Huris, Manmantinut in New Ireland Province is the final resting place of Papua New Guinea’s last living founding father, the late Right Sir Julius Chan, who was buried on Thursday, February 7.
Amid news of his passing, leaders from across the country expressed their admiration and gratitude for Sir Julius Chan’s immense contributions during the ‘National Haus Krai,’ a week of national mourning.
PNG Business News gathers the words of historic recall and inspiration in memory of Sir Julius Chan:
Prime Minister James Marape: Sir Julius was “a towering statesman, whose service to Papua New Guinea spanned decades of political and economic transformation.” “As PNG’s second Prime Minister, he shaped the trajectory of our nation’s economy and governance. His contributions will never be forgotten.”
Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa said: “Serving as Governor till his final days is a testament to his life of service. The Opposition is grateful that he chose to be in the Opposition throughout this term of Parliament. We have always valued his advice, thoughts, and suggestions on how we can serve our nation better.”
East Sepik Governor Allan Bird: “They are a rarity in the birth and life of a country. Sir Julius was the last of his kind, men set apart by destiny to do things no one else can. On behalf of the Sepik people, I thank you, Papa, for your service to our country and more so for the special relationship you had with the Sepik people through Sir Michael.”
Kandep MP Don Polye: “I am indebted to Sir Julius, who was a father figure to my son. I will miss him in Parliament; he was a friend, a wise leader who was firm and focused.”
West New Britain Governor Sasindra Muthuvel: “Sir Julius’s life is a testament to service, commitment, and the pursuit of a brighter future for our people.”
Hon. Thomas Opa, MP for Kerema and Minister for Energy: “Sir Julius was a builder of dreams, a bridge between tradition and modernity, and a steadfast advocate for the people of New Ireland and Papua New Guinea. (Highlighting the impact of Sir Julius’s Trans-Island Highway project, which connected Bereina to Malalaua) For that, we the people of Kerema and Gulf Province are forever grateful. This vital infrastructure was more than just a highway—it was a lifeline.”
Hon. Jimmy Maladina, MP for Esa’ala and Minister for Petroleum: “Sir Julius was a mountain of a man, a river of wisdom, and a visionary who shaped our nation’s finance and economy.” He recalled first meeting Sir Julius in 1993 as a young lawyer and praised his commitment to national unity and progress.
Hon. Wake Goi, Minister for Mining: (Reflecting on the profound influence Sir Julius had on him as a child) “I was inspired when Sir Julius visited Kol Station in Jimi District in a helicopter. That moment shaped my desire to become a politician. His fine legacy will be our beacon of hope.”
Hon. Francis Kikin Siune, MP for Kerowagi and Vice Minister for Public Services: (Acknowledging Sir Julius’s remarkable 50-year career in politics) “His unwavering commitment to PNG’s development is something we will always remember and honor. A great void has been left in PNG’s leadership with the passing of Sir Julius Chan. His generation built the foundation of the country, now, the torch must be carried forward.”
Hon. Belden Namah, Minister for Tourism, Art and Culture, and MP for Vanimo-Green: (Calling for a new generation of leaders) “All the men of this land have now left! And it is up to the sons that remain to continue the legacy. Either we find the next fathers of PNG, or the flicker succumbs to fate and fades into the annals of history.”
“Where are the next lot of Papua New Guineans who will lay the cornerstones, chart the course, and set the sails for the next 50 years as we head to our 100th anniversary as a nation? The meaning of leadership and duty must be re-found. In our haste, we seem to have dropped it along the way. Purpose and sacrifice must rekindle and guide our efforts like the North Star. We are truly at the threshold of a defining moment. All hands must labor together in service.”
MP Namah added: “When PNG reflects in later years, perhaps on the eve of its 100th year, it must look back and celebrate the sacrifice and ingenuity of leaders today who forged the way. Sir Julius Chan’s journey has ended, but his vision and legacy remain alive. His impact is etched in the roads we travel, the currency we use, and the policies that continue to shape our nation. May his memory inspire future generations to lead with courage, serve with dedication, and build a stronger PNG.”
