The Valley Hunters Rugby Club has secured Hilton Hotel & Residences Port Moresby as its official venue partner for 2025, reinforcing a shared commitment to community engagement and sports development. Henry Elas, President of the Valley Hunters Rugby Club, is a passionate advocate for using rugby to develop young athletes into leaders. "Our partnership with Hilton represents more than sponsorship, it’s a shared vision to make a lasting impact both within our club and in the wider community," said Elas. This collaboration aligns with the club’s mission to nurture talent, build character, and create opportunities that extend beyond the game. Hilton’s world-class facilities will host major events, providing players and supporters a space to celebrate rugby’s role in uniting communities. The partnership will see Hilton serve as the venue for the first-ever Valley Hunters Gala Dinner in June 2025. This highly anticipated event will honour the club’s history and the sport’s ability to bridge cultural and social divides. Further details about the gala will be announced in the coming months. Beyond rugby, the Valley Hunters are committed to community service as the club will be actively participating in Hilton’s Annual Christmas Under the Stars for Charity, a cherished initiative that brings joy to underprivileged families. Having been part of this event in 2024, the Valley Hunters are eager to continue spreading holiday cheer and giving back to the people of Port Moresby. Ryan Mikkelson, General Manager of Hilton Hotel & Residences Port Moresby, emphasized the deeper meaning behind the collaboration. "Hilton is honoured to support the Valley Hunters Rugby Club in our first year-long sports partnership. This is more than a sponsorship but a commitment to unity, resilience, and the power of sports in shaping stronger communities," he said. Mikkelson further highlighted that both rugby and hospitality share core values of teamwork, inclusivity, and lasting connections. Hilton’s involvement aims to inspire young athletes and reinforce the importance of leadership both on and off the field. Another key element of the partnership is Hilton’s Travel with Purpose Program, which aligns with the Valley Hunters’ dedication to social responsibility were this initiative emphasizes sustainability and leadership, encouraging players to engage in projects that promote community development while building essential life skills. As Valley Hunters and Hilton embark on this journey together, both organizations are excited to see the positive change this partnership will bring. With a focus on sports, leadership, and giving back, this collaboration is set to leave a lasting impact on the club, its players, and the valley hunters community at large.

UN Women’s Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Christine Arab, reaffirmed the organization’s unwavering support for Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) leadership in advancing gender equality during her four-day visit. Christine Arab, a key advocate for women’s rights, met with national leaders and stakeholders to discuss PNG’s progress and challenges in gender equality. Ms. Arab said, “Papua New Guinea has made commendable strides in women’s empowerment, from legal reforms to economic inclusion, the nation is demonstrating its commitment.” Her statement aligns with PNG’s recent policy advancements, including strengthening laws to protect women’s rights and expanding opportunities for female entrepreneurs. During meetings with Prime Minister Hon. James Marape and Minister for Community Development, Youth, and Religion Hon. Jason Peter, discussions focused on tackling gender-based violence and enhancing legal protections. Special attention was given to Bougainville’s Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment, Peace, and Security Policy (2023–2027), marking a milestone for women’s leadership. Ms. Arab’s visit also included Gordon’s Market, a key initiative supported by the National Capital District Commission and the New Zealand High Commission. Governor Powes Parkop and High Commissioner Peter Zwart accompanied her in recognizing the market’s role in women’s financial independence. Given that only 10 percent of women in PNG have formal financial access, this initiative is crucial in fostering economic inclusion with gender-based violence remains a significant issue, with 68 percent of PNG women experiencing abuse. Ms. Arab reiterated the importance of strengthening survivor support and praised the establishment of the National GBV Secretariat as a major step in national response efforts. UN Women remains steadfast in supporting PNG’s journey toward gender equality. With ongoing collaboration, policy reforms, and economic initiatives, real change is within reach for women and girls across the country.

Hilton Port Moresby’s sixth annual Christmas Under the Stars for Charity has raised PGK 35,134 to support the We Care Foundation and the Well Women’s Clinic. The funds will help provide essential services for women, children, and marginalized communities. General Manager Ryan Mikkelson expressed his pride in the event’s success and said during the press conference on Thursday, "We’ve been running this fundraiser for six years now, and each year, it grows”. “We’ve raised over PGK 100,000 in total, and this year’s amount is our highest yet. It’s heartwarming to see the community, our sponsors, and our partners come together to make a difference." The Hilton’s Travel with Purpose initiative focuses on supporting local communities, with an emphasis on diversity, youth, and sustainability. The Blue Energy Committee, made up of hotel staff from various departments, played a key role in selecting the beneficiary organizations and organizing the event. Michael Wagambie, Chairman of the We Care Foundation and Director of the Well Women’s Clinic, highlighted how the donation will help. "We Care has been supporting marginalized communities for 18 years, and the Well Women’s Clinic for 14 years. The funds will go towards vital services like cervical cancer screening, women’s health programs, and education for children in need. We truly appreciate Hilton Port Moresby and its sponsors for their generosity." This year’s success was made possible by the support of sponsors and partners, including Production & Event Partners by NOK, Tabu, Budget Planners, Me-ga-vea-ka Photography While the Raffle & Gift Sponsors came from Brian Bell Group, SVS Mart 2 Mile, Trends Beauty International, Bilas Studio, Meat Haus, Pacific Industries Ltd, Port Moresby Nature Park, Hannah’s Beauty Box, Mai PNG, CPL Group, Media Metro, Kokonas Industries, Digicel PNG, Black Ant Transport & City Tours, Valley Hunters Rugby Club, NMC, Mt Lemina Lodge, Badonga Tech Solutions, Paradise Foods Ltd, Puma Energy, PNG Air, and Vodafone PNG. The Christmas Under the Stars event has grown to include choirs, musicians, dance acts, and exciting raffles, making it a highlight of the holiday season. Hilton Port Moresby looks forward to continuing this tradition in 2025, bringing the community together for another memorable night of giving and celebration.

Miss Papua New Guinea (PNG), May Torowi Hasola, is set to represent the nation at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Honiara, Solomon Islands. The regional event, running from 2 to 7 February 2025, brings together contestants from across the Pacific, celebrating culture, leadership, and advocacy. Crowned in December 2024, Miss Hasola is the second representative from the Miss Bird of Paradise Papua New Guinea (MBOP) Pageant to compete for the prestigious title. She is passionate about promoting strong family values and advocating for vulnerable groups, particularly people living with disabilities. Through the Miss Pacific Islands platform, she hopes to amplify her message across the region. MBOP Chairlady Anna Bais expressed confidence in Miss Hasola’s ability to represent Papua New Guinea with pride. “Our committee is proud to enter our second contestant in this prestigious pageant. We are confident that Miss Hasola will be a magnificent ambassador for Papua New Guinea and the values that our MBOP platform represents,” said Bais. Reflecting on her journey so far, Miss Hasola expressed gratitude for the support she has received in preparing for the pageant. “I am truly honored to be representing our country on the eve of our 50th independence. I look forward to showcasing the essence of our people during this pageant and my reign,” she said. Miss Hasola will travel with the MBOP committee, a chaperone, a media team, and supporters.

The Nation mourns the passing of its last founding father, Sir Julius Chan, who died earlier today in New Ireland Province. In his honor, Prime Minister James Marape hosted a tribute event at the National Parliament Haus, where leaders, dignitaries, and citizens gathered to pay their respects. Sir Julius, a key architect of PNG’s independence, served twice as Prime Minister (1980-1982, 1994-1997). His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, economic development, and governance. Prime Minister Marape described Sir Julius as a “visionary leader who shaped PNG’s democracy and economy". As the capital’s skyline lit up with fireworks, the evening symbolized a celebration of his contributions to the nation. In his speech, Marape called on citizens to honor Sir Julius and other late leaders by continuing their vision for a stronger PNG. "No child must be left behind, everyone must have access to modern healthcare, and everyone must respect each other. These were the dreams of Sir Julius, Sir Michael, Sir Mekere, and many others who went before us," he said. Quoting John F. Kennedy, former US President, he reminded the nation, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” Marape urged Papua New Guineans to take responsibility for building a better, more united country, emphasizing that past leaders will not return, and the future is now in the hands of the people. "We will not resurrect Sir Michael, Sir Julius, or the great leaders who have gone before us. It is now you and me; it is our responsibility to build a better PNG," he said. As PNG nears its 50th Independence Anniversary, Marape called for national reflection, announcing upcoming events, including the Sir Michael Somare Commemoration on February 26 and a month of national prayer and healing in August. Sir Julius Chan is survived by his wife, Lady Stella Chan, and their children. His passing leaves an indelible mark on PNG’s history, but his vision for a prosperous, united nation will live on in the hearts in our hearts.

Port Moresby Nature Park has proudly announced that it has been reaccredited by the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA). This recognition highlights the park’s dedication to high standards in animal care, conservation, and education in Papua New Guinea. ZAA accreditation is a prestigious acknowledgment given to zoos and wildlife institutions that demonstrate excellence in animal welfare, conservation, and education. Meeting and surpassing these standards, the Port Moresby Nature Park continues to be a leader in wildlife conservation in the region. The park’s management expressed immense pride in this achievement, attributing the success to the dedication of its staff, volunteers, and community supporters. This reaccreditation reinforces the park’s commitment to providing a safe and enriching environment for its animals while also raising awareness about the importance of protecting biodiversity. Visitors to the park can experience interactive exhibits and educational programs designed to inspire action and foster a deeper appreciation for nature. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including native species such as tree kangaroos, cassowaries, and crocodiles. As Papua New Guinea’s only internationally accredited wildlife park, Port Moresby Nature Park welcomes over 150,000 visitors annually, including 30,000 students who participate in its educational and holiday programs. The park also serves as the country’s only internationally accredited rescue and conservation facility, working to protect PNG’s unique flora and fauna. Looking ahead, the Nature Park remains dedicated to its mission of conservation and education, with continued support from the public, businesses, government, and development agencies. The team at Port Moresby Nature Park is excited for the future and remains committed to protecting PNG’s wildlife for generations to come.

Papua New Guinea and France have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties following a high-level meeting between Prime Minister James Marape and the newly appointed French Ambassador to PNG, Pierre Fournier. During their discussion yesterday, the two leaders emphasized shared priorities, including environmental conservation, security cooperation, trade, and investment. Prime Minister Marape welcomed Ambassador Fournier and acknowledged France’s vital role in PNG’s development. “France is an important partner to us. With President Macron’s vision for sustainable development, environmental conservation, and global cooperation aligns closely with our own priorities," Prime Minister Marape openly addressed. Ambassador Fournier reaffirmed France’s support for PNG’s conservation initiatives, referencing ongoing forestry and environmental projects initiated during President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to PNG. He pledged to accelerate their implementation, stating, “France is eager to move forward on these initiatives. We will work closely with the PNG government to ensure swift progress.” The meeting also reviewed the PNG-France Security Agreement (SOFA), with Ambassador Fournier highlighting the upcoming visits of senior French military officials in March. These visits will focus on enhancing defense cooperation, particularly in maritime security, training, and regional stability. Prime Minister Marape underscored PNG’s strategic geopolitical position as a gateway between the Pacific and Southeast Asia, reinforcing the country’s aspirations to join ASEAN and strengthen partnerships with regional economic blocs like APEC. “Papua New Guinea is the only Pacific nation with proximity to Southeast Asia. This unique positioning enables us to foster regional collaboration and trade,” he noted, urging France’s support in boosting PNG’s economic development through investment in infrastructure and trade. To further solidify bilateral ties, Marape announced plans to appoint a new PNG Ambassador to France, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration. The meeting concluded with an invitation for Prime Minister Marape to attend the United Nations Conference on Oceans in June, where discussions will focus on biodiversity conservation and climate action. Ambassador Fournier also highlighted upcoming bilateral projects, including infrastructure financing and capacity-building initiatives. Reflecting on the discussions, Prime Minister Marape expressed optimism about the future of PNG-France relations. “I look forward to working closely with you, Ambassador Fournier, to build on the strong foundation of our partnership and take it to new heights in the coming years," the PM concluded.

In PNG Cybercrime is at its highest peak, from email fraud, ransomware, card skimming, cyberbullying, and child pornography that need serious addressing. Recognizing the growing dangers of the online world, Save the Children partnered with META, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram, to launch the I Am Digital (IAD) program. This initiative aims to educate students and communities on how to navigate the digital landscape safely and responsibly. And with an Exclusive Interview with PNG HAUSBUNG, Isabel Druma the Advocacy and Communications Manager of Save the Children PNG, she shared insight on the ONLINE SAFETY Awareness. “There’s a significant gap in cybersecurity awareness in PNG, especially among children,” Ms. Druma said. The awareness program begins as a pilot in the National Capital District, with a two-fold approach: Empowering students as IAD ambassadors Directly engaging entire School Assemblies. The IAD Ambassadors program trains students from grades 9 to 11 to become online safety advocates within their schools and then these ambassadors pass on their knowledge to peers through peer-to-peer education. Last year, 10 ambassadors successfully completed training and began rolling out sessions before the school holidays. “We’ve seen students become more aware of online risks,” Isabel said. “Before this, many students didn’t know the dangers of befriending strangers online or how to protect their personal information.” Alongside the ambassador program, Save the Children is directly engaging entire School Assemblies with sessions targeting students from grade 5 to grade 11 and anyone with access to phones or the internet. These sessions focused on online behavior, stranger danger, and protecting personal information. “We found that many students were unaware that sharing personal photos or becoming friends with strangers online could be harmful. These sessions are about changing that,” Isabel explained. To sustain the impact, Save the Children also conducts workshops for teachers with sessions to provide educators with tools and knowledge on the Cybercrime Act and strategies for creating child-friendly spaces to discuss online safety. The Workshops also emphasize referral pathways for reporting cybercrimes, such as the OneTalk Helpim Counseling Line (7150 8000), which connects victims to the cybercrime unit for further support. “We’re equipping teachers with resources to foster a safe digital environment in schools,” Isabel added. The program's success lies on Save the Children's collaboration with the National Office of Children and Family Services (NOCFS), META, Netsafe New Zealand, and organizations like OneTalk Helpim Counseling Line. Together, they’re creating comprehensive resources and educating stakeholders about PNG's Cybercrime Act. "With initiatives like I Am Digital and Save the Children, we continue to protect and empower the next generation of PNG’s digital citizens, ensuring a safer and brighter future for all."

Alarmingly, the prevalence of Hypertension has been rising in Papua New Guinea (PNG) due to changing lifestyles, urbanization, and dietary shifts. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition where the force of blood against artery walls remains persistently elevated. Often dubbed a "silent killer," hypertension can lead to severe complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss . CPL has been actively addressing this health challenge through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. On January 25th, CPL’s Alotau branch conducted a community outreach program at Ganabeu Compound, focusing on free health checks and hypertension education. The event saw 46 residents undergoing screenings for blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Participants were educated on the dangers of high blood pressure, its relationship with high blood sugar, and the importance of regular monitoring. A City Pharmacy representative emphasized, "Hypertension doesn’t have to remain a silent threat. Together, through education and proactive measures, we can make a difference." Historically, hypertension in PNG was rare in traditional societies, but modern trends show an alarming increase, particularly among urban populations and the Initiatives like CPL’s health checks are vital for raising awareness and promoting early intervention. Through its outreach, CPL reinforces the importance of community well-being and demonstrates its role in addressing public health challenges in PNG.

From coming first in last year's Grade 10 National Examination, La Salle Technical Secondary School isn’t wasting any time and with 95% of students already registered and present, the school is ready to kick off full classes tomorrow. La Salle Principal Br. Antony Samy confirmed that the first period commenced smoothly today, with subsequent periods focused on distributing course outlines for the year. "Actual teaching begins tomorrow, and from then onwards, attendance will be strictly monitored and students who fail to attend will receive warning letters to ensure full participation,” said Br. Antony. Then Br. Antony stressed the vital role parents play in maintaining consistent school attendance, emphasizing the shared responsibility between families and educators. “As parents, your role is to make sure your child attends school daily, and our role is to teach and nurture their development,” he explained. “To reinforce this partnership, we’ll be sending a letter to parents today, encouraging them to prioritize their children’s daily school attendance.” The school has a total capacity of 1, 275 students, with 987 presents as of this morning. Principal Antony remains optimistic about reaching 98% attendance by the end of the day, while confirming that registration is now officially closed. In addition, Br. Antony thanked the Marape-Rosso Government for prioritizing education as a foundation for the nation’s future. “We appreciate the government’s efforts, especially as the country approaches its 50th independence anniversary,” he said. On government funding (GTFS), Principal Anthony stated, "We’ve been informed that the first payment is being processed and should be available by the end of this week or early next week." As the school year begins, La Salle Technical Secondary School continues to lead by example, fostering a strong learning environment and ensuring students are equipped for success.

With the core values of Serve and Together, Kina Bank visited the children of Life PNG Care on December 7, 2024, and donated food and toiletry items to show their commitment to giving back to the communities the bank operates in. This donation was an initiative from the Customer Experience Team, with each member contributing from their own pockets to support the underprivileged children of Life PNG Care. Their General Manager of Customer Experience, Karo Geno, emphasized the importance of providing every child with a chance to learn and grow in a safe and nurturing environment. He praised Life PNG Care for their programs that offer much more for these underprivileged children. “Life PNG Care is more than just a charity; it is a lifeline for countless children in need." "We chose to support Life PNG Care because we believe in the power of compassion and the impact of giving." Also present during this event was the Director of Life PNG Care, Collin Pake, who expressed his gratitude to Kina Bank's Customer Experience Team for their generous donation, which will help sustain their vital work. “Life PNG Care provides education, shelter, and essential resources to those children who need it most by transforming one child's life at a time and creating a brighter future for our nation." He continued by thanking Kina Bank for their donation. “We rely on donations from individuals and business houses to assist us. With your support, we can continue to provide essential services, education, and a safe place for our children.” In 2024, the Customer Experience Team was among other departments and groups in Kina Bank who visited and donated essential items to schools, hospitals, charity organizations, prisons, and other Non-Governmental Organizations. The team plans to continue their community initiatives with more visits in 2025.

Speaking at the Dedication Service and launch of the 2025 Academic Year at Sione Kami Memorial Church on 24th January 2025, Secretary for Education Dr. Uke Kombra uncover transformative initiatives aimed at reshaping Papua New Guinea’s education landscape. Dr. Kombra began by reaffirming the Department of Education’s commitment to inclusivity and equity, emphasizing that the reforms are designed to give every child access to quality education. "Our goal is to ensure that no child is left behind." Among the initiatives to reform the country's education system, the phasing out of elementary schools, grades 1, and 2 will be moved up to primary schools. Dr. Kombra explained, "This change will simplify the education system, making it more efficient and providing continuity for young learners. We are addressing the necessary adjustments in registration, curriculum, and teacher inspections to ensure this transition is seamless." This transition will help make way for the introduction of early childhood education (ECE), which was another highlight of Dr. Kombra’s address. Announcing that there will be ECE centers set to begin this year to help provide foundational learning for children aged 4-5. "Early childhood education is critical for building a strong foundation for our children because in this way we are creating pathways that prepare them for a lifetime of learning and success." Then he also highlighted the government’s plan to enhance the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) program as part of the national framework, noting that teachers and administrators have already undergone training. "This program is aligned with our values and will ensure that education contributes not only to intellectual growth but also to moral and spiritual development." Technology was another key focus of the speech, with Dr. Kombra challenging the department’s e-learning division to expand access to digital tools and online resources. "ICT and e-learning are no longer optional," he said. "They are essential for ensuring equitable learning opportunities, particularly for students in remote areas." Dr. Kombra further elaborated on the Free Education Policy, which will see targeted adjustments in 2025 to better support remote schools. "We know the challenges faced by schools in remote areas, and we are tailoring our support to address these specific needs." Dr. Kombra further stated that the year of jubilee would be marked by inviting educators and stakeholders to contribute ideas for national celebrations. "This is a milestone for our nation," he said. "Let us work together to create a celebration that reflects the achievements and potential of Papua New Guinea."