The National Superannuation Fund Limited (Nasfund) has joined forces with Paradise Private Hospital (PPH) to enable its members to get discounts the next time they visit the hospital for medical care. This was achieved when PPH officially joined both the Employer to Employer (E2E) Discount Program and the Member Discount Program (MDP), becoming one of Nasfund’s newest loyalty partners. The signing took place on Thursday, August 7th, 2025, marking the beginning of a partnership aimed at providing Nasfund members and registered employers with 10% discounts on a wide range of healthcare services offered at Paradise Private Hospital, located along Taurama Road, 3 Mile, Port Moresby city. Under the terms of the agreement, the following services are eligible for the 10% discount: • Outpatient Services • Day Care & Dental • Emergency & ICU • Maternity & Antenatal Services • X-Ray, Ultrasound & Mammogram • Pathology Services • PPH Standard Fit-for-Work Assessment • Pharmacy To access these discounts, Nasfund members must present a valid Nasfund membership identification card, and Nasfund registered employers must present a Nasfund E2E card at Paradise Private Hospital. Nasfund Chief Executive Officer Rajeev Sharma welcomed the new partnership, stating, “This initiative reflects a shared commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and affordability for Papua New Guineans.” Signing on behalf of Paradise Private Hospital was Chairman Dr. Robin Sios, supported by PPH Co-Owner Mrs. Janet Sios and PPH Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Polapoi Chalau. “We are excited about this loyalty program and to partner with the Fund to support promotional efforts to raise awareness of the benefits available to our Nasfund members and employers at our hospital,” said Dr. Sios. PPH Co-Owner Mrs. Sios added, “Paradise Private Hospital is one of PNG’s nationally owned hospitals and the bulk of its clientele are Nasfund members, making this partnership even more meaningful.

The fully restored Lombrum Naval Base in Manus province was officially opened yesterday much to the delight of the Papua New Guinea Government, the Defence Force and the people of Manus. Prime Minister James Marape who was at the ceremony, described the official opening of the fully restored Lombrum Naval Base as a “historic and strategic leap” in Papua New Guinea’s defence capability, marking one of the most significant military infrastructure investments in the nation’s 50-year history. Speaking alongside Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, the Prime Minister expressed deep gratitude to the Government and people of Australia — particularly Australian taxpayers — for funding the AUD $500 million redevelopment of the facility. “This is not just a refurbishment; it is a game-changing investment,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Papua New Guinea is a nation blessed with over 3 million square kilometres of sovereign territory — both land and sea. Our maritime zone is rich in fisheries, forestry, energy, and biodiversity, but it is also vulnerable to illegal fishing, illicit trade, drug trafficking, unauthorized migration, and other forms of transnational crime." “A strong, well-resourced Navy is not optional — it is essential. And the restored Lombrum Naval Base is at the heart of building that strength.” Meanwhile, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his government’s target to expand the PNG Defence Force to 10,000 personnel by 2035 — made up of 7,000 regulars and 3,000 reservists — in order to meet the growing security demands of the nation’s vast territory and strategic location in the Pacific. “This investment is part of a bigger picture,” he said. “We are developing both our air and sea wings so that our Defence Force can operate effectively across all domains. Our goal is to give our men and women in uniform the right tools, the right facilities, and the right conditions to perform at their very best.”

The by elections are drawing to a close with most of the contested seat declaring winners already with Porgera Paiela in Enga province and Kabwum in Morobe province being the latest to do so, with both Members elect to take their place amongst the other leaders in parliament. Prime Minister James Marape very recently extended his heartfelt congratulations to Gidron Maso Karipe, Member-elect for Porgera-Paiela in Enga Province, and Patrick Basa, new MP for Kabwum in Morobe Province on their victories respectively. “On behalf of the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I congratulate the Member-elect for Porgera-Paiela and the new Kabwum MP, and we welcome them into our government ranks,” Prime Minister Marape said. Mr. Karipe, who contested the by-election as an independent, secured victory with 19,223 votes, defeating his closest rival by a margin of 5,495 votes. The seat was previously held by his late father, Maso Karipe, the first Member for the newly created Porgera-Paiela electorate, who passed away in 2023. “I noted from the trend in the polling that he collected well in the first preference votes and also, in the preferential counts after every elimination,” Prime Minister Marape said. “He is possibly the youngest member in this Parliament. His late father was the first Member for the new Porgera-Paiela electorate, and I look forward to working with him to continue the work that his father started.” The Prime Minister said Porgera-Paiela remains one of the country’s most resource-rich districts, with an estimated 19 more years of mine life at the Porgera Gold Mine. “He has told me he wants to assist in completing the Community Development Agreement for the mine, ensuring fair and just benefit distribution to the people in the impact areas, including Porgera Valley, Enga Province, and the three other impacted provinces,” Prime Minister Marape said. The Prime Minister also congratulated Patrick Basa, who secured victory in the Kabwum by election with 11,941 votes, defeating his nearest rival, Haring Quoreka, by 3,227 votes. Mr. Basa contested the by-election under Our Party and returns to Parliament after the National Court ordered a fresh by-election. “Kabwum is an isolated electorate with huge potential,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Patrick Basa’s focus on improving roads, law enforcement, health, and education services will greatly benefit his people, and I welcome him back into the Government ranks.” Prime Minister Marape also appealed to the people of Porgera-Paiela to protect public infrastructure. “Roads, lead to development and the free flow of goods and services,” he said. “Don’t disturb the roads, don’t block the roads, don’t destroy bridges. If you have an issue with someone, take it up to the police or community mediation. Violence and disorder will not do anybody any good.

Member for Moresby South and Foreign Affairs Minister, Justin Tkatchenko has pledged to work together with the newly elected Motu-Koita Assembly Members to ensure service delivery to the people on the south side of Port Moresby city. Speaking at the recent luncheon he hosted for the newly elected members representing the Eastern Region, Minister Tkatchenko affirmed his support for the Assembly members in the lead-up to the next National Election in 2027. He assured the leaders that he would work closely with them in delivering the much-needed services to the people of Moresby South. The MP said there is a lot of work to be done in the electorate, and it's time to get started. “Moresby South has seen a lot of the major projects delivered, and it is one of the best-performing electorates,” said the MP in a statement. Also discussed at the luncheon was the topic of a future parliamentary seat for Motu-Koita. Meanwhile, the newly elected Motu Koita Assembly members from the Eastern region are the Mahuru Member Mal Udia, Pari-Taurama Member Peter Noka, Vabukori Member Turaho Morea, East Motu Koita Women’s representative, Gorame Momo, Pari Taoata Member, Ovia Nou, and Kira Kira Member, Babani Harry.

After opening its second flagship branch in Wewak town in East Sepik province just a month ago, TISA Bank has opened its third flagship branch in the big city of Kokopo in East New Britain Province. This latest TISA Bank branch opening reinforces its commitment to expanding banking access for the underbanked and unbanked communities across Papua New Guinea (PNG). The launch ceremony was officiated by the Governor of East New Britain Province, Hon. Michael Marum, and witnessed by Open Member (MP) for Kokopo, Ereman ToBaining Jr., and business community representation by Dame Sandra Lau, owner of Tropicana Ltd. Governor Marum welcomed TISA Bank to the province, highlighting the importance of accessible banking services for local development. “Your presence reflects a strong belief in our people and our province’s economic development,” said Governor Marum. “This new branch means more than just convenience—it is a necessity for development. It means more empowerment for our everyday people.” The MP emphasized the broader regional impact of the new branch. “This branch will provide financial inclusion opportunities not only for my people in Kokopo, but also for those from New Ireland Province and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville who travel here to do business,” he said. TISA Bank Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sunil Pokharel, shared the bank’s vision for inclusive growth and community empowerment. “We believe that access to quality financial services should not be a privilege—it should be a right, especially in a region full of promise,” said Mr. Pokharel. “This branch will offer a full suite of modern retail, SME, and banking solutions, guided by our principle of Banking on Change.” He added that TISA Bank is committed to delivering banking that is inclusive, responsive, and people focused. “We are here to support the entrepreneurial spirit of East New Britain and to provide the best service possible for our people.” He further thanked the corporate and large business support in the province, acknowledging Dame Sandra Lau for her presence during the launch. TISA Bank is committed to creating long-term partnerships and is well-positioned to support businesses in East New Britain Province, from SMEs to large corporations. “It is our hope to partner with local businesses in the province to build the next chapter of corporate growth not only in the province but in Papua New Guinea.” Mr. Pokharel added. The Kokopo branch marks another milestone in TISA Bank’s journey to create inclusive financial opportunities and drive sustainable development across Papua New Guinea.

It is just over a month to go before Papua New Guinea marks its 50th Anniversary of Independence, so it is only fitting that a statue of the man who gained the country's independence stands tall at Waigani, Port Moresby city. Last evening saw the unveiling of the live size bronze statue of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare unveiled at the National Parliament House witnessed by the family of the Grand Chief, including his wife Lady Veronica Somare, the prime minister, State Ministers and Members of Parliament and foreign dignitaries invited for the significant occasion. Prime Minister James Marape in his speech said Sir Michael was more than a leader, he was the bridge between time and tradition, a state’s man whose intellect was deeply rooted in the wisdom of the ancestors and whose politics was shaped by great compassion. He said Somare united people of thousand tribes with so many languages into a single national identity known as Papua New Guinea, a country that is independent. Speaking prior to the PM was Mr. Arthur Somare, the son of the Grand Chief who used the occasion to call for good leadership to prevail in the country as PNG marks 50 years of independence. Reflecting on his father’s legacy, he said leadership must always be about the people. He said leadership is not about power, not about status, it is about all else. Service must be rooted in humility, integrity and faith in fairness and justice. “That is the legacy we are called to live up to,” said Arthur. “As we stand before this statue, we must also ask ourselves, what do we do with the legacy we inherit?” “For far too long the promise of independence, the promise of prosperity, dignity and justice for all have remained unevenly distributed. Progress has come but it has come at a cost.” “We must now ask ourselves, where now from here?” “The answer lies in our collective resolve to walk together, to work together and build together,” he said. Meanwhile, the building of the bronze statue was commissioned by parliament and was designed and built in Bali Indonesia. Following its completion, it was transported to PNG and on the evening of Thursday 7th August, which also coincided with the 41st Anniversary of the National Parliament House, was unveiled in front of the steps to the parliament’s door.

Since its opening over forty (40) years ago, the National Parliament has served as the house of the people, serving the interest of the people and upholding the democratic process of government. This was the statement made by the Speaker of Parliament, Job Pomat today to commemorate the 41st Anniversary of the National Parliament, which was celebrated at the Parliament premises in Port Moresby city. Pomat described the Parliament as a powerful symbol of Papua New Guinea’s democracy, identity and national unity. These year's theme of celebration is " One People, One Nation, One Country". Reflecting on this year’s theme, Pomat said it is a timely and meaningful reminder that despite the many different cultures, language and regions, Papua New Guinea remains united under one Constitution, one flag and one parliament. “Our Parliament House was opened on the 7th August 1984 by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, now His Majesty King Charles III,” said Speaker Pomat. “It was built not only as a place for decision making, but a house of all the people of Papua New Guinea.” “It stands at the heart of our nation, a place for our leaders elected by the people come together to debate, legislate, and shape the future of this great country.” “For over four decades the National Parliament House has been more than just a seat of government, it has been a stage up on which our democracy has grown. It has witnessed the peaceful transitions of government, the passing of laws that define our progress, the approval of national budgets and most importantly, the voicing of our people’s hopes and concerns.” Pomat concluded by extending his gratitude to the Parliamentary Services for the continued care of this national treasure, so that the future generations may continue to appreciate it.

The Kavieng Stadium in Kavieng town, New Ireland province has been renamed to Sir Julius Chan Stadium as a mark of honor for the Late political icon, the last of the founding fathers of Papua New Guinea who passed away early this year. New Ireland Governor Walter Schnaubelt announced this during the New Ireland Day celebrations held at this Stadium on Saturday, 02nd August, 2025. “It is fitting and proper to announce that the Kavieng Sports Stadium will now be named in honor and legacy of our late Governor Sir Julius Chan,” he said. Late Sir Julius, Papua New Guinea's most seasoned politician built this amazing facility that has set a high benchmark for development in New Ireland for years to come. The Kavieng Stadium took just over a year to build by the China Railway Construction Company, the same company that built another iconic structure in the New Ireland Legislative Assembly. The renaming of the stadium was one of the highlights of the New Ireland Day celebrations bringing together traditional and cultural performances from the two districts (Kavieng and Namatanai) in the province.

The Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has been given the thumbs up to go ahead with the construction of the Central Province Industrial Park (CCIP) at Caution Bay after receiving a Provisional Development License from the Special Economic Zone Authority (SEZA) Board. The Provisional Developer License that was presented to Kumul Petroleum on Monday 4th August in Port Moresby city, is just for twelve (12) months (1 Year). The CPIP project is a cornerstone of the government’s economic diversification agenda and is expected to stimulate job creation, industrial processing, and regional development in Central Province. However, the Board, in the interest of financial prudence and legal compliance, resolved that the tax or non-tax incentives under the SEZ incentive framework are deferred pending the provision and assessment of the following by the SEZA Board. They are, Audited financial accounts for the past three years (2021–2023), A certified management account for 2024, Present a detailed, KPHL board-approved funding plan specific to Stage 1 of CPIP, The issuance of a letter of financial commitment confirming readiness to finance project implementation, and Clarify the role and any agreements with Caution Bay Development Limited (CBDL). The Board emphasized that incentives will not apply retrospectively. Only costs and activities undertaken after full compliance will be eligible for exemption or relief. At the same time, the Board acknowledges the undertaking of the KPHL through its Managing Director, Mr. Wapu Sonk, of the completed audited financial statements that are to be tabled with the trustee shareholder, the Prime Minister, James Marape, on the 3rd quarter of 2025, before they are forwarded to SEZA. The SEZA Board looks forward to receiving these in order to fast-tract the approval of the incentives and reliefs. Meanwhile, Dr. Lawrence Sause, Chairman of SEZA, stated: “We welcome this milestone for the Central Province Industrial Park and commend KPHL for taking the lead. At the same time, the Board has a legal duty to ensure transparency and fiscal discipline. We will only grant incentives when minimum financial disclosures and compliance standards are satisfied. This is how we build investor confidence and public trust.” For the next steps to be taken, KPHL will be formally notified of the license terms and has a 12-month window to comply. The Licensing Committee will reassess the application once all conditions are met, which may lead to: Conversion to a Full Developer License, or Activation of incentives under the current Provisional License. This approach supports investor engagement while maintaining the integrity of the SEZ program.

New Zealand (NZ) Prime Minister Christopher Luxon start his day in his official three- day visit to Papua New Guinea (PNG) paying a courtesy visit to the Governor General of PNG Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae. The Governor General received Prime Minister Luxon at the Government House in Port Moresby city at 9AM where he acknowledged the close and historical relations both PNG and New Zealand share and in particular, New Zealand’s direct funding assistance and volunteer service in rural communities in PNG. Prime Minister Luxon said, “New Zealand is proud of its close relations with PNG that reaches back to the arrival of the Maori missionaries in the 1800s, participation of New Zealand soldiers in WWII in parts of PNG and New Zealand’s participation as one of eight countries invited to celebrate PNG’s Independence Day in 1975.” Luxon added that New Zealand is also pleased to provide development and trade assistance as well as defence and security support to PNG which it has been doing for many years. The meeting concluded with exchange of gifts between the Governor General and the New Zealand Prime Minister before departing for his next engagement at the National Parliament to address the House.

The Central Lime and Cement project will greatly support and improve the living standards of the people of Kido and also ReaRea in the Central province thanks to the agreement made between the landowners and the developer, Pacific Lime and Cement. Mr. Paul Mulder, the Managing Director of Pacific Lime and Cement (PLC) held a press conference on Monday 4th August in Port Moresby city following the official launching of the project and the announcement of its Final Investment Decision (FID) last week Friday. The press conference was to give further details to the Central Lime and Cement project, where he also revealed the background to agreements with the landowners and what is in store for them in terms of spinoff benefit. Mr. Mulder said the agreement is unique in that the company and the landowners work in a joint venture partnership structure in establishing the companies for the landowners with funding and training of the work force provided by PLC, to support the operation of the major Lime and Cement project. The sort of services that the landowner companies will be providing are both assets based, and services based. Assets include equipment, vehicles and earth moving equipment while services include things like security, catering and logistics. Mr. Mulder said the local benefits and business spinoffs are captured under the Community Development Agreement, which resulted from a consultative forum that was held with the landowners. “As part of that, there were commitments made and approved through the department of labor, department of commerce and industry in relation to these local benefits and spinoffs.” He said with that in place, there is no reason why anyone will be without a job because the lime and cement operation, is a labor-intensive work that requires a lot of skilled manpower. It's not only the spinoff benefits the landowners will be enjoying, but also the establishment of infrastructures like a road and bridge connecting the island to mainland Central province. “The first port of call for us is constructing the road, connect the people and make sure that people have connectivity. Getting those key utility services in to improve living standards, is the first priority.” Mr. Mulder expressed that Kido is close to the PNG LNG Plant site in Central province but yet so far, highlighting its non- connection to the mainland. But now with the focus on infrastructures thanks to the Central Lime and Cement project, this should be a think of the past for the people of Kido.

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) just recently launched two key issues paper for the review of laws on Sexual Offences and State- Owned Enterprises (SOEs) under its latest Terms of Reference (TORs) in an effort to further tighten them in order to be more effective. These two TORs are: TOR 22: Review of Laws Relating to Sexual Offences (Incest) in Papua New Guinea TOR 25: Review of Laws on State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs): Meeting Objectives and Accountability to the State. CLRC Chairman MP Saki Soloma highlighted the importance of both reviews, emphasizing the urgency and necessity of addressing issues that have significant social and economic impacts. “Both TOR 22 and 25 are central to the protection of families and the effective functioning of state institutions. These reviews are critical to advancing justice, equity and national development,” said Chairman Soloma. TOR 22 addresses one of the most severe forms of sexual violence, particularly affecting women and children. CLRC Internal research and judicial observations show a disturbing rise in cases of incest, prompting concerns over the adequacy of the legal framework. According to the Chairman, the key Issues under TOR 22 include reinstating life imprisonment for incest offenders; expanding the definition of incest to include step and adopted family members; addressing issues of consent and compensation in cases of incest; and the introduction of mandatory sex education in schools and regulation of sexually explicit content in media. The Chairman stressed the sensitivity of the issue, acknowledging the cultural and societal complexities around incest in Papua New Guinea. TOR 25 is the review of SOEs and focuses on enhancing their effectiveness, accountability and their ability to meet public needs, especially in underserved rural areas. SOEs are critical for providing essential services such as electricity, water and transport. They key areas of focus include the legal framework’s ability to empower SOEs to succeed; oversight effectiveness by Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) and whether SOEs should fall under additional oversight bodies; balancing commercial independence with state accountability; and the impact of political influence in KCH and SOEs. The Chairman noted that the review is timely, with calls from Prime Minister James Marape for urgent reforms to make SOEs more efficient, transparent, and professionally managed. Meanwhile, the CLRC invites all Papua New Guineans to engage in the consultation process following the launch of the Issues Papers. Public consultations will be held across provinces and the Commission will also be accepting submissions from the citizens regarding the two TORs. These contributions will directly shape the final recommendations that CLRC will develop. Public consultations for TOR 22 and 25 are currently underway.