The king of ragga music genre, Tarvin Toune, is set to perform at the 20th YUMI FM Musik Awards after receiving three nominations ahead of this year’s event which will be held at the Lamana Gold Club in Port Moresby on May 23rd, 2026.The artist has been nominated in the categories of 2024 Album of the Year, 2025 International Artist of the Year, and 2025 Male Artist of the Year.The nominations continue a long association between Tarvin Toune and the YUMIFM PNG Musik Awards, where he has remained a consistent presence since breaking onto the scene in 2015 when he won Rookie Artist of the Year.This year, he is expected to perform some of his award-winning tracks along with newer songs including one of his personal favourites, ‘Raun LongLong’.“Mi hamamas tru long kam play long musik awards bikos stori blo song ia i personal, na tu mi bin hamamas long lukim em kam insait long YUMI FM countdown,” he said.(“I am excited to be performing at the musik awards because the story of this particular song is personal, and also I was happy to see that the song made it to the YUMIFM countdown.”)Tarvin said performing the song at the awards would be a special moment for him, adding that he had been looking forward to the awards since last year.The artist also revealed that fans can expect several new singles following the awards, with the upcoming releases leading into a new album currently in production.“Many singles are soon to release that will lead to the album we are currently working on right now.”He added that his schedule remains busy this year, with music video shoots and promotional work underway ahead of the album’s expected release next year.The upcoming project is also expected to feature collaborations with well-known PNG artists including, O-FOUR, and Morobe-based female vocalist Frankie.Tarvin said he is now looking forward to taking the stage at the 20th YUMI FM Musik Awards.

International reggae artist Anslom Nakikus is set to return to the YUMI FM PNG Musik Awards on May 23rd at the Lamana Gold Club in Port Moresby city.After a period away from the spotlight, the PNG reggae icon says he is honored to be part of the 20th edition of the awards, which hold special meaning in his music journey. For Anslom, the performance is more than just a stage appearance, but it is a return to where his career began. He credits PNGFM and its radio platforms for helping shape his early journey from a local artist into one of Papua New Guinea’s most recognized international reggae musicians. Speaking in an interview with PNG Haus Bung, Anslom reflected on his growth alongside the station. “It means so much because growing up with radio, with PNGFM stations, from those days it started. Coming up here, it’s like the growth of PNGFM is the growth of Anslom,” he said. Adding to the celebrated moment Anlsom appreciated PNGFM - Yumi FM for reaching out to let him perform at the event “Emi bikpela hamas stret long being a part of the 20th YUMI FM Musik Awards.” Anslom was among the early recipients at the inaugural YUMI FM Musik Awards in 2005, where he was recognized as Best New/Rookie Artist of the Year. His early hits include ‘Don’t You Lie’, ‘Aross’, and ‘Bongbong’. With a long-running music career and a strong catalogue of songs, fans can expect him to perform both classic hits and international trending reggae hits at the awards night. He is also working on new music, with reports indicating upcoming releases currently in production.

For PNG Health Support Workers Association (PNGHSWA) member Ruth Kange, joining BSP Life was not just about saving money, but it became a decision she says changed her understanding of financial security and helped support her child’s future. Sharing before BSP Life representatives and fellow members, Ruth Kange spoke with the confidence of someone whose trust had paid off. “I am so privileged, and I made a wise decision choosing BSP Life,” she said.  For Ruth, the survival benefit payouts were more than financial returns because it has become timely support for her family and proof that long-term investment can create real change.  Ruth first encountered BSP Life’s Wantok Delite cover in 2022 through BSP Life Insurance Advisors in Boroko, Port Moresby.  At the time, she admitted she did not fully understand the importance of the policy, but she chose to sign up based on trust and belief in its long-term promise.  “I didn’t fully understand the importance of the Wantok Delite cover at the time, but I agreed to sign up, placing my trust in BSP Life with the belief that this investment would be beneficial long-term,” she shared.  Three years later, that trust paid off. Ruth received her survival benefit payout under the policy, an experience she described as rewarding and reassuring.  When the PNGHSWA insurance scheme launched in 2023, Ruth enrolled again under the subsidized policy, contributing around K75 in premiums supported by the Government. Last month, she received her first Survival Benefit payout under the PNGHSWA policy, the timing, she said, could not have been better. “The cash returns were timely, and I used them fully for my child’s school fees,” Ruth explained.  For the Southern Highlands Provincial Health Authority payroll manager, the benefits have become more than personal support. They have also inspired her to encourage fellow health workers to think seriously about long-term financial planning.  As more members began receiving their survival benefits, Ruth said interest among health workers and doctors continued to grow, with many now recognizing the value of investing in BSP Life products.  She believes the program provides ordinary Papua New Guineans with an opportunity to secure financial support for their families while preparing for future uncertainties.  Ruth also reflected on how BSP Life has assisted families during times of loss, saying the payouts have helped provide relief and support to grieving relatives when they needed it most.  Her growing confidence in the program has led her to actively spread awareness among colleagues and provincial health workers, encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunity.  For Ruth, the experience has transformed her from a first-time customer into one of the strongest advocates for the scheme.  Today, Ruth Kange’s story stands as more than a personal testimony.  It reflects how one decision, made on faith and trust, can create lasting impact for a family’s future.  From helping pay school fees to encouraging others to invest in long-term security, Ruth now carries a message she hopes more Papua New Guineans will hear.  Sometimes the smallest step toward saving today can become the biggest protection for tomorrow.

The Governor General, His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, officially launched the 14th CPL Foundation Pride of PNG Women Awards as Patron of the awards at the Hilton Port Moresby today. The awards recognize and celebrate women across Papua New Guinea for their leadership, service, and contributions to communities throughout the country. During the opening ceremony, Chairman of the CPL Foundation, Sir Mahesh Patel, thanked Sir Bob Dadae for attending the launch while reflecting on the history and purpose of the awards program. “Today is not just the launch of an awards program; it is a moment to reflect and recognize something deeply important to our nation,” Sir Patel said. “Decades ago, when we started the Pride of PNG Awards, the idea was simple to shine a light on women already making a difference, not for recognition, but simply because it was the right thing to do. “We wanted to tell their stories, we wanted the country to see them, and most importantly we wanted them to know that they matter. “Today, almost 20 years later, this program has become something much bigger.” Sir Patel said the initiative was inspired by similar recognition programs for indigenous women in Australia, by News Corp. "The initiative was inspired through discussions with media partners, including the Post-Courier, and influenced by similar recognition programs celebrating women internationally.” He added that the stories shared through the awards continue to inspire young girls across the country. “With every story that we share, something extraordinary happens. That story may reach a girl in a village or a settlement in the city and show her that her life can become more,” he said. Governor General Sir Bob Dadae, in his address, highlighted the important role women play in Papua New Guinea and the significance of recognizing leadership that contributes positively to communities. “This award highlights the value of service and leadership in improving the lives of others,” Sir Bob said. Before officially launching the awards, Sir Bob commended the CPL Foundation, its partners, and the committee behind the program. “I commend the CPL Foundation, its partners and the members of the committee behind these awards. It is now my privilege to officially launch the Pride of PNG Women Awards 2026 and declare nominations open,” he said. Nominations are now open and will close on June 14 ahead of the awards ceremony. The awards recognize women across Papua New Guinea from various professions and backgrounds under categories of leadership, community service, entrepreneurship, bravery, sports, and youth leadership. During the launch, the Governor General also presented the King’s Medal to Stan Joyce in recognition of his contributions to Papua New Guinea.

Kronos experienced a breakout moment securing two major nominations for the 2025 YUMIFM PNG Musik Awards (YFMPNGMA), earning spots in the Male Artist of the Year and Song of the Year categories with his viral hit “Daddy Raus.” First released on July 19, 2025, “Daddy Raus” quickly became one of PNG’s most talked-about songs, driven by its energetic party vibe, catchy lyrics and signature PNG contemporary and islands fusion sound. The nominations were officially announced on April 27, further cementing the song’s rise as one of the country’s standout local hits of the year. Speaking with Kasty and the YUMIFM team at his residence in Gerehu Stage Three, Kronos admitted the recognition caught him by surprise. “Honest, mi surprise!” (“Honest I was surprised!”) The artist went on to thank fans who continuously requested the song on radio and voted throughout the awards campaign. “Thank you, guys, thank you for the votes. Thank you so much for requesting my song Daddy Raus. Thank you for the votes and big thanks to Yumi FM and all the sponsors.” Kronos also proudly represented his Gerehu Resident while reflecting on how the G'hood is home for making good music. “Thank you for coming here at Gerehu Stage 3. Ino gutpela hap but lo hia gutpela musik save kamap so wanpla luv lo ol yu de wan.” (“I know its not a good place but here is where we make great music so love to you all!”) Beyond the viral success and party anthem reputation, Kronos revealed that the real story behind “Daddy Raus” was far different from what many listeners originally believed. According to the artist, the song was inspired by children he had met while working for a construction company in Ungai-Bena District, where he helped build a bridge. “So, when I was working at Ungai Bena in Goroka at a construction company to build a bridge, the kids up there used to call the big trucks with mega wheels ‘Daddy Raus’ every time the truck accelerated,” he explained. Kronos shared that he often helped transport the children to and from school while traveling to work each day. “From there, I used to drop them off at school when I’m heading to work, and while heading back from work I pick them up and drop them off at their house.” He explained that the track’s now-famous line came from a conversation with one of the children during one of those drives home. “One day I was driving one of the kids home and he told me, ‘Olgeta taim daddy save go aut mummy save belhat na kilim mi.’” (‘All the time when daddy goes out, mummy used to get really mad and punish me really badly.’) “From there I picked up the song’s famous line, ‘So daddy raus na mummy tu laik rough.’” Despite many listeners interpreting the song as an adult-themed party track, Kronos said the record was always meant for the children who inspired it. What started as village kid nicknames has now evolved into one of PNG’s biggest songs of the year. Behind the viral chorus stood a story rooted in community and life in the rural Eastern Highlands. Moreover, this year also marks an important and big year for YUMIFM as this year’s Musik Awards celebrates its twentieth year.

The PNG Chiefs is yet to officially launch its club’s logo and branding colors as they prepare for their 2028 NRL entry.While preparations continue, New Zealand media reports have highlighted concerns regarding the club’s name and possible branding similarities with the New Zealand Rugby team, Chiefs. According to a report by Stuff.co.nz published on November 1, 2025, New Zealand Rugby reportedly sought legal advice regarding trademark protection in Australasia following the introduction of the PNG franchise during the 2025 PM’s XIII match at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The report states that concerns relate to potential similarities in branding and colour schemes. The Waikato-based Chiefs traditionally use red, black, and yellow colours also associated with Papua New Guinea’s national identity. In a statement published by Stuff.co.nz, New Zealand Rugby, it stated, “New Zealand Rugby is aware that there are examples of the Chiefs name used by teams in different sporting contexts internationally.” “Our focus is on protecting the Chiefs trademark in Australasia, where our rights date back to the team’s inception when Super Rugby began in 1996.” “We can confirm we have corresponded with the Australian Rugby League Commission about their decision to name a new team the Chiefs and are working in good faith toward an outcome that works for all parties.” Meanwhile, PNG HAUSBUNG spoke with the PNG Chiefs General Manager Michael Chammas, during the Alex Johnston signing press conference held yesterday, where he claimed was not aware of any issues regarding a branding clash with the New Zealand franchise. “We have not heard of this issue, but if there was a problem then the NRL would not accept the team's name as Chiefs,” he said. “We therefore don’t have those sorts of issues. The NRL has done their homework.” While the NRL has not issued a formal public comment, reports indicate that the Australian Rugby League Commission has specifically registered the name “PNG Chiefs” rather than “Chiefs” alone. Furthermore, despite discussions regarding trademarks and branding, the name “Chiefs” is used by several sporting teams internationally across different competitions and codes.

It is now official. NRL’s top try scorer Alex Johnston has signed with the PNG Chiefs, becoming the club’s second player and the first national representative to join the squad.After weeks of rumours and debate across the NRL community, Johnston has now put pen to paper.His signing was confirmed today, 6 May, by PNG Chiefs General Manager Michael Chammas at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.“It is a historic day today as we sign Alex Johnston as our second inaugural player for PNG Chiefs 2028,” Chammas said.He also acknowledged the support of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, where Johnston is currently playing and is expected to remain through the 2027 season before joining the PNG Chiefs in 2028.Johnston, who made his NRL debut in 2014, has spent over a decade with the Rabbitohs and remains one of the competition’s most consistent try scorers.The deal is for one year, with an option to extend depending on Johnston’s form and decision.“The contract is a one-year deal, and it will depend on Alex if he feels able to continue and extend,” Chammas said.PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said Johnston’s signing is a major boost for the club and an inspiration for young players.“He represents passion for rugby league in the country,” she said.She also highlighted what he will bring to the team.“He brings discipline and experience, which is fantastic.”

Blue Mountain Shallow Tail have been crowned the inaugural Butterfly Netball League (BNL) champions after edging Sepik Green Moon 45–44 in a thrilling grand final on Sunday, May 3rd. The match lived up to expectations, with neither side leading by more than two points at any stage. Blue Mountain Shallow Tail held a narrow 12–11 lead at the end of the first quarter, before Sepik Green Moon fought back to take a 24–22 advantage into halftime. Momentum shifted again in the third quarter, with Blue Mountain reclaiming the lead 33–32, setting up a tense final period. In a neck-and-neck finish, they held their composure to secure a one-point victory. In the third-place playoff, Alexander Birdwing defeated Island Monarch 47–45 after a strong comeback, overturning a seven-point deficit in the third quarter. Beyond the results, the competition highlighted emerging talent, with players showing the ability to perform under pressure and deliver at a high level. Now with the competition concluded, attention turns to national selection, where top performers from the four teams will be considered for the PNG Pepes squad ahead of the Tonga Cup qualifiers in September. PNG Netball Executive Coordinator, Lynette Maha, said the Butterfly Netball League is Netball PNG's development pathway initiative to identify the best local talents to make the National Selection. “The best players from each club will now be selected into the PNG Pepes draft squad, alongside our international players based in Australia and New Zealand,” she said. An estimated 15 to 20 players from the BNL are expected to be selected, with the squad list to be announced in the coming weeks. Further selections will also be made from Papua New Guinean players competing overseas. The squad will then go through a trimming phase before the final team is confirmed for the Tonga Cup qualifiers in September.

Mt Hagen, in Western Highlands province, is entering a new phase of aviation development following the official launch of a K39.4 million runway upgrade at Kagamuga Airport last week. Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi, announced the project on April 28, describing it as a major step forward for infrastructure development in the Highlands region. In his keynote address, Minister Goi acknowledged the patience of leaders and communities in Western Highlands, as well as neighbouring provinces including Simbu and Enga, highlighting the growing demand for an airport capable of handling larger aircraft. He said the project is a key priority for the National Government and is being funded internally through the National Airports Corporation (NAC) to ensure Mt Hagen remains a major aviation hub, second only to Port Moresby. NAC Acting Managing Director Dominic Kaumu, said the upgrade will replace the existing bituminous runway surface with a more durable asphalt concrete overlay. He confirmed that K4 million has already been paid to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) to mobilise materials and begin work. Mr. Kaumu said the upgrade is necessary to support Air Niugini’s transition to larger aircraft, including the Boeing 737 and Airbus A220 fleet, which will increase passenger capacity on Highlands routes. He added that the project is expected to be completed by December 2026 to accommodate increased travel demand during the Christmas period. Meanwhile, Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa, welcomed the project, saying delays in the past had caused concern among leaders and the business community. He described Kagamuga Airport as a critical gateway for the region, with millions of people passing through the province, placing pressure on infrastructure and public services. Governor Rapa also urged contractors to ensure high-quality work, noting that previous upgrades had not lasted, and called on the community and security forces to support the project and protect workers during construction. Minister Goi also outlined immediate measures to improve the airport environment, including plans to relocate nearby markets and enforce restrictions on betelnut and cigarette sales around the terminal area. He said these changes are part of broader efforts to modernise airport operations ahead of future developments under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program Phase Three (CADIP III), which is expected to include further runway extensions and terminal upgrades from 2028. The Minister also encouraged greater participation in aviation training programs, emphasising the need to prepare a local workforce to support the country’s expanding aviation infrastructure.

The country’s Civil Aviation department is laying the ground-work for a major transformation of its aviation sector, with plans to establish civil aviation as an independent department while rolling out nationwide infrastructure upgrades. The initiative is being delivered under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Program Phase Two (CADIP II), supported by the Asian Development Bank, targeting key airports and systems across the country. The recent ground-breaking of a new air traffic control tower in Goroka, marks just one phase of a broader strategy aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and national connectivity. Minister for Civil Aviation Wake Goi, said the government is focused on delivering tangible results rather than maintaining the status quo. “We want to see things moving; we don’t want to stay and have nothing happen,” he said. He said the project forms part of a wider national development agenda aligned with Papua New Guinea’s Medium-Term Development Plan. The Minister also outlined a broader vision for the sector, including potential multi-billion-kina investments to modernise Jacksons International Airport and the continued rollout of future CADIP phases across the country to decentralise aviation infrastructure. As part of ongoing reforms, the government is also pursuing the establishment of civil aviation as a standalone department, separate from the wider transport sector, to drive specialised growth, faster decision-making, and stronger regulatory oversight. Industry leaders say modernising aviation systems is critical for a country like Papua New Guinea, where air transport is not a luxury but a lifeline connecting remote communities, businesses, and essential services.

Goroka is now stepping into a new aviation era with the ground-breaking of a modern six-story air traffic control tower this week in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province. The K15 million project funded by the Asian Development Bank, was officially launched, drawing senior government officials, aviation authorities, and industry leaders to mark the milestone. The new tower will replace the ageing facility at Goroka Airport, which has struggled for years with limited space and outdated systems that have restricted both capacity and efficiency in managing air traffic. Minister for Civil Aviation Wake Goi, said the project reflects the government’s push to deliver real, visible development. “We want to see things moving; we don’t want to stay and have nothing happen,” he said. Designed to support 24-hour operations under modern safety standards, the facility is expected to significantly improve air traffic control reliability, especially in the Highlands region, where difficult terrain and unpredictable weather have long challenged aviation safety. Meanwhile, Managing Director of New Sky Pacific Limited Graham Blythe, said the upgrade will directly benefit airlines and passengers. “For airlines and operators, it means improved reliability and enhanced safety,” he said. On the other hand, Eastern Highlands Governor Simon Sia, described the new tower as a major leap forward from the current structure, which could only accommodate a small number of personnel. “Now you look at this new building, it is a six-story tower for this region,” he said. Beyond aviation, the project is expected to strengthen Goroka’s role as a regional hub, supporting the movement of coffee, fresh produce, and critical medical supplies across the Highlands. Governor Sia also called for future planning, including feasibility studies for relocating Goroka Airport to support urban expansion, alongside immediate improvements to passenger screening systems.

The conversation around explicit content in Papua New Guinea is no longer just about what comes from outside. It is changing shape, and quietly, it is moving closer to home. With growing concern over how digital platforms are influencing young people, Chief Censor of the Office of Censorship Jim Abani, spoke to PNG HAUSBUNG to clarify what is really happening behind the scenes. For years, the country’s focus remained on blocking foreign content. While that was once the primary frontline, that line is now starting to blur. “Actually, our focus was on what was coming in from outside,” Mr Abani said, explaining how censorship efforts were initially designed to filter imported material. Now, technology has shifted the game. He acknowledged that while there has been limited reporting of locally produced explicit content, the rise of mobile access and digital tools is opening that possibility. “I believe with the infrastructure that we built and now going online, we will come across this in the coming years.” That shift matters because once production becomes local, control becomes harder, distribution becomes faster, and the impact becomes more personal. Behind the scenes, efforts are already underway to respond. The Office of Censorship is working alongside the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) to identify and block harmful content. “We identify prohibited content and provide that to NICTA to work with service providers to block it,” Mr Abani explained. But even that system has limits; the internet does not sit still, and neither do the people using it. The fight is not just technical; it is human. Through the Censorship Ambassador School Program run in partnership with the National Department of Education, the focus is shifting toward awareness to the young minds, because the real issue is not just access, but behaviour. Cyberbullying, online harassment, and more serious forms of exploitation are rising alongside content exposure. “These issues are now emerging in Papua New Guinea,” Mr Abani said, pointing to a growing pattern that cannot be ignored. When it comes to those affected, especially young girls, the response is limited but critical. “The only support we can give is counselling as we refer them to relevant agencies.” “It is not a perfect system, but it is one of the few lifelines currently in place.” In addition, there is also a legal side building in the background. Authorities are pushing for stronger collaboration across agencies, using existing laws to identify offenders and bring them into the justice system. Yet, beyond law and enforcement, the message becomes more personal- less about control but more about responsibility. “Censorship starts at home,” Mr Abani said, offering the statement not as a slogan, but as a reality check. In a country where technology is moving faster than guidance, the first line of control is no longer the system, it is the individual. What this conversation reveals is simple, but unsettling as Papua New Guinea is no longer just consuming digital influence but it is beginning to create it and that changes everything. Once the problem becomes local, it stops being distant. It becomes cultural, it becomes social, it becomes real. Therefore, the question is no longer whether the system can keep up, but whether the people will.