AGP Executive Report

Telecom & Media: Digicel Pacific has tapped Techtel to upgrade PNG’s TV head-end, replacing older infrastructure with a system built for both free-to-air and encrypted pay services. Sports Governance: Southern Highlands has officially formed its provincial kickboxing association, with an 18-month interim executive elected under the PNG Kickboxing Federation and a clear push for discipline and rule-following. Language & Culture: Tok Pisin Wik is celebrating PNG’s unifying language in Aotearoa New Zealand, with organisers and community members calling it “ever evolving” and central to identity. Leadership in Sport: Applications are open for the second cohort of Wāhine Toa Oceania, bringing 20 retired Pacific female athletes into a 12-month leadership programme with workshops in Fiji, Greece and Papua New Guinea. Digital Future: PNG has cleared the way for 5G by making 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz spectrum available for licensing to qualified mobile operators. NRL & PNG Chiefs Build-Up: The PNG Chiefs have confirmed dates for their inaugural logo (Oct 21) and jersey reveal (Oct 22) as they gear up for their 2028 NRL debut. Local Talent & Pathways: PNG Chiefs community officer Urith Toa has been selected for the U.S. International Visitor Leadership Program focused on sports management and youth leadership. Science & Nature: A new nocturnal groundsnake from PNG has been named “Slash’s groundsnake,” honouring Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash.

Language & Culture: Tok Pisin Wik is bringing Papua New Guinea’s national language to the spotlight in Aotearoa New Zealand, with community members saying the language is a living, ever-evolving unifier that keeps identity strong. Rugby League Pathways: Fiji National Rugby League is in talks with New Zealand and others to launch a Pacific 9s series featuring PNG and other island nations, aiming to create a pathway for resident club players. NRL Chiefs Build-Up: The PNG Chiefs have confirmed dates for their inaugural logo (Oct 21) and jersey reveal (Oct 22), as the club ramps up toward its 2028 NRL debut. Sport on the Edge: PNG’s Bilikiki beach soccer coach James Naka is narrowing his squad to a final 12 for the OFC Nations Cup in Tahiti, shifting focus to tactics like defending, attacking and set pieces. Digital Growth: PNG has cleared the way for 5G by opening 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz spectrum for licensing, a boost for next-gen mobile services. Youth & Discipline: Kickboxing is being used to teach discipline and character through youth-focused tournaments supported by PNG’s youth development authority.

Language & Identity: Papua New Guinea Language Week kicks off in Aotearoa New Zealand, with Simbu-born Omphalus “Ompa” Harkie Kua saying speaking Tok Pisin and PNG languages at home keeps families grounded far from home. Rugby League Pathways: Fiji Bati are in talks with NZRL and APRL to launch a Pacific 9s series including PNG, aiming to create a pathway for resident club players. NRL Chiefs Build-Up: PNG Chiefs set dates for their inaugural logo (Oct 21) and first NRL jersey (Oct 22), as the club ramps up stadium and accommodation plans for the 2028 debut. Local Talent Spotlight: Former Kumuls winger Jimmy Ngutlik has been named in Fiji Bati’s 40-man World Cup squad, adding PNG flavour to the Pacific’s biggest league stage. Digital Push: PNG clears 5G spectrum for mobile operators, opening 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands for licensing to support next-gen networks. Youth Through Sport: PNG Kickboxing Federation and NYDA-backed events are using kickboxing to teach discipline, respect and youth development. Sports Governance: PNG Rugby Football League calls recent crowd violence a “minor incident” while police investigate, stressing safer environments for families and young spectators.

NRL & Stadium Power Play: A high-stakes fight over stadium revenue between the NRL and Venues NSW could even force Sydney State of Origin finals to move interstate, after Peter V’landys and David Gallop sparred over millions in annual takings. PNG Digital Push: Papua New Guinea cleared the way for 5G by making 2.6GHz and 3.5GHz spectrum available for licensing, a boost for next-gen mobile services. NRL Chiefs Build-Up: The PNG Chiefs confirmed dates for their inaugural logo (Oct 21) and first NRL jersey (Oct 22), as they ramp up for their 2028 debut. Local Rugby League Focus: PNGNRL says crowd violence is being treated as a “minor incident” while police investigate, with extra security planned for families and female spectators. Sports for Youth: Kickboxing is being used for discipline and character-building, with a Southern Highlands kickboxing body formally established and NYDA backing youth development through sport. Education & Jobs Links: PNG and New Zealand agreed to deepen cooperation on education, technical training, employment and transport to prepare more people for work at home and overseas.

5G Rollout: Papua New Guinea has cleared the way for 5G spectrum licensing, with NICTA opening the 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands for qualified mobile operators—aimed at boosting next-gen networks and investment. NRL & PNG Spotlight: Benji Marshall backed Jarome Luai after criticism over his PNG trip, calling it “irrelevant” and stressing players’ time off as the Tigers’ PNG links keep making headlines. PNG Chiefs Build-Up: The PNG Chiefs confirmed dates for their inaugural logo (Oct 21) and first NRL jersey reveal (Oct 22), as the club ramps up toward its 2028 debut. Local Kickboxing Growth: Southern Highlands has formally established a provincial kickboxing body after an AGM, supervised by the PNG Kickboxing Federation. Youth Through Sport: The NYDA-backed Kickboxing Last Man Standing event pushed discipline and respect as key youth development messages. Sports Safety Focus: PNG NRL competition leaders say recent crowd violence is being treated as a “minor incident,” with police action underway and attention on safer match environments. Arts & Culture: Photographer Art Wolfe’s Semana Santa images capture intense devotion and tradition, bringing a powerful religious visual story to audiences. Sports Leigh-Out: This week’s sports roundup highlights off-island and home-turf action, including softball tournament build-ups.

5G Spectrum Move: PNG’s telecom regulator has cleared the way for 5G by making 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz spectrum available for licensing to qualified mobile operators, aiming to boost investment and next-gen services. NRL & PNG Chiefs Buzz: Jarome Luai’s PNG Open appearance and links to the PNG Chiefs have sparked debate, with Benji Marshall calling the criticism “irrelevant” as Luai prepares for his Tigers farewell and next steps toward the 2028 club. Local Rugby League Growth: The PNG Chiefs have locked in a U.S. International Visitor Leadership Program spot for community officer Urith Toa, focusing on sports management and youth leadership—part of building long-term club capability. Sports Safety Focus: PNG Rugby Football League says recent crowd violence is being treated as a “minor incident” but is under police investigation, with extra security and attention to family-friendly match environments. Southern Highlands Kickboxing: The Southern Highlands Province has formally established its kickboxing association after an AGM, backed by the national federation. Arts & Culture Spotlight: Madang’s Brother Francis Joseph Hough marked 60 years as a Marist Brother alongside Divine Word University’s 30th anniversary celebrations.

NRL & PNG Chiefs: Jarome Luai’s PNG trip sparked backlash, but Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall and Luai’s camp pushed back hard—insisting it’s his time off and the optics are “irrelevant,” even as Luai’s Pepsi ambassador role and Chiefs 2028 plans keep the spotlight on. Sports Tourism: Tourism & Arts Minister Belden Namah welcomed Luai and more than 120 international golfers for the PNG Open, calling it a boost for PNG’s growing sports tourism push. Local Rugby League Governance: PNG Rugby Football League says crowd violence is being treated as a “minor incident” while police investigate and court processes continue, with extra security aimed at keeping families safe. PNG Chiefs Build-Up: The club confirmed key dates—logo on Oct 21 and inaugural NRL jersey on Oct 22—plus a U.S. program pick for community officer Urith Toa focused on sports management and youth leadership. Southern Highlands Kickboxing: The Southern Highlands Province Kickboxing Association was formally established after an AGM, marking a milestone for regional sport development. Youth & Sport Skills: Youth in Action for Humanity’s Strongim Youth program is using sport to teach life skills, leadership, and community building in Port Moresby. World Cup Fitness Update: Payne Haas faces finger surgery and says Samoa World Cup selection isn’t guaranteed until he’s cleared.

NRL Chiefs Build-Up: PNG Chiefs confirm the dates for their inaugural logo (Oct 21) and first NRL jersey reveal (Oct 22) in Port Moresby, as the club ramps up stadium upgrades and accommodation plans ahead of its 2028 debut. Luai Spotlight & Sports Tourism: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Belden Namah welcomed Jarome Luai and more than 120 international golfers at the PNG Open, framing Luai’s Chiefs “foundation player” status as a boost for sports tourism and global confidence in PNG. Local Talent Pathways: Chiefs community officer Urith Toa has been selected for the U.S. International Visitor Leadership Programme on sports management and youth leadership, with a focus on athlete protection, injury prevention, and school/community sport integration. Rugby League History: A look back at 100 years of PNG rugby league crowns Lae as the all-time premiership leader, with the Lae Snax Tigers and Lae Bombers combined at the top. Stadium Safety: PNGNRFL says recent crowd violence at Santos National Football Stadium is being treated as a “minor incident,” with police action underway and plans for safer match environments. Arts & Culture: Divine Word University marks 30 years as a chartered university alongside Brother Francis Joseph Hough’s 60 years as a Marist Brother, with music and community stories in Madang.

NRL Chiefs Build-Up: PNG Chiefs keep ramping toward their 2028 NRL debut, with Community Officer Urith Toa selected for the U.S. International Visitor Leadership Program on sports management and youth leadership, while the club also confirmed its logo reveal (Oct 21) and inaugural jersey launch (Oct 22) in Port Moresby. Sports Tourism & Sponsorship: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Belden Namah welcomed Jarome Luai to PNG as the PNG Open’s star guest and as the Chiefs’ inaugural signing, framing the visit as a boost for PNG’s growing sports tourism push. On-Field Discipline: PNG Rugby Football League says recent crowd violence at Santos National Football Stadium is being treated as a “minor incident,” with police action underway and a focus on safer match-day conditions for families. Pacific Politics, Fuel and Security: At the Pacific Islands Forum in Palau, PM Christopher Luxon flagged fuel costs, El Niño risks and regional security as key concerns raised by leaders behind closed doors. Regional Sport Pathways: Australia announced $15.6m to support Pacific athletes toward Brisbane 2032 and other major events, while PNG and Niue signed a framework for deeper development and technical cooperation.

Pacific diplomacy: Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr. urged Pacific ACP members to ratify the EU’s 20-year Samoa Agreement, aiming to deepen political, economic and social cooperation as geopolitical pressure rises. PNG–Niue ties: Prime Minister James Marape and Niue PM Dalton Tagelagi signed a framework deal for development and technical cooperation, covering trade, education, health, sports, agriculture, climate resilience and infrastructure. Sports tourism & rugby league buzz: Tourism Minister Belden Namah welcomed Jarome Luai to Port Moresby as the inaugural PNG Chiefs signing, while the PNG Open wrapped with Luai headlining the awards alongside 120+ international golfers. NRL media rules: Australia’s NRL “media cop” crackdown has already hit broadcaster Braith Anasta, forcing him to step back from player agent work. Community sport & training: The Australian Defence Force ran a rugby union programme at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby for PNG Defence Force members and local clubs, building coaching and officiating skills. Local culture protection: A call to protect Melanesian designs from copied mass-market merchandise is gaining momentum, pushing for stronger IP rules and border enforcement. Madang security: Police issued strict Independence-era gathering and movement limits to curb violence and rumours ahead of Sept 16 celebrations. Football discipline: Police charged a man over spectator violence at the Santos National Football Stadium, with bail refused as investigations continue.

Rugby League & Sport Tourism: Tourism Minister Belden Namah welcomed NRL star Jarome Luai to Port Moresby, framing his PNG Chiefs “Player Number 1” role as a boost for sports tourism and a Pacific-facing future for rugby league. NRL Chiefs Pipeline: Luai’s arrival also came with talk of more signings joining the Chiefs setup, while critics question off-field commitments tied to major sponsor deals. Branding & Grassroots: Pepsi named Luai its PNG brand ambassador, and Trukai signed rising league talent Cooper Bai as a brand ambassador—both partnerships pushing clinics and youth pathways. Defence Meets Community Rugby: The Australian Defence Force ran a week-long rugby union coaching and officiating programme at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby for PNG Defence Force and local clubs ahead of the Commander’s Cup. Local Sport Governance: Police in Port Moresby charged a man over spectator violence at the Santos National Football Stadium, with bail refused and investigations continuing. Culture & Festivals: Malagan Festival returns to Kavieng after 30+ years, spotlighting dance, music, crafts and local business opportunities. Arts Protection: A call for stronger protection of PNG’s sacred Melanesian designs warns against mass-produced copies sold cheaply in markets. International Pathways: PNG Chef de Mission Michelle Paiti attended an OSEP course in Fiji to strengthen athlete-centred delegation planning for LA28 and upcoming Pacific events. Youth Football: The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship kicks off in Samoa with PNG in Group A, with finalists earning spots at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027.

Rugby League & Sports Tourism: Jarome Luai touched down in Port Moresby as the PNG Chiefs’ “Player Number 1,” headlining the PNG Open awards and reinforcing the push to make the country a major sporting destination. Sponsorship & Branding: Luai also became Pepsi’s PNG face under a five-year partnership, while Trukai signed rising star Cooper Bai as brand ambassador, betting on the next generation of local talent. Contract Tensions: The Eels are bracing for a “circus” as Luai’s PNG commitments and third-party deals raise questions about balancing responsibilities. Local Governance & Safety: Police moved fast after spectator violence at the Santos National Football Stadium, charging a man and warning that team colours won’t protect anyone from prosecution. Arts & Culture: The Malagan Festival returned to Kavieng after 30-plus years, bringing music, dance, crafts and a boost for local businesses and cultural tourism. Music Spotlight: ABC Radio Australia’s Pacific Break 2026 is back, with PNG artists competing for a trip to WOMADelaide. Community Development: A PNG Chiefs community officer was selected for a US sports management and youth leadership programme, aiming to bring new skills back for 2028. Sports Pathways: Australia announced $15.6m to support Pacific athletes toward Brisbane 2032, including training and qualification support through major events.

Sports Tourism & Sponsorship: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Belden Namah welcomed NRL star Jarome Luai and 120+ international golfers to PNG for the PNG Open, calling it a boost for sports tourism—and Luai’s growing role as a PNG ambassador. NRL Chiefs Build-Up: Luai was also marked as PNG Chiefs “Player Number 1” in Port Moresby, while Chiefs community officer Urith Toa heads to the US for sports management and youth leadership training. Funding for Pacific Sport: Australia pledged $15.6m for Pacific athletes toward Brisbane 2032, with major support tied to rugby league development including the PNG Chiefs. Discipline at the Stadium: Police charged a 30-year-old man over spectator assault at Santos National Football Stadium, with bail refused and more arrests expected. Community Safety Ahead of Independence: Madang police issued strict rules on gatherings, late-night movement and school-break parties to curb violence and social-media rumours. Culture & Arts Protection: A call to protect Melanesian designs from copied, mass-produced imports is gaining momentum, with stronger safeguards urged for artists and small businesses. Music Spotlight: ABC Radio Australia’s Pacific Break 2026 is back, hunting PNG’s next original music star for WOMADelaide.

Sports diplomacy & Olympics pipeline: Australia has pledged $15.6m to help Pacific athletes and officials chase medals through the Brisbane 2032 cycle, with support flowing to events including the 2027 Pacific Games and Los Angeles 2028. NRL Chiefs momentum: Prime Minister James Marape welcomed Jerome Luai at Port Moresby airport as PNG Chiefs Player No.1, framing the club as a regional talent pipeline, while Luai’s PNG profile keeps growing off-field. Branding & community sport: Pepsi PNG named Luai its brand ambassador under a five-year partnership, and Trukai signed rising star Cooper Bai as its two-year ambassador. Local sport spotlight: A guide to Pacific teams at the RLWC 2026 sets the scene for PNG’s place in the tournament. Youth football pathway: The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship kicks off in Samoa with PNG in Group A, where two finalists qualify for the U-20 World Cup 2027. Arts & culture: Malagan Festival returns to Kavieng after 30+ years, boosting tourism and giving local makers a major platform. Cultural protection: A call to protect Melanesian designs targets mass-produced copies that undercut local artists and small businesses. Public safety: Madang police issued strict rules for Independence-era celebrations, including limits on gatherings and tighter controls on school-break parties.

Madang Security Crackdown: Madang police have issued strict rules for Independence anniversary holiday celebrations, banning school breakup parties, limiting group movement to five people, requiring police clearance for public events, and restricting non-essential movement after 10pm to curb violence and social-media panic. NRL Chiefs & PNG Sport Tourism: Rugby league star Jarome Luai is in the spotlight again—named Pepsi PNG brand ambassador and pictured at the PNG Open awards—while the PNG Chiefs keep building momentum ahead of their 2028 NRL entry, including a reported permission for Raiders forward Hudson Young to tour Chiefs facilities next month. Talent Pathways & Sponsorships: Ashlee Matapo’s rise to NRLW and her Cook Islands Moana Test debut story adds to the week’s focus on women’s rugby league pathways, while Trukai signs Cooper Bai as brand ambassador to back the next generation of PNG sporting talent. Youth Football on the Rise: The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship kicks off in Samoa with PNG in Group A, and two finalists set to qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027. Arts & Culture Spotlight: Malagan Festival returns to Kavieng after 30+ years, bringing traditional dance, music, arts and crafts—and a boost for local businesses and cultural tourism. Cultural Protection: A call to protect Melanesian designs warns against mass-produced copies sold cheaply in PNG markets, urging stronger protection for indigenous cultural ownership.

Olympic Spotlight: PNG weightlifter Dika Toua made Olympic history again at her fifth Games in Tokyo, finishing 10th in a 14-strong field after lifting 167kg. Music & Talent Search: ABC Radio Australia’s Pacific Break is back for 2026, with PNG artists invited to submit original tracks for a chance to perform at WOMADelaide. Branding in Sport: Jarome Luai has been unveiled as Pepsi’s PNG brand ambassador in a five-year partnership, while Trukai Industries signs rugby league rising star Cooper Bai as its new two-year ambassador. Community Arts & Culture: The Malagan Festival returns to Kavieng after more than 30 years, bringing back traditional rituals, dance, music, arts and crafts—and a boost for local tourism and business. Festival Safety: Police and organizers have outlined security plans for the 2026 Central Music, Arts and Culture Festival in Bereina, promising high-visibility coverage and action on prohibited behaviour. Women’s Rugby League: Fiji Bulikula has a new head coach, Jone Wesele, aiming to lift the standard of domestic women’s rugby league ahead of the World Cup. Cultural Protection: A call is growing to protect PNG art and artists from mass-produced copies of sacred Melanesian designs sold cheaply in local markets.