Trukai Industries, through its Tru Hero Campaign, joined with Buk Bilong Pikinini (BBP) to publish two books today (2/09/24) at the BBP Library Learning Centre at the University of Papua New Guinea, with the goal of improving children's nutrition in PNG through education. These books consist of a picture book about two superheroes named Tru & Kai who go on an adventure to help their community through good nutrition. The other is a program textbook for teachers, students, and families that highlights nutritious local foods prevalent around the country while also providing detailed information on their nutritional value, good cleanliness, and featuring some of Chef Julz's TruInspiriation recipes. Trukai Industries has fully funded the printing of 20, 000 copies of the Tru and Kai storybook, which includes the Program textbook. These will be distributed to all BBP Library Learning Centers in Port Moresby, Lae, and Goroka, as well as sold at Theodist outlets throughout PNG, to raise funds for BBP to continue driving the nutrition literacy agenda and their operations to improve literacy rates in PNG, particularly in early childhood education. Andrew Grace, Trukai Industries' General Manager for Sales and Marketing Supply Chain, noted that their cooperation with BbP represented their commitment in communities and proved the company's value for education as a crucial tool for nation building. “Our partnership with BBP in creating this nutrition education program signifies our commitment and investment in education, good health, nutrition and the well-being of Papua New Guineans and its future generation.” “This partnership not only signifies our investments in communities as a good corporate citizen, but it also underpins our values as manufacturer of a high-quality staple product that is rice, and a major contributor towards food security in PNG.” “It is through such partnerships that we can build a healthier, nutrition conscious and active generation as we work in line to address the PNG Government’s Medium Term Development Plan Goals under the strategic priority area of improving nutrition standards and reduce malnutrition in PNG.” BBP Founder Anne-Sophie Hermann was grateful for their partnership with Trukai Industries stating that the two books will allow the students and their families’ access to nutritional education. “BBP is grateful to Trukai for their partnership to create a beautiful children’s superhero picture book and program text book for our upcoming Nutrition program.” “This support is critical as it will allow the students in our Early Childhood Education Program – and their families – to gain access to nutritional education, which will assist them with ensuring that children are eating the correct foods to sustain them through their schooling.” “We have noted that children and families are moving towards a diet of ultra-processed foods and drinks, which is not suitable for growing minds and bodies as they contain no vitamins, minerals and fibre.” “We looking forward to supporting the children to become nutritionally literate by teaching them how to gain strength and mental focus through eating all superfoods PNG has to offer.” Malnutrition is growing at an alarming rate in PNG, with one in every five children diagnosed with malnutrition and is the leading underlying cause of deaths in children below the age of five. Trukai Industries through its Tru Hero campaign hopes to reach as many children, families and communities in PNG by making awareness about healthy eating through this partnership.

Papua New Guinea Bible Translation Association achieved a significant milestone this year, launching its new website www.btapng.org on Saturday 31st, August 2024, at approximately 9:25pm at Dynasty Restaurant, Vision City. This launching took place during their 2024 Corporate Dinner, in which funds were raised to support PNGBTA’s work in translating the Bible. The website contains PNGBTA’s mission and vision statements, prayer meets, prayer requests, newsletters and other information regarding the organization. PNGBTA is an indigenous Christian Organization dedicated to training mother-tongue speakers for Bible translation. Their vision is to see Papua New Guineans transformed by the translated Word of God. Their mission is; To Glorify God in PNG To provide the Word of God in collaboration with the local people. To see local people become disciples of Jesus Christ, living like Him The association has had 74 Bible translation projects, 10 completed translations, and 11 literacy programs.

Papua New Guinea Bible Translation Association successfully hosted its 2024 Corporate Dinner, an event meant to raise funds to support the work of translating the word of God. This special occasion was held at Dynasty Restaurant, Vision City last night (31/08/24) in which members of PNGBTA, Christian churches, organizations, sponsors, families and friends all flocked to the occasion celebrating PNGBTA’s efforts in translating the Bible, which has helped many Papua New Guineans who are not English literate understand the gospel. Chairman of PNGBTA, Ganjiki Wayne opened the occasion, speaking passionately about the significance of Bible translation work. He stated that translating the written word of God helps Papua New Guineans see Jesus as another Papua New Guinean. “Translating the written word of God, helps people see Jesus as their wantok.” “With the translated word, people see Jesus communicating to them using their language – they do not have to become English speakers in order to understand Jesus.” He added that many people who have worked hard in translation passed away and did not see the fruits of the work. “Individuals have died before seeing a complete translation of the Bible.” “Hence, there is an urgency – a reality that people are dying without understanding Jesus as their local wantok.” Executive Director of PNGBTA Nelson Tapineng, explained the spiritual significance about mother tongues, stating that speaking or singing in one’s language, connects you to the spirit and is a core element of your identity. “Communicating in your language is a heart connection; that is the power of language.” PNGBTA has some form engagement with 500 languages; and roughly 300 more languages require a Bible translation into local language. AROB – 7 translation programs Central – 8 translation programs ENB – 1 translation program ESP – 5 translation programs EHP – 3 transltion programs Enga – 1 translation program Gulf – 2 translation programs Jiwaka – 1 translation program Madang – 8 translation programs NIP – 1 translation program Manus – 8 translation programs Milne Bay – 5 translation programs Morobe – 11 translation programs Oro – 9 translation programs SHP – 3 translation programs WHP – 1 translation program PNGBTA wishes to thank its major sponsors: The Department of Prime Minister and Executive Councils, Jesus Film, Mineral Resource Authority, Trix Investment Limited, Weekly for Australia, Divine Word University, OK Tedi Mining Limited, National Cultural Commission, Telikom PNG Limited, PNG DataCo, NICTA, Four Square Church, PNG Christian Professional Network, E-Products Limited and Water PNG. PNGBTA has a vision of seeing Papua New Guineans transformed by the translated word of God.

The Mountain Dew Wan Squad national dance competition is set to be hosted next month on September 21st at the Hilton conference center in Port Moresby as announced today at a press conference at Duffy's, Gordons. The annual competition will feature interested dance groups from all over the country who will compete to win bragging rights as well as cash prizes and more. The event's major sponsor, Pacific Industries Limited made the announcement while congratulating Wan Squad after their return from the United States as no.1 in the World at the recent World Hip-Hop Dance Championships. Pacific Industries Marketing Director, Sharani Chue, whilst welcoming Wan Squad said that they have made it against all odds, representing the company and their country, putting PNG on the world stage. "On behalf of Pacific Industries and Mountain Dew, it is with great pride that I extend my warmest congratulations to Wan Squad." "We commend them for their outstanding performance at the 2024 World Hip-hop Dance Championships where they secured the top spot and came home with gold." "We are proud to be their official sponsor in pursuing their passion for dancing." "Their journey is more than just victory it is a symbol of inspiration for all aspiring PNG dancers and artists." "Not only have they raised our flag, but they've put PNG on the dynamic and diverse world of dance." "With that accomplishment, it is with great excitement that we announce our continued sponsorship of the Mountain Dew - Wan Squad National Dance Competition." This will be the event's fourth year running, in which 23 dance crews around PNG will come together in Port Moresby to showcase their talent and skill in break dance. Winners of the dance competition will be awarded big prizes which she hopes will go towards further developing their passion for dance and that they follow in the footsteps of Wan Squad and take dance to the next level.

The PapaGraun Music Festival is thrilled to announce the PapaGraun Music Festival 2024, a vibrant music festival dedicated to showcasing local artists while featuring a special performance by renowned international artist Naked Koala from Europe. The festival is set to take place on Saturday, 14 September 2024, at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Port Moresby. This exciting event aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of musical talent from across Papua New Guinea, providing a platform for local musicians of diverse genres to share their artistry. From emerging talents to established acts, attendees can expect a dynamic lineup that highlights the sounds of local taste that are now hitting the airwaves to elements of traditional sound and instruments incorporating global flavour, showcasing that PNG music to the World Stage. Director of Project PapaGraun, Jason Handikiang, stated that more than 15 artists will perform during the festival. “Twenty PNG Music Artists will grace the PapaGraun Music Festival stage and for the first time, we will also have Four (4) PNG DJs to take the spotlight and celebrate the unique diversity of who we are, past, present and future.” The festival will also feature headlining performances by international artist Naked Koala, whose chart-topping hits – right with me and heat of the sun. His captivating stage presence promises to draw music lovers from near and far. His unique blend of Pop and Rock fusion has seen him on multiple stages around Australia. He arrives in PNG today (Thursday 29 August) to showcase his awaited debut project, “Dream” set to be released in the Fall season of 2024. "We're passionate about supporting our local artists and are excited to create an event that not only highlights their incredible talent but also brings the community together through music, with Naked Koala joining us, this festival will offer an unforgettable experience for everyone.” The Day-long festival will include: Live Performances: A diverse lineup of local artists performing throughout the day. After-Party: A special closing event featuring DJ sets and more surprises too! Tickets for the PapaGraun Music Festival 2024 are on sale now at all JS Café & Restaurants located at Boroko, Kennedy Estate and Skyview Estate. “For more information about the festival, artist lineup, and ticket details, follow us on social media at https://www.facebook.com/PapaGraunFest on Facebook.” “Join now for a day of music, and celebration as well as showcasing the incredible talents of our local artists alongside a world-class performance.”

The 2024 Port Moresby Racquets Club Open tournament has ended, after showcasing an amazing combo of experienced players and talented youngsters from both Port Moresby and Lae. The competition ran from Wed Aug 21st – Sun 25th beginning with the junior matches. The matches kept watchers on edge as players delivered memorable wins and upsetting losses in both games of tennis and squash. Winners: Junior Tennis: U12 Boys – River Jordan Hakena U12 Girls – Indianna Kaiulo U14 Boys – Ivan Mera U14 Girls – Adelaide Mesa U18 Boys – Christopher Kaiulo U18 Girls – Colita Hakena Coach Kwalam Apisa Award - Adelaide Mesa Junior Squash: U13 Boys – Lesley Walsh U13 Girls – Faith Waffi U16 Boys – Joseph Yominao U16 Girls – Gabriella Cox U18 Boys – Andre Awui U18 Girls – Gabriella Cox C & B Mixed: B Mixed Tennis – Elizabeth Hyun Squash: C Mixed - Stephanie Alopea B Mixed – Joseph Yominao Open Mixed: Open Mixed Double (Tennis) – Sugar Ray Hakena & Colita Hakena Open Mixed Double (Squash) – Schubert Maketu & Linus Do Legends Tennis: Tim Kriebisch Legends Squash: Schubert Maketu Women’s Open Tennis: Colita Hakena Men’s Open Tennis: Sugar-Ray Hakena Women’s Open Squash: Amati Alarcos Men’s Open Squash: Joshua Porter Winners for the Men’s and Women’s open competition received K1000 cash prize for their efforts. This year POMRC Open had 145 registrations across both tennis and squash. 55 registrations consisted of junior players and 25 were junior squash players. Players from Lae Tennis Club also participated in the tournament.

Santos Cup 2024 referee Jacintha Jack is a woman on a mission. The young Simbu lass started her refereeing career back in 2017 in Lae and has never looked back since. Jacintha initially started off as a player in Madang, eventually moving to Lae to pursue her passion for the game. While playing in the local Lae league, she got interested in refereeing. The interest stemmed from her wanting to understand the game more, particularly the rules. She found herself observing the touch judges and referees officiating during matches. It was not long after that Jacintha picked up a flag as a touch judge for the local competitions, earning a little income in the process. With the knowledge and experience piling on over the years, an opportunity came about to attend a referee course run by PNGRFL. They were particularly interested in training female referees so naturally; she was recommended to attend the course. Jacintha jumped at the opportunity, signed on, and that was the beginning of greater things to come. Jacintha encourages more women to take up the role of officiating. She says she has received much encouragement, particularly from menfolk. They have praised her for doing a good job in a space that is male dominated, hence motivating her even more to pursue this career path. She decided to quit playing in 2017 to focus more on the refereeing. “I quit playing all together after receiving positive feedback.” "I saw my future career was in refereeing and not in playing, so, I joined refereeing and here I am now.” For Jacintha, officiating is more than a paid job, it is a passion she is committed to perfecting. While in the role, she wants to inspire other women to take up refereeing as a career path, as she says playing rugby league may not be for everyone, and refereeing can certainly provide involvement in the game, though in a different capacity. “We need more women putting their hands up to become referees.” “The Santos Cup is going to grow bigger, and we will need all the support we can get. This is where women will play an important role in growing the game.” “People are talking about gender equality, women being able to do what men do.” “A lot of women are scared of taking up refereeing. Once I took on refereeing, I saw that I got support and recognition from everyone, even from the men.” “I was told that I was good at refereeing, so this encouraged me, boosted my morale and kept me going.” As Jacintha settles into her role as a referee in the first ever national women’s competition, she is excited about what the future may hold for women in rugby league. She is also focused on her task at hand. “My aim is to perform consistently and develop my skills further, to go wherever the game may take me, just as my male counterparts before me have gone and even beyond that.”

The Student Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) is expected to present a petition to the government on issues affecting the country on Friday 30th August. The SRC, upon consultation with the University Administration, came to this resolution of submitting the petition to the government. The submission of the petition was initially planned for Tuesday 27th of August, however with due respect to Prime Minister (PM) James Marape attending the Pacific Islands Forum in the Kingdom of Tonga, it was postponed to this Friday. The University Administration has also been tasked to facilitate communication with the PM’s Office and other Ministries mentioned in the petition who will be asked to come together with the Prime Minister. The SRC stated that issues affecting the country are a concern of every citizen and the students have equal right to petition the government to hear their voices. “We represent the bulk of the population who cannot speak for themselves and we as an independent body are calling out to the government to address the issues.” “We stand to raise our voices for the good of this country and our future.” The University Administration has given the approval for this event and will ensure all crowd control strategies are engaged. Given the SRCs stance on the issues and the need to safeguard student interest, the administration has also been asked to convey correspondence and confirm attendance between the Office of the Prime Minister and other parties that the petition addresses. “The safety of the student body and the continuation of the academic year is our priority and we the SRC will give our best effort to see to this.” “We are committed to addressing student issues as peacefully and as effectively as possible.” “We cannot continue to burn this country down and we ask all students to cooperate with the approach we are taking to address national issues without violence.” “We urge all the student body of UPNG and other Institutions to cooperate with us.” “Let us all work together peacefully and uphold our nation in good spirits in these trying times of uncertainty.”

NCDC Director for Sustainability and Lifestyle, James Ume today (Aug 27th, 2024) clarified misconceptions circulating on social media regarding actions taken by the police to clear street vendors in the city. In a press conference at CBC (Catholic Bishops Conference), Ume clarified that this was not part of the preparations for the Papal visit. "This is actually an operation spearheaded by the police and has nothing to with the Pope's visit." "It has to do with law enforcement and vendors selling at the right locations." "This operation has been going on for some time and it just so happens to be taking place in the lead up to the Papal visit." He added that there has also been an increase of individuals taking their business to the traffic light area which is illegal. "We have seen an influx of sellers doing business near the traffic which has breached police compliance." He encouraged individuals to sell their betelnut at markets and other designated spots. "We are not discriminating against our street sellers, this is to do with compliance; when you break the law, that's when law enforcement comes in." “Operation Harim Tok is a police operation carried out specifically to remove illegal vendors and reduce petty crime in NCD.”

Residents in Western Highlands Province have already prepared to host 2024 National Repentance Day on Monday 26th August 2024, under the theme: ‘There is Hope in God’ (Jeremiah 29:11). Religious programs and prayers have since started as early as Friday 23rd August, with Christians gathering and creating awareness of this special day at Queen’s Park, Mt Hagen. Established in August 2011 by former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, Repentance Day has since been observed by Christian Churches in the country for the first seven years (2011-2018). Last year it was held in Sir John Guise Stadium, Port Moresby. This year, curricular instruction released from the Office of the Secretary on July 10th, 2024, confirmed the public holiday on for Monday. This annual event brings together Papua New Guinea’s national leaders, public servants, and citizens for divine guidance and forgiveness. Provinces and Districts throughout Papua New Guinea are encouraged to hold their own Repentance Day observances. This collective effort will amplify the national call for divine intervention and renewal.

This time last week, one of Papua New Guinea’s oldest and most celebrated events the, Mt. Hagen Cultural Show was held at Queen’s Park, Mt Hagen making its 57th anniversary with a wonderful display of local culture and traditions. The event caught the eye of international tourists and brought people together from all across the Highlands Region. Governor of Western Highlands Province Wai Rapa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Hagen City, Jim Benner, Hagen City Mayor Jacob Michaels, Geno Reuben (Festival and Events Manager NCC) representing the Executive Director of National Cultural Commission Steven Enomb Kilanda, and other notable figures were present at the occasion. The colorful celebration of PNG's rich cultural legacy that was this year's show demonstrated the city's dedication to upholding both its customs and a hospitable, clean environment. The governor of the Western Highlands Province, Wai Rapa, officially launched the two-day festival and thanked the sponsors, tour companies, and event organizers. "After 48 years of independence, a large portion of our culture is in danger of disappearing." "Culture is important; hence we are committed to developing and maintaining our culture as the province's governing body.” “The Western Highlands are abundant in natural resources, culture, and agriculture; therefore, it is everyone's duty to preserve and spread these customs throughout the world.” He also encouraged the residents of Western Highlands to take pride in their cultural history and to keep the town a safe and enjoyable venue for future events. Meanwhile, Geno Reuben commended the organizers and the people of Western Highlands for their commitment to the performance. She emphasized the authenticity of the traditional costumes and acts featured at the event. "We aim to promote the true essence of PNG’s culture, not just through traditional dress but also through the languages spoken, the songs sung, and the instruments used." She also requested the Western Highlands Provincial Government to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the NCC to strengthen cultural activities in the province. The Mt. Hagen Cultural Show continues to be a significant occasion for celebrating and preserving PNG's cultural heritage, attracting crowds from around the world.

Sisters of the Rosary in Wewak, East Sepik were blessed to receive assistance of K30, 000 from Digicel PNG Foundation supporting their Integral Human Development and Life Skills' Program. Through their Community Grants Program, Digicel PNG Foundation funded The Rosary Sister’s trainings for the youth – a program that equips them with certain life-skills that will help create a sustainable pathway for them into resiliency. The training began with a workshop on the 'Dignity of a Human Person' and 'Self Image'. Sister Loretta from the Rosary Sisters stated a total of 130 individuals participated and the numbers are growing. "We still have more to continue and this training will go on until March 2025." The workshop has been teaching tie-dyeing, sewing, baking and cooking skills along with financial literacy. The training has seen great participation from men and women from the surrounding communities. One of the participants from the Siau Community in Meni, Paul Kundia stated that the training helped him gain a sense of identity. “I didn’t know about my value as a person and after attending this training, I learnt about self-image and my purpose - I now have a job to do.” “I am sewing, and learning all these skills and I am happy because this will assist me in making a living for my tomorrow and sustain myself.” He expressed his gratitude towards Digicel for assisting him and other participants.