National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop has called on Papua New Guineans to take greater responsibility for their own health and wellbeing, saying regular exercise and practices such as yoga can help improve both individual lives and the nation's overall health.
Speaking during the 12th International Yoga Day celebrations at Ela Beach in Port Moresby, Governor Parkop shared his personal journey with yoga, encouraging people to embrace simple daily practices that promote physical fitness, mental wellbeing and emotional balance.
The Governor said yoga has become an essential part of his daily routine, helping him manage the pressures that come with leading the nation's capital.
"It helps me deal with stress and the heavy workload that comes with serving as Governor, Member of Parliament and Chairman of NCDC.”
The Governor said everyone should develop a routine that works best for them, whether through yoga, walking or other forms of exercise, stressing that consistency is more important than complexity.
While acknowledging the important role doctors, nurses and hospitals play in healthcare, Governor Parkop said people should not rely solely on medical treatment but instead make personal health a priority.
"Too often we place our health entirely in the hands of doctors, medicine and hospitals. These are important, but we must also take responsibility for our own health, fitness and wellness.”
He expressed concern that despite Papua New Guinea's economic growth and infrastructure development, improvements in the overall health and life expectancy of its people have not kept pace.
"Our economy may be improving, and we continue talking about GDP growth, but our health outcomes are not improving at the same rate. That is a contradiction we must address.”
Governor Parkop said investing in health should be regarded with the same importance as investing in education, businesses and small-to-medium enterprises.
"We continue to invest in business, our professions, education and SMEs, and that's important. But I also encourage everyone to invest in their health because it is one of the most valuable investments we can make."
He said maintaining good health enables leaders and citizens alike to think clearly, solve problems, and contribute positively to society.
"If I am healthy, fit and well, I am in a much better state mentally and emotionally.”
Governor Parkop concluded by encouraging Papua New Guineans to find an exercise routine that suits their lifestyle and make it a daily habit, describing yoga as an accessible activity that can be practiced from the comfort of home without expensive equipment or gym memberships.
