Baliora Primary School has received a generous donation of building materials valued at K13,000 under the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Program.The materials were presented by the Office of the Governor, Michael Marum, in collaboration with Agmark Group of Companies, as part of their ongoing partnership to support local educational initiatives. The building materials will be used to complete the school’s new 3-in-1 classroom project, aimed at improving learning facilities for students at the school. The Head Teacher, on behalf of the school, expressed heartfelt thanks to Governor Michael Marum for his leadership and support, as well as to Agmark for their valuable contribution. Baliora Primary School is now set to provide a better learning environment for its students, thanks to the support.            

The Chairman of Ralubang Primary School, Komet Malari, has expressed deep gratitude to the Office of the Governor, Michael Marum, for their support towards the development of the school in Kokopo District, East New Britain.Ralubang Primary School, located in the Ralubang Ward of Bitapaka Local Level Government, currently accommodates around 300 students. However, with growing enrolment and limited facilities, the school has faced challenges in providing sufficient classroom space for the upcoming 2026 academic year. In response to this issue, Malari, who also serves as the Board Chairman, mobilized the local community to construct two additional classrooms for Grade 4 and Grade 5 students. This initiative aims to address the current overcrowding and ensure the school can meet the needs of its expanding student body. “We are immensely relieved and grateful for the assistance from the Governor’s Office.” “With their timely support, we are hopeful that the double classroom will be completed in time for the 2026 academic year, providing a better learning environment for our students.” Governor Michael Marum’s office has been instrumental in the school’s expansion, providing crucial funding through the Partnership Program with Agmark. The Agmark partnership will also supply the necessary building materials to complete the project.                            

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has announced by mutual agreement, that Tahnee Norris will step down as head coach of the Santos PNG Orchids ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka praised Norris for her transformative impact on women’s rugby league in PNG. “On behalf of PNGRFL and the entire rugby league community in PNG, I want to sincerely thank Tahnee for her dedication, experience, and tremendous effort over the past years,” Tsaka said. “Tahnee has played a pivotal role not only in leading the Orchids but also in developing the women’s game across the country.” During her two-year tenure, Norris guided the Orchids through the Pacific Championships while prioritizing youth development. In addition, over ten young players made their Test Match debuts under her leadership, marking a key focus of her coaching philosophy. Norris reflected positively on her time with the team expressing how incredibly proud she was of how far the group has come. “Watching our young players step onto the international stage and prove they belong has been one of the most rewarding parts of my role.” The decision comes as PNG and Australia prepare to co-host the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in October and November. Meanwhile, PNGRFL will launch an immediate recruitment process to appoint a new head coach, aiming to build on recent successes and position the Orchids for strong performances on the global stage. Further updates on the recruitment and team preparations will follow.                        

The Worldwide Fund (WWF) Papua New Guinea has formalized a strategic partnership with East New Britain Provincial Government (ENBPG), CELCOR, and FORCERT through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at advancing sustainable community development, enhancing climate resilience, and building local capacity in the Pomio District.The agreement underscores the parties shared commitment to empowering communities through engagement and collaboration for the benefit of both people and nature. This also establishes protocols for joint planning, knowledge exchange, and mutual support to strengthen conservation programs across partner communities. The ceremony reflected Pomio’s rich cultural heritage, marked by the symbolic presentation of a taboo shell, signifying unity and partnership. This cultural gesture reinforces the importance of integrating traditional values into modern conservation efforts. The MOU was signed by Mr. Cosmas Makamet – FORCERT Manager and Mr. Ted Mamu – WWF Country Manager and witnessed by representatives from the WWF, Climate Change office, ENB Provincial Administrator including Mr. Peter Bosip – CELCOR Executive Director and others. The partnership will run for two years from the date of signing, with automatic renewal for a further two years upon expiry, ensuring continuity and sustained impact. WWF PNG will also prepare for an official signing with the Provincial Administrator of East New Britain Province in early 2026. “Together, we can create lasting change for people and nature.”                         

Manalos Aviation is stepping up emergency medical response in Morobe Province with the construction of a health clinic at its Lae helipad facility, aimed at providing immediate care to patients flown in from remote areas.Commercial and Compliance Manager, Nellie Tumai, said the initiative was driven by the need to save lives through timely medical intervention."The aim of the Manalos Aviation Mountain Area Medical Airlift Foundation is to bring patients to the nearest hospital immediately so they can receive medical help that is crucial to their survival," Ms. Tumai said.The clinic, which is still under construction, will ensure patients receive critical care as soon as they arrive in Lae. "We have had experiences where patients died because they were not treated early or did not receive the special care and attention needed," she said.Ms. Tumai explained that the decision to build the clinic was a proactive measure by the company to address these gaps. "Manalos Aviation has taken its own initiative to set up this clinic so patients can be attended to immediately upon arrival, before they are transferred to hospitals," she said.The project has received financial support from Kabwum District, which contributed K100,000 through the MAMA Foundation programme.Since 2021, the MAMA Foundation programme has benefited more than 200 patients by providing emergency medical airlift services. Ms. Tumai said the initiative highlights the importance of partnerships in improving access to healthcare for people living in remote and hard-to-reach areas.

Kabwum District MP Patrick Basa has donated K100,000 to support the Mountain Area Medical Airlift (MAMA) Foundation’s new clinic.The contribution aims to improve medical services for mothers and patients in remote mountain areas.Basa said the funding responds to the long distances and challenges faced by families needing urgent care. “I have seen mothers and families waiting for hours for medical attention. It is painful as a father and community leader to watch this happen. When we can help, we must. That is why the district gave K100,000. It is a step to save lives and provide care,” he said.He encouraged other leaders and stakeholders to support similar initiatives, noting the need for medical services extends beyond Morobe Province.Basa also praised the MAMA Foundation for their dedication. “They operate the only medical chopper in the area, serving Morobe and neighbouring provinces. This service has saved countless lives, and their commitment is excellent,” he said.The MP also wished residents a safe and peaceful festive season. “I urge everyone to enjoy Christmas responsibly, stay safe, and have faith in God. Together, we can solve many challenges in our communities,” Basa added.

Huon District MP Jason Peter has called on residents to use their resources wisely to invest in small businesses and build a secure future for their families and communities.Peter made the remarks during the graduation ceremony of 600 participants from the Wampar Local-Level Government area in Huon District, who successfully completed a two-week program organized by the Huon District. He stressed the importance of responsible resource management and seeking guidance from God in all aspects of life and business. “Starting a business and using what you have wisely can lead to a good life. It is a blessing from God to recognize that everything belongs to Him,” Peter said. “The key is to understand how to grow your resources and manage them from day one. When you work with God, He gives you wisdom to succeed.” The MP also highlighted the value of partnerships and community support, saying trust and cooperation were essential for growth. “If someone is willing to support you or your business, accept it, especially when it comes from someone trustworthy,” he said. Peter also spoke about the need for stronger community and education development, particularly in remote areas. He outlined plans to improve school infrastructure and address classroom shortages. “By 2027, we aim to improve school infrastructure, so every child has space to learn. Many remote schools lack proper facilities, and as an advocate for education, I must help address these challenges,” he said. He encouraged communities to take part in development programs and support skills training initiatives, describing education as a key driver of long-term progress. “It is time to take action. Papua New Guinea has great potential, and together we can make meaningful progress,” Peter said.                  

Maternal and newborn deaths remain a concern in Madang Province due to ongoing difficulties in emergency medical retrievals from remote areas.Madang Provincial Health Authority Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Martin Daimen said poor road access, limited transport options and lack of funding for helicopter medivacs continue to delay urgent care for pregnant mothers.He said while air evacuations are often the only option in critical cases, there is no dedicated funding, forcing reliance on aviation companies that provide services on a credit basis.Dr Daimen said discussions are underway with the provincial government and district authorities to seek long-term support for emergency air retrievals.In a recent response, two patients were airlifted to Modilon General Hospital and treated. During the same period, a stillborn baby linked to placenta previa and a man with a severe bush knife injury died while awaiting evacuation.Health officials say improving emergency transport is key to reducing preventable deaths in the province.

The National Airports Corporation (NAC) has announced temporary measures to help manage increased passenger traffic during this busy festive season.It states that for the Tokua Airport in East New Britain province, it will temporarily accommodate the new Airbus A220 aircraft operations starting today, Tuesday 16th December 2025. This is to allow increased airline services during peak travel periods. In addition, the NAC says it can facilitate temporary night flight operations at Nadzab, Wewak, Momote and Kavieng airports, subject to advance notice from airline operators. The NAC also acknowledged that night operations fall outside its normal operating hours and place additional pressure on resources, but says the measures are necessary to ease congestion and improve passenger movement. The NAC thanked airline operators and the travelling public for their patience and cooperation and apologized for any inconvenience experienced during the peak travel period.                            

The Australian Government’s continued support for healthcare in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has seen significant progress with the Advanced Paediatric Life Support (APLS) Project, which has been strengthening the skills of healthcare professionals working with critically ill and injured children across the country.Since 2018, the project has trained over 240 health workers in key cities, including Port Moresby, Lae, and Goroka, enabling clinicians to deliver life-saving care in paediatric emergencies. To complement this vital training, the APLS project team has recently procured 13 multipurpose monitors from a local supplier, which will be used in wards at the Port Moresby General Hospital and other provincial hospitals. These monitors are designed to assist healthcare workers in tracking vital signs and guiding clinical decision-making during critical resuscitation efforts. The decision to purchase the equipment locally not only supports the healthcare system in PNG but also underscores the Australian Government’s commitment to contributing to the local economy. The procurement was a clear demonstration of the Government's aim to ensure that its development assistance benefits both the healthcare sector and the broader economic development of PNG. As part of the APLS training, clinicians are learning how to use these vital signs monitors effectively, improving their ability to respond to paediatric emergencies. The monitors will play a key role in the delivery of hands-on, real-life scenario training over a 3-day course, equipping healthcare workers with the skills and confidence needed to manage critical paediatric cases. This is part of the Australian Government’s broader commitment to improving health outcomes for women and children in PNG. The APLS project is a collaborative effort, supported through the long-standing partnership between the Port Moresby General Hospital and the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS), with funding from the Australian Government.                       

Prime Minister James Marape has joined leaders in the pacific and the world to condemn the terror attack in Sydney, Australia and sends condolence as well to the people and government of Australia.“On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I convey my deepest condolences to the Government and people of Australia following the tragic terrorist attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney,” expressed the prime minister. “This senseless act of violence has taken innocent lives and caused immense pain to families, friends and the wider Australian community. Papua New Guinea stands in solidarity with Australia at this difficult time, sharing in your grief and mourning alongside you.” “Australia is not only our closest neighbour, but a trusted friend and partner with whom we share deep historical, social and people-to-people ties. The loss felt in Sydney is also felt in Papua New Guinea.”“We strongly condemn terrorism in all its forms and reaffirm our commitment to peace, security and the protection of innocent lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, the injured, the emergency responders, and all those affected by this tragic event.”“May the families of those who lost their lives find strength and comfort and may the injured make a full and swift recovery.”

BSP Financial Group Limited continues to expand its digital services with its latest addition of a new Digital Branch at 9 Mile, Eliseo Plaza in Port Moresby city which was opened today, Monday 15th December.The soft launch of the 9 Mile Digital Branch expands the Bank’s footprint to 122 branches across Papua New Guinea and the South Pacific, marking another milestone in the organization’s ongoing investment in accessible and modern banking services. Retail Bank National Operations Manager – Dennis Lamus said strategically located to serve communities in Moresby North- East, the new branch will also support customers along Sogeri Road, the Hiritano Highway, Central Province and to an extent, parts of the Gulf Province. The 9Mile branch will be open five days a week (Monday – Friday), offering convenient access to BSP’s full digital banking suite, assisted self-service facilities, card services, Deposit ATMs, Account Opening and on boarding support for Mobile and Internet Banking. Head of Retail Modernization & Network Strategy - Tyron Niddrie, said the opening underscores the Bank’s commitment to improving banking access for underserved communities.“Our Retail Modernization program continues to bring digital banking closer to where people live and work. The new 9 Mile Digital Branch will provide convenient and secure services for thousands of customers in a rapidly growing part of Port Moresby,” he added. The Bank encourages community members and customers in the surrounding areas to take advantage of the new digital branch and the services it provides. As part of the Bank’s ongoing Retail Modernization and Branch Network Strategy, the communities of Tari and Minj are next in line for branch expansions.