PNG Air informs customers that flights to Kieta and Buka in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville will be reduced due to the ongoing issue of fuel shortages. Currently, services will decrease from twice a week to once a week for both destinations. However, the airline company says it is actively seeking solutions to minimize disruptions and restore full operations as soon as possible. The fuel shortage, which has impacted airlines across the country, is beyond PNG Air’s control. Despite this, the airline remains committed to maintaining services and ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely. PNG Air deeply regrets the inconvenience this may cause and appreciates the patience and cooperation of its customers. The airline assures the public that flights will return to normal as soon as fuel supply issues are resolved. For further details or assistance, customers can contact PNG Air’s Call Centre at 16111 (Digicel Toll Free) or 7411 2644 (Telikom).

The official state funeral program for the Late Rt. Hon. Sir Julius Chan, GCL, GCMG, KBE, PC, MP, continues today in Port Moresby as the nation mourns the passing of one of Papua New Guinea’s most distinguished leaders. Day 1: Repatriation from Kavieng to Port Moresby The program commenced on Friday, January 31, 2025, with the transportation of the Late Sir Julius Chan’s casket from Kavieng to Port Moresby. At 12pm the casket was taken to Kavieng Airport, where a brief ceremony was held before its departure. The casket was placed on a chartered flight at 1pm and arrived at Port Moresby’s APEC VIP Terminal at 4:20 pm then from there, it was escorted to Erima Funeral Home, marking the conclusion of the first day’s program. Today, February 1, Day 2: New Ireland Community Program at Kopkop College. The program shifted focus to the New Ireland community in Port Moresby. At 3pm, a gathering will be held at Kopkop College in Gerehu, providing an opportunity for the public to pay their respects and honor Sir Julius Chan’s legacy. His casket remained at Erima Funeral Home throughout the day. The program concludes at 7pm. Sunday, February 2, Day 3: State Funeral Service & National Hauskrai. The official state funeral service will be held at St. Mary’s Cathedral in downtown Port Moresby. The casket will depart Erima Funeral Home at 12:45pm arriving at the cathedral at 1pm. The PNG Defence Force Ceremonial Guard will be present to honor the former Prime Minister. Following the funeral service, the National Hauskrai Program will be held at Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium, beginning at 5pm. The event will feature speeches and tributes from dignitaries, members of parliament, and community representatives with Prime Minister Hon. James Marape is expected to deliver the keynote address. On Monday, February 3, Final Farewell: Lay in State & Departure to Kavieng. Sir Julius Chan’s casket will be taken to the Grand Hall of the National Parliament House, where Members of Parliament and state dignitaries will pay their final respects. There will be 19-gun salute will be performed by the PNG Defence Force before the casket departs Port Moresby for its final journey back to Kavieng, New Ireland Province. Sir Julius Chan, one of the founding fathers of Papua New Guinea’s independence and a two-time Prime Minister, dedicated his life to public service. His passing marks the end of an era in PNG’s political history. As the nation continues to mourn, his words remain a reminder of his visionary leadership: "When I look out across the sea, I think of the unknown. It is to that world of adventure that we all must go, even though we cannot see what might lie ahead, whether it will be victory or defeat." – Sir Julius Chan The official state funeral program will conclude on February 3, with his final return to his beloved home province of New Ireland.

CPL Foundation Inc has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting education by donating three branded tents to Arise and Shine Early Childhood Learning Centre in Waigani. This donation will enhance the learning experience for over 70 children, aged 2 to 14 years, currently enrolled in the school, spanning from kindergarten to grade 5. Founded in 2019 by Dorcas Maiyap, a passionate early childhood educator from East Sepik Province, Arise and Shine was born out of a desire to create opportunities for young learners. Ms. Maiyap was inspired by a remarkable teacher during her own schooling and later pursued studies in early childhood education in Samoa. And before founding her school, she taught at Sunshine Bethel Christian School in Lae. “Education is the most powerful tool for change; by fostering early literacy, we open doors for our children’s future,” said Ms. Maiyap. Her belief in early literacy is rooted in the idea that reading lays the foundation for lifelong learning and broader opportunities. Despite financial challenges, she has worked tirelessly to sustain the school with support from her family and a strong commitment to her vision. CPLF Inc. responded to her call for assistance, recognizing the school’s need for better facilities. The donation of the tents provides much-needed shade for outdoor activities such as painting sessions, lunch breaks, class celebrations, and end-of-year events. “These tents will help create a more comfortable and engaging environment for our children,” Ms. Maiyap emphasized. “It’s a small change that makes a big difference.” Adding to her achievements, Ms. Maiyap has secured a four-year scholarship under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme to pursue a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in Darwin. Her long-term goal is to secure permanent land and infrastructure for Arise and Shine, ensuring its sustainability for generations to come. CPL Foundation Inc. remains steadfast in its mission to empower communities through education, healthcare, and economic development. This donation is part of its broader effort to invest in the future of young learners and strengthen early childhood education in Papua New Guinea.

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.