CHINA DAY SHINES BRIGHT AT SIR HUBERT MURRAY STADIUM: PM MARAPE, GOVERNOR PARKOP HONOUR 50-YEAR CHINA-PNG FRIENDSHIP

By Steven Kenda | PNG SUN|

As the Asian story continues, the China Day was celebrated on Sunday at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby. 

The event was hosted by NCD Governor Powes Parkop. 

It showed the strong relationship between Papua New Guinea and the Republic of China. The event was aimed at celebrating PNG-China relationship and China's contribution towards PNG's 50-year political journey.

This celebration also helped build excitement and momentum for PNG's 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, 2025.

China Day on Sunday (June 15th, 2025) was full of colour, fun, and excitement with signature Dragon Dance and others.

 The Chinese Community shared their rich culture, delicious food, and amazing performances.

 There were fun activities like raffle draws, tug of war, and Chinese drumming lessons. 

This weekend will be the Indian Day, celebrating PNG-India relationship while enhanching India's contribution towards PNG's 50-year journey.

Governor Parkop told the crowd that it was an important day. 

He said PNG and China have been friends for a long time. China was one of the first countries to build relations with PNG in 1974–1975.

He said it has been a journey between two countries and two peoples.

He added that China has supported PNG for many years. Their relationship started even before official ties were made. 

Governor Parkop said history shows Chinese people came to PNG in the 13th and 14th centuries. Later, during colonial times, the Japanese brought more Chinese people to PNG.

Governor Parkop highlighted areas where China helped PNG:

■Education

■Health

■Roads and buildings

■Business and trade

He continued these are important partnerships. 

"That’s why China is a big part of PNG’s 50th anniversary," Governor Parkop who also said PNG should plan for the next 50 years by working with China and other Pacific and Asian countries.

Prime Minister James Marape also spoke at the event.

PM Marape praised Governor Parkop for always supporting Asia-Pacific communities in PNG.

He thanked the Chinese communities and China’s Ambassador, Yang Xiagoguang, for attending.

 PM Marape continued the Chinese people have helped shape modern PNG.

Their presence, he said, has been here for over 100 years.

PM Marape said he values the Chinese people and the Chinese government. 

He thanked them for supporting PNG for the last 50 years.

China’s Ambassador, Mr. Yang Xiagoguang, congratulated PNG on its 50th anniversary. 

He thanked PM Marape and Governor Parkop for supporting the Chinese community in PNG.

He said the people-to-people friendship between China and PNG is strong. 

Chinese communities, he said, are the second-largest cultural group in PNG.

Solomon Islands, Vanuatu launch first indigenous-led Ocean Reserve

Vanuatu Daily Post

The governments of Solomon Islands and Vanuatu jointly announced their commitment to create the Melanesian Ocean Reserve— the world’s first Indigenous-led, multi-national ocean reserve at the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC).

The initiative marks a historic effort to protect the ancestral waters, cultures, and livelihoods of Melanesia’s Indigenous Peoples, while supporting global marine biodiversity and climate goals.

Once completed, the Reserve will span six million square kilometres — a marine area comparable in scale to the Amazon rainforest. It will include the combined national waters of Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea (PNG), and areas adjoining New Caledonia’s protected Exclusive Economic Zone. The region is recognised as one of the world’s richest marine biodiversity hotspots.

“For millennia, the Indigenous Peoples of Melanesia have been the wisest and most effective stewards of these sacred waters. That is why the governments of Melanesia are joining forces to create an unprecedented ocean reserve that honours our identities, livelihoods, and spiritual connections,” said Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

Vanuatu’s Minister for Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, said the initiative delivers on a long-standing goal under Vanuatu’s National Ocean Policy to establish a transboundary corridor of traditionally managed ocean space across Melanesia.

“The Melanesian Ocean Reserve will allow our governments and peoples to do more to protect our ancestral waters from those who extract and exploit without care for our planet,” Regenvanu said. “We hope our Indigenous stewardship of this vast reserve will inspire similar efforts around the world.”

Although Solomon Islands and Vanuatu led the announcement, PNG and New Caledonia have signalled interest in joining, raising the potential for a unified marine conservation zone across the Melanesian region.

As part of the commitment, the two founding governments pledged to dedicate all archipelagic waters and adjacent areas to the Reserve. Only sustainable economic activities aligned with Indigenous cultural values and environmental care will be permitted.

The concept was originally developed by Solomon Islands Minister for Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management, and Meteorology, Trevor Mahaga, and Vanuatu’s Minister Regenvanu, following discussions at the 2024 Convention on Biological Diversity in Cali, Colombia. They later collaborated with PNG’s Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong, supported by nonprofit partners Nia Tero and the Islands Knowledge Institute (IKI).

Nia Tero CEO ‘Aulani Wilhelm described the Reserve as a shared vision brought to life: “What these Melanesian leaders are doing is giving voice to the hope of all Oceanic Peoples — to bring forward the dreams and knowledge of our ancestors and to care for the ocean and our planet in the way they deserve.”

The Islands Knowledge Institute, led by Indigenous ecologist Dr Edgar Pollard in Solomon Islands, has been key in building dialogue and cooperation across the region. Dr Pollard said the Reserve’s strength lies in its cultural and ecological foundation: “It reflects an unmistakable truth — that treating the ocean as our home is the best protection. This initiative makes that relationship real, from the tribe to the village to the state.”

The Melanesian Ocean Reserve represents both a bold marine conservation effort and a strong affirmation of Indigenous leadership in global ocean governance — a model that may shape future approaches as environmental challenges intensify.

ezra@dailypost.vu

Solomon Islands, Vanuatu launch first indigenous-led Ocean Reserve

The governments of Solomon Islands and Vanuatu jointly announced their commitment to create the Melanesian Ocean Reserve— the world’s first Indigenous-led, multi-national ocean reserve at the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC).

The initiative marks a historic effort to protect the ancestral waters, cultures, and livelihoods of Melanesia’s Indigenous Peoples, while supporting global marine biodiversity and climate goals.

HUGE WIN for Customary Landowners! East New Britain, PNG

WGPNG 🇵🇬🏝️WGPNG 🇵🇬🏝️

✅ The National Court has CANCELLED a massive SABL (Special Agriculture & Business Lease) over 68,000 hectares of customary land in Pomio!

📜 The lease was issued in 2008 without proper landowner consent and failed to meet legal requirements. Now, the court says: “Give the land back to the people!”

🌴 The land will now revert to its customary owners, thanks to a court order by Justice Susan Purdon-Sully and the tireless fight by landowners & legal warriors 💪🏾

👥 Groups like Tavolo Community Conservation Association (TCCA) stood strong to protect the land from illegal logging & misuse 🌿

⚖️ The ruling exposes massive abuse in SABLs and sets a powerful legal precedent: customary land is not for sale!

🛑 12,500+ SABLs are still in question across PNG — the fight is not over.

📣 SHARE if you support land rights & accountability!

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hashtag#LandBack hashtag#JusticeForCustomaryLand hashtag#PNG hashtag#SABLCancelled hashtag#CustomaryLandRights ✊🏾

𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝’𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐬-𝐋𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞

Nice, June 12, 2025 - At the UN Ocean Conference, the governments of Solomon Islands and Vanuatu announced their intention to create the Melanesian Ocean Reserve to safeguard the ancestral waters, homelands, and people of the southwestern Pacific. The area is one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions. Protecting it will secure the economic and cultural vitality of hundreds of distinct Indigenous Peoples while furthering global climate, biodiversity, and ocean goals.

The Melanesian Ocean Reserve will be the first Indigenous-led multi-national ocean reserve on Earth. When complete, it will span at least 6 million square kilometers of ocean and islands— an area as vast as the Amazon rainforest. It will encompass the combined national waters of the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea, and connect with the protected waters of the Exclusive Economic Zone of New Caledonia.

“For millennia, the Indigenous Peoples of Melanesia have been the wisest and most effective stewards of these sacred waters. That is why the governments of Melanesia are joining forces to create an unprecedented ocean reserve that honors our identities, livelihoods, and spiritual connections,” said Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

“It is an objective of our National Ocean Policy to establish this transboundary corridor of traditionally managed ocean space between our countries, and we are delighted that this is now happening,” said Vanuatu’s Minister for Environment Ralph Regenvanu. “The Melanesian Ocean Reserve will give the governments and peoples of Melanesia the ability to do much more to protect our ancestral waters from those who extract and exploit without concern for our planet and its living beings. We hope our Indigenous stewardship of this vast reserve will create momentum for similar initiatives all over the world.”

Ocean Conference shows more progress than climate COPs, says Regenvanu

 

Vanuatu’s Minister for Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, says the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice has left him more optimistic than previous global climate gatherings (Conference of the Parties/COPs), due to a number of concrete and transformational announcements by world leaders.

“I definitely feel much more positive being at this United Nations Ocean Conference than I ever have at any COP,” he said. “This is because we have seen important commitments—such as French Polynesia announcing the world’s largest marine protected area, and our neighbour, the Solomon Islands, declaring a moratorium on deep-sea mining within their jurisdiction.”

The Minister added that while these pledges are voluntary, the fact that national leaders made them personally inspires confidence they will be upheld. “It feels like these are not just words. These are real commitments that leaders intend to keep,” he said.

Regenvanu also acknowledged the leadership of small island nations, particularly the Presidents of Palau and the Marshall Islands. “They have been champions in environmental protection, climate action, and safeguarding our oceans. These are not only policy statements—they are actions already underway. I believe we are beginning to see a shift in global efforts,” he said.

The Minister reflected on his role in an event marking the formal depositing of instruments of ratification for the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement). “At least 20 countries, including six from the Pacific, deposited their instruments at this conference. This shows legal protections for the ocean are taking shape,” Regenvanu said.

He stressed the need for legal approaches to climate challenges, noting frustration with the slow progress of UN climate negotiations over the past 30 years. “We believe legal measures are necessary because the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) process has not delivered enough. Despite the Paris Agreement’s goal to keep temperature rise below 1.5°C and cut global emissions, we are seeing record emission levels and temperatures above that limit,” the Climate Change Minister added.

Regenvanu also criticised the lack of follow-through on climate finance promises. “We keep hearing about climate finance, but it has not materialised as promised,” he added.

Source VDPost

PACIFIC STORY PLATFORM EMPOWERS SME VENDORS

Small business owners and vendors participating in the final day of the Amazing 50th Celebrations - Pacific Story at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium have expressed deep appreciation to NCD Governor Powes Parkop for providing a valuable platform that empowered local and regional SMEs.

Among the many vendors was Daisy Magrick Orelly, a first-time visitor from the Solomon Islands, who showcased her vibrant collection of handmade fans, hats, baskets, and purses. 

“It’s my first time traveling outside my country, and I’m glad to be here. I thank Governor Parkop for organizing this event,” she said, highlighting strong sales and the welcoming atmosphere.

Brenda Kumbia, also from the Solomon Islands and married to a Papua New Guinean, sold out her traditional tapioca 

and cassava dishes. 

“I made good sales, made friends, and had many visitors. This was a great opportunity,” she shared.

Melinda Ton from Kairuku, married to a West Papuan, echoed the praise after selling out her hot dogs. 

“This platform is empowering for SMEs, especially for mothers like us. We need more of these,” she said.

West Papuan vendor Yanti Marteshop also spoke highly of the event. 

“My sales are going well. It’s nice to be part of this big event,” she said, looking forward to participating in future celebrations because she really enjoyed the safe and friendly environment and meeting other West Papuans and friendly Pacific Islanders from other Melanesian countries.

The owner of Lulu’s Arts and Crafts, Lucy K. Areke, earned a good income from selling crafts, bilums, Meri Kolos, drinks, and home-baked cakes during the Asia-Pacific Stories event, she told City Sivarai.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for SMEs with unique products to sell to the people of the Pacific. For me, it has been a thriving opportunity, and I’ve doubled my usual monthly sales,” Areke said.

She added that most of her items sold out for the first time, and she is truly grateful for such an amazing opportunity and the platform that the NCD Governor and his team from NCDC have created for mothers like her.

On the same note, she expressed her appreciation for the coordination team from Amazing Port Moresby, including Melissa Brabar and her team, for consistently involving SME stalls in flagship events across the city.

“It’s not just about making money—it’s about showing other cities that Port Moresby is safe for women and girls to come out at night and sell our products.”

The Pacific Story not only celebrated cultural unity but also opened economic opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs across the region.

Solomon Islands High Commissioner Celebrates PNG’s 50th Anniversary with a Message of Pacific Unity

In a moving address on the final day of the Pacific Story celebrations at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency William Soaki, delivered a heartfelt tribute to PNG on its 50th Anniversary of Independence.

Speaking before a vibrant crowd, Commissioner Soaki reflected on the unbreakable cultural, historical and spiritual bonds between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. 

"We are neighbours by geography, brothers and sisters by our common Melanesian identity, and united in spirit through our churches and many shared ties," he said.

He acknowledged the deep people-to-people connections—from missionaries and trade to education and intermarriages—emphasizing shared milestones such as former Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare being born in PNG and current Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele graduating from the University of Papua New Guinea.

Commissioner Soaki extended warm congratulations to the government and people of PNG on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government and people, praising NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop and the NCDC for giving Pacific communities a platform to celebrate unity through culture.

He also acknowledged the contributions of Pacific Island communities from Fiji and West Papua, expressing unity with them.

Soaki lauded Governor Powes Parkop and the National Capital District Commission for their vision in hosting the Pacific Story, highlighting its platform for showcasing Pacific cultures and providing a voice for Pacific Islanders residing in PNG.

He called for the celebration to be more than just a celebration, but a catalyst for new friendships, partnerships, and cultural exchanges across the Pacific family.  

“Let tonight not just be a celebration but the beginning of deeper friendships and regional solidarity,” said Soaki. 

“To you PNG, you do not just stand tall in the Pacific—you lead as you rise.”

"In all our diversity, we are strongest when we stand together," concluded Soaki.  

The event featured Solomon Islands performers including Wantok Point of View, Cool Roots, and cultural groups from Malaita and Western Province.

Masyarakat adat Tambrauw menolak YKAN

 

Sorong, Jubi – Masyarakat adat suku Abun di Kabupaten Tambrauw menolak kehadiran Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) untuk melakukan segala jenis kegiatan di atas tanah adat marga Yeblo Sah dan Yeblo Sir.

Dalam aksi penolakannya, Masyarakat adat Suku Abun dari distrik Sausapor, Bikar dan Kwor bersama marga Yeblo Sah dan Yeblo Sir selaku pemilik hak ulayat di distrik Bikar dan Pulau Dua melakukan pemalangan Kantor Unit Pelaksana Teknis Daerah (UPTD) Tour Informasi Center (TIC)  yang  digunakan Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara sebagai kantor pada Senin, (3/6/2025).

Perwakilan marga Yeblo Sah, Welmus mengatakan kehadiran YKAN di wilayah adat mereka tanpa sosialisasi atau pertemuan dengan pemilik hak ulayat.

“Kami tidak tahu apa tujuan dari YKAN. [mereka] tidak pernah ada pertemuan dengan kami selaku pemilik hak ulayat. Kami pemilik hak ulayat kaget juga kalau ada YKAN setelah beberapa kegiatan yang dilakukan di distrik Bikar,” katanya.

Welmus mengaku, kehadiran YKAN tidak memberikan dampak yang baik pemilik hak ulayat.  Menurutnya YKAN hanya memanfaatkan potensi sumber daya alam di wilayah adat mereka untuk kepentingan YKAN bukan masyarakat setempat dan pemilik hak ulayat.

“Kami dengar banyak turis yang didatangkan selama ini untuk menikmati keindahan alam maupun terumbu karang di Pulau Dua. Tapi hasilnya kami pemilik hak ulayat tidak mengetahui,” ujarnya.

Cosmas Yeblo, perwakilan marga Yeblo Sir menegaskan sejak pemasangan papan bertuliskan penolakan, Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara harus keluar dan berhenti beraktivitas di wilayah adat Suku Abun, khusunya marga Yeblo Sah dan Yeblo Sir.

Jika Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara mengabaikan penolakan Masyarakat adat, jika terjadi sesuatu YKAN yang bertanggung jawab.

“Kami sudah tolak YKAN. jika terus melakukan aktivitas maka kami pemilik hak ulayat akan tindak tegas dan resiko yang akan terjadi ditanggung YKAN,” tegasnya.

Yustina Yesnath, perwakilan tokoh perempuan suku Abun menambahkan aksi yang dilakukan masyarakat adat suku Abun dan pemilik hak ulayat hanya menegaskan dua poin penting.

Yustina menegaskan poin tuntutan mereka itu lahir berdasarkan hasil kesepakatan dalam beberapa pertemuan internal yang dilakukan masyarakat adat suku Abun dan pemilik hak ulayat.

“Poin tuntutan kami cuma dua. Yang pertama menolak tegas YKAN beraktivitas di wilayah adat suku Abun terutama tanah adat marga Yeblo Sah dan Yeblo Sir. Sedangkan poin kedua itu, stop lakukan sasi (larangan) di Pulau Dua tanpa izin dari kami pemilik hak ulayat,” tegas.

Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) adalah organisasi nirlaba berbasis ilmiah yang hadir di Indonesia sejak 2014. Bekerja di 600 desa dan 9 provinsi termasuk provinsi Papua Barat dan Papua Barat daya. YKAN bekerja di isu lingkungan seperti kehutanan, dan kelautan. (*)

Governor Parkop Acknowledges Pacific Unity as "Pacific Story" Closes in Grand Celebration

Thousands of city residents packed the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium on Saturday May 31, to join the Amazing 50th Celebrations with Fiji, Solomon Islands and West Papua, concluding with day 3 of Pacific Story.

The crowd started building up early in the day as many Papua New Guineans are fans of Pacific music and were eager to see their favourite artists from groups namely, Point of View band, Ghemu, Westpa Trio, Ramo, Jammin, Seru Serevi & Georgina, Kool Rootz and Onetox from these Melanesian countries.

The final day of the “Pacific Story” celebration concluded on a powerful note, as NCD Governor and host of the event, Hon. Powes Parkop, paid tribute to the Pacific communities who contributed to the success of the three-weekend event, part of the official countdown to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, 2025.

He emphasized the significance of the "Pacific Story" in commemorating PNG's 50 years of nationhood, acknowledging both the challenges and triumphs of the journey.  

He underscored the importance of reflection and learning from the past to build an even brighter future.  

"This is our journey, our story, about our country and our people," he stated.

The Governor extended heartfelt gratitude to the Pacific Island communities who participated throughout the three-day event, specifically mentioning Samoa, New Zealand, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Tonga, Cook Islands, Tahiti, Hawaii, Solomon Islands, Fiji, and West Papua.  

He praised their enthusiastic participation and the powerful storytelling through their cultural performances.  

"Our story is not complete without acknowledging their contributions," said Governor Parkop.

He highlighted the historical significance of these communities' involvement in shaping PNG's history, citing examples such as the contribution of police officers from Tonga, Fiji, and Solomon Islands to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary in 1902, the role of Fiji Medical School in educating PNG's early doctors, the influence of Fijian missionaries in various regions of the country, and the significant contributions of the West Papuan community since 1962 across various professions.

Governor Parkop emphasized the deep and enduring ties between PNG and its Pacific neighbors, stating that the event was 

crucial in recognizing these connections.  

He extended thanks to the participating artists, particularly from the three Melanesian countries especially Fiji, Solomon Islands and West Papua, whose performances concluded the "Pacific Story" on a high note.  

Looking ahead, he announced plans for future events showcasing the contributions of other communities in shaping PNG’s journey. The closing ceremony served as a powerful affirmation of PNG's identity and its place within the broader Pacific community.

This Saturday 7th June 2025, at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, the ” Australian will be hosting the Australian Community Day" as part of the lead-up to Papua New Guinea's 50th Independence Anniversary. This event will highlight the "Pacific Story" and lead into the "Asia Story" with the Filipino Community Day.

Following this, the "Philippines Day" celebration will take place on Sunday, June 8th , 2025, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM , again at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.

 This event is also in support of PNG's 50th Independence Anniversary and promises a vibrant immersion into rich Filipino culture. 

Attendees can expect:

Live performances: Including a mini-concert by Filipino artist Jason Fernandez and Filipino cultural dancing.

Filipino food & drinks: A chance to savor authentic cuisine.

Games, prizes, and family fun: Entertainment for all ages.

Raffle draw: Opportunity to win a brand-new pickup truck and other exciting prizes for K100 per ticket.

The Papua’s Friend of Nature Institute and Mapping of Storylines

 

The Institute of the Friends of Papuan Nature (Lembaga Sahabat Alam Papua - SAPA) has been at the forefront of efforts to document and map out the customary story-lines in West Papua. These story-lines, passed down through generations, are crucial in understanding the spiritual connection that the indigenous people of West Papua have to their land. They also play a significant role in shaping the cultural, social, and economic development of the community.

Customary story-lines are a form of traditional knowledge that encapsulates the history, myths, legends, and spiritual beliefs of the indigenous people of West Papua. These narratives provide a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that informs the identity and sense of belonging of the community. By documenting and mapping out these story-lines, SAPA aims to preserve and protect this cultural heritage for future generations.

One of the key aspects of customary story-lines is their connection to the land. For the indigenous people of West Papua, the land is not just a physical space but a sacred entity that is imbued with spiritual significance. The story-lines serve as a guide for understanding the relationship between humans and the natural world, emphasizing the importance of respect, harmony, and reciprocity with the environment.

Moreover, customary story-lines also inform social relationships within the community. They provide a framework for governance, conflict resolution, and decision-making, as well as guidance on moral and ethical behaviour. By documenting these story-lines, SAPA is not only preserving cultural traditions but also promoting social cohesion and solidarity within the community.

Economically, customary story-lines play a significant role in the management of natural resources. They contain customary laws and practices that regulate the use of land, water, and forests, ensuring sustainable resource management and environmental conservation. By recognizing and institutionalizing customary social organizations within modern frameworks, there is potential to leverage this traditional knowledge for sustainable development and economic empowerment of the indigenous communities.

Legalizing customary laws and institutionalizing customary social organizations can have far-reaching implications for the governance of natural resources and land rights in West Papua. It can provide a legal framework for the recognition and protection of customary land tenure rights, as well as facilitate community participation in decision-making processes related to resource management. However, it is essential to ensure that these institutional practices are inclusive, transparent, and accountable to the community.

One example of the significance of preserving and protecting customary traditions is the case of the Arfak community in West Papua. The Arfak people have a rich oral tradition that narrates their history, customs, and spiritual beliefs. By documenting these story-lines, SAPA has been able to support the community in asserting their land rights and cultural heritage against external threats, such as deforestation and mining activities. This has led to the establishment of community-based conservation initiatives that have helped protect the environment and enhance the livelihoods of the Arfak people.

In conclusion, the efforts of SAPA in documenting and mapping out the customary story-lines in West Papua are crucial for preserving and protecting the cultural heritage of the indigenous people. Recognizing the spiritual connection to the land embedded in these narratives is essential for promoting sustainable development, social cohesion, and environmental conservation in the region. By legalizing customary laws and institutionalizing customary social organizations, there is potential to leverage traditional knowledge for the benefit of the community and ensure the empowerment and self-determination of the indigenous people of West Papua.

Papua New Guinea Constitution on Customary Land (1)

 Papua New Guinea is a unique country with a rich cultural heritage that is deeply intertwined with its land and natural resources. The Constitution of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea recognizes the importance of customary land and the protection of the customary rights of its indigenous inhabitants. In this article, we will explore how the constitution addresses these issues, article by article.

Article 37 of the Constitution of Papua New Guinea declares that all land in the country belongs to the people, who are the ultimate owners of all land within the country. This provision recognizes the inherent rights of the indigenous inhabitants to their customary land and ensures that they have the ultimate authority over its use and management. This is a crucial safeguard against the exploitation and alienation of indigenous land by external interests.

Article 38 of the Constitution further elaborates on the protection of customary land rights by stipulating that the government must take into account the customs and traditions of the indigenous people when making decisions that affect land ownership and use. This provision ensures that the government respects and upholds the customary land rights of its citizens and recognizes the importance of indigenous knowledge and practices in land management.

Article 39 of the Constitution emphasizes the importance of protecting the environment and natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations. This provision acknowledges the interconnectedness of the land, environment, and indigenous cultures and underscores the need to preserve these resources for the well-being of all Papua New Guineans.

Article 40 of the Constitution further reinforces the protection of customary land rights by establishing a Commission of Inquiry into Land Matters. This commission is tasked with investigating and advising the government on land issues, including disputes over land ownership and the impact of development projects on indigenous land. By providing a mechanism for resolving land conflicts and ensuring that indigenous voices are heard in decision-making processes, this provision helps to safeguard the rights of the indigenous inhabitants.

In conclusion, the Constitution of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea enshrines the rights of indigenous people to their customary land and recognizes the vital role that land plays in their culture, identity, and livelihoods. By upholding these principles, the constitution ensures that the indigenous inhabitants have a voice in the management and use of their land and provides a framework for the protection of their customary rights. It is essential for the government and society as a whole to respect and uphold these rights to preserve the unique cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea for generations to come.

The new Mining Bill 2025 confirmed my assertion that there was no law on Deep sea Mining or Offshore Mining in PNG

In August 2024, CELCOR, Caritas PNG and West Coast Development Foundation held a Press Conference at 5Mile, Catholic Church's Conference Room, I made a statement regarding the Solwara1 Project where a new Mining company, Deep Sea Mining Finance (DSMF) had its vessel named Coco on the waters of New Ireland extracting ores from the bottom of the sea.

A PBS news did an investigation on that company's operation. PBS contacted MRA and PMs department if they were aware of the presence of DSMF's presence and activities in the waters of New Ireland, both authorities denied knowledge of what was going on.

As a concern group under the Alliance of Solwara Warriors, we organised and held the Press Conference in August 2024.

In one of a number of remarks I made to the media, Post Courier quoted my assertion of "No Law on Deep Sea Mining". The MRA and some legal Counsels argued that the existing Mining Act 1992 had a provision that caters for Offshore or Deep Sea Mining.

Since they did not talk to me directly, I had to qualify my assertion by presenting my justification on CELCOR's Facebook page and LinkedIn. Since then I had no responses from anyone concerned, however, in February this year, there was a twist of event-the Department of Minerals Policy and Geohazard has drafted a Mining Bill 2025 launched it in February and requested for public review.

Team CELCOR grabbed a copy to review it. Upon reading the content page of the bill, we came across a Section that reads 'Offshore Mining'. This particular Section was never in the existing Mining Act 1992.

The inclusion of Offshore Mining component in the new Mining Bill 2025 confirmed my assertion that there was no specific law that governs the conduct and management of Mining or extraction activities relating to mineral deposits beneath the waters of Papua New Guinea.

CELCOR made its submission to the new Mining Bill in April and we are awaiting the final draft of the Bill to see how our recommendations have be captured . The cover page of our submission is shared below.

UN COMMITTEE URGED TO ACT ON ILLEGAL LOGGING & RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN PNG

ACT NOW! and Jubilee Australia Research Centre are urging a United Nations Committee to act on human rights violations in PNG arising from illegal logging. The organisations have filed a formal request to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to consider taking urgent action at its next meeting in August.

The UN submission was endorsed by Madang based Bismarck Ramu Group.

The groups have stressed to the UN that there is pervasive, ongoing and irreparable harm to customary resource owners whose forests are being stolen by logging companies.

These abuses are systematic, institutionalised, and sanctioned by the PNG government through two specific tools: Special Agriculture and Business Leases (SABLs) and Forest Clearing Authorities (FCAs) – a type of logging license.

For over a decade since the Commission of Inquiry into SABLs, successive PNG governments have rubber stamped the large-scale theft of customary resource owners’ forests by upholding the morally bankrupt SABL scheme and expanding the use of FCAs. They have failed to revoke SABLs that were acquired fraudulently, with disregard to the law or without landowner consent. Meanwhile, logging companies have made hundreds of millions, if not billions, in ill-gotten gains by effectively stealing forests from customary resource owners using FCAs.

The complaint also highlights that the abuses are hard to challenge because PNG lack even a basic registry of SABLs or FCAs, and customary resource owners are denied access to information such as:

The existence of an SABL or FCA over their forest.
- A map of the boundaries of any lease or logging licence.
- Information about proposed agricultural projects used to justify the SABL or FCA.
- The monetary value of logs taken from forests.
- The beneficial ownership of logging companies – to identify who ultimately profits from illegal logging.

The only reason why foreign companies engage in illegal logging in PNG is to make money – it’s profitable because importing companies and countries are willing to accept illegally logged timber into their markets and supply chains. If they refused to take any more timber from SABL and FCA areas and demanded a public audit of the logging permits – the money would dry up.

The groups hope that this UN attention will urge the international community to see this isn’t an issue of less-than-perfect forest law enforcement. This is a system, honed over decades, that is perpetrating irreparable harm on indigenous peoples across PNG through the wholesale violation of their rights and destroying their forests.

Copy of the Full Urgent Action Request to the UNCERD can be downloaded here - https://lnkd.in/gJkUtWbF

Link - https://lnkd.in/gK94Xips