PNG Ports Corporation

The launching of the Rubber Inflated Boat (RIB) comes after PNG Ports received a number of reports of illegal activities, including alleged theft of vessel parts and cargoes, prostitution, arms trade, illicit drug smuggling and other crimes in Rabaul’s Simpson Harbour. 

Acting Chief Executive Officer of PNG Ports, Rodney Begley, said this is an initiative by PNG Ports under its community service obligation to provide a vital service to Aitape, boost the economy of the district and support the Government’s Connect PNG initiative.

PNG Ports will work in consultation with Member for Aitape-Lumi, Anderson Mise and the District Development Authority (DDA). 

He thanked the Australian Government for having the confidence and trust in PNG Ports with the awarding of the financial agreement worth almost PGK1.5 billion (USD$435 million).

Mr Wali thanked the Australian Government and the people for the major funding assistance to improve ports throughout the country.

He also acknowledged the support of Prime Minister, James Marape, Ministry of State Enterprises and Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) for believing in PNG Ports and supporting this initiative for ports rehabilitation.

However, there is hope on the horizon, as PNG Ports Corporation finally takes steps towards refurbishing the wharf and the causeway.

PNG Ports Corporation Managing Director, Fego Kiniafa said the condition of Daru Wharf deteriorated over the years purely because it was not a viable money making port.  He explained that money is usually spent where there is a good return.

“In terms of initiatives for Daru, we are fully aware of the current debilitated state of the wharf itself,” Kiniafa said.

A small but significant presentation was made at the PNG Ports office in Port Moresby yesterday, Thursday 25^th November.

PNGPCL Managing Director, Fego Kiniafa said this is not the first time PNG Ports has assisted St John Ambulance, but this time help has come in a big way.

He said they would also assist St. John Ambulance service in Lae where their biggest port facility is.

The boats were built by an Australian boat-building company, Norman R. Wright and Sons (NWS).

Named in honour of the legendary Motuan sea-fearer from Boera, Edai-Siabo. The design of the boat is customized to meet the specific needs of PNG Ports Corporation and its clients. The Siabo will be used to transfer pilots and also be used by port security as a coastal patrol vessel.

The landowners state PNG Ports did not consult with them before it went ahead and started constructing a causeway, or road, through their land.

“We understand that PNG Ports Corporation had bought the Motukea Island from Curtain Brothers Limited in 2016 for a sum of K725 million. It had further obtained a K350 million loan from BSP to construct Port facilities and the causeway.

“What’s really startling is that the Motukea deal did not include a causeway,” said landowner spokesman Gaudi Rei.

Another twist to the story is that the causeway is built on disputed land.

KCH was previously known as the Independent Public Business Corporation( IPBC).

PNG Ports declared a full dividend of K17 million at the end of the 2012 Financial Year.

In a presentation, PNG Ports Board chairman Nathaniel Poya  declared the second instalment payment of K8.5 million.

“You have proven that you are worthy of the stewardship that you have been given and you have been accountable to the shareholder, congratulations.