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Four Westpac employees recently represented Westpac PNG at the Westpac Group Youth Network (TYN) Summit in Sydney, Australia, reinforcing the bank's commitment to fostering youth leadership and driving positive change in communities across Papua New Guinea. Corporate Affairs and Marketing Officer, Melanie Yumbrick; Staff Lending Manager, Fabian Aime; Business Analyst, Marsha Isaac; and Operations Officer, Florian Whemby, attended the summit, which brought together over six hundred young professionals from across Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand under the theme "Agents of Change" to explore how they can make meaningful impacts in their workplaces and communities. The Youth Network is one of Westpac's Employee Advocacy Groups (EAGs), bringing together younger employees under the age of 35 to connect, learn, and give back to their communities. "Attending the TYN Summit was an amazing opportunity to meet other young people who want to make a real difference," said Fabian Aime, one of the Westpac PNG attendees. "The 'Agents of Change' theme really hit home for me. It showed us that no matter what job we do, we can all help create positive change at work and in our communities," he said. The summit included guest speakers, a hands-on shadowing program, and chances to meet others who share a passion for creating change. The Shadowing Program allows TYN members to buddy with other EAG members, offering firsthand exposure to workplace culture and leadership. It’s a powerful way to build confidence, gain insights, and grow professionally through real-time learning. Beyond the summit, the Westpac PNG Youth Network has been active in the community this year, with members taking part in community day and beach clean-up activities, demonstrating their commitment to environmental care and local action. Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns praised the initiative, saying: "Our people are what make Westpac strong, and employee advocacy groups like the Youth Network show our commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders. We want our employees to be themselves at work, to learn, grow, and make a real difference. These young people show what it means to be an agent of change, and I'm proud to see them taking part in this summit." During the summit, the four Westpac employees spent time networking with other young people from across the region, building connections and sharing ideas. A memorable highlight of their experience was learning about the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service, a life-saving program that Westpac has proudly supported since 1973. Westpac is about creating a workplace where people can succeed both professionally and personally, with opportunities to grow, do meaningful work, and make a difference in the lives of customers and communities. The Westpac PNG Youth Network continues to play an important role in connecting Westpac's younger employees, encouraging new ideas, and making sure different voices contribute to shaping the bank's future.

 Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Mining Rainbo Paita has commended the Pacific Lime and Cement Limited (PLC) joint venture initiative, describing it as a model that challenges existing industry norms and sets a higher standard for future resource projects in the country. “This challenges the status quo of all projects,” said Minister Paita. “Companies now must match this or do even better.” He made the remarks during the Joint Venture Spin-Off Inauguration and Equipment Handover ceremony held on 14 October at the Central Cement and Lime Project site in Kido, Central Province. The event marked the official launch of a groundbreaking partnership between Synergy Alliance Limited (SAL), Kido Holdings Limited (KHL), and Rearea Minerals Limited (RML). The initiative represents a significant shift, transforming local landowners from project stakeholders into active equity partners in PNG’s emerging lime and cement industry. Distinguished guests at the event included Hon. Keith Iduhu, MP, Member for Hiri-Koiari; Central Province Deputy Administrator Augustine Tipale; Ambassador to PNG Isaac Lupari; and Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea Adrian Lochrin. Representatives from the Kido and Rearea landowner communities, PLC, and SAL also attended. PLC Managing Director Paul Mulder said the joint venture is focused on delivering tangible benefits to landowners and creating a foundation for long-term prosperity. “This joint venture delivers more than promises; it provides tangible benefits and real ownership for the people of Kido and Rearea,” said Mr. Mulder. “We are building a sustainable future, together.” Caption The partnership introduces an innovative model of landowner participation through: • Free-carried equity – granting landowners immediate equity partnership without initial capital investment; • Capacity building – training, skills development, and mentorship led by SAL; and • Community-driven growth – establishing a clear path toward 90% landowner ownership of service businesses and asset-heavy equipment contracts. The PLC partnership demonstrates how commercial success can align with community empowerment and local ownership, reinforcing the company’s commitment to responsible resource development and inclusive economic growth. Hon. Keith Iduhu, MP, also commended the initiative, acknowledging the strong collaboration between the company and landowners. “I commend the leadership of the landowners who have been working closely with PLC to see the initiative that we witnessed at the launch become a reality,” said Hon. Iduhu.

The operator of the PNG LNG Project, ExxonMobil PNG Limited, recently welcomed 75 outstanding ninth-grade girls from five Port Moresby schools for a day of hands-on science experiments, mentorship, and exciting activities designed to spark their curiosity and build their confidence in engineering. Now in its second year in Papua New Guinea, ExxonMobil’s Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day — held at its LNG Plant at Caution Bay — was a resounding success. This year’s theme, “Design Your Future,” encouraged students to imagine the possibilities of a STEM career (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Supported by 42 passionate employee volunteers from ExxonMobil’s Women in Energy Network, the students explored key engineering concepts and learned directly from Papua New Guinean engineering professionals. ExxonMobil PNG Chairman and Managing Director Dinesh Sivasamboo visited the students during their practical sessions and was impressed by both their enthusiasm and teamwork. “It’s great to see that even though you’ve come from different schools, you have quickly made new friends and learned to work together effectively as a team to solve real-world problems. These are important skills and experiences that will help you excel in your lives and your careers,” Sivasamboo said. “Papua New Guinea’s energy future looks quite bright, so there will be opportunities for students like you throughout our industry. I hope you will continue to apply yourselves to your studies so that you might join us as engineers one day,” he concluded. Students expressed their gratitude and excitement about the experience, saying it opened their eyes to new possibilities in engineering. “I didn’t think much about taking on engineering, but after today, I might have a change of mind,” said Zillar Naku Pa’aka from Gordon Secondary School. “Once we started the practical activities, I really enjoyed it.” “I really enjoyed the electrical engineering activity with the circuit boards,” added Sylvia Mero from Jubilee Catholic Secondary School. “When the lights lit up, it felt like it lit something in me. I think after today, I’d like to become an engineer.” The students represented Gordon Secondary School, Charles Lwanga Secondary School, Jubilee Secondary School, Bavaroko Junior High School, and Ororo Junior High School. The day concluded with lunch at the Plant site mess and a small gift pack for each participant to take home. ExxonMobil PNG is proud to help inspire the next generation of innovators by empowering more girls to dream big and engineer boldly.

A 1-megawatt Buin Solar Farm was officially launched last Friday in Buin Town, marking a major milestone in Bougainville’s renewable energy journey. The project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), will deliver clean and reliable electricity to homes, schools, hospitals and businesses across Buin and its surrounding communities — reaching nearly 80 percent of the population. In his welcoming remarks, Chief Albert Nukuitu reflected on the community’s determination to keep Buin powered through difficult years. “In 2018, we formed Buin Power — a community-driven effort that ran 22 hours a day without government funding,” he said. “These young people gave their lives to serve the community and deserve recognition as Bougainville Power moves forward.” The solar farm now transforms that legacy into a regionwide power solution, integrating solar panels, battery storage and backup generators to ensure a constant energy supply while cutting fossil fuel dependency. President Ishmael Toroama, in his keynote address, commended the people of Bougainville for their resilience and unity, describing the solar project as a milestone in the region’s journey towards self-reliance. “What we have achieved today is not by chance,” he said. “It is through our own hands, our pride and our unity as Bougainvilleans. Peace is here to stay.” The President expressed gratitude to development partners for their continued collaboration and encouraged communities to take ownership of projects that contribute to Bougainville’s growth. “We must take ownership of our land, our power and our future,” he said. “When we work together, we strengthen our journey towards independence.” Japanese Ambassador Hisanobu Mochizuki reaffirmed Japan’s support for Bougainville, describing the project as a reflection of long-standing friendship and cooperation. “This solar farm will help stimulate the local economy by improving access to clean energy,” the Ambassador said. He also highlighted Japan’s ongoing assistance to Bougainville, including the construction of 15 coastal bridges, support for the 2019 Bougainville Referendum and the building of new school facilities. UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth noted that the event coincided with United Nations Day, marking 80 years since the UN Charter came into force and 50 years since Papua New Guinea joined the UN. “Bougainville once knew the scars of war, but today it stands for peace,” Booth said. “This solar farm represents renewal — linking peace, equality and sustainable development.” He added that the project will reduce energy costs by up to 50 percent, deliver steady power to essential services and directly benefit more than 200 households. Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei also acknowledged the continued partnership with Japan and UNDP, describing the initiative as a vital step towards Bougainville’s energy independence. “Bougainville Power will manage generation and distribution across Buin, Arawa and Buka,” he said, adding that upcoming government initiatives — including plans for a new hospital, teachers’ college, market facilities and major road improvements — will also be supported by this project. The Buin Solar Farm will expand its network to nearby villages and missions, including Piano, Tokaino, Tabago and Kangu, covering a 48-kilometre radius.

Papua New Guinea's Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru, together with his small trade delegation, visited Jeonbuk State yesterday as part of his mission to meet potential Korean investors on the margins of the APEC Ministerial Meeting (AMM). During the visit, Minister Maru met with the Governor, Hon. Kim Kwan-young, to discuss opportunities for cooperation between Jeonbuk State and Papua New Guinea (PNG), particularly in the agriculture sector. Jeonbuk State is widely recognised as the “agriculture state” of South Korea due to its role as a major agricultural producer, its fertile plains, and its position as a centre for agricultural research and development. The state is a leading producer of crops such as rice and barley, and is home to key national research institutions and major agri-food companies. Minister Maru told the Governor that PNG and Korea needed to deepen their relationship, which had not been fully developed over the past 49 years. “We celebrate 50 years of bilateral relationship between our two countries next year, and it would make sense for us to celebrate some major announcements or projects as we go into new 50 years. We want to see Korea investing in PNG and providing technical assistance and development aid to increase its visibility in PNG,” Maru said. Governor Kim Kwan-young, in response, said Jeonbuk State was keen to contribute to the sustainable agricultural development of PNG, specifically in infrastructure and technological capabilities. He also expressed hope to expand cooperation into various fields such as education, culture and sports. Minister Maru and his delegation later visited a soybean farm and met with the President of the Korean Soybean Self-help Corporation, Su Yong Jang. They also toured the state-of-the-art chicken processing facility of Harim Holdings Co. Ltd, a dominant force in Korea’s poultry industry and the nation’s largest producer of chicken. “The Soybean Self-help Corporation is keen on training Papua New Guineans in commercial soybean farming and Harim Holdings Co. Ltd indicated their keen interest in exploring the opportunity of investing in PNG,” said Maru. “Both companies said that in order for them to invest in PNG, they will need the support of the Korean Government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). “This is timely with the recent announcement of KOICA opening an office in PNG which will encourage Korean companies to invest in PNG across various sectors and the Korean Government providing development assistance in aid and technical cooperation through KOICA. I am grateful that Korea is now stepping up to deepen the relationship as we look forward to celebrating 50 years of bilateral relationship between PNG and Korea next year," he said.

Westpac PNG has announced a significant enhancement to its Bonus Saver Account with a new, market-leading interest rate of 4.25% per annum—rewarding customers for their commitment to saving and helping them grow their money faster. The Bonus Saver Account is designed to encourage consistent saving by offering a high bonus interest rate each month customers grow their balance, making it one of the most competitive savings products available in Papua New Guinea today. For balances above K1,000 (approximately US $238 at the current exchange), Westpac’s Bonus Saver Account will also offer zero dormancy fees. Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said the improved rate demonstrates Westpac’s ongoing commitment to supporting customers’ financial wellbeing. “We know how important it is for our customers to make the most of their savings, especially in today’s challenging economic environment. With the new 4.25% interest rate, our Bonus Saver Account gives Papua New Guineans a simple and rewarding way to grow their savings—whether it’s for school fees, a future home or financial security—because every kina saved today grows your tomorrow.” The Bonus Saver Account offers customers the flexibility of accessing their funds when needed, while still encouraging good savings habits through monthly bonus interest for account growth. Customers have the added security of full digital access to their accounts via Westpac’s Online Banking and Mobile Banking App. Westpac PNG continues to invest in delivering banking solutions that help customers achieve their financial goals—from everyday banking to savings and investment opportunities. For more information, visit https://www.westpac.com.pg/ New and existing Westpac customers can open a Bonus Saver Account today by visiting their nearest Westpac branch or calling 322 0888 for more information.

The Treasurer of the Central Bougainville Tourism Association (CBTA), Delwin Ketsian, said the 2025 Tama Festival has the potential to become a major economic driver for Bougainville. “We see the Tama Festival not only as a cultural celebration but as an economic driver for Bougainville tourism. With more partnerships and planning, this festival will grow even stronger in the years to come,” Ketsian said. Held over two days from 21–22 August at Independence Oval in Arawa, the festival drew more than 3,000 attendees, including visitors from South and Central Bougainville as well as a small number of international tourists. This level of participation reflected the festival’s growing role in boosting the local economy, with cultural tourism, small business activities, and market sales contributing directly to community livelihoods. Festival highlights included the famous Singsing Kaur competition, panpipe ensembles, the showcasing of the traditional delicacy Tama, and displays of arts and crafts. Youth groups brought innovation to the program by blending panpipe harmonies with modern instruments, while women’s groups led chant performances, bilum weaving, and food stalls, which showed how cultural activities are also tied to enterprise and income generation. The presence of the Police Minister and Regional Member for Bougainville, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, who is also Patron of CBTA, underscored the festival’s national significance. In closing the event, he emphasized culture as a foundation for unity and future growth. “The Tama Festival reminds us that our strength as one people lies in our culture and unity. This event shows the world that our traditions remain the foundation of our identity and our journey together as one people,” Tsiamalili said. The festival’s success was further attributed to strong corporate and institutional support. Sponsors included Vodafone PNG, Fincorp, Melanesian Luxury Yacht Services, Nikana Finance Limited, SP Brewery, Silent World Bulk Fuel, Bougainville Arts Culture Tourism Authority (BACTA), and the Office of the Regional Member. Their contributions highlighted the role of private sector partnerships in enabling large-scale events that stimulate tourism and commerce. Interim CEO of BACTA, Lorena Ritsi, described the festival as a vital cultural and economic platform. “The Tama Festival is a celebration of talent, creativity, and community. It creates a space where our artistic skills, especially in culinary arts, are showcased and tested, reminding us of the richness of our culture,” she said. Ritsi added that BACTA’s mission is to promote, preserve, and regulate cultural and tourism products in the region, putting events like the Tama Festival as key drivers of the tourism economy while keeping traditions alive. Organizers also identified areas to strengthen the festival’s business and tourism value in the future, including earlier planning, wider youth and schools engagement, and stronger sponsor partnerships. The committee plans to expand the program to involve more regional groups and step up international promotion, with the goal of positioning the Tama Festival as a premier cultural tourism attraction for Bougainville. By merging cultural preservation with tourism development, the Tama Festival demonstrates how heritage can drive business, create opportunities for small enterprises, and contribute to the region’s long-term economic development.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) marks half a century of independence this year, a journey defined by cultural resilience, political milestones, and the transformation of its resource-driven economy.  From shedding colonial rule in 1975 to emerging as a strategic player in regional diplomacy and climate advocacy, PNG’s story is a tapestry of triumphs and challenges that continue to shape its future. Let’s look at these national milestones set in the last five decades:  From Independence to Global Stage  On 15 September 1975, PNG adopted a home-grown Constitution that enshrined democratic governance, human rights, and cultural preservation.   A day later, on 16 September, the nation won full sovereignty from Australia under the leadership of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, its first Prime Minister and a unifying figure among more than 800 language groups.  In 1977, PNG held its inaugural national elections, empowering citizens to shape their own Parliament despite the logistical hurdles of rugged terrain and dispersed communities.   Mere weeks after independence, on 10 October 1975, PNG joined the United Nations (UN), launching its diplomatic presence and amplifying Pacific voices on development, peace, and environmental protection.  Resource Revolution: Mining, Oil & Gas  The late 1970s and 1980s heralded PNG’s first resource boom. The Bougainville mine, operational since 1972, became the country’s leading copper and gold producer, though landowner disputes and civil unrest led to its 1989 closure. In 1984, the Ok Tedi mine opened in Western Province, diversifying PNG’s mineral portfolio.  The 1990s saw a pivot to petroleum with the Kutubu and Gobe oil fields, while the turn of the century brought financial sector reforms: the privatization of Papua New Guinea Banking Corporation and the rise of Bank South Pacific bolstered economic stability.   The 2004 Napa Napa oil refinery near Port Moresby marked PNG’s entry into downstream processing, and initial moves to privatize PNG Power Limited aimed to modernize the national grid.  The PNG LNG Project in 2014 was a watershed moment—ExxonMobil’s multi-billion-dollar investment turned the nation into a major gas exporter.   More recently, the Porgera gold mine reopened in 2023 with majority local ownership, and the Wafi-Golpu copper-gold venture promises another long-term revenue stream.  Governance, Peace, and Social Progress  The late 1980s brought turbulence: the Bougainville Crisis erupted over demands for autonomy and fair resource sharing. Its resolution—the Bougainville Peace Agreement of 2001—granted greater self-rule and set the stage for a future referendum, showcasing PNG’s capacity for peaceful reconciliation.  In the 2000s and 2010s, PNG strengthened its institutions. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) was established to tackle graft, while Prime Minister James Marape’s decentralization efforts increased resource allocation to districts and provinces.  Parallel investments in human development soared. Free education policies rolled out in the 2010s improved literacy rates, while expanded healthcare programs bolstered maternal and rural health. These initiatives underscored PNG’s commitment to lifting every citizen.  Climate Leadership and Cultural Renaissance  Facing the frontlines of climate change, PNG has championed regional sustainability. In the 2020s, it emerged as a vocal advocate for biodiversity and green development.   A historic visit by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in 2025 will celebrate PNG’s environmental stewardship and highlight links between conservation and community well-being.  Simultaneously, tourism and cultural identity have taken center stage. Under the Golden Jubilee theme, “Celebrating 50 Years of Tourism – Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future,” the Bird of Paradise and Southern Cross adorn the anniversary logo.   Investments in eco-tourism and cultural festivals not only fuel local economies but also honor PNG’s ancestral heritage.   Business Evolution: Diversification Beyond Extractives  While mining and energy have historically driven PNG’s growth, recent decades have spurred diversification:  - Special Economic Zones (SEZ) policy to attract manufacturing, agriculture, fisheries, and tech investments    - The Bank of Papua New Guinea’s Green Finance Centre, funding renewable energy and sustainable agriculture projects    - Regional expansion of conglomerates like Steamships Trading Company and Remington Group into Lae and Mount Hagen    These moves aim to reduce reliance on extractives, create jobs, and foster resilience against commodity price swings.  Regional Diplomacy and Golden Jubilee Celebrations  Earlier this year, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit underscored PNG’s pivotal role in Pacific unity. Strategic partnerships with Australia, China, Japan, and India have deepened through trade agreements, infrastructure projects, and development programs.  The Golden Jubilee itself—branded “Stronger Together, Growing the Future”—features cultural festivals, youth-led innovation challenges, a national prayer day, and global investment forums. Inspired by the biblical Jubilee (Leviticus 25:10), events emphasize renewal, justice, and collective prosperity.  Charting the Next Fifty Years  As PNG commemorates 50 years of independence, its journey offers both inspiration and a roadmap. Democratic institutions have matured, peace has healed old wounds, and economic progress has lifted communities—yet challenges remain. Environmental sustainability, equitable resource sharing, and diversified growth will define PNG’s path forward.  Papua New Guinea at fifty stands as a testament to unity in diversity, a nation forging its destiny with cultural pride and entrepreneurial spirit. The coming decades beckon with promise: a resilient PNG, stronger together, ready to grow its future.  We in PNG Business News congratulate the nation on this landmark anniversary. We are thankful to be a small part of chronicling the country’s strides since 2019, and we join all Papua New Guineans in declaring liberty throughout the land and moving forward with hope. We pray for wisdom, unity, and courage for all as we enter the next 50 years.   Mekim yumi stap wantaim. Mekim yumi go het wantaim -- Let's be together. Let's move forward together. 

Marine salvage is a discipline defined by urgency, complexity, and risk. Every operation is different, and every operation is high-stakes – multi-million-dollar assets, lives, and marine ecosystems are often at risk. In Melanesia, Pacific Towing (PacTow) has consistently demonstrated the expertise and resolve to tackle these challenges head-on. A homegrown Papua New Guinean business headquartered in Port Moresby, PacTow has earned its reputation as the region’s leading marine services provider. At the core of nearly every salvage operation PacTow undertakes is its commercial diving team – the only permanently based unit of its kind in Melanesia.   Salvage Leadership with Global Recognition Over the past two decades, PacTow has completed close to 100 successful salvage and wreck removal operations, involving a diversity of vessels ranging from bulk carriers to general cargo ships, and from fishing vessels to yachts. These projects have taken PacTow not only across PNG but also further afield – throughout Melanesia, into Micronesia, across to Indonesia, and even into northern Australia. This extensive track record underscores both the demand for and the trust in PacTow’s capability. That capability is further evidenced by PacTow’s standing in the global salvage community. It remains Melanesia’s only full member of the International Salvage Union (ISU), the body that represents the world’s leading professional salvors. It is also the region’s only member of the International Spill Control Organization (ISCO), reflecting its role in protecting marine environments. These affiliations are not merely symbolic; they attest to PacTow’s adherence to international standards of salvage practice, safety, and environmental stewardship.   Commercial Diving: The Essential Ingredient What distinguishes PacTow from many other salvage operators is the central role of its commercial diving team. Salvage operations – whether patching hull breaches, sealing fuel tanks, or rigging heavy lifts – are almost always dependent on skilled divers working in hazardous conditions. PacTow’s diving team brings a combination of local knowledge, international training, and experience that is unmatched in the region. There are 18 divers – all Papua New Guinean – in PacTow’s commercial diving team. Diving Manager Ricky Leka has been diving for PacTow for 20 years and leading his team for 13. Another seven divers have been with the company for more than 10 years. Uniquely, the PacTow diving team is the only permanently based commercial diving operation in Melanesia. This ensures that PNG and neighbouring nations have 24/7 access to a highly qualified dive team without the costs and delays of flying in specialists from more developed countries further afield. The team holds both PNG and Australian diving certifications – a rare dual qualification that guarantees compliance with regulatory frameworks. PacTow’s divers also regularly travel for international training, honing skills in subsea engineering, salvage techniques, and safety systems. The company also supports PNG’s diver recompression facility in Port Moresby, and several of its divers are certified hyperbaric chamber technicians.   Beyond Salvage: Serving PNG’s Oil and Gas Sector While salvage remains the most high-profile demonstration of PacTow’s diving expertise, the team’s contribution extends well beyond emergency response. As PNG’s oil and gas industry continues to expand, demand for reliable and locally available subsea services is growing. PacTow’s divers are increasingly engaged in underwater inspections, maintenance of subsea infrastructure, and pipeline support. Their capacity to provide a cost-effective and certified local solution is vital for a sector that values safety, efficiency, and the minimisation of downtime.   A Regional Asset with Local Commitment PacTow’s investment in its commercial diving team is not just about building technical capability; it is also about developing local capacity. This is evident in the five young commercial diving trainees currently in PacTow’s team. By developing homegrown divers and technicians, the company contributes to skills transfer and workforce development in PNG. This ensures that the nation has its own cadre of diving professionals who can respond to crises and support its economic growth.   Conclusion Marine salvage will always be a demanding field, and in Melanesia, it is PacTow that consistently answers the call. Central to that capability is its commercial diving team – the region’s only permanent professional diving operation, staffed by divers with international qualifications and unparalleled local knowledge.   Pacific Towing is Melanesia’s largest marine services business. It employs more than 250 staff and has a fleet of 20 vessels. It provides a broad spectrum of marine services including towage, emergency response, commercial diving, life raft services, and salvage. PacTow is part of the larger maritime and land Logistics Division of the Steamships Group. To learn more about PacTow, visit: www.pacifictowingmarineservices.com

In a show of commitment to regional legal excellence, BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) proudly sponsored the closing dinner of the 44th Pacific Islands Law Officers’ Network (PILON) Annual Meeting, to be held from 27 to 31 October at APEC Haus in Port Moresby. In partnership with the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG), BSP contributed over K100,000 to support the hosting of this prestigious regional event. The PILON Annual Meeting is a cornerstone of legal collaboration across the Pacific, bringing together senior law officers — including Attorneys-General, Solicitors-General, and Crown Counsels — from 19 member countries and territories. The forum promotes dialogue, strengthens partnerships, and advances shared legal priorities such as combating corruption, cybercrime, and sexual and gender-based violence. BSP Head of Retail Branch Network, Mr. Peter Komon, said the bank’s sponsorship reflects its belief in the importance of a strong and independent legal system to the region’s development. “At BSP, we understand that a strong legal framework is essential for sustainable development, economic growth, and social justice. That’s why we are proud to support PILON’s mission and the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to uphold the rule of law across our region,” Mr. Komon said. The closing dinner, hosted at the conclusion of the week-long meeting, will serve as a time of celebration, reflection, and renewed commitment to justice and good governance. BSP’s support underscores its role not only as a financial leader but also as a partner in nation-building and regional development. Secretary for the Department of Justice and Attorney General, Dr. Eric Kwa, PhD, expressed appreciation to BSP for its generous sponsorship and ongoing support. “This will be the third time Papua New Guinea hosts the PILON Annual Meeting. We are proud to bring PILON to PNG this year as we celebrate our nation’s 50th Golden Jubilee,” Dr. Kwa said. “We are expecting around 90 participants — the highest number of delegates ever to attend a PILON meeting. Your support and partnership give us assurance that we are well prepared to host this significant regional event.” The PILON Annual Meeting also provides opportunities for strategic planning, capacity building, and information sharing among member states, which include American Samoa, Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tokelau, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu. Observers from international organisations such as the Commonwealth Secretariat and the South Pacific Police Commissioners’ Conference also participate. BSP Financial Group Limited — formerly the Bank of South Pacific Limited — is a leading retail and corporate banking group headquartered in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Founded in 1957, BSP now operates in seven Pacific countries, including the Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu, and employs more than 4,000 people across the region. With over 120 branches, 300 agents, 550 ATMs, and more than 11,000 EFTPoS machines, BSP has the largest branch network in the Pacific. The bank’s sophisticated electronic banking systems and extensive service coverage ensure accessibility and reliability for its customers wherever it operates. Beyond banking, BSP remains deeply committed to corporate social responsibility, working with communities across the Pacific to promote education, health, and economic empowerment. Its continued support for events such as PILON reflects this broader mission to strengthen governance and improve lives. BSP serves its corporate and retail clients with leading cash management, treasury, lending, and corporate finance capabilities, backed by deep regional expertise and commitment. The Pacific is, and will always be, our home. BSP Financial Group Limited is listed on both the Port Moresby Stock Exchange (PNGX: BSP) and the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX: BFL). BSP extends its best wishes to all attendees for a successful and productive 44th PILON Annual Meeting.