filling a utility role – was stoked to get the call from Slater. “I’d heard a bit of chatter from other people that I could have been (in the mix). Usually, where there's smoke, there's fire, I guess, so knew I was getting spoken about it ... that I must’ve been in the mix there somewhere,” Mann said. “Billy just called me and let me know I was in 
 said it was a bit of good news and bad news, that I was going to be in the squad, but I’d be 18th player. “I definitely don't think it's bad news to be in the conversation and part of this squad. Stoked, couldn't believe it. “It’s always an honour to be able to be in a Maroons camp and be around the boys, helping them prepare and also preparing for a game yourself. “Being able to put on the Maroons jersey at the end of the week is something pretty special.” [caption id="attachment_65949" align="aligncenter" width="1224"] The Milestone Mann[/caption] The first person he called was his brother Joel. “He’d been asking me all week
 ‘Do you know yet? Do you know yet?’
 he’s been into me all week, so I had to call him first and let him know,” Mann said. “He's happy. He's stoked for me. The first thing he said to me was he was booking his flight. He said ‘right, I’m booking my flight now’ and then pretty much hung up on me.”The rest of the family, and everyone in Winton, is equally as proud. “Oh, very proud,” Mann said of everyone close to him. “Especially being a boy from the bush in Queensland, Winton, not many people sort of kick on and move into the NRL from there, so everyone in town is very proud and I'm sure they'll be tuned in to watch the game.” The 32-year-old, who has also played for Melbourne Storm, St George Illawarra Dragons and Newcastle Knights during his career, said his goal now was to prepare the best he could for the big task of taking on New South Wales at Suncorp Stadium. “We want to be as prepared as we can be for that game,” Mann said. “I'll do what I need to do, prepare myself and prepare the boys as well. “A couple of fresh faces, and there's a couple of boys that have played a lot of footy together as well, which is never a bad thing; it's always good to have players who understand each other's game and the systems and what they have to do here with the Maroons. “Really looking forward to the week and just preparing for this game.” Mann said if he did get the opportunity to run out it would simply be a dream come true. “It'd be unreal,” he said. “It’s a childhood dream of mine. I'm still chasing it and I'll continue to chase it. “I'm in the squad at the moment and I'm playing my part here now and doing what I can to help the boys and prepare myself.” When he’s not chasing his dream of donning maroon, Mann is kept very busy by the two little loves of his life. “Two kids
 my son's just started school this year, he’s six, and my daughter, she's three and a half, so they keep me very, very busy off the field, but I wouldn’t have it any other way,” Mann said. “Most of my days off I spend with them and my partner Zara. I don't think the kids will come (to this game); probably a little bit too late for them and they'll be bouncing off the walls that time of the night, so they’ll likely watch it from home. Source: NRL.com
Published on May 25, 2025
POMCVC HEATS UP AS ROUND 10 SPARKS CRUCIAL SHOWDOWNS POMCVC HEATS UP AS ROUND 10 SPARKS CRUCIAL SHOWDOWNS
The race to the finals is intensifying as the 2025 Port Moresby Corporate Volleyball Competition (POMCVC) enters Round 10 this weekend, with corporate pride and playoff dreams on the line. What began as a friendly battle between Port Moresby’s workplaces has evolved into a competitive showcase of athleticism, strategy, and unity. With just a few rounds remaining before the finals, every match now carries critical weight, particularly those teetering on the edge of the Top 8 in their respective divisions. In the Premier Men’s Division, a clash of the titans headlines the weekend as undefeated Westpac meets reigning four-time champions NCDC in a high-stakes encounter. Sitting first and second on the ladder respectively, both teams are widely seen as finals contenders, and this fixture could be a preview of the grand final. Westpac’s calm and calculated approach has made them the team to beat, while NCDC is determined to bounce back after a near-upset last week. Another premier thriller sees third-placed NWTL1, known for their upset victory over NCDC earlier in the season, take on fourth-placed CPL1. With both teams showcasing momentum and firepower, this match is set to be a battle of nerves and execution. Meanwhile, in Men’s Division 1, the climb to the top intensifies as CPL2 (4th) faces Digicel (6th) in what promises to be a clash of raw power and relentless hustle. Both sides are eyeing a crucial win that could define their path to the playoffs. Over in Women’s Division 1, the ranking rivalries are heating up. Top-of-the-ladder Westpac will be tested by third-ranked Dataco, who are building momentum at just the right time. With the finals looming, Dataco will be eager to break Westpac’s unbeaten run. Also on the radar is a mid-table battle between NWTL1 and BPNG1, they are two teams pushing to break into the top four and shake up the rankings. In Men’s Division 3, a major shakeup could be on the cards. Elegant (1st) aims to protect their lead against Air Niugini (4th), who previously held the top spot but slipped due to a bye. At the same time, DMPGM (3rd) will face off against a resilient NDB (6th) in a tightly matched contest that could shift the ladder and Middle-tier rivals Stanley Hotel and DICT are also locked in a momentum battle, while PNGAIC and NSL who currently 8th and 9th they are to fight for survival in what can only be described as a ladder war. The midtable crunch in Women’s Division 3 sees Deloitte (3rd) take on KPMG (5th) in a tactical showdown, as both teams fight to strengthen their playoff positioning. FODE (6th) and DICT (7th) will also face off in a fixture that could make or break their finals chances. In the Mixed Division, balance, power, and tactics will take center stage with the Ladder leaders DMPGM facing fifth-placed PM in a matchup that will test their depth and composure. Second-placed Elegant goes head-to-head with CPL (4th) in what’s expected to be a fast-paced, technical battle meanwhile, Sunev Teews (6th) and NSL (8th) will square off with both teams eager to secure a stronger foothold before the season winds down. With finals fever building, every serve, spike, and save count for Round 10 is more than just another weekend of volleyball, it is a turning point. As the competition tightens, teams are not just playing for points, but they’re playing for pride, redemption, and a shot at championship glory. Catch all the action live at TAIC, where teamwork, passion, and corporate spirit will once again electrify the courts.
Published on May 24, 2025
GOV PARKOP CALLS FOR CCTV ROLLOUT & VAGRANCY ACT URGENT PASSING GOV PARKOP CALLS FOR CCTV ROLLOUT & VAGRANCY ACT URGENT PASSING
In response to the tragic ethnic clash between members of the Engan and Goilala communities at North Waigani Market on Sunday night, National Capital District Governor Hon. Powes Parkop has extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and reiterated his strong call for the installation of CCTV surveillance across the city and the urgent passing of the Vagrancy Act. "This was a completely unnecessary loss of life. I express my heartfelt condolences to all affected families. What occurred was not only avoidable but also a wake-up call for urgent action," Governor Parkop said. The incident, which began when criminals attempted to rob a security guard near the informal market area, escalated into an ethnic retaliation that led to the burning of the market and loss of lives. Governor Parkop clarified that the market itself did not cause the incident and was, in fact, a victim of the violence. “Criminals tried to steal from a security guard. When he had no money to give, he was stabbed, hit by a vehicle while trying to escape, and died. In retaliation, his relatives attacked vendors based on ethnic origin and the market was burnt. This chain of events highlights the importance of surveillance and stronger laws.” Governor Parkop emphasized that if the Vagrancy Act had been in place and CCTV installed, law enforcement could have identified those responsible and acted swiftly. “The incident at Waigani informal markets justified the passing of the Vagrancy Act and the installation of CCTV around the city. Had the Act been in place, the perpetrators of the initial crime and the retaliatory actions would all be identified and declared vagrants, serving time before being repatriated to their tribal homes.” The Governor also noted that while CCTV rollout is currently underway, the Waigani Market where the killings and arson occurred—will now be prioritized for installation. While he acknowledged the significant damage caused, Governor Parkop confirmed that the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) will not be providing compensation. “Someone should compensate the market and the vendors. NCDC won’t compensate anyone.” He concluded by calling on Parliament to pass the Vagrancy Act when it sits next week. “This legislation is essential for restoring law, order, and safety in our city.”
Published on May 24, 2025
MONI PLUS BACKS PNG VOLLEYBALL TEAM FOR PALAU MINI PAC-GAMES MONI PLUS BACKS PNG VOLLEYBALL TEAM FOR PALAU MINI PAC-GAMES
In a proud show of corporate support for sports development, Moni Plus has officially signed on as the Silver Sponsor of Team PNG Volleyball for the 2025 Palau Mini Pacific Games, with a K20,000 contribution. The sponsorship was formally handed over during a press conference held at the 3 Mile Aquatic Centre in Port Moresby, where Mr. Tau Kilamanu, ICT Manager of Heduru Moni Plus, represented the company. Mr. Kilamanu highlighted Moni Plus’s long-standing commitment to supporting youth and sports across the nation. “Moni Plus believes in the power of sport to inspire and unite our communities,” he said. “We’ve sponsored a variety of sporting codes, and we’re proud to stand with PNG Volleyball as they prepare for the Mini Pacific Games.” Receiving the cheque was PNG Volleyball Federation President, Mr. Edward Aisi, who expressed deep appreciation for the timely sponsorship. “We are truly grateful to Moni Plus for stepping in as our Silver Sponsor at such a crucial time,” Mr. Aisi said. “Sponsorships like this are not easy to secure, especially in today’s economic climate, and their support has already made an impact—funding 56 complete uniforms for our national team heading to Palau. This partnership is more than just financial assistance; it’s a vote of confidence in our athletes and the future of volleyball in PNG.” With this new partnership, PNG Volleyball hopes to not only perform at their best in Palau but also grow the sport and attract future support as they look toward the 2027 Pacific Games.
Published on May 23, 2025
COWBOYS DUO ENDURE ROUGH RIDE TO EARN THEIR MAROONS RECALL COWBOYS DUO ENDURE ROUGH RIDE TO EARN THEIR MAROONS RECALL
Delivered a wake-up call by Cowboys coach Todd Payten following a poor performance in Round 1, Jeremiah Nanai worked hard to turn his form around and will next week line up for his ninth game for the Maroons. The second rower return to the NRL in Round 3 after a spending a week with the Northern Pride in the Hostplus Cup and came off the bench, before earning his starting place back in Round 8, where he scored two tries as the Cowboys posted. Queensland coach Billy Slater noticed his effort and has entrusted him to start against an impressive looking Blues forward pack featuring Angus Crichton and Liam Martin in the back row. “What happened earlier in the year happened and I took it on the chin and I moved forward from it and worked my way back into the team and I did what I had to do for the team and what's best for the team,” Nanai said. “Fortunately, Billy's been watching and I'm very grateful to be back in this team again. “I always want to play for Queensland and you have got to earn it, like Billy has said. “I have worked very hard and worked my way back to the team. “Billy told me last year I had to work on a few things defensively and I took it on board and tried to put that in my game, and hopefully I keep progressing and improve for a bit more.” With Pat Carrigan named at lock, Nanai’s partner in the second row will be his Cowboys co-captain Reuben Cotter, who has also had a less than ideal lead in to the match. Suspended for the past two matches for a careless high tackle, next Wednesday’s Origin match at Suncorp Stadium will be his first game back since Round 9. “Obviously not ideal (preparation), but I just got on with it,” Cotter said. “I couldn’t do much about the suspension, but I’ve been training quite hard over the last couple of weeks and I’ve had top ups on the weekends when the boys have played. “I’m feeling confident, I’m feeling fresh and ready to go.” [caption id="attachment_65830" align="aligncenter" width="840"] Reuben Cotter at Queensland training on the Sunshine Coast.[/caption] With Pat Carrigan named at lock, Nanai’s partner in the second row will be his Cowboys co-captain Reuben Cotter, who has also had a less than ideal lead in to the match. Suspended for the past two matches for a careless high tackle, next Wednesday’s Origin match at Suncorp Stadium will be his first game back since Round 9. “Obviously not ideal (preparation), but I just got on with it,” Cotter said. “I couldn’t do much about the suspension, but I’ve been training quite hard over the last couple of weeks and I’ve had top ups on the weekends when the boys have played. “I’m feeling confident, I’m feeling fresh and ready to go.” Cotter, who has historically been named prop, but has filled in with aplomb on the edge before, said he was excited for the challenge, with the message from Slater simply being to play his own game. “Excited for the opportunity, very grateful for the opportunity,” Cotter said. “I don’t mind where I play to be honest. Just very grateful to be able to wear the jersey. “That’s what he always says
 ‘bring your game, bring your best game, and focus on doing your job to the best of your ability’, so it’ll be the same sort of prep (for me). “I’m excited about this squad, a few boys will hopefully get their debuts. “Looking forward to seeing Trent [Loiero] get a start. “He’s been with us at the back end of last year in a couple of camps so excited for him and good to have big Tino [Fa'asuamaleaui] back as well. Ready to go.” Source: nrl.com
Published on May 23, 2025
HUNTERS AIM TO KEEP WINNING MOMENTUM IN ROUND 10 SHOWDOWN HUNTERS AIM TO KEEP WINNING MOMENTUM IN ROUND 10 SHOWDOWN
The SP PNG Hunters are aiming to continue their winning momentum as they prepare to face the Townsville Blackhawks in Round 10 of the 2025 Hostplus Cup. The match is scheduled for Friday, May 23rd, at 6:30 PM AEST at Jack Manski Oval in Townsville. After a hard-fought 24–18 victory over the Norths Devils in Round 9, the Hunters are focused on building upon their recent success. Head Coach Paul Aiton expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance during the final training session at Santos National Football Stadium today. "I was impressed with the squad's performance last week; it's a level of play we haven't seen in a while," Aiton remarked. "Our aim is to maintain this winning streak and continue improving each week." Elijah Roltinga, who returned from injury in Round 8 against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls, shared his enthusiasm about rejoining the team. "It's great to be back on the field," Roltinga said. "I'm focused on improving from last year's performance by giving my best in training and matches." Murray Fige Connors, a debutant for the Hunters, discussed his commitment to enhancing his game. "In the last two games, I've been working on improving both my defense and attack," Connors stated. "I'm learning from each match and striving to contribute more to the team's success." The Hunters' forward pack has shown significant improvement, contributing to the team's recent victories. With a blend of experienced players and new talent, the team is poised to face the Blackhawks with confidence. As the Hunters prepare for their upcoming match, they remain committed to upholding the values of sportsmanship and integrity, both on and off the field. Fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive game as the team aims to continue their ascent in the Hostplus Cup standings.
Published on May 21, 2025
UPGRADES TO AIR TRANSPORT WING ROAD UNVEILED UPGRADES TO AIR TRANSPORT WING ROAD UNVEILED
Deputy Chief of the Australian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Harvey Reynolds, and Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF) Chief of Force Preparation, Colonel Craig Solomon, have officially opened the upgraded access road to the Air Transport Wing (ATW) in Port Moresby. The upgrade of the Jackson Access Road was delivered through the Defense Cooperation Program (DCP), Australia’s longstanding defense partnership with PNG. The project was completed by a local Papua New Guinean construction contractor. The original unsealed road severely restricted vehicle movement, making access to the ATW difficult and dangerous. The upgrade included the replacement of the unsealed road with a more resilient sealed asphalt road to enhance community safety and security. A footpath alongside the access road has been installed will provide much safer access for those travelling to the area on foot, including to the medical centres while the road lighting and signage have also been included to further improve safety and security. A major element of the upgrade was addressing the longstanding drainage issues on the road, which previously caused flash flooding, rapid road deterioration, and diminished usability. The upgrade included the installation of refurbished drainage systems. “We are thankful to the ADF for coming through the DCP to refurbish the access road. This is just a small part of the partnership program we (PNGDF) have with the ADF,” said Chief of Force Preparation, Colonel Craig Solomon. “Through the dedication of the ATW, the PNGDF Air Element is an incredible capability, and the ADF is proud to be a part of its journey,” said Deputy Chief of Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Harvey Reynolds. Australia and Papua New Guinea share a close and longstanding defense partnership built on cooperation and trust. The upgrade to the access road will support the PNGDF in delivering on PNG Government priorities.
Published on May 21, 2025
SWING FOR A CAUSE AT PNG RESOURCES WEEK CHARITY GOLF CHALLENGE SWING FOR A CAUSE AT PNG RESOURCES WEEK CHARITY GOLF CHALLENGE
The Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE) is thrilled to announce its Inaugural PNG Resources Week Charity Golf Challenge, set to take place on July 25th, 2025, at the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club. Since its inception in 2023, the PNG CORE Charity Golf Challenge has become a significant event, bringing together the extractive industries and corporate partners to support vital community initiatives. This year's event promises to be even more impactful. The funds raised from previous challenges is set to make a tangible impact, with the purchase of essential medical equipment such as:  Phototherapy Light for treating newborn jaundice ‱ Siemens P500 Portable Ultrasound for versatile diagnostics Welch Allyn Connex Monitor for real-time patient monitoring Clements CeeVac Suction Pump for emergency care Liberty Nebulizer for respiratory support Visionaire 5L Oxygen Concentrator for critical oxygen therapy. The medical equipment will be donated to Mt Hagen General Hospital upon arrival in country. These contributions will significantly enhance Mt Hagen General Hospital’s capacity to deliver effective care, reduce infant and child mortality, and support dedicated medical professionals in the province and the Highlands region. "By participating in the PNG Resources Week Charity Golf Challenge, you will be directly contributing to health, education, and community development projects across Papua New Guinea. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a novice, your involvement will help drive positive social change," stated PNG CORE. For more information on how to participate, sponsor, or support the event, please contact PNG CORE Events team on events@pngcore.org or phone (675) 207 9080.
Published on May 21, 2025
SOLAR ENERGY TO POWER UP DARU HOSPITAL SOLAR ENERGY TO POWER UP DARU HOSPITAL
The Daru Provincial Hospital in Papua New Guinea’s Western Province has taken a major step forward in healthcare service delivery, following the activation of a continuous solar-powered electricity supply. This milestone is part of a broader agreement under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Western Provincial Health Authority (WPHA) and the PNG Sustainable Development Program (PNGSDP), with support from the Fly River Provincial Government. The partnership aims to address chronic energy challenges on Daru Island by providing a stable and sustainable electricity source to critical institutions. Electricity from PNGSDP’s solar farm is now supplying the hospital with 24/7 power, eliminating the frequent blackouts that had long compromised healthcare services. Hospital operations had previously been hampered by unreliable electricity, which often led to cancelled surgeries, inoperable diagnostic and treatment equipment, and damage to costly medical devices due to voltage fluctuations. Dr. Miriam Boga, CEO of WPHA, welcomed the development, emphasizing its importance to both staff and patients. “Power interruptions had severely affected the quality of care we could provide,” she said. “We are pleased and thankful that PNGSDP has come on board to provide this fundamentally important service. With continuous power now available, we can improve our service delivery and ultimately achieve better patient outcomes.” The solar power infrastructure currently delivers around one megawatt of clean energy, with plans underway to expand capacity and reinforce the local power grid. Additional work includes the installation of underground medium-voltage cabling, new transformer stations, and modern distribution systems to ensure long-term stability. This initiative not only supports the hospital but also contributes to a larger vision of transforming Daru into a renewable energy-driven town. Once fully realized, the project is expected to serve as a model for other remote communities seeking to improve essential services through sustainable solutions.
Published on May 18, 2025
MIDSEASON DRAMA UNFOLDS IN POMCVC ROUND 8 MIDSEASON DRAMA UNFOLDS IN POMCVC ROUND 8
The Port Moresby Corporate Volleyball Competition (POMCVC) heads into Round 8 this weekend with high stakes matches across all divisions as the race to the finals intensifies. In the Women’s Premier Division, third-placed BSP faces 2024 grand finalists POMGEN in a must-win match for both sides, while undefeated NCDC defends its record against a determined Parliament side. The Men’s Premier Division features a blockbuster as reigning champions NCDC look to bounce back against BSP, and ladder leaders Westpac battle red-hot challengers NWTL1 in a potential title-deciding clash. Lower divisions also serve up crucial matchups. Undefeated Pacific Industries take on Hilton Hotel in Men’s Division 1, while Women’s Division 1 sees Westpac and Hilton Hotel defend their standings against DOWH and Dataco respectively. Men’s Division 2 opens the door for AHC to claim top spot with DOE on a bye, and Women’s Division 2 revisits last season’s final as Pacific Palms face unbeaten PNG Ports. Men’s Division 3 sees Elegant poised to claim first place, with mid-table teams scrambling for playoff contention. In Women’s Division 3, first-placed Air Niugini faces third-placed Stanley Hotel in a top-tier clash. The Mixed Division features a pivotal weekend for PM, CPL, and OOC, with multiple matches likely to shake up the standings. As teams push through midseason fatigue, composure and strategy will be key in this critical round that could define the path to the finals.
Published on May 11, 2025
ADDRESSING NATIONAL ISSUES THROUGH MUSIC ADDRESSING NATIONAL ISSUES THROUGH MUSIC
As Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate its 50th Independence Anniversary, two of the country’s iconic music figures, Gedix Atege and Demas Saul (known as Demas Soul), are shifting gears from romance to reality by using their platform to speak out on the issues plaguing their homeland. In an exclusive interview with PNG HAUSBUNG, the duo revealed they are working on a new project that addresses law and order challenges, the lack of services to remote parts of the country, and other major issues, particularly in their beloved Madang province. “Yes! We are currently planning a project which is not a love song, but one directed back to our beautiful Madang and all the issues we face,” said Demas Saul. He added that the project initially faced challenges. “We had recorded it, but the outcome didn’t meet expectations, so we went back and did it all over again.” When asked whether a song dedicated to the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary was in the works, Demas responded, “Well, I’ve been telling Gedix to stop writing love songs and let’s start writing about the situations our country is facing right now.” While still on the subject of the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary, Gedix offered a more critical perspective. “We talk about independence, but why did we actually get it? Does it mean everyone is living a good life? That’s what I’ve been thinking.” “After every independence celebration, most people return to their hard lives, sweating for just one meal, while the ones we call leaders eat good food, drink expensive drinks, and sleep in fancy hotels. So, my question is: why are we celebrating if we’re just going back to struggle?” The pair also highlighted the stark contrast in infrastructure between provinces. “When me and Demas went to perform in Rabaul, there were roads even into remote villages, which is not the case in our remote areas in Madang,” Gedix noted. Demas added, “It all goes back to our leaders.” Gedix also reflected on parliamentary behavior and pointed out that meaningful discussions are often mocked or silenced. “When there’s a parliamentary sitting and an MP brings up a valuable topic, others just laugh or shut them down. That’s what we’re all doing—we are shutting down those who speak up for what’s right.” Demas, who previously considered contesting in his LLG in Madang, revealed he had to step back due to the demands of music. “I wanted to contest, but I knew it would take a lot from me, so I told my people, maybe next time.” Laughing, he added, “When we go back, Gedix will endorse me!” The interview shed light on a broader truth. Music in Papua New Guinea is evolving. It is no longer just a medium for love songs; it is becoming a voice for change. Gedix admittedly said that writing love songs is much easier for him because that’s what he has done for years. But writing about the issues we are facing is much more difficult. "It takes a lot to make it meaningful because it must carry a message of hope, awareness, and purpose.” When asked about the current state and future of music in the country, Demas shared his observations. “Today, most singers sound the same. Many are starting to sound like Tarvin Toune, whose music is great. But one artist who stands out is Ragga Siai. His smash hit ‘Maria’ has a different feel and is very impressive.” Demas then called for unity in the music industry. “I think we older artists need to collaborate with younger ones so we can help each other reach global audiences.”
Published on May 10, 2025