National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG)

The small publication titled Kambek: Reconnecting Collections is a collaboration between the research team and their partner organisation Papua New Guinea National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG) and Queensland Museum (QM).

The Tok Pisin word kam bek translate into English as “to come back or return”, encapsulates the spirit of the artefacts returning to their country of origin around 100 years after their collection and removal to Queensland Museum.

The 32-year-old father of six runs a campsite and guest house with his wife Deffy and is the curator of the local museum – all initiated by his father Siosi Laimo.

“It was my father that started all of what I have and own today. He was one of the first locals who opened the Kokoda Trail for trekkers,” recalls Siosi.

As the public relations officer for NMAG in Port Moresby, Andy plays a critical role in promoting the museum to local and international visitors as an institution of knowledge and cultural identity.

“NMAG preserves over 100,000 artefacts and it is my job to attract visitors to the museum, so they can learn more about our country and enjoy the diverse items on display,” she said.

This follows the reappointment of a senior public servant with performance issues at the National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG).

The acting appointment was made this week without the Minister being present at the Ministerial Executive Appointment Commitment (MEAC).

Kulang said in a media conference today that he has not been properly and effectively consulted as required by Section 6 of the principal law; Regulatory State Authorities Act 2004.

He said the Board of Trustees deliberately avoided invoking Section 4 of the RSA Act 2004.