Key government agencies, state-owned entities, industry representatives and development partners convened in Port Moresby this week and participated in a stakeholder consultation on the review of the Organic Law on the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF).The consultation workshop brought together representatives from the Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG), Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH), Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited (KMHL), Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL), Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), Department of Treasury, First Legislative Council, Constitutional Law Reform Committee, Association of Superannuation Funds, PNG Reset@50 Unit and other relevant institutions.The workshop formed part of the Government's ongoing efforts to strengthen the legislative framework governing the Sovereign Wealth Fund and advance its operationalisation.Participants were reviewing proposed amendments to the Organic Law and governance, accountability and operational arrangements necessary to ensure the Fund delivers its intended objectives of macroeconomic stabilization, responsible resource revenue management and intergenerational savings.The consultations also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to consider international best practice and lessons from other sovereign wealth fund jurisdictions.Among the participants was Her Excellency Anne Riise, Ambassador of Norway to Papua New Guinea, who shared insights from Norway's experience in managing one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds. Discussions focused on governance standards, transparency, long-term investment strategies and the role sovereign wealth funds play in securing future prosperity.The Sovereign Wealth Fund was established under the Organic Law on the Sovereign Wealth Fund 2015 following its passage by Parliament and the Fund was designed to ensure revenues generated from Papua New Guinea's mineral and petroleum resources contribute to long-term national development and economic stability.Minister for Rural and Economic Development and Minister responsible for oversight of the Sovereign Wealth Fund, Hon. Joseph Lelang, MP, said the review process represents an important step towards making the Fund fully operational.Speaking from Singapore, where he is currently undertaking his annual medical review, Mr. Lelang reaffirmed the Government's commitment to operationalising the Sovereign Wealth Fund before the next National General Election."I intend to see the Sovereign Wealth Fund operational before the next National General Election. Bringing further amendments to the Organic Law on the Sovereign Wealth Fund is necessary to ensure the framework is robust, practical and capable of delivering benefits for current and future generations of Papua New Guineans," Mr. Lelang said."The Sovereign Wealth Fund is an important national institution that will help safeguard our resource revenues, strengthen economic resilience and ensure that the benefits of our natural resources are shared with future generations."Mr. Lelang is expected to return to Papua New Guinea this weekend.The stakeholder consultations will continue as part of the review process aimed at strengthening the Organic Law and establishing an effective Sovereign Wealth Fund framework that reflects international best practice while addressing Papua New Guinea's development priorities.

A Papua New Guinean graduate is playing a key role in shaping the future of women in engineering, returning to her alma mater to help deliver a major infrastructure project aimed at expanding opportunities for female students.Grace Bisaun, a graduate of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNG UoT), has been involved in the construction of the university's new 100-bed female dormitory; an Australian Government-funded project designed to improve access to higher education for women pursuing careers in science, engineering and other technical fields.Originally from East Sepik Province, Grace completed her schooling in Lae before enrolling at PNG UoT to study architecture and building.During her fourth year, she undertook industrial training with the university's Estates and Services Team, where she witnessed the ground-breaking ceremony for the dormitory that she would later help bring to completion.Now employed as a site clerk within the university's Project Office, Grace has supported the project throughout its construction, marking a significant milestone in her professional journey."I'm honoured and grateful for the opportunity to give back to the university and contribute to the development of its infrastructure.”The new dormitory, funded through Australia's Incentive Fund, will provide safe and modern on-campus accommodation for female students, helping remove one of the barriers that often prevents young women from pursuing tertiary education away from home.The facility is expected to support increased enrolment and graduation rates for women in engineering, science and other infrastructure-related disciplines, helping strengthen Papua New Guinea's future technical workforce.

An Australian Government-funded road maintenance program is helping Papua New Guinean businesses expand while improving critical transport infrastructure across the country.Delivered through the Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3 (TSSP3) in partnership with the Department of Works and Highways, the program is providing local contractors with opportunities to develop skills, strengthen their businesses and create employment while maintaining key road networks.Among the beneficiaries is Atimed Limited, led by principal Lilly Tiripu, who oversees the rehabilitation works along the East Cape Road in Milne Bay Province.Atimed Limited is one of nine PNG-owned companies contracted under the program to repair and upgrade sections of the road, including pothole repairs, road resealing and drainage improvements to improve access to schools, health facilities and markets.Tiripu said the contracts had significantly contributed to the growth of her business."This is my second contract on the East Cape Road, and each one has helped my business grow. It has also created jobs for local women and men and allowed me to give back to the community.”The short-term, performance-based contracts reward quality and timely delivery while helping local contractors improve technical skills and management practices.Through the PNG–Australia Partnership, Ms. Tiripu has also completed specialized training in workplace safety, road safety, climate resilience and river management, equipping her company for future infrastructure projects.Beyond expanding her workforce, Tiripu has supported her local community through contributions to Milne Bay Provincial Hospital.The program supports the PNG Government's efforts to strengthen local contractors, promote women's leadership in infrastructure, and build long-term capacity within the country's private sector.

The Upstream and Downstream Operators of the Papua LNG Project (Project) were issued amended Environmental permits for the Papua LNG Project from the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA).This comes after more than seven months of close consultation between CEPA, the Upstream Project Operator TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited and Downstream Operator ExxonMobil PNG Antelope Limited.The amended permits were presented on Friday 29 May 2026, resulting in positive changes for the Project with respect to potential environmental and community-related impacts.Michael Wau Executive Director of CEPA’s Non-Renewable Resources, Environmental Protection Wing presented the permits and stated that the permits issued by CEPA are living documents and must be constantly reviewed and amended to enhance protection of the environment, water resource management and biodiversity conservation.“And that is exactly what TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited and ExxonMobil PNG Antelope Limited have done - to review and request for CEPA to make amendments to the environment permits.”The original Environmental Permits for the Papua LNG Project EP–L3(1008) and EP-L3 (1030) were issued in March and September 2025, covering a range of planned activities, including the construction and operation of a Catenary Anchor Leg Mooring (CALM) buoy system and associated marine infrastructure.Since then, changes have been made to both the Upstream and Downstream project designs.As a result, some of the originally planned activities related to the CALM buoy system, the marine exclusion zones, and associated infrastructure, are no longer required.“There will be minimal environmental impact as the condensate pipeline which was initially permitted to transverse Caution Bay will connect with the Santos owned Kumul Marine Terminal floating storage and offloading facility.” said Mr. Wau.These amendments will result in multiple positive outcomes, including:Communities will not face extended travel times around marine exclusion zonesThere will be no disruption to artisanal and subsistence fishing activitiesSensitive marine and coastal habitats like mangroves, intertidal zones, and benthic environments, will not be affected“This is a great win for the environment and the people,” Mr. Wau concluded.Overall Operator TotalEnergies EP Limited’s said they looked forward to continued collaboration with CEPA and other government agencies to ensure that Papua LNG is executed in a sustainable, responsible and efficient manner.“We are committed to delivering Papua LNG to the highest environmental standards in close partnership with CEPA”. EMPNG Chairman and Managing Director Dinesh Sivasamboo, following the signing event, expressed his thanks and appreciation to CEPA for their review and approval of this amendment.“We greatly value this collaboration and the constructive engagement throughout the process to ensure that the Papua LNG Downstream Project is delivered responsibly and in full compliance with the amended environment permit”, said Mr. Sivasamboo.

ExxonMobil PNG Limited (EMPNG) has recently marked a decade of biodiversity partnership under the PNG LNG Project, bringing together government representatives, conservation partners and stakeholders to celebrate progress and reaffirm a shared commitment to protecting the country’s rich natural heritage. The mini-expo event, held at the Port Moresby Nature Park to coincide with International Day for Biological Diversity on 22nd May, showcased the importance of strong partnerships in delivering sustainable conservation outcomes. This year’s global theme, “Acting locally for global impact,” underscored the role Papua New Guinea plays in safeguarding biodiversity on globally.Delivering the keynote address, Chairman and Managing Director of ExxonMobil PNG Limited, Mr. Dinesh Sivasamboo highlighted the deep connection between Papua New Guinea’s biodiversity, its people, and their livelihoods.“Papua New Guinea’s natural heritage is among the richest in the world, and it is closely tied to the culture, identity and future of its people,” said Mr. Sivasamboo.“As we reflect on a decade of partnership, we recognize both the opportunity and responsibility we share in protecting this biodiversity, while supporting sustainable development.”Mr. Sivasamboo reaffirmed EMPNG’s commitment to balancing development with environmental stewardship, noting that collaboration has been central to the success of biodiversity programs delivered under the PNG LNG Project.Over the past ten years, these partnerships have supported protected areas, strengthened the capacity of local scientists and environmental conservation rangers, contributed to global conservation data, and led to the discovery of 22 new species.A key highlight of the event was the launch of the PNG LNG Project’s 10-year biodiversity monitoring reports and new species publications. Following an overview by independent ornithologist and environmental consultant Dr. Iain Woxvold, the reports were formally presented to government representatives and partners.The program also featured panel discussions on the establishment of a National Rangers Association and the development of a Papua New Guinea species Red List, alongside exhibitions and interactive engagements with conservation partners and local high school students.The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to strengthen partnerships and continue efforts to conserve Papua New Guinea’s extraordinary biodiversity for future generations.

Papua New Guinea is strengthening its commitment to creating safer and more inclusive schools through the revision of its Behaviour Management Policy (BMP), with support from the PNG–Australia Partnership.The National Department of Education (NDoE) is updating the policy to better promote student wellbeing, encourage positive behaviour, and foster respectful learning environments for children across the country.The revised policy addresses emerging challenges facing schools, including bullying, school-related gender-based violence, and the increasing influence of social media, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital technologies on students.Designed to support all learners, the policy places particular emphasis on ensuring girls, boys, children with disabilities, and other vulnerable students feel safe, respected, and supported in school.The review has been shaped through consultations with teachers, students, parents, school leaders, and community members, recognizing that creating safe schools is a shared responsibility.First Assistant Secretary for the Guidance and Counselling Division at the National Department of Education, Phillip So'on, said the revised policy goes beyond managing student behaviour."This policy is about more than managing behaviour. It is about shaping the culture of our schools for generations to come. It lays the foundation for safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environments that respond to today's realities while preparing schools for future challenges.”School leaders have welcomed the reforms, describing them as both timely and necessary.The revised policy promotes preventative approaches to behaviour management by encouraging positive behaviour, reinforcing the existing ban on corporal punishment, and supporting fair, non-violent and consistent responses that prioritize children's wellbeing.Aligned with Papua New Guinea's National Education Plan and its commitments to inclusive education and gender equity, the 2026 Behaviour Management Policy and Guide for Schools is expected to provide schools nationwide with practical guidance to create learning environments where every child can learn safely and reach their full potential once it is finalized.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) has officially partnered with Lightspeed PNG to improve internet connectivity across its Library Learning Centres (LLCs), strengthening digital learning opportunities for children and teachers throughout Papua New Guinea.Under the partnership, Lightspeed PNG will provide reliable and secure internet services to 16 BbP Library Learning Centres located in Port Moresby, Lae, Goroka and Manus.This will enhance access to digital learning resources within BbP’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) program while enabling teachers to communicate with head office, conduct educational research, and participate in professional development.Since launching its Digital Learning Program in 2021, BbP has introduced tablets loaded with its custom-built BbP App, featuring literacy and numeracy games, phonics videos, sign language resources, e-books and educational content developed specifically for Papua New Guinean children.The partnership was officially announced during a visit to BbP's 9 Mile Library Learning Centre in Port Moresby, the first centre connected through the initiative.Lightspeed PNG Sales Manager Stanislaus Yurus said the company was proud to support Buk bilong Pikinini's work in expanding access to quality digital education.Lightspeed PNG Chief Executive Officer Richard Broadbridge said internet access represents more than connectivity, describing it as a gateway to education, opportunity and a brighter future."We are proud to support Buk bilong Pikinini libraries by providing free internet services that help create inclusive learning environments and empower children through knowledge and digital access.”BbP PR and Marketing Team Lead Mary Sawa welcomed the partnership, saying it would strengthen the organization's Digital Learning Program while ensuring children continue to access safe, culturally relevant educational content created by BbP's own Digital Learning Team.The event also featured the formal exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), with Lightspeed PNG represented by Stanislaus Yurus and Buk bilong Pikinini represented by IT and Digital Learning Team Lead Richard Bridger.Both organizations said the collaboration reflects their shared commitment to expanding access to quality education by combining reliable internet connectivity with locally developed digital learning resources, helping more Papua New Guinean children thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is taking a step towards cleaner transport and reduced carbon emissions, and dependence on fuel through electric vehicle (EV) adoption with a pilot programme launched just recently to trail it out.Turra Holdings, Odesh Motors, and Sahul Energy recently announced the launch of PNG’s first EV pilot programme, bringing zero-emission light vehicles, trucks, and buses to the streets of Port Moresby, marking a historic milestone for the country’s transport sector and positions PNG at the forefront of the Pacific’s clean mobility transition.The pilot programme aims to deploy electric vehicles across three categories:light passenger vehicles,medium-duty commercial trucks, andurban transit buses supported by a network of charging infrastructure at strategic locations across the National Capital District (NCD).The initiative aims to generate real-world performance data on EV operations in PNG’s tropical climate, road conditions, and energy environment, building the evidence base for broader national adoption.Subject to the successful completion of the Port Moresby pilot, the consortium plans to expand operations to Lae, PNG’s industrial capital and gateway to the Highlands region, establishing a national EV corridor between the country’s two largest cities.“This is about more than vehicles, it’s about proving that Papua New Guinea can lead, not follow, in the clean energy transition. Our country has the sustainable energy resources to power an electric transport future, and today we are taking the first step,” said Turra Holdings Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Isikeli Taureka.Odesh Motors Managing Director, Mr. Isaac Jipsy wants the public to not see EVs as a distant aspiration but as a practical and commercial opportunity for PNG today.“Diesel costs in this country are among the highest in the region and compounded by the current turmoil in the Middle East. Every electric kilometre driven is money saved, emissions avoided, and energy independence gained for our nation.”Sahul Energy’s Managing Director Mr. Martin Tambiawi, said, “Our role is to ensure that the energy infrastructure is ready for the vehicles. That means smart charging systems, solar and battery integration, and grid-ready designs that work in PNG’s conditions.”He added that the pilot program aims to demonstrate that locally designed, locally owned clean energy infrastructure is the foundation for PNG’s electric transport future.

World Vision Papua New Guinea has received vital equipment from the Australian Government to strengthen tuberculosis (TB) service delivery in the remote North Fly District of Western Province.The support, provided through the PNG–Australia Partnership, aims to improve access to essential TB services for communities along the northern reaches of the Fly River and other isolated areas where distance and limited transport continue to hinder timely diagnosis and treatment.The donation includes a motorised dinghy, a standby generator, and a high-capacity printer, all of which are expected to enhance the delivery of healthcare services in the district.The motorised dinghy will provide a more reliable and cost-effective means of reaching remote communities, enabling health workers to conduct outreach activities more frequently and efficiently. The standby generator will help ensure uninterrupted operations during power outages, while the high-capacity printer will allow training and health awareness materials to be produced locally, reducing delays and operational costs.North Fly District Health Manager, Mr. Rody Ukin welcomed the donation, describing it as a significant boost to healthcare delivery in the district.He said the equipment would strengthen the district’s capacity to reach remote communities and provide timely TB services, adding that improved transport and reliable power would help ensure continuity of care and contribute to better health outcomes for people across North Fly.The Australian Government reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside Papua New Guinea to strengthen health systems and ensure that even the country’s most remote communities have access to essential TB care and services.

Governor-General of Papua New Guinea, Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, has welcomed a donation of 11 water tanks from local engineering company WP Engineering Ltd to support water storage at Government House.The tanks, each with a capacity of 4,000 litres, were officially presented by WP Engineering Ltd Chief Ahmad Bin Ismail during a handover ceremony at Government House this week.Grand Chief Sir Bob said the donation would help address ongoing water supply disruptions affecting both the Office of the Governor-General and staff residing at Government House.He noted that the contribution comes at a critical time as the country begins experiencing the impacts of El Niño, which is expected to place additional pressure on Port Moresby’s main water source, the Sirinumu Dam in Sogeri.Sir Bob urged Government House staff to use water responsibly and practice conservation measures to ensure supplies last throughout the anticipated dry period.He said forecasts indicate that the current El Niño event could be one of the most severe on record and may persist for several months, bringing significant challenges for communities across the Pacific, including reduced water levels at Sirinumu Dam.The Governor-General expressed his gratitude to WP Engineering Ltd for its generous support, saying the donation would provide much-needed relief and improve water security at Government House.He also acknowledged the company's continued assistance, noting that WP Engineering Ltd recently installed a new flagpole at Government House, which now flies both the Governor-General’s Personal Standard and Papua New Guinea’s national flag.

The Office of the Governor General has issued a warning to the general public to be wary of social media scams utilizing profile pictures of the Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, to solicit funds from unsuspecting individuals.Official Secretary Mr. Bill Toraso stated that he is aware of a person or persons claiming to be Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae and using photographs of the Governor General on Facebook to seek financial assistance with promises of significant returns.In response, Mr. Toraso has urged the public to remain vigilant and refrain from engaging with such individuals on social media.“On behalf of the Governor General’s Office, I want to make it clear that the Office of the Governor General nor the Governor General himself would resort to such illegal means to scam people on social media such as Facebook,” said Mr. Toraso.The public is strongly warned not to accept requests or lend money to individuals using the Governor General’s name and photographs under the guise of huge financial returns.Furthermore, the Office of the Governor General has stated it will not entertain or compensate individuals who have lost money to these scammers and are seeking rewards or reimbursement.Members of the public are advised to immediately cease communication with these fraudulent accounts and report them to the appropriate authorities, such as the police.Mr. Toraso emphasized that the Office of the Governor General will also pursue this matter with the relevant authorities for appropriate action to be taken.

People living in provinces in the Highlands Region and the Southern Coastal Region of Papua New Guinea (PNG) are expected to be impacted more by the onslaught of the extreme El Niño condition that is already upon the pacific region.This was announced by the Minster for National Disaster and Emergency Dr. Billy Joseph, who further said that the National Government remains committed to ensuring that PNG is prepared and ready to respond to any challenges that may arise from this developing El Niño event. However, he did not disclose just how much funding support the State will be providing to support impacted areas.The minister made the revelation after receiving assessment reports from a multi- sectoral Technical Assessment Team deployed by the National Disaster Center in May to verify the situation on the ground and assess the level of preparedness of provinces that were currently under drought watch and drought alert.The assessment team comprised representatives from key government agencies and partner organisations.“The assessment confirmed emerging dry conditions across parts of the Highlands Region, including reduced rainfall, declining water sources, moisture stress on food gardens, and growing concerns over food and water security,” the minister said in a statement that he released.He further stated that the assessment concluded that there is a likelihood of a drought emergency. It highlighted the need for proactive preparedness measures and early interventions to mitigate the potential impacts of a developing El Niño event.“These findings reinforce the importance of early action by all levels of government, communities, and stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and resilience before conditions deteriorate further,” he said.The current forecast indicates that these conditions may have adverse impacts on:Water availability for communities;Food production and agricultural activities;Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services;Hydropower generation and energy supply;Transport networks and other critical services; andPublic health and community livelihoods.Meanwhile, the National Disaster Centre (NDC) is urging all national agencies, Provincial Administrations, Provincial Disaster Committees, District Development Authorities, development partners, business houses, churches, civil society organisations, and local communities to coordinate their preparedness arrangements and take early action to minimise the potential impacts of El Niño.The Provincial Disaster Centres are also encouraged to coordinate preparedness activities within their respective jurisdictions and maintain close communication with the NDC.The NDC, in collaboration with the National Weather Service and other key stakeholders, will continue to monitor the evolving situation and provide regular updates to the public.“I urge all citizens, community leaders, churches, and private sector partners to take this advisory seriously and begin preparing for possible dry conditions in the months ahead. Early preparedness, coordinated planning, and collective actions will be critical in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, food security, water security, and essential services,” said the minister.Meantime, the PNG National Weather Service has confirmed that El Niño conditions are now established and likely to persist until at least the end of the year.