The PNG Times

15/07/2025

🎶 New Single by Zucco – Heartbreak in Melody 🎶

This heartfelt track is produced and performed by Cornelius David Kuna, known by his stage name Zucco — a talented music producer, drummer, and singer from Wanbel Sounds Production Studio in Mendi, Southern Highlands Province.

In this emotional single, Zucco tells a romantic story of heartbreak — a man abandoned by the woman he loves, left questioning the end of a once-strong relationship.

The song is beautifully delivered in the Karinz dialect of Mendi and Tok Pisin, adding raw cultural depth and authenticity.

👉 Don’t forget to like, drop a comment, and subscribe for more original music from Papua New Guinea.

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🎶 New Single by Zucco – Heartbreak in Melody 🎶This heartfelt track is produced and performed by Cornelius David Kuna, known by his stage name Zucco — a tal...

11/07/2025

WAME BLOOD DROPS NEW SINGLE “Puki”, A MUSICAL JOURNEY TO SEMBIRIGI

By JOEL K. ANDREW (Sunday Bulletin News)

Lake Kutubu’s renowned local band, Wame Blood, has officially released their much-anticipated new single “Puki”, now available on all major digital music streaming platforms.

Blending elements of ragga rhythms with lyrical flows in both Erave vernacular and English, “Puki” features guest performances by Mavin LKLD and Wilson Pulu. The track showcases Wame Blood’s signature sound that us deeply rooted in Papua New Guinean culture, yet creatively infused with contemporary reggae influences.

“Puki” tells the story of a symbolic journey to Sembirigi, a remote and rugged frontier in the Erave Local Level Government area of Southern Highlands Province. Nestled at the edge of the Papuan region, Sembirigi is one of PNG’s least developed areas but is fast becoming a vital passageway through the newly constructed Route 700 Highway.

This song is more than just a melody, it’s a cultural narration, an ode to homeland identity, and a call to explore the beauty and mystery of the Southern Highlands.

Through vibrant storytelling and rich soundscapes, Wame Blood transports listeners to one of the last untouched regions of Island New Guinea.

The song link is attached below, do listen now and experience the journey through this amazing song: https://youtu.be/-kRs6_RFxpA?si=_NKcWUMJ1R0n2Cno

09/07/2025

Prime Minister Marape Extends Condolences to U.S. President and Texas Governor Following Devastating Floods

Houston, Texas, 9 July 2025 – Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, currently in Houston for
high-level talks with ExxonMobil executives, has extended his deepest condolences to United States President Donald Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott following the catastrophic flash floods that have devastated Central Texas and claimed over 100 lives.

“This is a moment of national tragedy for our friends here in Texas, and we stand with you in
this hour of grief,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“On behalf of the Government and people
of Papua New Guinea, I extend our heartfelt condolences and offer our thoughts and
prayers to all families who have lost loved ones, and to those still searching for the missing.”

A Tragic Event in Texas
The floods—described as the worst in Texas since the 1920s—were triggered by the
remnants of Tropical Storm Barry between 4 and 7 July. Torrential rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to rise by nearly 30 feet in less than an hour, sweeping away bridges, homes, and summer camps across several counties.

To date, the disaster has claimed more than 109 lives, including over 30 children from
summer camps such as Camp Mystic in Kerr County. Many others remain missing as
emergency services and volunteers continue rescue and recovery operations. Papua New Guinea’s Solidarity

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s solidarity with the people of the
United States during this time of sorrow.

“The thoughts and prayers of all Papua New Guineans are with the people of Texas. We
feel your pain and extend our arms in friendship and solidarity. Tragedy knows no borders,
and it is in these difficult moments that the strength of our shared humanity shines brightest.”

During his stay in Houston, Prime Minister Marape is also engaging in strategic meetings with ExxonMobil on the future of Papua New Guinea’s energy sector.

He took the opportunity to pay tribute to first responders and frontline workers who are tirelessly supporting flood-affected communities across Texas.

06/07/2025

Media Commentary: Clarification Needed on Akon's Alleged Visit to PNG

By JOEL K. ANDREW

From a media perspective, I have not received any formal notice or media statement regarding Akon’s alleged performance in Papua New Guinea neither from the Prime Minister’s Office nor from the desk of NCD Governor Powes Parkop. We need clarification and formal notice from these two offices.

So far, all the information circulating appears to be based on speculation, originating from a page and rapidly gaining traction across social media platforms, fueling widespread discussion among citizens.

If this event is not happening, I call on the National Government and the NCDC to take immediate action. Those responsible for spreading false or misleading information should be held accountable. They must be arrested and charged accordingly, to send a strong message and establish a precedent for responsible and ethical use of social media in our country.

However, if Akon is truly coming to Papua New Guinea, the reported cost potentially nearing K200 million for logistics, accommodation, airfare, and other expenses would be a blatant insult to the struggles of our people. At a time when our citizens are enduring hardship, such extravagance would be nothing short of a daylight mockery.

Thank you.

04/07/2025

WAME BLOOD SET TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE ON July 11

By JOEL K. ANDREW (Sunday Bulletin News)

Renowned local music group Wame Blood, hailing from Lake Kutubu in the Southern Highlands Province, is set to release its highly anticipated new single next Friday.

The upcoming track, titled “PUKI”, will premiere on all major digital music streaming platforms on July 11.

The announcement was made by lead singer Johnny Yawari via Wame Blood’s official social media platforms.

While some fans had expressed concerns over delays in the release, the band has assured listeners that the song is now ready and scheduled for launch.

Wilson Pulu and Mavin LKLD are featured artists on the single, bringing a modern and electrifying flair to the track.

Details about the official music video are yet to be confirmed, with Sunday Bulletin News remaining in contact with the band for updates.

As excitement builds, Wame Blood has already shared pre-save links across all streaming platforms.

“We encourage all our fans and supporters across Papua New Guinea to follow us on social media, pre-save the song, and subscribe to our channel to be among the first to hear it,” the band stated.

With just days to go, the countdown to the release of “PUKI” is well underway.

Approved for Release & Publication

20/06/2025

Justin Olam, Bland Abavu, Welington Alberth, Mcsteve Polly, Enos Kalo and Joel Kuta Andrew having time out at the Time Square building in Port Moresby during...

03/06/2025

PDL2 LO’s CASE AGAINST DEPT OF PETROLEUM CONTINUES
Media Release, Tuesday 03rd June, 2025

Following media outbursts earlier this year, concerned landowners of the Petroleum Development Liscense area (PDL2) in Kutubu are challenging validity of the 2022 Ministerial Determination done by then Petroleum Minister Kerenga Kua in in court.

This ministerial determination has affected the benefit sharing agreement structure for landowners, and has caused inconveniences amongst stakeholders and beneficiaries from the affected vicinities in Kutubu.

The landowners argued that the decision by Kerenga Kua was made unilaterally, without their consent, knowledge, or authorization. As such, they claim the determination is unlawful and unconstitutional and should not go unchallenged.

Represented by their political body, Foe Association Inc., the landowners initiated proceedings in the National Court to contest the ministerial determination. They also sought a court order to stay the enforcement of the decision. However, their application for stay was refused by the National Court.

Dissatisfied with the refusal, the landowners filed an appeal with the Supreme Court. While the appeal is still pending, they have lodged a further application with the Supreme Court seeking to stay the National Court’s decision.

This application was brought before Justice Allan David today in the Supreme Court, where the matter was heard, and witnessed by all association representatives.

Foe Association Chairman Mr. Johnny Yawari has assured all stakeholders and recipients that their fight for justice continues until all matters with the state and Department of Petroleum is settled.

“We remain steadfast in the fight for underprivileged and less fortunate people. The Department of Petroleum must be held accountable for daylight corruption,” said Yawari.

However, the judge has reserved his ruling after the court hearing today, and has scheduled it to be delivered on Monday, 9th June 2025 at 3:00 PM.

Picture Caption: Foe Association Chairman Johnny Yawari and Foe Association lawyer Solomon Tongela leaving the Waigani Court House after their hearing today in Port Moresby. Picture by Rex, Akell Photography

23/05/2025

POLITICAL INTERFERENCE CAUSING MEDIA SUPPRESSION MUST STOP

"Has justice been served to these two media personals who were terminated for doing their job?"

(The PNG Times - Friday 22nd May - 2025)

Politics has taken role of the PNG Media Council, by dictating, manipulating and controlling the media fraternity of Papua New Guinea through Telikom PNG and Media New Guinea Limited.

Instead of operating as an independent body in the country, the media is now believed to have been compromised by politicians, instructing suspension notices and direct termination to journalists, news reporters, and media personals in the print, broadcast and digital media.

FM100 Government Relations Manager and Talk Back Show Host Culligan Tanda, who was given a three weeks suspension without pay after interviewing East Sepik Governor Allan Bird was subsequently served a termination letter on Wednesday 14th May, 2025 by the Kalang Advertising Limited Management while returning to work.

Additionally, a young broadcast journalist from EMTV, Mr. James Guken was terminated correspondingly for being the author of an online article about Hon. Allan Bird challenging the amendment of section 145 of the constitution in court.

In both cases, Culligan Tanda and James Giken were advised that orders came from the top level management, leaving them no choice but suspension and subsequent termination.

These actions by state owned media organisations has sparked dispute in the media society, prompting suppression while dictating freedom of press by directly violating the media code of ethics in Papua New Guinea.

President for Media Council of PNG Neville Choi has called upon Prime Minister James Marape to look into the continuous trend of media suppression by State Owned Media Organisations since 2018, and reinstate media freedom.

“A free robust and independent media is an essential pillar of democracy. It is the cornerstone of allowing freedom of speech and freedom of expression,” said Choi.

“Media is the last avenue democrats resort to, but the uncalled actions in recent turn of events has spoken otherwise.”

The mainstream media of Papua New Guinea and PNG Media Council now calls for the government and higher authorities to immediately and permanently stop the suppression of media in Papua New Guinea.

15/05/2025

NEWS RELEASE
Thursday, 15th May 2025

Chan Family Grants Final Approval for Late Sir Julius Chan’s Image to Feature on K100 Banknote

Port Moresby – The Bank of Papua New Guinea (BPNG) has received the final blessing from the family of the late Sir Julius Chan to feature his image on the country’s K100 banknote.

In a recent visit to the Chan residence in Port Moresby, BPNG staff completed the formal approval process with the family. Pictured during the meeting is Lady Stella Chan signing the official documentation, while her sons, Toea and Byron Chan, looked on in support—marking a significant moment of national and personal pride.

This follows the announcement made by Prime Minister Hon. James Marape on April 28, 2025, during the launch of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary commemorative notes. The inclusion of Sir Julius Chan, a founding father and former Prime Minister, on the K100 note serves as a national tribute to his immense contributions to the country's political and economic foundations.

The gesture has been warmly received by many Papua New Guineans, as a long-overdue recognition of Sir Julius’s legacy.
The Chan family expressed their appreciation to the Government and acknowledged the importance of this symbolic honor.

Special thanks are extended to Prime Minister James Marape and the Pangu-led Government for their leadership and commitment in preserving the legacy of one of Papua New Guinea’s great statesmen.

03/05/2025

IS THERE FREEDOM IN PNG PRESS?

As Papua New Guinea Media Fraternity celebrates the World Press Freedom Day today, and the PNG Media Awards tonight, May 03rd, there's still uncertainties about the actual freedom of functionality in the press.

It was shocking to learn about a three weeks suspension of FM100 Talk Back Show Host Culligan Tanda.

Inside sources have reported that Mr. Tanda was suspended after interviewing Governor for East Sepik Hon. Allan Bird . This conversation has sparked attention on WhatsApp Forums and is soon expected to outburst on Facebook.

While the truth lies with responsible Authorities of the Company, the transparency and independent functions of the Media in Papua New Guinea is now been put on notice.

Picture Courtesy of Tom Kotupi / Kalakai Photography

19/04/2025

Sir. Peter Ipatas is the longest serving Governor for Enga Province and a senior politician in Papua New Guinea.

He elevated his ranks into a parliamentarian from a Local Level Government Village Councillor.

Sir. Peter was recently appointed as the alternative Prime Minister nominee by the Opposition in the recent Vote of No Confidence motion against current Prime Minister James Marape.

He served as a member of Parliament for 29 years and still has the support for his people to pursue another decade of his political leadership.

Sir. Peter initiated the free education policy during his tenure and his province currently have a robust educated human resource in the country.

19/04/2025

Governor for East Sepik Hon. Allan Bird captured by Kange Media while leaving parliament after the recent sitting on Tuesday 15th April 2025.

Allan Bird is the successor to the late Grand Chief Sir. Michael Thomas Somare, the founding father of Papua New Guinea.