Photo: NiuBridge on the Boluminski Hwy, New Ireland, PNG

You know how they say, “Build a bridge… and get over it”?  Well with PNGFP NiuBridge you don’t have to build it, because it’s already built! These expertly designed and engineered modular bridges are prefabricated to your specifications by PNG Forest Products.

With a design life of 50+ years and installed cost base typically under half that of equivalent concrete or steel, NiuBridge is the ideal, most cost-effective solution for bridging installations in Papua New Guinea.  The NiuBridge System includes deck, girders, kerbing and accessories, and comes with a pre-applied bitumen surface. Little maintenance is required thanks to PNGFP’s unique veneer preservation treatment, ensuring complete protection from termites and rotting. NiuBridge is manufactured from PNG plantation pine to both AS/NZS 2269 and AS/NZS 1604 standards and exploits the advantages of natural timber, which is not subject to fatigue failure, unlike other materials such as steel and concrete. Available in single lane, dual lane, or custom design, NiuBridge is suitable for a range of load conditions including Austroads T44 and AS 500 Bridge Design. 

NiuBridge and sister product NiuDeck are widely used by local and state governments across Australia. The peak body for the timber industry in Queensland has welcomed these products as a demonstration of the versatility and innovation of using Engineered Wood Products in bridge construction. “Using prefabricated timber systems in bridges is gaining greater market recognition due to their inherent strength, light weight and low carbon emissions footprint compared to other construction materials”, said the CEO of Timber Queensland, Mick Stephens.

So next time you need to get over it, don’t waste valuable time and loads of money building a bridge. Buy a NiuBridge and get over it sooner and more cost effectively!

Photo credit: Education Queensland International

“International students are an important part of the Australian community, and we are excited to welcome them back to our classrooms, campuses and communities.” 

This was the announcement posted on their website by the Australian Government last February to herald the reopening of international travel to students. “Australia’s borders are open to fully vaccinated international students and Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders.” [1]

“From 21 February 2022, all visa holders who are fully vaccinated for international travel purposes can travel to Australia without a travel exemption. Unvaccinated visa holders will still need to be in an exempt category or hold an individual travel exemption to enter Australia.” [2]

The Australian Government said that international students will be subject to Australian Government border restrictions and any State and Territory quarantine and testing requirements.

Quarantine and testing arrangements for State and Territories are frequently changing. Therefore, international students are advised to visit www.Australia.gov.au/states to be updated with the latest information and announcements of the Australian Government.

In relation to this, the Department of Education, Skills and Employment has developed a “factsheet on the reopening of international travel to students” which is available for downloading from the website. [3]

“All visa holders who are fully vaccinated in accordance with Australia’s international border entry requirements are able to arrive in Australia without needing an approved travel exemption. This includes fully vaccinated international students.” [1]

Here are more important reminders from the Australian Government:

People who do not meet Australia’s vaccination requirements for international travel must apply for a travel exemption to travel to Australia, unless they are in an exempt category.

Visa holders who arrive in Australia may have their visa cancelled and be detained and removed if they:

• are not fully vaccinated for international travel purposes in accordance with Australia’s border entry requirements;
• or do not have a medical contraindication to a COVID-19 vaccine as defined by the Australian Government;
• or are not in an exempt category or hold an individual travel exemption.

To be considered as “fully vaccinated for international travel purpose” to or from Australia, one should have completed a primary course of a vaccine approved or recognized by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). This includes mixed doses. The currently approved or recognised vaccines for travel are the following:

Two doses at least 14 days apart of AstraZeneca Vaxzevria, AstraZeneca Covishield, Pfizer/Biontech Comirnaty, Moderna Spikevax or Takeda, Sinovac Coronavac, Bharat Biotech Covaxin, Sinopharm BBIBP-CorV (for people under 60 years of age on arrival in Australia), Gamaleya Research Institute Sputnik V, Novavax/Biocelect Nuvaxovid.

Single-dose dose of Johnson & Johnson/ Janssen-Cilag COVID Vaccine are also in the list of approved and recognized vaccines.

“At least 7 days must have passed since the final dose of vaccine in a course of immunisation for you to be considered fully vaccinated for international travel purposes. Mixed doses count towards being fully vaccinated as long as all vaccines are approved or recognised by the TGA.”

How about exceptions for vaccination requirements and arrangement for children?

“People with acceptable proof they cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons, and children under 12, can access the same travel arrangement as people who are fully vaccinated for international travel purposes.”

Moreover, temporary visa holders who are younger than 18 years old at the time of departure for international travel to Australia do not require an approved travel exemption when the child is travelling with at least one adult who is fully vaccinated for international travel purposes.

“Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children aged 12-17 years old entering Australia may be exempt from passenger caps and eligible for reduced quarantine requirements. Travellers should always check the quarantine requirements for the state or territory they plan to travel to, or transit through, prior to arranging their travel.”

“If the child is travelling with unvaccinated adult family members, then the entire family group will be subject to managed quarantine and passenger caps.”

For more information on vaccination travel requirements, quarantine rules, and other related matter, visit https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/vaccinated-travellers.

Reference:

[1] https://www.dese.gov.au/reopening-international-travel-students

[2] https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/vaccinated-travellers

[3] Factsheet on the reopening of international travel to students

https://www.dese.gov.au/reopening-international-travel-students/resources/factsheet-reopening-international-travel-students

Photo credit: Coral Sea Cable System

The internet connectivity disruption last week was caused by problems with the Coral Sea Cable System, according to PNG DataCo Limited (DataCo) (CS2).

DataCo chief executive officer Paul Komboi said: “The issues are isolated to the end devices or nodes in Port Moresby and Sydney affecting internet traffic and private leased circuits traversing the CS2. DataCo would like to kindly advise the public of intermittent internet connectivity this week, starting 9th to 15th May.

“PNG DataCo engineers and our partners are doing everything they can to replace the identified equipment and to restore these services and have a permanent fix.

“Generally during this period as they work on the network, the internet services will be affected by intermittent dropouts and increased latencies,” he said.

“DataCo sincerely apologises for any inconveniences this outage may cause our customers and the general internet users and thank you all for your understanding.”

Meanwhile, Kina Bank CEO Greg Pawson stated that core banking services were operating normally, with little or no impact on the bank's services or clients at this time.

A Kina Bank public notice said: “Due to recent data issues that have been impacting PNG, we’re currently experiencing outages which are affecting our digital banking services and resulting in some platforms being unavailable.

“We are working to ensure there is minimal disruption to our network.” National Information and Communications Technology Authority chief executive officer Kila Gulo-Vui yesterday said: “We are reviewing this matter and will advise on the same shortly.”

Reference: The National (11 May 2022). “Cable issues affecting internet”.

The multi-billion-kina Porgera gold mine in Enga, according to Porgera Chamber of Commerce and Industry head Nickson Pakea, must reopen shortly to promote economic activity and solve criminality in the district.

“The law and order issues in the district is partially due to the shutdown of the mine and those with access to guns taking advantage to conduct illegal mining activities as well as stir up trouble.

“Our anticipation to receive the good news from the prime minister tomorrow (today) has been stalled due to the tribal conflict,” he said.

With the arrival of police and Papua New Guinea Defence Force soldiers to the region, he stated fighting had ceased. The closure of the Porgera mine, according to Pakea, contributed to the district's lawlessness.

“People with guns from other districts and provinces are taking advantage of the mine shut down and them trespassing the mine for illegal mining.

“Apart from this, they also lease it (guns) for tribal fights, causing more destruction properties and innocent lives. The Government must intervene and stop this once and for all, not just provide security.

“We want the Government to declare gun amnesty or gun surrender and collect all the guns.

“We want the mine to fire up soon.

“The longer it remains idle, the opportunities will increase for chaos. We also call on residents to support the security personnel to eradicate lawlessness once and for all by providing vital information.

“Fighting has stopped but schools are still closed in fear of retaliation.

“The principal of Porgera Secondary School has said that classes will resume on Monday,” he added.

Reference: Luma, Dale. The National (11 May 2022). “Porgera chamber of commerce wants mine to reopen”.

National Information and Communications Technology (Nicta) chief executive officer Kila Gulo-Viu said Vodafone has inked agreements with Digicel and Telikom to secure connections with the two networks.

“Telikom and Vodafone concluded an interconnection agreement last Wednesday. This a very important development in the context of competition as both subscribers from these networks can talk to each other.

“Vodafone also has a separate interconnection agreement with Digicel. Vodafone customers can call and text all subscribers now, whether you are with Telikom/bmobile or Digicel,” he said.

Lorna McPherson, Digicel PNG's senior vice-president, confirmed that calls and messages between the two networks were now working properly.

Interconnection is a proclaimed service under the National ICT Act, according to Information and Communications Technology Secretary Steven Matainaho.

“This means it is regulated and all operators are required to comply by that to ensure that there is interconnection,” he added.

At its inauguration last month, Vodafone PNG regional chief executive officer Pradeep Lal claimed the company would have just over 500 base stations spanning Port Moresby, Lae, Madang, Mt Hagen, and Goroka.

Reference: The National (11 May 2022). “Nicta: Telcos connected”.

Hon. James Marape has encouraged Hela residents to start companies, particularly commercial agriculture, and to pursue education.

PM Marape made the announcement in front of thousands of people in Tari at the opening of the spectacular K8 million National National Bank (NDB) Building, dubbed Moses Liu Haus in honor of the late Moses Liu, former NDB managing director and Hela man.

The National Development Bank contributed K4 million, the Hela Provincial Government K3 million, and the Tari-Pori District Development Authority (DDA) K1 million to the project.

The PM revealed in front of the jubilant throng that the Tari-Pori DDA office, known as Pangale Haus, had been donated to Women's Micro Bank to serve the district's women, who had been completing SME training at Hope Institute with Mrs Rachael Marape.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by the Minister of State Enterprises, Hon. Hon. William Duma, Minister of Defense Hon. Win Daki, Minister of Public Service Hon. Joe Sungi, Governor of Hela Representatives from Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH), and other State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), including NDB, were present.

He also revealed that Tari-Pori DDA had contributed K3 million to NDB and the Hela Provincial Government had contributed K5 million to the bank, which will begin lending to Hela residents on Monday, May 9, 2022.

PM Marape asked the people of Hela to be inspired by Shirley Komboli and Peter Honale, two Hela business success stories who became millionaires without the help of the PNG LNG Project or MPs.

“In the 1980s, when Shirley Komboli and Peter Honale started their small businesses, there was no Hides gas field or MP to help them get started,” he said.

“Shirley Komboli was a simple village woman and Peter Honale was a simple village man, but today, they have properties in Australia, Port Moresby, Lae, and other parts of the country.

“If they can do it, so can you.”

PM Marape mentioned the example of a young guy from Tewai-Siassi, Morobe, who went into the coffee industry after finishing university and made K800,000 in revenue last year.

“A bag of coffee can now earn you K600 per bag with the price support we are now offering,” he said.

“You can earn more money from coffee, SMEs, and agriculture than idling around waiting for LNG money.”

PM Marape said four of the 115 students who sat for Grade 12 exams at Hope Institute last year – which provides school leavers with a second shot in education – were currently studying at the University of PNG, six at Pacific Adventist University, and 16 at the University of Goroka.

“I urge those of you who are doing nothing to go to Hope Institute and have a second chance at furthering your education too, whilst the rest can go into MSME opportunities the Government is creating,” PM Marape said.

Reference: PM James Marape News Page (7 May 2022). “PM Marape urges Hela people to go into business and education”. 

Photo credit: NBC National Radio

After 45 years, the PNG National Employment Policy 2021-2031 was launched, marking PNG's entry into the global economy.

Prime Minister James Marape stated this during the policy's unveiling at APEC Haus in Port Moresby last week.

With a greater grasp of the numerous issues that a rapidly growing economy poses, he is glad that PNG's first-ever National Employment Policy 2021-2031 has been prepared to provide the framework for improving labor industry growth.

“I commend the Department for Labour and Industrial Relations with their acting secretary George Taunakekei and Minister Tomait Kapili for developing the PNG National Employment Policy to guide the development of the labour industry in the country for the next 10 years,” Mr Marape said.

He said the PNG National Employment Policy 2021-2031 reflects his government's policy objectives, which include growing an inclusive and sustainable economy that supports PNG's people now without jeopardizing future generations' advantages.

Mr. Marape stated that the government is dedicated to fully supporting the policies outlined in the policy in order to fulfill the policy's objectives.

“I also encourage and challenge all development partners and private sector to provide robust and desired support for the policy’s effective implementation,” he said.

Reference: Kamus, Maxine. Post-Courier (9 May 2022). “National Employment Policy Launched”.

Photo credit: Peoples Micro Bank

According to State Enterprises Minister William Duma, the Government has allowed the Peoples Micro Bank Limited to become a full-fledged commercial bank.

“This means the bank and Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) can now implement venture into retail banking and commercialisation of its operations,” he said.

“The commercialisation will result in the creation of a new commercial bank, to be known as the National Banking Corporation of PNG Limited or NBC.

“There is a need for more commercial banks in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to raise competition in the retail banking sector and to service our people.

“This will encourage improved and affordable banking services since an estimated 80 per cent of the population still do not use any banking facility,” he added.

The commercialization process, according to Duma, might take up to two years, and a K96 million fund has been put aside to assist in the development of "something valuable for the nation."

The Treasury and National Planning Departments will cover the costs. He explained that the Bank of PNG's approval for the NBC license requires the completion of several due diligence and licensing criteria set out in the legislation governing commercial bank activities.

“To kick start the transformation, KCH and the National Development Bank (NDB) will provide commercial support through its advisory team to implement and execute the commercialisation and National Planning Department’s SOE reform programme.

“After a successful application for a banking licence, NDB will transfer its various branches to the bank to give NBC the reach to provide banking and financial services for rural Papua New Guineans.

“The Government recognises that due to the scaling down of operations by Westpac Bank and the ANZ Bank, the Papua New Guineans have not been able to receive efficient and competitive banking services.

“The proposed commercialization is planned to extend over two years to 2023 with phase one focused on the recruitment of key executives, critical upgrades to core banking system assets, property and buildings.

“Phase 2 will commence later this year.” Duma said the bank would provide 131 new jobs within the first five years, and more than 100 jobs over the following five years.

“The strategy is to negotiate with prospective joint venture partners within three to five years after obtaining a banking licence, to enable the bank to sell down a minimum 51 per cent of the bank to attract the right partners to develop and upskill the bank.

“In the longer term, we envisage new shares to be issued to allow citizens and institutional shareholders to invest and become shareholders in the new bank.”

Reference: The National (9 May 2022). “Government approves new bank”.

According to James Marape, the concept of special economic zones has been demonstrated to operate around the world.

He addressed this in Kerevat, East New Britain, during the launch of the Gazelle Agro-Industrial Special Economic Zone (SEZ), a brainchild of MP Hon. Jelta Wong, will concentrate on the country's abundant agriculture and tuna resources.

PM Marape also got a firsthand look at Gazelle's commercial agriculture products, including a chicken farm that produces fresh eggs for the inhabitants of East New Britain.

East New Britain Development Corporation, the provincial government's business arm, also supports the Gazelle SEZ.

PM Marape gave the Gazelle DDA K3 million to commence the project.

The Prime Minister also presented the remaining K2 million of the K5 million promised to Warangoi landowners in November for the use of the Warangoi River to supply energy to East New Britain.

He was accompanied by the Minister of State Enterprises, Hon. Hon. William Duma, Minister of Lands and Physical Planning Professor David Kavanamur, Managing Director of Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH), and John Rosso.

Governor of East New Britain, Hon. Nakikus Konga, as well as other significant local and economic figures, attended the ceremony.

“The concept of special economic zones is a proven concept worldwide,” PM Marape told hundreds of people at Kerevat.

“Countries like Vietnam and Thailand, even China, have grown because of the concept of special economic zones.

“The government in these countries has invested in special economic zones and allowed businesses in.

“You can get special concessions from the government, such as a tax-free zone, which will allow you to grow your business and create employment.

“The government will give special concessions to businesses who want to come to this special economic zone, such as the one we have already created in Manus, and ultimately all 21 provinces including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.”

MP Marape stated that Gazelle had fertile soil for agriculture and qualified people to develop it.

He claimed that the tuna in East New Britain's waterways brought money into the province and country.

“This is why Gazelle is a very good place to advance the special economic zone concept and grow businesses for the local people,” he said.

Reference: PM James Marape News Page (9 May 2022). “PM Marape launches Gazelle Special Economic Zone”.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kiunga Technical Vocational Training Centre (KTVTC) to train and develop trades men and women.

Signed between OTML’s Major Projects Business Unit and the KTVTC in March, the MoU defines the application and selection processes for the students attending the college.

Under the MoU six students, three male and three female, studying different trades will be selected annually to join the Major Projects Business Unit over the next three years.

The intention of the program is to build local capacity and human resource, and provide a career pathway for the successful applicants.

KTVTC Manager, Mrs. Helen Dupnai, thanked OTML for providing students an avenue to attain on-the-job training.

“We are grateful for this partnership that will add significant value to what the students are learning here and this will provide the selected students the opportunity to gain valuable experience and increase their chances of employment not only at Ok Tedi but elsewhere,” she said.

OTML General Manager for Major Projects, Mark Thompson, said although this is a small initiative, he hopes the arrangement will have a great impact in the future.

“OTML’s mandate or requirement is for us to leave behind a positive legacy. The implementation of a formal training, development and upskilling program is included as part of the Major Projects execution scope over the next 2 years, which is a very important initiative to realise this mandate” he said.

OTML’s Major Projects team are responsible for implementing key strategic projects such as the Nurumi Crusher which was successfully delivered in December 2020 at a cost of K800 million.

Currently the Major Projects team are implementing the Process Asset Renewal (PAR) project worth K750 million which involves the safe and timely refurbishment of the aging plant facilities in Kiunga, Kilometre-59 and Folomian. The project also includes the replacement of the current flotation and regrind circuit.

OTML is undertaking this, and other key strategic projects, to assure life of mine to 2032.

Photo: The late Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Sam Basil. Credit: PM James Marape News Page

Statement by Prime Minister James Marape on the passing of Deputy Prime Minister Sam Basil

Papua New Guinea is shocked and saddened at the tragic passing of Deputy Prime Minister, Transport Minister and Bulolo MP Hon. Sam Basil after a road accident along the Bulolo Highway on Wednesday night.

We pray for God’s Hand on the country at this sad time.

It is a big loss to his family, people of Bulolo, Morobe, United Labour Party and Papua New Guinea as we try to come to terms with his passing.

He was a strong member of our present generation of leaders in Government who had our country in our heart

What makes his untimely passing even sadder is the fact that it happened only hours before nominations open for the 2022 General Election.

This young and vibrant leader had been preparing his United Labour Party well for the elections only to have this tragic accident happen on the eve of nominations.

The ruling Pangu Pati I now lead is due to the hard work of Hon. Basil in 2014.

He single-handedly resurrected the ruling Pangu Pati I now lead in 2014.

The one-man party became two in 2015 when the late Goilala MP, Hon. William Samb, joined Hon. Basil to revive this great PNG institution.

Hon. Basil led Pangu into the 2017 General Election winning six seats in Morobe and others around the country, bringing it back to life for – something for which we the present Pangu are indebted to.

We will give him a State Funeral befitting of his status as Deputy Prime Minister.

We thank God for the life of Hon. Basil and his many contributions to Bulolo, Morobe and Papua New Guinea.

HON. JAMES MARAPE, MP
PRIME MINISTER

Article courtesy of PM James Marape News Page

According to the company's 2021 annual report, Steamships' businesses were robust in achieving an overall revenue increase of 11% in 2021.

Chairman Geoff Cundle stated that the outcome was achieved despite the twin obstacles of a weak underlying local economy and the global consequences of the Coronavirus (Covid-19).

“Steamships’ hospitality group, Coral Sea Hotels, was deeply impacted by border closures and restrictions on domestic travel in 2020 but, after a slow start, it benefited from the demand for quarantine rooms in 2021,” Cundle said.

“Conversely, property occupancy and rental rates remained depressed throughout the year, and this will continue for several years as, without meaningful growth in the economy, there will remain an over-supply of units throughout much of Papua New Guinea.

“Our logistics businesses have adjusted effectively to the operational constraints caused by the pandemic and are responding to early signs of recovery inactivity. In summary, after a disappointing 2020, and notwithstanding the lingering negative impacts of Covid-19, 2021 saw an improvement in the group’s performance,” he said.

“It has been two years since the outbreak of the global Covid-19 pandemic and unfortunately the impact of the virus continues to be felt across all economies.

“Businesses have suffered from travel restrictions and a general reduction in demand for goods and services.

“Steamships has been no exception but has adapted well and I am pleased with the robust performance that has been achieved under difficult circumstances.”

Meanwhile, Cundle said Steamships continued to welcome the Government’s attempts to broaden the base of the economy and rebalance the allocation of benefits from resource projects.

“This is an important long-term strategic goal that should promote broader and sustainable economic growth and employment.

“We are encouraged by the progress in new resource projects with PNG-LNG moving forward and P’nyang under negotiation.

“Disappointingly, it appears that Wafi-Golpu and Pasca-A exhibit little immediate prospect for progress.

“Porgera mine in Enga remains closed. It is hoped that progress on all these projects, together with other initiatives, notably investment in improved infrastructure, will stimulate the economy in 2023 and beyond.

“Traditionally an election year boosts economic activity but in 2022 the increasing national budget deficit could constrain this stimulatory effect.”

Reference: The National (3 May 2022). “Steamships businesses report 11pc growth despite challenges”.

The Bank of PNG (BPNG) claims that rising global inflation has resulted in higher import costs and domestic inflation, which it attributes to increased activity and demand as a result of massive fiscal and monetary stimulus programs.

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, according to Acting Governor Benny Popoitai in BPNG's quarterly economic bulletin for the September quarter of 2021, has already put pressure on crude oil, and food prices (wheat/grains and vegetable oil), and fertilizer prices because both nations were key producers.

“The increases have affected international prices of these commodities, and subsequently the prices of our imported goods,” he said.

“The increase in prices in Papua New Guinea is due to higher imported prices from our trading partners.

“In recent months, we have seen high prices of imported items, especially fuel prices increase significantly.

“However, inflationary pressures from the domestic supply-side normalized attributed to the easing of restrictions of the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic.

“The annual inflation outcome in the December quarter of 2021 was 5.7 percent as released by the National Statistical Office following an increase of 4.3 percent in the September quarter.”

Popoitai cautioned that the increase in inflation reflected higher imported inflation driven by high energy prices including crude oil prices and pandemic induced supply disruptions.

“The December quarter inflation outcome reflected price increases in education; alcoholic beverages; tobacco and betel nuts; transportation; food and non-alcoholic beverages; health, miscellaneous; housing; and, clothing and footwear expenditure groups of 20 percent, 8.8 percent, 7.7 percent, 6.6 percent, 5.2 percent, 4.3 percent, 2.1 percent, and 1.1 percent, respectively,” he said.

“These more than offset declines of 3.5 percent and 2.5 percent in the restaurants and hotels and communication expenditure groups, respectively.”

Reference: The National (1 May 2022). “Global inflation affecting PNG”.

Remote sections of the nation, such as Morobe's Siassi islands, are no longer neglected, according to James Marape.

During his visit to Bunsil Station on central Umboi Island, he launched many impact projects for Pangu MP Hon. Tewai-Siassi District Development Authority (DDA). Kobby Bomareo, M.D.

He was joined by the Deputy Leader of Pangu, Hon. Ginson Saonu, Minister of Fisheries Hon. Lino Tom, Minister of Works and Highways Hon. Michael Nali, Minister of Justice Hon. Pila Niningi, Minister of Lands and Physical Planning John Rosso.

PM Marape also granted K5 million to the Tewai-Siassi DDA to create a community facility at Bunsil for women, youth, small business training, and Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) told the people that his government would finish the Siassi Ring Road.

He advised the Siassi islanders to invest more in agriculture and fishing and develop their own timber resources rather than allowing foreign firms to exploit them.

A Telikom tower, which provides islanders with Internet and mobile phone access for the first time, three police homes and a police lock-up, and Siassi sub-district administration were among the projects unveiled by the Prime Minister. The tower, in particular, is a significant milestone for Siassi, as there was previously just one location at Lablab from which islanders could make phone calls and access the Internet.

PM Marape stated Siassi was progressing due to Dr Bomareo's hard work and dedication since his election in 2017.

“Reflect back on how life was before 2017 and what has happened since 2017,” he said.

“Siassi, and the whole country, was travelling along the wrong road until 2019 when we changed government.

“Your MP, Dr Bomareo, was instrumental in this change of government which has led to the many developments you are seeing now.

“Today, after three years, we are steering the canoe in the right direction, which our founding fathers foresaw in 1975 for equal development all over the country.

“Resources must be equally distributed all over the country and not only to one area like Port Moresby.

“Remote areas of the country like Siassi have been forgotten for far too long.”

“I want the people of Siassi to have hope for a better tomorrow.”

PM Marape stated that he would return to Siassi with a group for a weekend in the near future.

Reference: PM James Marape News Page (30 April 2022). “Marape Government focuses more on rural PNG”. 

Photo: PM Marape with Manus Governor Hon. Charlie Benjamin (left), Civil Aviation Minister Hon. Walter Schnaubelt and Speaker and Manus MP Hon. Job Pomat at the new Momote International Airport in Lorengau

According to James Marape, his government has boosted expenditures on vital infrastructure across the country, in contrast to the Peter O'Neill dictatorship, which developed only a few areas at the rest of Papua New Guinea.

When the K101.9 million Momote International Airport and the Manus Special Economic Zone were opened in Lorengau, Manus, he remarked this (SEZ).

PM Marape also:

• K10 million has been set aside for the construction of the SEZ headquarters;
• Bank South Pacific and the National Development Bank announced K10 million in funding for agricultural, fisheries, and tourist SMEs,; and
• National Fishery Authority (NFA) established a cold storage facility to export fisheries goods.

“In three hard and tough economic years, we have pushed our investments to key infrastructure in all provinces of our country, unlike the recent past government where only one or two places were getting lop-sided development at the expense of rest of Papua New Guinea,” PM Marape said.

“We have embarked on new seaports like N’Drauke, Vanimo and Manus, to name a few, and rehabilitation of existing economic ports like Kavieng, Lorengau, Oro, Kimbe, Rabaul, Madang, Lae and Port Moresby.

“We have embarked on K20 billion worth of road infrastructure over the next 20 years to connect PNG by reliable roads overlaid with electricity and Internet.

“Highways like Momote to West Coast Manus, Alotau to Port Moresby, Port Moresby to Kerema /Ihu, Lae to Port Moresby, Kimbe to Kokopo, Buka to Buin, Wewak to Vanimo, Madang to Wewak, Wabag to Sepik, Southern Highlands/Hela to Kikori Gulf, Lae to Finschafen/Kabwum, Kundiawa to Karamui, Tabubil to Telefomin, Hagen to Madang and Kundiawa -Bundi/Madang are being constructed.

“We also have over 100 small district and provincial roads we are funding for first-stage construction like Tari to Kopiago, Komo to Bosavi, Banz to Jimi, Namatanai to South New Ireland and Kokopo to Pomio.

“These are examples of connecting the forgotten people of our country into one nation, one people, one country.

“One country united by the economy, enabling infrastructure, and Papua New Guinea united – Pangu for short – where no one part of the country like Manus is left behind.”

PM Marape said he was in Manus to launch the new airport and guide Manus in the right way in the future for a prosperous and unified PNG based on Christian and Melanesian values.

“Now that we have taken PNG back from hands and minds of corruption, misuse of people’s resources and uneven distribution of wealth, we all must now work to construct a better Manus and PNG for our children to live in,” he said.

“For Manus, this airport terminal must not be a waste but an asset for the country; this investment must repay the K101.9 million the government invested in it and generate more commerce and economic activity going forward.

“Manus is a strategic province – you are connected to Asia and the Pacific by air and sea.”

Prime Minister Marape indicated that Parliament, led by Governor Hon. Hon. Charlie Benjamin and Open MP Job Pomat had completed the Manus SEZ.

“Manus will be a special region where there will be no tax for companies operating here,” he said.

“We want agriculture, fisheries, forestry, manufacturing, tourism, banking, education and health businesses to grow here.

“Lorengau International Airport will also receive international flights – a catalyst that will ensure that this special province grows into the place it rightfully deserves.”

Reference: PM James Marape News Page (29 April 2022). “Marape Government investing in infrastructure like never before”.

Photo credit: Newcrest Mining

Newcrest Lihir has commissioned an improved Temperature Measuring Unit (TMU) that further enhances safety for personnel working at its geothermally active mining pit.

This second generation TMU comes after the christened Anako 13, commissioned on 6 March 2018; it engineers out the risk of personnel exposure to geysering events during drill hole measurement activities.

Anako 13 allowed geothermal technicians to operate a mobile arm from the vehicle remotely and simultaneously lower or raise a probe safely to measure and record temperature, water level and depth. All these are done from the safety and comfort of the vehicle cabin.

Newcrest teams collaborated with several business partners to deliver the improved Anako early this year, allowing geothermal technicians to continue doing their work safely as Lihir’s mining pit phases extend deeper and further north into Kapit orebody.

Manager – Mine Technical Services, Mr Ben Likia, thanked various Newcrest teams and business partners for delivering the project safely and ensuring a timely site deployment of Anako Sense, including training sessions for key personnel.

“I also congratulate our national employees who completed their training sessions. We have competent geothermal personnel who are now operating the new TMU, and several mobile maintenance personnel who will assist in ensuring the TMU is regularly maintained and fit for purpose,” he said.

“As a business, we value collaboration in creative and innovative work because it makes our business safe and sustainable in Papua New Guinea. The safety of our people in Lihir is our number one priority, and this improvement is testimony to that. We are committed to ensuring everybody goes home safe and healthy every day,” Mr Likia added.

Superintendent – Geothermal Operations, Mr Kaipale Pano, said the enthusiasm and feedback from the project team and personnel were heartening.

“The project is a success for Newcrest Lihir because we (Newcrest) encourage employees to experiment with new ideas to improve safety and production performance. We displayed Newcrest’s practice ‘Bottom-up Innovation’ and values ‘Working Together’ and ‘Innovation and Problem Solving’ through this project. We are proud to have the best people and outstanding operators, mostly Papua New Guineans, who constantly team up to deploy safe and latest mining technologies at Lihir,” said Mr Pano.

The name Anako was inspired by an incident at Lihir eight years ago. In 2013, Mr Samuel Ayata, a geothermal technician from Eastern Highlands and Morobe, sustained injuries from geysers when collecting data. His father, Ayata Anako, collapsed upon receiving news about the incident and was bedridden for almost three weeks, begging his son to quit his job.

“The scars on my body were a drive for our team to take on this safety initiative and continue improving it; we named the TMU after my father. I thank Newcrest for supporting our commitment to work safely for our families,” said Mr Ayata.

Article courtesy of the PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum

The reopening of the Panguna Mine has become inevitable following an agreement between the landowners and the Autonomous Bougainville Government to reopen the multibillion kina defunct mine.

Following the meeting of the ABG and the Panguna Mine Landowner Clan Chiefs held at Tunuru Catholic Mission, Kieta District on Wednesday 04 May 2O22 and the signing of the Post Summit Resolution between the ABG and the landowners both parties have agreed to reopen the mine.

The ABG and the Panguna landowners have also agreed that the government with the landowners will jointly establish a completely new local Bougainville entity to develop the mine, and not an existing entity that has had history with the Panguna Mine.

The completely new local Bougainville entity once established, will be jointly owned by the Panguna Mine Landowners and ABG on behalf of the people of Bougainville.

The five major clans; Mantaá, Basikang, Barapang, Bakoringku and Kurabang and their 22 sub clans have unanimously agreed to the undertaking in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government.

Bougainville President Ishmael Toroama who signed on behalf of the Autonomous Bougainville Government has congratulated the landowners on their courage to finally put aside their differences and work with the government.

‘’The Panguna Mine was the economic guarantee for Papua New Guinea’s independence in 1975, in the same manner the Panguna will be the economic guarantor for Bougainville’s Independence,’’ declared President Toroama.

‘’In 1988 when the Bougainville Revolutionary Army High Command decided to shut down the Panguna Mine, the Late Francis Ona incentivized the mine as the key to Bougainville’s independence,’’ President Toroama revealed.

 ‘’Today as we stand on the threshold of creating a new future for Bougainville where we are finally on the path to independence I stand here to thank the landowners of Panguna in making a strong decision on the fate of the mine,’’ President Toroama said.

President Toroama assured the landowners that the Autonomous Bougainville Government will work in partnership with the landowners in creating the locally owned entity to redevelop the mine.

He said the government will not compromise the rights of the landowners but will work towards ensuring a benefit sharing agreement that benefits all of Bougainville.

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited, today hosted a ground-breaking ceremony for its Steel, Mechanical and Piping (SMP) module fabrication facility and construction training academy outside Port Moresby, near the LNG plant on the shores of Caution Bay.

Managing Director Wapu Sonk explained that, in preparation for forthcoming LNG and mining developments in the country, Kumul Petroleum is establishing a world-class heavy SMP Module fabrication facility, capable of manufacturing many of the infrastructure components required by such large-scale projects.

Mr Sonk said; “We are pleased to be initiating this industrial plant, since it is important that through this facility the country can demonstrate the real ability to maximise national content in major resource developments - through fabrication of core infrastructure components and training of competent Papua New Guinean tradesmen.”

“The facility will be constructed on more than 60 hectares of land adjacent to the current LNG plant and close to Motukea international port. The facility will have two main production lines - for structural steel fabrication and pipeline & pipe spools fabrication, with separate module assembly areas.”

Mr Sonk noted that in the spirit of promoting and maximising national content, construction of the fabrication facility would be carried out 100% by national contractors and sub-contractors.

“Kumul Petroleum will not be undertaking this huge industrial operation alone. To ensure a productive and assured operational ramp up of facility throughput, and to minimise costs, schedule and quality risk to major projects proponents, we have reached a preliminary agreement with Fabtech International, a world recognised fabrication facility operator that would see Fabtech take a leading role running the facility, in addition to other potential strategic partners to finance and own the facility.”

“Once fully operational the fabrication facility will be able to produce up to 20,000 tonnes of SMP Modules into the international, regional and domestic PNG oil, gas and mining industry projects markets.”

 Mr Sonk noted that associated with the fabrication facility would be the Kumul Construction Academy that would produce a stream of competency-based trained 'Job-Ready fabricators and constructors' in a range of technical trades to generate skilled employees for the oil, gas, LNG, power and mining industries.

Mr Sonk emphasised that maximising national content included the use of local contractors and skilled national employees, “The training to be provided will create opportunities for the next generation of Papua New Guineans to develop lifelong knowledge and practical skills for employment in PNG and internationally - in skilled and semi-skilled positions in a range of industries as PNG’s industrial and resource sectors develop in the coming years.”

Melanesian marine services company, Pacific Towing (PacTow), has conducted In Water Surveys (IWS) in Papua New Guinea for more than 10 years. Certified by multiple international survey companies for the supply of IWS of ships and mobile offshore units in the oil and gas sector, PacTow has recently introduced a ‘live video feed’ component to their IWS service.

The majority of IWS’s performed by PacTow’s commercial dive team (also Melanesia’s only permanent commercial diving operation) are conducted on PNG flagged vessels.  However, foreign vessels which would normally be surveyed to class in countries such as Singapore or Australia also utilise PacTow’s expertise (e.g., when they experience a technical difficulty or mechanical failure).

General Manager, Neil Papenfus, says that the value adding IWS service that they can now provide (i.e., with a live video feed back to a survey technician located just about anywhere in the world) has been well received.  “Clients see the cost and time savings, as well as the logistical benefits of not having to bring a survey technician into the country; this was especially the case over the last couple of years with border closures.”

Despite the obvious disruption of COVID-19, Papenfus says a definite upside was the innovation that came with it, such as remote survey apps.  “Ship owners and operators wouldn’t be benefiting from the type of in water surveys we’re now doing in remote partnerships with companies such as Lloyd’s Register.  Likewise, PacTow wouldn’t be getting as much survey business as a result.”

PacTow is certified to conduct IWS’s on numerous vessel types from tankers to pleasure craft, bulk carriers to cargo vessels, as well as barges and just about everything in between.  In addition to Lloyd’s Register, PacTow also conducts IWS’s for vessels in class with American Bureau of Shipping, Bureau Viritas, DNV, Nippon Kaiji Kyokai, and RINA.

Diving Manager, Ricky Leka, confirms that his survey team take approximately half a day to perform a typical IWS.  However, additional time is required when defects or abnormalities are detected, and the survey technician requires additional or closer viewing for reporting, or for recommendations for repair.

PacTow divers primarily conduct IWS’s in Port Moresby’s Fairfax Harbour which is where the company is headquartered at its dedicated tug base. The divers are also deployed to other harbours such as in Lae, Madang, Rabaul, and Wewak as dictated by client requirements. 

“Our divers are Australian trained and certified and equal to their overseas counterparts” emphasises Leka.  “No one knows our waterways, currents, and weather patterns as intimately as our PNG divers.”  This nuanced understanding, together with decades of experience, feeds into the commercial dive team’s safety credentials and the long running demand for their services, including in PNG’s oil and gas sector.

The oil and gas sector in PNG is growing and will further expand with increased offshore activity.  PacTow’s IWS certifications also applies to mobile offshore units (MOU’s). These are vessels which can be relocated for exploration and production purposes, such as mobile offshore drilling units, and for maintenance and lifting operations.  PacTow is perfectly positioned to provide its IWS service to PNG’s oil and gas sector and further grow its oil and gas clientele.

Photo: President Anthony Smaré addressing the attendees at the 34th Annual General Meeting

Incumbent president of the PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum Anthony Smaré retained his position as President at the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting.

Mr Smaré was re-elected unopposed in the Chambers 34th Annual General Meeting held on Thursday 28th of April at the Hilton Hotel Port Moresby.

Mr Smaré in 2021 had became the Mining,  Oil and Gas industry’s first non-affiliated president, and independent of all the member companies that make up the Chamber’s membership.

Mr Richard Kassman of TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited retained his position as Senior Vice President, with Mr Philip Samar of K92 Mining Limited joins the Council as Vice President.

Council members for the year 2022 include; John Lewins (K92), Albert Kaupa Tobe (Ramu-Nico, MCC), Kepas Wali (Harmony Gold), Stanley Komunt (Newcrest Limited), Hitesh Lal (ExxonMobil PNG), Tim Richards (GeoPacific Resource), Mark McMonagle (Sun Engineering), Andrew Harris (Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu).

At the AGM, which was attended by representative of member companies in person and via videoconference from all of the world, Mr Smaré recounted the work that the chamber and industry had done over the past 12 months, highlighting in particular the significant work that the industry did in managing the covid pandemic so that it did not disrupt important resource operations that the economy required, but also in supporting covid responses in their remote communities and providing invaluable assistance to the national government’s covid management and resourcing activities. 

Mr Smaré also acknowledged the work that the chamber and industry had done in continuing positive engagement with the National Government and stakeholders on policy reform and implementation.

Mr Smaré also thanked the outgoing councilors Mr John Chambers (Santos), Mr Johannes Van Heerdan (Harmony) and Mr Craig Jones (Newcrest) for their contributions as councilors. He also thanked outgoing Vice President Mr Leon Buskens for his stellar service and leadership, but reiterated that he hopes to see Mr Buskens, as a senior Papua New Guinean leader in the industry, take up another leadership position in the Council later this year. 

Article courtesy of the PNG Chamber of Mines and Petroleum

Holiday Inn Express Port Moresby reopened its doors to guests on the 1st of May, 2022. The perfect base to get business done while in Port Moresby or start a PNG adventure, the hotel closed operations on April 16, 2020 following the first travel border closures as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Whilst the hotel remained closed for sale from 2020, a number of rooms were utilised as overflow from the Holiday Inn & Suites, in 2021. Two years on and this smart hotel choice for the business and leisure traveller reopens offering all the essentials of a great hotel at exceptional value.

“A Holiday Inn Express guest is a savvy traveller that expects value, we extend free breakfast and free Wi-Fi with our rates,” says Mauro Leone, Area General Manager, IHG PNG. ”Considering the high cost of connectivity in Papua New Guinea, this sets the brand apart from the competition,” he continues.

Holiday Inn Express Port Moresby offers a choice of modern queen and twin rooms and 2 wheelchair accessible rooms, as well as free on-site undercover parking and a complimentary shuttle bus to the city’s Jacksons International Airport only 6 minutes away.

Located within a secure green oasis in the heart of central Waigani, Holiday Inn Express shares vicinity with Holiday Inn & Suites. Between the two hotels within the precinct they offer a variety of modern facilities, including a fully equipped gym with two squash courts, external basketball court and a walking track for guests

n celebration of this reopening, the hotel offers an unbeatable room rate to the domestic tourism market, of K399 +GST inclusive of free Wi-Fi, breakfast for two adults in Kopi Haus Restaurant and accommodation in a standard room for the month of May. Experience Holiday Inn Express Port Moresby again and book now, on reservations.holidayinn&suites@ihg.com or +675 303-2000.

Photo: BSP Group General Manager for Corporate Banking, Peter Beswick

The global economy remains constrained by inflated commodity prices, lingering pandemic effects, and supply bottlenecks.

According to BSP Pacific Economic and Market Insight Q1 2022 Report, BSP Group General Manager for Corporate Banking, Peter Beswick said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is significantly affecting global commodities.

“One of the major impacts has been crude oil, with prices having increased from USD35 to USD120 BBL in the last 18 months (240%).

“A recent media report by Puma Energy CEO, Mr. Hulala Tokome, confirmed that fuel prices will increase by 80 tea per litre and will continue to rise. The impact will be felt across the economy with consumers, vehicles owners, construction companies, businesses, and electricity suppliers bearing the brunt of the higher fuel costs,” said Mr. Beswick.

In relation to COVID, Mr. Beswick stated that although COVID impacts have dissipated in 2022, persistent supply chain issues most especially from China are resulting in significant delays in product shipments and uplift in shipping costs increasing over 300%.

“This is a significant impact for PNG as 85% of consumables, raw materials for production, and finished goods are imported,” Mr Beswick added.

For many businesses, the increased costs will need to be recouped from consumers via higher prices.

Article courtesy of BSP

Quarter one of 2022 Foreign Exchange (FX) market inflow momentum is expected to continue into the half-year, assisted by firmer commodity prices, end of half-year dividend flows and foreign aid, according to BSP Group General Manager – Treasury, Rohan George.

“As FX inflows can be lumpy, we expect there to be periods where outstanding FX orders build up.

“To manage volatility in foreign currency flows, businesses should place FX orders (with correct documentation), as soon as possible, ensure orders are cash-backed whilst awaiting execution, ensuring tax clearance certificates are current and reflect the expected FX order execution time,” Mr. George stated in the BSP Pacific Economic and Market Insight Q1 2022 Report.

He emphasised in the report that in the first quarter of 2022, FX  market turnover fell 2% from the strong December Quarter 2021, but rose 24% from March Quarter 2021 (12 months ago), supported by strong commodity prices, in particular Oil, Copper, Palm Oil, Coffee.

“Firmer commodity prices offset the lost FX market inflows from the closure of the Porgera Gold Mine (Barrick FX inflows down 75%), whilst the stronger commodity prices added to transportation and input costs of imported goods increased the volume of new FX orders placed post-Christmas,” Mr George added.

Meanwhile, the outstanding FX orders expectation of reopening the Porgera Gold Mine is also positive from foreign exchange perspective remained similar to levels seen 12 months ago.

“BPNG FX intervention rose 8% in 2022, reducing some of the outstanding FX order backlogs, but remains unchanged from March Quarter 2021.

“The Kina fell 10 basis points against the U.S. dollar to 0.2840 in 2022, the first movement for over 14 months. Stronger commodity prices, due to the invasion of Ukraine, strengthened the Australian dollar and saw the Kina fall to 0.36,” Mr. George further added.