Late Chief Jacob Luke

The heavy downpour in Lae did not faze residents as the business community, Mapai staff, family and friends turned up to commemorate the life of one of the most iconic yet humble PNG businessman and leader.

From humble beginnings in 198, with the use of only one truck, the Engan business tycoon steadily increased his fleet to more than 80 prime movers and 400 employees that move 110,000 containers per year from three locations in PNG.

The community is made up of Mapai's board, management and staff.

“Jacob Luke, from humble beginnings to recognition as a Chief of PNG, owner of PNG’s largest transport company, a pioneer and leader who strongly and passionately advocated for not only the transport industry but PNG people and communities.

“Always available to discuss matters, open to new ideas, innovative and an industry leader to, and above, global business standards.

“A strong Christian man equally tough in situations where toughness was required.

The Lae MP-elect said: “It’s with great sadness that Lae and Papua New Guinea has lost a stalwart in the transport and trucking industry, someone who contributed immensely to the growth and development of our country.

“Chief Jacob Luke is a fine example of a hard working Papua New Guinean; a village boy who started his business without any government assistance, no SME support but through sheer hard work and perseverance.

The body of the late owner of one of PNG's largest trucking firms, Mapai Transport, was discovered Friday Morning at his Lakolam home in Enga Province.

Manolos CEO, Captain Jurgen Ruh, said they picked up the Late Chief's body and brought him over to Lae yesterday afternoon.

A large convoy went around Lae city before his body was brought to his new storage yard at Speedway.

Capt Ruh said the atmosphere was “very sad and somber”.

Capt Ruh also reported that an unrest started as soon as they left Lakolam.