Teachers Savings and Loans Society Limited (TISA/Society) has announced an Additional Bonus Interest for the 2025 financial year, following a strong performance by the Society and the broader TISA Group.

For the 2025 financial year, TISA recorded a profit after tax of K95.8 million, supported by a robust balance sheet of K1.01 billion. Total income increased by K41.5 million, while total assets grew by 2% to K1.01 billion compared to 2024.

TISA Group Chief Executive Officer Michael Koisen said the results reflect disciplined financial management, continued member growth, and a strong focus on delivering long-term value to members.

“This performance demonstrates the strength of our cooperative model and the trust our members place in us. Despite challenges across some sectors, TISA has remained focused on sustainability, resilience, and generating sustainable results for the benefit of members,” Mr Koisen said.

As a result of this performance, the TISA Board has approved a discretionary Additional Bonus Interest of 7% for the financial year ending 31 December 2025, reflecting the Society’s strong performance and prudential management.

The bonus will be credited to members’ Memba Accounts with TISA Bank, based on their general savings balances as at 31 December 2025.

The 7% bonus interest, equivalent to approximately K21.3 million, will be distributed to members in accordance with the approved bonus framework.

The Additional Bonus Interest reflects the Society’s commitment to supporting member financial wellbeing while maintaining prudent capital and liquidity management.

TISA Group continues to invest in technology, people, and responsible banking practices to ensure sustainable growth and enhanced services for its members and customers.

Kutubu Secondary School has marked a major milestone with the official handover of three new community infrastructure projects delivered by Santos, representing an investment of nearly K600,000 in education, water and sanitation facilities.

The projects were formally handed over by Santos Regional Manager Vagi Tamari at a ceremony held at the school this year, attended by students, teachers and members of the local community.

Speaking at the event, Mr Tamari highlighted the critical role that education, health and sanitation play in shaping opportunities for young Papua New Guineans and reiterated Santos’ commitment to sustainable partnerships with host communities.

“These projects are about investing in people – particularly young people – by creating a safe, healthy and enabling learning environment,” Mr Tamari said.

“Santos has delivered critical infrastructure to support your learning journey. I encourage students to take ownership of these facilities, maintain them well, and honour this investment by striving for academic excellence.”

Santos Sustainable Development Supervisor Philip Makari outlined the scope of works delivered through Santos’ Sustainable Development Program.

The projects included upgrades to the school’s rainwater catchment system, maintenance and improvements to the student dining hall with new dining tables and six 9,000-litre water tanks, and the construction of a new female ablution block featuring six shower rooms and six septic toilets.

Kutubu Secondary School Principal Bai Irabo highlighted the importance of the investment, which comes as the school celebrates its 27th anniversary.

“For many years, the school struggled with limited infrastructure,” Mr Irabo said. “These facilities – particularly the water tanks, dining hall upgrades and new female ablution block – will make a lasting difference to our students.”

Mr Irabo also highlighted the significant impact of improved sanitation facilities for female students, noting that inadequate infrastructure had previously contributed to girls discontinuing their education.

Speaking on behalf of the student body, Year 10 student Samantha Mora thanked Santos for its support and acknowledged the importance of the projects in improving learning conditions at the school.

Kutubu Secondary School currently educates 553 students, including 137 female students, supported by 24 teachers, and serves communities across the Southern Highlands districts.

Delivered through a close partnership with the school, the projects enable Kutubu Secondary School to manage and deliver the works internally, strengthening local capacity, ownership and long-term outcomes. The completion and handover of these facilities reinforce Santos’ ongoing commitment to community-led investment and building a better future for local communities.

A group of students from Buk bilong Pikinini’s Koki Library Learning Centre recently swapped classroom walls for the deck of a working tugboat, stepping into the world of maritime operations as part of a new partnership between Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) and Svitzer PNG.

The partnership, launched through a K20,000 contribution from Svitzer PNG to support BbP’s School Library Re-establishment Program, combines literacy support with experiential learning opportunities aimed at broadening children’s understanding of future careers and industries in Papua New Guinea.

To mark the collaboration, students were invited aboard the Svitzer Venture tugboat for an educational excursion that introduced them to life at sea and the role maritime services play in supporting trade, shipping, and the energy sector.

For many students, it was their first time boarding a working vessel.

During the visit, students met Captains Denys and Oleksandr, Chief Engineer Alexander, Officer Emmanuel, and other crew members, who guided them through different parts of the tugboat while explaining daily operations and onboard safety procedures.

The students explored the vessel’s Bridge, Engine Room, Deck, Crew Accommodation, and Galley, gaining firsthand insight into the technical and operational responsibilities involved in maritime work.

Crew members also explained how tugboats assist larger ships entering ports, support oil and gas operations, and respond to emergencies such as maritime firefighting operations.

The excursion concluded with lunch onboard prepared by the vessel’s chef, Catherine, adding to what organizers described as a memorable learning experience for the students.

Svitzer PNG officials attending the event included General Manager Dylan Sheehan, Port Manager John Whitfield, Lead People and Culture Partner Emma Yabsley, and Melbourne Port Manager Simon Riddle.

Representing Buk bilong Pikinini were Executive Officer Leanne Resson, teachers, and members of the organization’s head office team.

Sheehan said the company viewed education and community engagement as important parts of its long-term commitment to Papua New Guinea.

“Svitzer PNG is proud to support and invest in the communities we operate in and specifically with Buk Bilong Pikinini in Port Moresby,” he said.

“We hope this partnership sees young children in Port Moresby not only given the opportunity to access much-needed learning materials and resources, but also inspired to one day work in the maritime industry in PNG and internationally.”

Resson said the partnership addresses both literacy needs and student exposure to real-world learning environments.

“Schools across PNG are in dire need of quality library books,” she said.

“Students need books to enhance their learning, while books are useful teaching resources for teachers. Svitzer PNG’s contribution reflects its dedication to community engagement and education through the replenishment of school library books.”

She added that experiential activities such as the tugboat excursion can help inspire curiosity, confidence, and ambition among young students.

The K20,000 contribution will help fund School Library Kits and additional library books for schools supported by Buk bilong Pikinini across Papua New Guinea.

The organization said it hopes to continue expanding partnerships that combine literacy support with educational opportunities that expose students to industries and career pathways they may not otherwise encounter.

For many students at Evedahana Primary and Junior High School, the start of Term 2 brought more than just a return to classes — it brought shelves of new stories, learning opportunities, and renewed excitement for reading.

Through a partnership between maritime services company Svitzer PNG and literacy-focused nonprofit Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP), 2,000 library books were donated to the school community, helping address ongoing shortages of educational materials while reinforcing efforts to build a stronger reading culture among young learners.

The donation included 1,000 books each for the primary and junior high school sections, providing students and teachers with additional resources for classroom learning, independent reading, and research activities.

The initiative also carries deeper significance for Buk bilong Pikinini, which operates an Early Childhood Centre within the Evedahana school community. Many children who begin their learning journey through the organization’s literacy programs later continue their education at the primary and junior high school.

By extending support beyond early childhood education, Buk bilong Pikinini hopes to sustain reading habits as students progress through higher levels of schooling.

“Books open the door to imagination, creativity, and opportunity,” said Buk bilong Pikinini Executive Officer Leanne Resson.

“When a child picks up a book, they begin a journey where anything is possible. By simply opening these pages, they can start building a future filled with knowledge and success.”

Resson said the organization also wanted to create safe and supportive learning spaces where children could continue exploring literacy beyond the classroom.

“We encourage all students to develop a daily reading habit, and we thank the teachers for their continued dedication in guiding and inspiring young readers,” she said.

Svitzer PNG said the partnership reflects its broader commitment to education and community development in Papua New Guinea.

“We are proud to support Buk bilong Pikinini in delivering these books to Evedahana,” said Anna Ingip, Crewing Officer PNG at Svitzer PNG.

“Education is a powerful tool for change, and we believe that access to quality reading materials can help shape brighter futures for young people across Papua New Guinea.”

Teachers and school leaders said the donation arrives at a critical time, with many schools across the country continuing to face shortages of books and educational resources.

Primary School Head Teacher Kagayabi said literacy challenges remain significant in many parts of Papua New Guinea, making access to books especially important for improving learning outcomes.

“We are truly grateful for this generous donation made possible through Buk bilong Pikinini and Svitzer PNG,” he said.

“I encourage our students to make reading a daily habit because the more they read, the more they learn and grow. These books will open many opportunities for them.”

The principal of the junior high school also expressed appreciation for the donation, saying the additional resources would support students’ academic development and confidence.

Beyond the Evedahana donation, Buk bilong Pikinini said many schools across Papua New Guinea still face major resource gaps that limit children’s access to quality education.

The organization is now encouraging more corporate organizations to support literacy and educational initiatives nationwide through similar partnerships.

Buk bilong Pikinini also acknowledged logistics partners PNG Air, Express Freight Management, and Sea Fast for helping transport books from Australia to Papua New Guinea and distribute them across different provinces.

Additional support this quarter has also come from Fincorp, Blue Water Shipping, and the Warrnambool Rotary Club, whose contributions have helped expand book access for children across the country.

For Buk bilong Pikinini, the message remains simple: investing in literacy today helps shape opportunities for Papua New Guinea’s next generation tomorrow.

Westpac Bank PNG Limited has congratulated the PNG Indigenous team following an impressive campaign at the 2026 National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC) in Mackay, Australia, where Papua New Guinea received the NICC Men’s Spirit of Cricket Award and players secured multiple Westpac match honours throughout the tournament.

Held on Yuwibara Country from 14–19 April 2026, the men’s and women’s T20 championships were played at Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park. Papua New Guinea participated in the men’s competition as an invitational team for the first time, while four PNG Lewas players joined South Australia’s women’s squad for the tournament.

The championship also featured a dedicated cultural activity day on 17 April, alongside national broadcast and streaming coverage.

Westpac PNG said the results highlighted the depth of cricket talent in Papua New Guinea, as well as the strong culture of respect and sportsmanship within the national programme ahead of upcoming international fixtures.

Among the key recognitions received during the tournament were:

• NICC Men’s Spirit of Cricket Award – Papua New Guinea
• Westpac Player of the Round (Round 2) – Michael Charlie
• NICC Men’s Player of the Championship – Tony Ura
• NICC Men’s Team of the Championship – Tony Ura
• NICC Women’s Team of the Championship – Henao Thomas

Westpac ‘Player of the Match’ awards were also presented throughout the tournament:

• Round 1 vs Queensland – Tony Ura
• Round 2 vs Tasmania – Michael Charlie
• Round 4 vs South Australia – Sese Bau
• Round 5 vs Northern Territory – Hila Vare
• Round 7 vs Tasmania – Tony Ura

PNG delivered a series of strong performances during the week, including back-to-back wins in rounds four and five to maintain an unbeaten run midway through the tournament.

The competition also served as a high-performance preparation platform for upcoming international fixtures, including Papua New Guinea’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier campaign in Japan.

Westpac Bank PNG Limited Chief Executive Andrew Cairns praised the team’s achievements and conduct throughout the tournament.

“We’re proud to see the PNG Indigenous team recognised for both performance and sportsmanship at the NICC. Congratulations to the players and staff, especially those who received Westpac match awards throughout the tournament,” Mr Cairns said.

Cricket PNG High Performance Manager and Head Coach Tim McCaskill said the tournament provided valuable preparation for the team’s upcoming international commitments.

“This tournament provided valuable high-performance preparation. The Spirit of Cricket award reflects the standards we set for ourselves as a group, and the individual honours are a credit to the players’ hard work,” Mr McCaskill said.

The squad has since returned to Port Moresby and will continue preparations for future fixtures and tournament commitments.

Westpac said the participation of the PNG Indigenous team and PNG Lewas players was supported through the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports programme, which provides Pacific athletes, coaches, officials and administrators with opportunities to access high-performance training and elite competition.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has strengthened its position as one of Papua New Guinea’s leading investors in human capital through the awarding of its 2026 Undergraduate Scholarships to high-performing students from three universities across the country.

As part of its ongoing investment in education and skills development, Ok Tedi recently awarded 21 scholarships to students from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UNITECH) in Lae, Divine Word University (DWU), and the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) during a presentation ceremony at the company’s Port Moresby office.

The awards included 11 new third-year scholarship recipients and 10 continuing scholars, representing a total 2026 investment of K593,741.

Speaking during the ceremony, Manager Mine Production Mr Yagatau Hamena highlighted the company’s long-standing contribution to nation building through education and workforce development.

“For more than 40 years, Ok Tedi has been more than a mining company. Yes, we mine copper, gold and silver — but the real treasure we invest in is people,” Mr Hamena said.

“We have mined potential. We have mined talent. And we have supported and developed leaders across PNG who are now driving change in engineering, technology, science, business, community development and many other fields.”

Ok Tedi said its scholarship programme forms a key part of the company’s investment in people under its Growth 2050 Strategy. The company said building a capable Papua New Guinean workforce remains critical to ensuring the long-term sustainability of its operations, community development initiatives and national economic contribution.

The company’s long-term human capital development contributions include:

• 689 graduates completing the Graduate Development Scheme since 1988
• 1,191 apprentices trained since 1982
• 731 trainees upskilled from Preferred Area Development communities
• 50 industrial trainees provided with practical work experience
• 40 vocational students supported through the on-the-job training programme since 2023
• 81 students sponsored through the Undergraduate Scholarship Programme
• K37 million invested in training in 2025 alone

Third-year Computer Science student Jodanah Malus expressed gratitude after receiving the scholarship.

“I am deeply honoured to be a recipient of the 2026 Ok Tedi Undergraduate Scholarship. This sponsorship lifts a heavy burden from my parents and allows me to focus fully on my academic goals,” Ms Malus said.

“I am incredibly grateful to Ok Tedi for believing in my potential.”

UNITECH Vice Chancellor Dr Ora Renagi reaffirmed the university’s partnership with Ok Tedi, describing education as central to national development.

“I fully embrace this partnership with Ok Tedi. True change for PNG will only come through the development of our human resources,” Dr Renagi said.

“Ok Tedi recognises that universities exist to transform students into capable, skilled professionals who will drive Papua New Guinea forward.”

Executive Dean of the School of Business and Public Policy at UPNG, Dr Lekshmi Pillai, said the scholarships represented both an opportunity and a responsibility for recipients.

“This is not just an ordinary occasion — it is a momentous one that signifies a profound responsibility,” Dr Pillai said.

“Ok Tedi’s support reflects its commitment to nurturing the future leaders of Papua New Guinea by investing in students currently pursuing higher education.”

“For our scholarship recipients, this support is not only an opportunity but also a privilege that calls for dedication, discipline and excellence.”

Acting Registrar of Divine Word University Marie Clare Aribi thanked Ok Tedi for its continued partnership and support for students across the country.

“We sincerely thank Ok Tedi Mining Limited’s Human Resources team, Training team and Executive Leadership team for your generous support, partnership and belief in our young students at Divine Word University and across Papua New Guinea,” Ms Aribi said.

“Your commitment goes beyond financial assistance — it demonstrates a deep dedication to growth, innovation and meaningful community impact.”

Beyond scholarships, Ok Tedi said it continues to support UNITECH, UPNG and other tertiary institutions through strategic infrastructure and capacity-building investments aligned with Papua New Guinea’s national development priorities.

The company congratulated all 2026 Undergraduate Scholarship recipients and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting their academic and professional development.

Ok Tedi said it remains committed to building a strong, skilled and prosperous Papua New Guinea through sustained investment in education, people and community partnerships.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has donated K1.25 million to Milne Bay Province to support relief efforts for communities affected by Tropical Cyclone Maila.

Of the total amount, K1 million will go to the Milne Bay Provincial Disaster Committee, while K250,000 will support relief efforts in the Samarai-Murua district.

Ok Tedi hosted a presentation ceremony last Thursday at its Operations Office at Kwalimu Haus in Waigani. The event was attended by Milne Bay Governor Gordon Wesley, Acting Milne Bay Provincial Administrator Ms Sharon Mua, Misima Minerals General Manager Ben Burger, and members of the Ok Tedi Corporate Affairs team.

Ms Mua thanked Ok Tedi for its timely support for relief and recovery efforts in communities affected by the cyclone.

“Your timely support will make a significant difference to families in our most impacted wards across Samarai-Murua district, Maramatana, Huhu, Weraura, Duau, Goodenough and other LLGs,” Ms Mua said.

“The funds will be directed to urgent priorities identified in our initial damage assessment — shelter kits, medical supplies, clean water, food security, and the restoration of basic services.

“The spirit of Papua New Guinea is seen when we stand together in times of hardship. Ok Tedi’s support demonstrates genuine corporate citizenship and care for our people.”

As a 100 percent Papua New Guinean-owned mining company, Ok Tedi said it remains committed to national development and to supporting Papua New Guineans during times of need. The assistance aligns with the company’s long-standing practice of responding swiftly and meaningfully to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies across the country.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr Kedi Ilimbit said the company’s support reflects its national responsibility and values.

“Ok Tedi is a company built by Papua New Guineans, for Papua New Guineans. As a wholly nationally owned mine, we stand with our people wherever they are, especially in times of hardship. Misima is now part of the Ok Tedi family, and our commitment goes beyond investment — we are here to support communities, restore hope, and contribute to rebuilding lives.

“Our nation is strongest when we stand together, and Ok Tedi will continue to play its role in nation building,” Mr Ilimbit said.

Ok Tedi said its recent acquisition of the Misima Mines Project represents a significant milestone in the company’s growth and long-term commitment to nation building. The K1 million support package for Milne Bay Province, together with the additional K250,000 for Misima communities, recognises Misima’s place within the Ok Tedi family and underscores the company’s commitment to contributing positively to the wellbeing of local communities.

In recent years, Ok Tedi has also supported disaster relief efforts across Papua New Guinea, including:

• Mulitaka, Enga Province (2024–2025): Donated K1 million to support humanitarian assistance and long-term recovery efforts following the devastating landslide.

• East Sepik and Chimbu provinces (2024): Provided K500,000 each to assist communities affected by severe flooding, landslides and a major earthquake.

• Middle and Lower Fly, Western Province (2024): Delivered K250,000 worth of food supplies to flood-affected villages.

Ok Tedi said these contributions reflect its ongoing commitment to supporting Papua New Guinean communities during times of crisis.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has established a kidney dialysis facility in Tabubil to service its employees and the community, marking a significant step in the fight against kidney failure.

Kidney failure is one of the critical health challenges facing the region and the rest of PNG. Delivered in close partnership with the PNG Kidney Foundation, the facility is only the third kidney dialysis centre in PNG, alongside facilities in Port Moresby and Mendi.

The investment was driven by alarming health data from Tabubil Hospital, where kidney failure was identified as the second highest cause of death in 2023. Ok Tedi’s health service currently provides care to approximately 6,000 patients each month, with 80 percent of those patients being local residents, highlighting the facility’s importance not only to the company’s workforce but also to the wider community.

Ok Tedi Manager Health Services, Raymond Singamis, said the new dialysis infrastructure was a direct response to the growing burden of kidney disease.

“Our 2023–2024 mortality and morbidity report clearly showed that kidney failure had become one of the leading causes of death within our health service population. This is a serious public health warning that demanded immediate action,” Mr Singamis said.

“With more than 6,000 patients accessing our services every month, the majority of whom are local people, the Ok Tedi-funded dialysis facility will significantly strengthen our ability to provide life-saving treatment for our workforce, business partners, and the people of Western Province,” he said.

Ok Tedi Board Director Bonny Ninai said the dialysis facility represents a critical step forward in improving access to specialised healthcare in a remote region.

“While dialysis is not a permanent cure, it provides patients with severe kidney disease the opportunity to extend their lives and improve their quality of life while awaiting potential transplant options. This is about giving people hope where options were previously limited,” Mr Ninai said.

National Health Board Chairman Chief Professor Doctor Mathias Sapuri praised Ok Tedi for taking leadership in health infrastructure investment.

“I am very proud of Ok Tedi for investing in a facility that directly supports a healthier workforce and stronger communities,” Professor Sapuri said.

“This initiative demonstrates how responsible corporate investment can complement national health priorities and deliver meaningful outcomes for the people.”

The opening of the Tabubil kidney dialysis facility reflects Ok Tedi’s continued commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes in Western Province, reinforcing its role as a 100% PNG-owned company dedicated to serving the people of Western Province and Papua New Guinea.

Dentons has strengthened its disputes capability in Papua New Guinea with the promotion of Gertrude Tamade to litigation partner in its local office.

Tamade, a senior litigation lawyer with more than 20 years of experience, advises on complex commercial and civil matters. Her appointment is expected to enhance the firm’s capacity to support clients navigating high-stakes disputes across the region.

She brings a combination of judicial, private practice, and in-house experience. Tamade served as an acting judge of the National Court of Papua New Guinea for two terms from August 2021 to July 2023, where she presided over commercial and civil cases.

She has also held senior roles at Pacific Legal Group, LLNS, Barrick Niugini Limited, and Corrs Chambers Westgarth. She holds a Master of Commercial Law from the University of Melbourne.

Dentons Australia Chair and Australasia Region CEO Amber Warren said Tamade’s promotion reflects the firm’s continued investment in senior disputes capability.

“Gertrude brings a rare combination of judicial insight, private practice experience, and commercial acumen. That perspective is invaluable for clients managing complex and sensitive matters,” Warren said.

Dentons Papua New Guinea Managing Partner and Head of Office Wavie Kendino Leki said Tamade’s promotion follows the grant of her unrestricted practicing certificate by the Papua New Guinea Law Society.

“We have already seen the strength of her leadership and judgment on the ground. She is a trusted adviser to clients and a valued leader within our team,” Leki said.

Commenting on her appointment, Tamade said she looks forward to contributing to both client outcomes and the broader legal profession.

“The firm offers a strong platform to support clients on complex disputes while contributing to the continued development of the legal profession in Papua New Guinea,” she said.

Following a landslide in March that caused significant damage to road infrastructure and homes in Lumi, West Sepik Province, local businesses have stepped forward to support the Sandaun Provincial Administration’s efforts to restore critical services.

In response to an invitation to assist, Frieda River Limited (FRL) has provided vital support to affected communities by supplying clean drinking water infrastructure.

FRL purchased four 5,000-litre Tuffa water tanks to help ensure continued access to safe and reliable drinking water for families impacted by the disaster. Earlier this week, the tanks were formally delivered to the Sandaun Governor’s Office, where they will be distributed to affected communities in Lumi.

The support reflects FRL’s ongoing commitment to strengthening community resilience during times of crisis. In 2023 and 2024, the company similarly responded to the Mid-Sepik earthquakes, when damage and contamination rendered local water sources unsafe. On both occasions, FRL supplied water tanks to help communities maintain access to clean water while recovery efforts were underway.

With the situation in Lumi presenting similar challenges, FRL has once again extended its support, working alongside government and community partners to address urgent needs and contribute to recovery efforts.

FRL Country Manager Dr Joel Hamago said access to clean water is one of the most immediate and critical needs following a disaster.

“When we saw the impact of the landslide in Lumi and the challenges facing local communities, it was important for FRL to step in and provide practical support. This mirrors our response during the Mid-Sepik earthquakes in 2023 and 2024. Where we can, we will provide support and stand with communities in times of need, particularly during recovery and rebuilding,” Dr Hamago said.

FRL remains committed to supporting provincial and national efforts to strengthen community resilience and contribute positively to the wellbeing of Papua New Guinea’s people.

Frieda River Limited is the proponent of the Sepik Development Project (SDP) in Papua New Guinea. The project comprises four integrated components: the Sepik Infrastructure Project (SIP), the Frieda River Copper-Gold Project (FRCGP), the Frieda River Hydroelectric Project (FRHEP) and the Sepik Power Grid Project (SPGP).

The project is designed to deliver enabling infrastructure, including power generation and transmission, road access, airport and port facilities, supported through private investment. During operations, the SDP is expected to create approximately 2,500 direct jobs, with a target of 93 per cent national employment, and generate more than 30,000 indirect employment opportunities.

The project incorporates engineered tailings and water management systems, alongside a hydroelectric power solution intended to reduce operational emissions and support environmental management objectives, including the protection of the Sepik River system.

Frieda River Limited is a significant subsidiary of PanAust Limited. In addition to its Papua New Guinea operations, PanAust owns Phu Bia Mining, an award-winning dual operation in Laos, and has development opportunities in Chile.

An Australian-incorporated company, PanAust is owned by Guangdong Rising H.K. (Holding) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Guangdong Rising Holding Group Co., Ltd. (GDRH). GDRH is a Chinese state-owned enterprise regulated by the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the People’s Government of Guangdong Province.

Sport continues to play a powerful role in shaping communities across Papua New Guinea, and few exemplify this impact more strongly than Rutha-Meu Omenefa, winner of the 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA) Sports & Arts category.

Based in Goroka, Rutha-Meu is a dedicated coach, youth mentor, and community leader. She uses sport as a platform to develop not only skilled athletes but also confident, values-driven young people. For her, coaching is about helping young players become better in the game and better people, while holding herself to the same standard as a role model.

“The greatest impact for me is seeing young players come forward seeking advice, applying what they’ve learned in their lives, and growing as leaders among their peers,” Rutha-Meu said. “When I see them prosper in sport, in school, and within their communities, I know the work is making a difference.”

She believes leadership is grounded in service and sacrifice. As a coach, Rutha-Meu gives her time, trust, and encouragement to ensure her players are equipped not just for competition, but for life. In her community, leadership means delivering on commitments and mentoring the next generation of leaders, guided by strong personal values.

Reflecting on her recognition as a 2025 WOWA winner, Rutha-Meu said the award gave her renewed drive to keep achieving and inspiring others, particularly young women in rugby league. While the recognition brought high expectations and criticism, she views these challenges as opportunities for growth.

“The award opened doors, strengthened trust, and gave me a greater responsibility to prove myself through the work I do,” she said. “I want to help women in Papua New Guinea through sport in any way I can, and I strongly believe in collaboration and solidarity.”

Emma Low, managing director of Westpac Pacific, said Rutha-Meu’s story reflects the purpose of the Westpac Outstanding Women Awards.

“Rutha-Meu exemplifies leadership that creates lasting impact, not only through sporting achievement but also through service, mentorship, and values-based leadership,” Low said. “Her story shows how women are changing the game and strengthening communities across Papua New Guinea.”

Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said Rutha-Meu’s journey sends a powerful message to women nationwide.

“Women leading in sport and the arts are shaping confidence, unity, and opportunity for the next generation,” Cairns said. “We encourage communities to nominate women who are using sport and creativity to drive positive change.”

ENDS

How to nominate:

Nominations are open for the 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards until May 31, 2026.

Details on the nomination process, eligibility, and award categories are available on the official webpage or by visiting any Westpac branch and completing an application form.

The WOW Awards ceremony will be held in July 2026, where winners will be recognized at a prestigious event attended by industry leaders, government representatives, and community advocates.

Follow the conversation on social media or use #WOWA2026 to stay updated on upcoming announcements.

PNG Air wishes to advise the travelling public and the people of Wewak that flights to and from Wewak may be suspended if there is no immediate improvement in the protection of airport facilities, infrastructure, and company property.

On April 21, 2026, during the morning hours, there was an attempt to use slingshots; however, no damage was caused to the aircraft or company property. This follows an earlier incident on or around February 28, 2026, during which damage was caused to terminal infrastructure and PNG Air property.

PNG Air is committed to providing safe, reliable, and consistent air transport services to Wewak and surrounding areas. However, the continuation of these services depends on a secure operating environment supported by a positive and proactive community.

We respectfully call on community leaders, authorities, and residents of Wewak to work together to ensure the safety of airport infrastructure, passengers, and airline personnel. Protecting these services is a shared responsibility and is vital to maintaining connectivity for business, healthcare, education, and family travel.

PNG Air thanks the public for their understanding and support.

Air Niugini has completed the training of its first batch of Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (LAMEs) to support its expanding fleet, including the Airbus A220.

The airline said the engineers underwent intensive training covering theoretical coursework, hands-on experience and specialized technical instruction at international facilities.

A total of 11 engineers signed a training bond requiring them to remain with the airline for three years after completing the program. Under the agreement, participants must reimburse a prorated portion of training costs if they leave before the end of the term.

The initial batch completed an Airbus A220 B1/B2 type rating course, with training conducted in Singapore and Canada. The program included engine runs, systems troubleshooting and aircraft maintenance procedures, along with attachment training with Qantas Airways.

Additional specialized instruction was conducted at the engine facility of Pratt & Whitney, focusing on maintenance and operation of the A220 powerplant.

Following completion, the engineers will receive licenses from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) endorsed with the A220 rating.

Air Niugini said four senior engineers — already qualified across aircraft types such as the B737 and B767 — received their licenses in March.

Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne said the program marks a significant step in strengthening the airline’s domestic and international operations.

“This is a significant step forward for Air Niugini’s domestic and international operations. Developing our own highly skilled engineering workforce ensures safety, efficiency, and sustainability for our airline’s future,” Milne said.

He added that the training and bonding scheme secures the airline’s investment while supporting workforce development.

All members of the inaugural batch are multi-type rated, with some engineers qualified across three to six aircraft types, reflecting a versatile engineering team capable of supporting operational requirements.

Air Niugini said the initiative underscores its commitment to building local capacity through advanced training, international partnerships and adherence to industry best practices, as it continues to prioritize safety and operational excellence.

The Remington Group, through its business unit Remington Technology, has been appointed as Mimaki’s first locally based dealer in Papua New Guinea, improving access to world-class wide-format printing technology and local support across the country.

Until now, customers in PNG have primarily been supported through Mimaki’s Australian dealer network, which has often resulted in longer lead times for service, repairs, and overall support. With Remington Group’s established local presence and nationwide network, customers can now benefit from faster response times, closer support, and high-quality service.

The move comes as demand grows in PNG for high-quality signage, branding, and industrial printing solutions. Mimaki, a global leader in wide-format printing, is known for its advanced UV, eco-solvent, dye-sublimation, and direct-to-object technologies.

Remington Group CEO Justin Kieseker said the partnership is about raising the standard of what is available locally.

"We’ve seen what this technology can do overseas; there’s no reason PNG businesses should be left behind. This partnership is about closing that gap and backing our customers properly."

Under the agreement, Remington Technology will deliver full nationwide support, including sales, installation, training, and after-sales service, backed by its branch network and technical teams across the country.

The first Mimaki units are expected to arrive in May, with Remington teams currently undergoing specialised training to support the rollout.

Kohei Kobayashi, Managing Director of Mimaki Australia, said the partnership opens new opportunities in the market.

"We are excited to partner with Remington Technology to bring Mimaki’s advanced solutions to Papua New Guinea. This collaboration will enable businesses to access global-standard technology and unlock new growth opportunities."

The partnership further strengthens the Remington Group’s position as a leading provider of print and technology solutions in Papua New Guinea.