In a significant boost to this year’s Hiri Moale Festival, WR Carpenters Group announced its role as the official gold sponsor, reaffirming its commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage.

The announcement was made during a ceremony held on Thursday, September 03rd, at the Boroko Motors Showroom, highlighting the importance of community, tradition, and corporate partnership in preserving the nation’s identity.

Mr. Boe Dairi, General Manager of WR Carpenters Group, expressed pride in their association with the festival, emphasizing the cultural significance of the event.

“The Hiri Moale Festival is more than just an annual celebration. It is a powerful expression of our culture, heritage, identity, and traditions.”

“It provides an important opportunity for showcasing the rich cultural history of Papua New Guinea, particularly the traditions of the movement people.”

The group’s sponsorship will include logistical support such as transportation assistance including trucks and light vehicles, to facilitate the movement and activities associated with the festival.

“As a group of companies, we are proud to support an event that brings our communities together and provides an opportunity for our culture to be celebrated, preserved, and shared with future generations.”

This support aligns with WR Carpenters Group’s broader commitment to community development and cultural preservation, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen in Papua New Guinea.

Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Russell Simon Wavik, Chairman of the Motu-Koita Assembly and Deputy NCD Governor, who acknowledged the vital role of corporate support in making the festival a success.

“We came here purposely seeking support from business houses to help us make this event possible.”

“It is my great pleasure on behalf of the Motu-Koita Assembly to sincerely acknowledge and thank Bronco Motors for their generous support towards the Hiri Moale Festival.”

He expressed gratitude for the substantial contribution of 22 vehicles from Boroko Motors, which include 19 vehicles for the road and motorcade, two buses for the Hiri-Hanenamo celebrations, and one vehicle for logistics.

“This is a substantial contribution and will greatly assist us in ensuring that the festival is conducted in a safe, organized, and dignified manner.”

He also highlighted the importance of partnerships such as these, stating that support from Boroko Motors and WR Carpenters Group demonstrates a sense of corporate citizenship and a genuine commitment to working alongside our communities.

Concluding his remarks, Wavik extended sincere gratitude to the management and staff of both companies, emphasizing the role of such partnerships in strengthening cultural identity and community cohesion.

The Hiri Moale Festival continues to be a vital platform for celebrating and preserving the culture of the Motu-Koita people, with corporate support playing an increasingly important role in ensuring its success and safety.

This year’s celebrations will take place from September 8th to 13th, 2026, centered at Ela Beach (Era Kone) in Port Moresby.