Hiri Moale festival

The highlight of the event was the recognition of 10 individuals as cultural ambassadors, showcasing their dedication to preserving and promoting traditional customs representing their villages.

This year marks the festival's 50th Anniversary, and Air Niugini's total sponsorship valued at K75,000.00 stands as a testament to its unwavering support.

As a bronze sponsor and the official beverage sponsor, Pacific Industries is extending its support with a generous sponsorship valued at K45,000.

To express their gratitude, the festival organizers emphasised the critical role of sponsors in showcasing the rich culture and heritage of the Motu Koitabu people, and acknowledged the honour of celebrating this significant milestone alongside Moni Plus, recognizing the company's steadfast support since 2022.

Founded in 1998 as a financial intermediary, Moni Plus has emerged as a respected entity in the financial institutions market. Under the leadership of Managing Director Aho Baliki OBE, the company has continually expanded its services.

Molly O’Rouke, representing the Motu Koita Assembly, announced the milestone event, highlighting Steamships' enduring support.

The cheque was ceremoniously presented to the festival's organizing committee today, Friday, 1st March 2024, at Ravalian Haus in Port Moresby by BSP Group Chief Executive Officer Mark Robinson.

Rooted in the historical trade voyages between the Motuan people of Central Province and those of Gulf Province, the Hiri Moale Festival stands as a testament to Papua New Guinea's rich cultural tapestry. Featuring traditional dances, exhilarating canoe races, and captivating handicraft displays, the festival embodies the essence of Motuan heritage.

Steamships is a Gold sponsor and naming rights sponsor for the Coral Sea Cultural Performance for the festival. A sponsor of K100, 000 was done today at the Motu Koita Assembly Office.

Steamships Trading Company managing director, Rupert Bray shared that Steamships has a really long history with the towns and villages around the coast and its over 105 years now that they have been involved with business and the communities of Motu Koita.

Chairman for Motu Koita Assembly and Deputy Governor for NCD, Dadi Toka Jnr, acknowledged the sponsors and stated that the assembly is looking forward for the beginning of another long term sponsor.

Deputy Governor stated that the Air Niugini sponsorship covers International Return Airline Tickets for the Hiri Hanenamo Title Winners and Domestic Return Airline Tickets for the Hiri Hanenamo contestants.

It reflects to the time of the ancestors, particularly the return of the seafarers after the long voyage to the Gulf of Papua for the Hiri Trade.

Many years have passed since the last voyage but the celebration holds an even stronger meaning to this day.

While it’s about preserving culture, Udia says the celebration is about the struggle and determination and survival of the ethnicity, which resonates today in the face of development.  

This happens so every time there are special occasions, like festivals such as provincial days, cultural events including school or work events that get the interest of tourists and locals as well.

Loop PNG interviewed a group of mothers who were selling their handcraft at Ela Beach during the Hiri Moale Festival and this is what they had to say.

Maria Joseph from Enga sells bilums which she weaves herself.