Aseneth WAIDE

British Deputy High Commissioner H.E. Niall Cullens recently visited the Legend FM radio station at PNGFM Ltd in Port Moresby as part of the station’s British Accent Challenge, helping select the winner of the month-long competition.Cullens joined the Legend FM team live in the studio to conduct the final draw, which saw William Aila named the winner of the challenge.The competition was run by Legend FM as part of its July promotions, giving listeners the opportunity to showcase their best British accent or impression.Legend FM’s radio personality Augustine Chalson popularly known as Augie, said listeners were given a sentence each day, taken from a famous song, and challenged to read it in a British accent.Participants submitted their entries through WhatsApp voice notes or by calling the station, with the strongest entries progressing into the final draw.During his visit, Cullens also spoke about the diversity of British accents, explaining that there is no single British accent. He said accents vary across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, while different regions and cities within the countries also have their own distinct accents.Cullens gave examples of regional differences, noting that people from Liverpool, Newcastle and Birmingham can speak with noticeably different accents. He also pointed out differences between Glasgow and Edinburgh in Scotland, despite the cities being relatively close to each other.Cullens said English has become a global language used across music, film, culture, business and communication.Following the draw, Cullens congratulated Aila and said the winner would be welcomed at the British High Commission for a tour.The visit will give Aila an opportunity to learn more about the work of the British High Commission in Papua New Guinea, the relationship between PNG and the United Kingdom, and to meet staff at the mission too.Augie said the British Accent Challenge was designed as a fun way to engage listeners while celebrating British culture. He said the idea was also inspired by British music, particularly the contrast between the accents of British artists when speaking and how they sound when singing.The challenge also became an opportunity for Legend FM listeners to learn about the variety of British accents.Augie said he was surprised to learn during Cullens’ visit that Britain has numerous regional accents.He compared the differences to Papua New Guinea, where people from different parts of the country also have distinct dialects and ways of speaking.

Director: Spencer Peter WangareCast: Jamuga Stone, Joylene Tanfa, Jeremiah Hauka, Balem Asekim, David KaumaraRating: M | Genre: Crime, Thriller, Urban Fantasy | Run Time: 100minsCinema/Streaming Platform: Paradise Cinema, Coca-Cola Premiere LoungeCRINGY SCRIPT AND DIALOGUE DELIVERY WITH OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING VILLIANS“In the world of Black Python, everyone seems to have a story to tell—but the film struggles to decide whose story matters most.”Streetwise drug dealer, Badu (Balem Asekim) recruits young John after the boy was left homeless. John soon finds himself caught in a complicated world of drug trafficking, corruption and betrayal.The film does not seem to know who its main character is: John, Detective Nina, Badu, or Master? We are introduced to John at the beginning, and this immediately leads audiences to assume that the story will revolve around him. However, as the film progresses, that assumption becomes less certain. Badu appears to play a more central role in the drug-dealing operation, making his actions increasingly significant to the development of the story. At the same time, Detective Nina is introduced as the investigator following the drug-trafficking case, positioning her as another possible central character whose perspective could have driven the narrative. Master, on the other hand, is presented as a black python master, adding another mysterious and supernatural dimension to the story. Because each of these characters is given considerable attention and appears to have their own role in the larger conflict, the film creates uncertainty about whose story we are actually following.Scripting and delivery were painfully average and contained too much English which ruins believability in a Papua New Guinean film. Actors’ lack of fluency in English dialogue was awful to listen to and sounded as though it was read directly off a paper. Only the Tok Pisin dialogue from the background actors sounded natural. Overall, the script and delivery were one of the weakest elements in the film.On the other hand, the way profanity was handled in Black Python, was balanced and enhanced the intensity. Unlike most mature films that just drop random F-Bombs in dialogue, Black Python’s usage of bad language made sense in the scenes where it was utilized.Another particular feature of strength was the film’s supporting villains. Although they weren’t the main villains’, characters X and Big Boss’s female assistant stole the show from the main villain. Their acting was distinctive and had more personality compared to ‘Big Boss’ who seemed more like a caricature.Black Python is an ambitious attempt to push Papua New Guinean cinema into the action, crime and urban fantasy space; there is clearly effort and passion behind its production. However, awkward English dialogue delivery and an unclear central storyline prevent the film from reaching its full potential. While the film introduces several characters and ideas, it struggles to bring them together into a focused and compelling narrative. Despite these weaknesses, the film has moments that work. Supporting villains bring personality and tension to the story, while the controlled use of profanity adds intensity without feeling unnecessarily excessive. The film also deserves recognition for attempting a genre that is still relatively unexplored in PNG cinema.FINAL VERDICTBlack Python is a bold but uneven attempt to bring action, crime and urban fantasy to Papua New Guinean cinema. Its ambitious concept and memorable supporting villains show potential, but the weak scripting, unnatural dialogue delivery and lack of a clear central protagonist hold the film back.Rating: ★★☆☆☆ 2/5

The premiere of Black Python has demonstrated the growing potential of Papua New Guinea’s film industry, with National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop calling for greater support for young filmmakers and the development of a sustainable local film industry.Speaking at the premiere at Paradise Cinemas, Port Moresby, Governor Parkop congratulated director Spencer Wangare, the cast, crew and other stakeholders involved in producing the feature film.“This is an ambitious project, and Spencer has taken the lead, driven by passion, and by commitment, and by determination to develop filmmaking in PNG.”Governor Parkop said PNG had a history of filmmaking dating back to the 1970s and 1980s, but believed a new generation now had an opportunity to take the industry further.He said young people were increasingly looking to explore their skills and talents through new creative platforms, making it important to create opportunities for them to enter the film industry.“There is a lot of potential but it needs determination like Spencer Wangare has shown, and it requires funding.”He said the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) had contributed what it could towards the project as an initial effort to showcase local talent.Governor Parkop also pointed to successful film industries in countries such as India, Nigeria and Hong Kong as examples of what could be achieved through sustained investment and commitment.He encouraged stakeholders to continue supporting local filmmakers so that PNG could eventually develop a strong and competitive film industry.Director Spencer Wangare thanked the Governor, NCDC, the National Cultural Commission, Tourism Promotion Authority, Institute of Business Studies University (IBSU), sponsors, partners and the audience for supporting Black Python.Wangare said the film was produced through local talent, with NCDC youth playing key roles in its production.He acknowledged the NCDC youth training programme, which he said had helped provide young people with filmmaking skills and opportunities to participate in the industry.Wangare also acknowledged veteran filmmakers and actors whose work had inspired the new generation of PNG filmmakers.He said Black Python was his first feature film, following his earlier work on short films.“I was expecting only a small attendance to the premiere but a large audience turned up and for that I am grateful.”He also urged audiences to support local films by purchasing tickets and attending future premieres, saying audience support was important to the continued growth of the industry.Attendees proceeded into respective cinemas afterwards for the screening.

Police and organizers of the 2026 Central Music, Arts, and Culture Festival have assured the public that comprehensive security measures will be in place to ensure a safe, peaceful and successful three-day event in Bereina, Kairuku District from September 11th to the 13th, 2026.At a recent media conference, Central Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Joseph Salle reassured that police would maintain a high-visibility security presence throughout the festival to protect showgoers, performers, families, and visitors.He said mobile command posts would be established within the inner perimeter of the festival grounds and along the outer boundary to support police operations and respond quickly to any incidents.Police units would also conduct continuous road and vehicle checks along access routes to Bereina, including screening and impounding un-roadworthy vehicles to improve the safety of public transport and families travelling to the festival.Police will also take action against prohibited and dangerous behaviour, with officers tasked to remove intoxicated individuals from the festival area and confiscate dangerous weapons and illicit substances.Chief Inspector Salle stressed that the security measures were intended to ensure the public could access and enjoy the festival without fear or disruption.He also issued a strong warning to individuals who may attempt to bring personal disputes or local conflicts to the festival.“This festival is a celebration of our culture, community, and creative talent. It is not a forum for settling personal grievances.”He said intimidation, violence and disorder would not be tolerated, warning that anyone who breached the law or attempted to disrupt the peace would face immediate police action, including arrest and charges.Chief Inspector Salle called on community leaders, youths, and visitors to cooperate with police officers deployed during the festival and to celebrate responsibly.Meanwhile, Deputy Provincial Administrator for Social Services and Chairman of the Central Music, Arts, and Culture Festival Phillip Alu, said the event would provide an important platform for Central Province to showcase its rich cultural heritage, talent, and unity.He said the festival would bring together singers, dancers, artisans, families and communities from across Central Province for three days of cultural celebration in Kairuku District.In addition, he acknowledged the amount of planning and cooperation required to stage an event of such scale, stating that security and peace were fundamental to its success.Mr. Alu thanked Chief Inspector Salle and the men and women of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary for working closely with the Central Provincial Government and Administration to ensure the festival would be conducted in a safe environment.He said a secure festival would allow families to attend without fear, give young performers confidence and enable elders to celebrate and pass on cultural traditions peacefully.Moreover, Mr. Alu highlighted the economic benefits of a peaceful festival, saying the event would create opportunities for local vendors, small businesses, tourism operators and young artists.He said culture had the power to bring communities together and strengthen unity across the province.“Law and order is not just the responsibility of the police, it is a shared civic duty.”He urged everyone attending the festival to respect one another and demonstrate the hospitality, cultural pride and peaceful spirit of Central Province.

Rugby league star Jerome Luai has been named the new Pepsi brand ambassador under a five-year partnership with Pepsi and Pacific Industries, ahead of Papua New Guinea’s entry into the NRL.Pacific Industries Company Director Everrett Chue said the partnership marked a significant milestone for Pepsi, Pacific Industries and rugby league in Papua New Guinea.“We are incredibly proud to be partnering with one of the game’s most exciting and respected players.”He said Luai’s appointment was about more than his talent on the field, describing the 28-year-old as a role model who represents resilience, humility, hard work and pride in his Pacific heritage.Chue also stated that the Pacific Industries viewed the partnership as an investment in Papua New Guinea’s people, communities and young people.“Rugby League is woven into the fabric of Papua New Guinea. It unites communities, creates opportunities and teaches values such as discipline, teamwork and resilience.”Meanwhile, Director Ashlon Chue expanded further on Luai’s role as Pepsi’s Brand Ambassador.He said the partnership will include grassroots rugby league programs, coaching and training clinics, school and community engagement, and the expansion of the Pepsi Nines tournament.Chue [Ashlon] said Luai’s involvement would help create pathways for young Papua New Guinean players to develop their skills and gain greater exposure.“We want to use this partnership as a pathway in developing the next generation of Papua New Guinean talent by leveraging positive role models such as Jerome to inspire young people to work hard, believe in themselves and realize what is possible through dedication and commitment.”“We believe sports has the power to change lives.”A video message from Luai was then played solidifying the 001 Chief’s involvement with the brand and also with PNG.Luai said it was a privilege to be involved in a moment that meant so much to the people, communities and rugby league fans across the country.“That is why I am really excited to be teaming up with Pepsi, a global brand that has always been involved in sports, entertainment and some of the biggest movements in the world.”Pacific Industries also confirmed that Luai will visit Papua New Guinea in the near future, where he will meet fans and communities and share more about his role as Pepsi brand ambassador.The five-year partnership begins immediately and is separate from Luai’s future NRL commitments.

At just three minutes, While You Slept proves that a film doesn’t need a long runtime or dialogue to communicate a crucial message especially for the Christian community.Directed by Jennifer Fashina, it emphasizes the importance of believers to be watchful and pray amidst the culture of distraction and social media.A young woman is doom scrolling on her phone well past her bedtime. Her Bible remains neglected on her bedside table. Eventually she falls asleep without dedicating any time to prayer.Despite having no dialogue, the actress’s performance as well as the setting and props communicate a strong message. However, some parts remain left to personal interpretation and may be confusing to viewers not well-versed in film.Verdict: Short and clear for the observant viewer, but can be a struggle for an inexperienced watcher.Rating: ★★☆☆☆ 2/5

Papua New Guinea's new Resilient School Infrastructure Policy is seeking to change how schools are planned, built, and maintained, with stronger standards for dealing with natural disasters and climate-related risks.Walipe Wingi, Deputy Secretary for Schools and Standards, said the policy provides a framework covering the entire infrastructure cycle-from planning and design to construction, maintenance and management.Speaking on behalf of Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra, Wingi said that resilient infrastructure is fundamental to quality education as schools must provide safe, secure, healthy, inclusive and accessible environments for students, teachers, administrators and communities.“The policy provides a framework for strengthening the planning, design, construction, maintenance, and management of school infrastructure," said Mr. Wingi. “So that the schools can continue to provide quality learning environments, even in the face of natural hazards, climate change, and other risks.”However, Wingi stated that standardization would not mean every school would necessarily look the same.“Standard designs should be acceptable and adaptable to different geographical, environmental, cultural, and community contexts throughout Papua New Guinea.”“This is particularly important in a country where schools face different disaster risks depending on their location,” he added.He identified earthquakes, floods, landslides, and cyclones among the hazards school infrastructure must be able to withstand, and in addition the policy also places emphasis on water and sanitation, hygiene, security, accessibility, and the wellbeing of school communities.Facilities for people with disabilities and gender-responsive infrastructure are also included.“You do not want to build classrooms up on the stilts when the majority of students nearby are disabled.”Therefore, Wingi stressed that resilient infrastructure could not be achieved through construction alone.He said coordinated planning, adequate budgeting and regular maintenance; rehabilitation and assessment, would be required at national, provincial, and local levels.Meanwhile, the PNG National Disaster Centre's Director Laso Mana, said the policy should also be viewed from a disaster preparedness perspective. Maso said schools capable of withstanding disasters could become places of shelter and safety for communities during emergencies.He cited the current El Niño situation and drought as reminders of the country's exposure to disasters and the importance of stronger preparedness.“A school built to withstand a cyclone, an earthquake, or a drought is not only a place for learning; in many of our communities, it has become a place of shelter and safety when disasters strike.”For the European Union, however, the key question now is how the policy will be implemented.Dr. Hans Lambert, Head of Cooperation with the European Union Delegation to PNG, urged the Education Department to work with the Department of National Planning and Monitoring to develop a costed implementation plan.He also called for clear timelines and funding to ensure the policy moves from paper into practice.

More than 1000 Papua New Guinean students have travelled to India this year to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies across a range of fields, highlighting growing education links between the two countries.This was said by India’s High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, H.E Shri Rajeev Kumar during the commission’s recent celebration of India’s 80th Independence Day.H.E Shri Rajeev Kumar, said PNG students are studying engineering, medicine, information technology, hotel management, MBA programmes and other fields at Indian universities.“Over 1,500 students from PNG have gone to India.” “Our universities teach in English and offer high quality education at significantly lower cost.”He encouraged more Papua New Guinean students to explore the opportunities available through India’s education system.Kumar also announced that several Indian universities are expected to come to Port Moresby in September for a “Study in India” roadshow.The roadshow will provide an opportunity for PNG students to learn more about study options and programmes available in India.He said education remains an important part of the growing relationship between India and Papua New Guinea, alongside areas such as health, agriculture, technology and infrastructure.For PNG’s young people, the growing education partnership provides opportunities to gain skills and qualifications that can contribute to the country’s future development.

India’s 80th Independence Day was recently celebrated in Port Moresby with attendees from both Papua New Guinea and India as well as various countries gathering to mark the occasion and witness the growing relationship between the two countries.The celebration hosted by the High Commission of India, brought together Prime Minister James Marape, West New Britain Governor, Sasindran Muthuvel and Indian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, H.E Shri Rajeev Kumar.In his address, Indian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea H.E Shri Rajeev Kumar reflected on India’s journey since gaining independence in 1947, describing freedom as a foundation for the country’s democratic, economic and social transformation.He highlighted India’s diversity, noting its large Muslim, Christian and Buddhist populations, as well as its 22 official languages and thousands of other languages.Kumar also pointed out PNG’s academic involvement in various subjects in India.“This year alone, more than 1,500 students from PNG have gone to India for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in engineering, medicine, information technology, hotel management, MBA programs and other fields.”West New Britain’s Governor Sasindran Muthuvel, meanwhile, used the occasion to recognize India's support during times of crisis.Assistance provided following the Mulitaka landslide in Enga Province and the Mount Ulawun volcanic eruption in West New Britain, as well as India's support during the COVID-19 pandemic, were emphasized as examples of the two countries' growing friendship.“True friendship between nations is not measured only by trade figures but it is also measured who stands beside you when your people are suffering.”Prime Minister James Marape, called for solidary between the people of India and Papua New Guinea, in the midst of our differences.“One of the greatest contributions PNG has is our ability to tolerate human diversity.”“Because we are the most diverse nation ourselves, we tolerate someone else from another language group, religion and class.”“I want to encourage India on its 80th anniversary and maintain that level of tolerance and diversity.”

The National Capital District Commission has shown support for Papua New Guinea’s growing film industry, with the launch of the local movie Black Python during the NCDC Youth Expo and Walk.Governor Powes Parkop acknowledged the actors, actresses and production team behind the film, saying NCDC had provided funding support together with other partners.“Under my leadership and with the support of our commissioners and management of NCDC, we keep on exploring different venues and different initiatives in which we can support young people.”“We have not limited ourselves to common programs.”Parkop said supporting local film production can give young people opportunities to develop their talents in acting and other areas of the creative industry.He also recognized Black Python director, writer and producer Spencer Peter Wangare, for his efforts in reigniting a passion for filmmaking.“Our movie industry has gone dormant for a while, but I'm pleased to see individuals such as Spencer investing his time, energy and talent to bring bring movies for entertainment and recreation.”After a brief countdown, the film’s trailer was played for public viewing.Papua New Guinea has produced notable films in the past such as Tukana – Husait I Asua (1984), Wokabaut Bilong Tonten (1974) and Tinpis Run (1991).

Education will be critical in order to achieve the National Capital District Commission’s long-term vision for Port Moresby, according to City Manager Ravu Frank.Mr. Frank made the remarks as NCDC formally assumed responsibility for education services in the capital, describing education as the foundation for achieving the city’s wider development goals.He said the vision was to build a city that was clean, safe, healthy, inclusive, prosperous, productive, and sustainable, but stressed that these goals could not be achieved without a strong education system.“Education, I believe, is the fundamental pillar to drive all these outcomes that Governor Powes Parkop wants.”He said the transfer of education functions from the National Department of Education to NCDC therefore represented more than an administrative change, but an opportunity for the city government to give greater attention to the quality and delivery of education.Mr. Frank said NCDC had already been supporting schools across the city through funding infrastructure and other education-related needs.He pointed to projects such as Butuka Academy as examples of the level of investment and attention NCDC had given to education under the leadership of the Governor, NCDC Board and the Minister for Foreign Affairs.Mr. Frank also described the completion of the transfer as the result of strong leadership and cooperation after almost a decade of negotiations and administrative processes.He acknowledged that the process had taken longer than expected but said the extended period ensured the necessary requirements were properly addressed.“As the nation's capital, we want to set some benchmarks. We want to set some precedents. We want to set some examples.”Mr. Frank said NCDC was now committed to ensuring the transfer produces tangible benefits for students, teachers, parents and communities throughout the National Capital District.He urged all stakeholders to continue working together as NCDC begins its full responsibility for education services.“This is a tremendous effort towards a brighter future for education in our city.”

Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra has described the transfer of education functions from the National Department of Education to the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) as a move that will strengthen education service delivery in Port Moresby.Dr. Kombra made the remarks during the official transfer ceremony, acknowledging the occasion as an important moment in Papua New Guinea education.He said the transfer was the result of continued efforts and persistence by NCD Governor Powes Parkop, who had consistently advocated for the decentralisation of education functions to the commission.Kombra explained that education in Papua New Guinea has operated under a decentralised system since the 1970s, with provinces taking ownership and leadership of education functions.However, NCD remained under the direct administration of the Department of Education until this transfer.“From today onwards, one of the 20 divisions in the Department of Education will now be moving next door to NCDC.”Dr. Kombra clarified that the transfer covers the overall operations and management of the general education sector, including elementary, primary, secondary and vocational schools, but does not include higher education.Under the transfer arrangement, a total of 92 schools will move under NCDC management, including 37 elementary schools, 37 primary schools, 12 secondary schools and five vocational institutions.The transfer includes 2,290 teachers and approximately 107,000 students across the NCD education system.Dr. Kombra said the move would give NCDC greater authority to make local decisions that directly improve education services.“The schools will be under your control directly. You will not have to come to the Department of Education. Services and education can be delivered efficiently under your management.”While highlighting the benefits, he acknowledged there would also be challenges, particularly in aligning the different administrative structures of NCDC and the public service system.He thanked the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) for supporting the transition process and allowing the necessary movement of personnel.Dr. Kombra also congratulated Governor Parkop for his leadership and commitment towards improving education in the capital city.He said the transfer would allow the Department of Education to focus more on its core responsibilities, including maintaining standards, inspections, curriculum development, examinations, school registration and teacher registration.