Many people in PNG still do not understand that children get traumatised when they experience violence in their homes.
Senior Magistrate, Albert Daniels, said: “If you are a dad, I want you to know that if your daughter has seen you violently behaving towards her mum, she doesn’t trust you anymore to look after her.
“If your son has seen you violent towards his mum, he has experienced trauma too, it will show when he grows into an adult and follows your example. So think about how your actions today will affect the future,” he said.
He was part of the Lihir market management in Londolovit Township, New Ireland Province, who recently started their journey in facilitating awareness sessions on safe, healthy and positive behaviour.
In partnership with Newcrest Lihir through its anti-violence and behaviour shift program; Trupla Man Trupla Meri (TMTM), the local police and district court and the market team successfully staged two awareness sessions on conflict management towards end of last year, and will continue its journey next month (February) to kick start the year.
More than 1,000 people have been empowered through these awareness sessions, on how they can effectively manage conflicts at home and in their communities.
The awareness sessions were initially arranged following concerns on the rise of violence and anti-social issues in Lihir. The sessions took an interactive approach to encourage locals to participate in discussions and highlight positive ways in managing conflicts.
A vocal vendor, Anna Asandu, said one way to manage conflicts at home was to practise Christian values and principles.
“This country is blessed with Christian values that promote love, joy, peace, kindness, patience, humility, self-control, respect and truth. If we are not in harmony, hurting each other, then we reflect a society that is not living according to its Christian principles and faith,” she said.
New Irelander, Steven Duo, who works with a local company, Lihir Maintenance Services, challenged the people to change their negative mindset and behaviour. “If you are someone who gets angry quickly, learn to manage your anger. Anger is like fire, it burns and before you know it, it damages relationships in families and communities.
“Before you decide on taking the law into your own hands, assess the possible outcomes and consequences. For example, if you want to steal something, ask yourself if it will bring good and honest benefits to your home and community,” he said.
Another New Irelander, John Lekun, highlighted the need for communities to embrace cultural principles that promote peace and unity. “We (New Irelanders) all belong to a cultural societies, with Maimais (clan leaders). We also have cultural principles that promote peace and unity. I call on the provincial government through its administrative arms to support us maintain peaceful communities,” said Lekun.
Trupla Man Trupla Meri mirrors Newcrest’s Safety and Sustainability and People pillars, in promoting happy, safe and productive homes, communities and workplaces.