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The Motu Koita Assembly is a unique legislative body in Papua New Guinea that represents the indigenous Motu and Koitabu people, who are the traditional landowners of the National Capital District, where the capital city of Port Moresby is located.

17/08/2026

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17/08/2026

MOTU KOITA ASSEMBLY EXPRESSES PROFOUND GRATITUDE TO PNG PORTS CORPORATION LIMITED FOR SILVER SPONSORSHIP OF THE 53RD HIRI MOALE FESTIVAL

Monday 17th August 2026

The Motu Koita Assembly (MKA) is delighted to formally announce and acknowledge a generous donation of K50,000 from PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNG Ports), securing their place as a prestigious Silver Sponsor for the upcoming 2026 Hiri Moale Festival this September.

This significant contribution provides a vital boost to the preparations for Papua New Guinea’s premiere cultural event, ensuring the continued preservation and celebration of the indigenous Motu-Koita culture and the historic Hiri trade legacy.
Speaking on behalf of the Assembly, the Hiri Moale Festival Committee, and the indigenous landowners of the National Capital District, the Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly and Deputy Governor of the NCD, Hon. Russell Simon Wavik, extended his sincere appreciation to the board, management, and the Chief Executive Officer of PNG Ports, Mr. Neil Papenfus.

"We are grateful to PNG Ports Corporation Limited and CEO Neil Papenfus for choosing to walk alongside the Motu Koita Assembly in hosting this iconic cultural celebration," Chairman Wavik stated. "As a nation, our maritime history is deeply rooted in the ancestral voyaging routes of the Lagatoi. For PNG Ports—the gateway to our maritime trade—to come onboard as a sponsor creates a beautiful alignment with the very essence of the Hiri Trade legacy. Under Mr. Papenfus's leadership, this K50,000 sponsorship stands as a powerful investment in our cultural identity and our heritage"
The Hiri Moale Festival is more than a cultural showcase; it is a national remembrance that honours the traditional landowners upon whose ancestral ground the capital city thrives. Partnerships like the one forged with PNG Ports ensure that these sacred traditions, stories, and customs are safely passed down to future generations while fostering unity across our communities.

The Motu Koita Assembly extends its warmest thanks to CEO Neil Papenfus and the entire team at PNG Ports Corporation Limited for their trust, vision, and unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility and cultural preservation.

Get ready, Port Moresby, as we sail together towards a vibrant and memorable 53rd Hiri Moale Festival!

16/08/2026

Introducing our 10th applicant for the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo, Miss Boio Buri of Pari Taurama! 👑✨

The cultural journey continues as we proudly introduce another exceptional young woman stepping forward to answer the sacred calling of her ancestors.

We are delighted to introduce Miss Boio Buri, who has successfully completed her registration as the 10th official applicant for the prestigious 2026 Hiri Hanenamo! 🌺As the second interest representing the proud village of Pari Taurama, 21-year-old Miss Buri enters this year's quest with the official nomination and endorsement of Pari Taurama Ward Councillor, Hon. Peter Noka.

Miss Buri is currently a student at the Institute of Business Studies (IBS) and proudly represents her clan, the Vahoi clan. As she prepares to take the stage at this September's Hiri Moale Festival, she carries the rich traditions, stories, and cultural heritage of Pari village with poise, dignity, and pride.

The official announcement will be made introducing all our contestants for the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo by Wednesday 19th August.

Let's show our immense pride and leave our warmest words of encouragement for Miss Boio Buri in the comments section below!

✍🏽👇🏽

16/08/2026

Introducing our next cultural ambassador from Boera Village, Miss Tyla Aua! 👑✨

With the official closure of the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo applications on Thursday 13th August, the Hiri Moale Festival Committee has been overwhelmed by the incredible interest shown by young lasses right across our Motu Koita villages along the central coast.

To maintain the integrity of the quest, the committee has strictly enforced the deadline, and any applications received after the closing date were not accepted.

While all other entries are currently undergoing a thorough review process, we are excited to share a unique update! Two of our traditional villages had a second applicant successfully step forward, complete their registration, and submit everything before the final cutoff.

Today, we are absolutely delighted to introduce the second registered applicant hailing from Boera Village—22-year-old Miss Tyla Aua! 🌺

Miss Aua is currently a student at the Pacific Adventist University (PAU) and is stepping onto the sacred cultural stage to proudly represent her clan, the Idauata Sinavai 1. She joins her fellow village sister to hold the pride, traditions, and legacy of Boera high at this September's Hiri Moale Festival.

Please join us in giving a warm Motu Koita welcome and leaving your messages of support for Miss Tyla Aua in the comments below! ✍🏽👇🏽

14/08/2026

MOTU KOITA ASSEMBLY PARTNERS WITH GULF PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT AND KEREMA DDA FOR HISTORIC CULTURAL SHOWCASE AT THE 2026 HIRI MOALE FESTIVAL

PORT MORESBY, PAPUA NEW GUINEA — The Motu Koita Assembly (MKA) officially announced a historic cultural partnership with the Gulf Provincial Government and the Kerema District Development Authority (DDA). The landmark alliance secures a dedicated Hiri Cultural Showcase during the upcoming 2026 Hiri Moale Festival, reviving the ancestral bonds of the ancient Hiri Trade route. This cooperative vision was initially sparked by the initiative of the Minister for Finance and Member for Kerema Open, Hon. Thomas Opa, upon inviting MKA Chairman Hon. Russell Simon Wavik to attend the Toare Mask Festival on August 1st in the Gulf Province—a momentous visit that directly paved the way for this vibrant cultural partnership.

The milestone partnership is backed by a significant financial commitment totaling K200,000 to assist the festival committee with staging costs. The Gulf Governor’s Office has committed K100,000 toward the festival's delivery, complemented by a separate K100,000 donation from the Office of the Member for Kerema.

The media launch, at NCD City Hall, brought together high-level political, traditional, and administrative leaders. Officiating the event was Minister Hon. Thomas Opa, MP, who delivered a key announcement alongside Hon. Ross Oro Miva, President of the Moripi LLG, who spoke on behalf of the Gulf Acting Governor, Hon. Morris Taudevin, MPA.

The ceremony saw active participation from the Moripi Council of Chiefs (MCOC) led by interim chairman Mr. Hasu Lokoloko. The MCOC represents the Moripi tribe—including Iokea, Miaru, Sepoe, and the Lese villages—who serve as key traditional custodians and are heavily involved in negotiations regarding the Papua LNG project benefits.

Hosting the visiting delegation was the Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly and NCD Deputy Governor, Hon. Russell Simon Wavik, who presented the MKA's official response. He was accompanied by senior MKA management and Motu Koita village councillors.

"The Hiri Trade was never just an economic transaction; it was a lifeline built on mutual respect and partnership between our people and our families in the Gulf," stated MKA Chairman Hon. Russell Simon Wavik.

"Welcoming the Gulf Provincial Government, the Kerema DDA, and the Moripi Council of Chiefs into the 2026 Hiri Moale Festival brings a profound sense of cultural fulfillment. This generous K200,000 backing ensures we can showcase the absolute best of our shared heritage."

Minister for Finance and Member for Kerema Open, Hon. Thomas Opa, emphasised that supporting the festival preserves vital oral histories while strengthening contemporary regional cooperation and economic links. The funding will directly support cultural groups traveling to the capital to participate in key festival fixtures, including the spectacular Lagatoi arrivals, float parades, and traditional exchange ceremonies.

14/08/2026

MOTU KOITA ASSEMBLY CONDUCTS TRADE LICENCE INSPECTION AND AWARENESS AT MAHURU VILLAGE TO REINFORCE COMPLIANCE

PORT MORESBY, AUGUST 13, 2026

The Motu Koita Assembly (MKA) Trade Licence Division, in collaborative partnership with local village Councillor Hon. Mal Udia, Mahuru village wardens, and the Motu Koita Community Police, successfully conducted a joint Trade Licence inspection and community awareness operation at Mahuru Village on Thursday, August 13, 2026.

This multi-agency exercise follows a baseline inspection conducted two (2) months prior, prompted by ongoing law and order issues in the community. That initial operation strictly urged local trade store and liquor outlet owners to follow established legal processes in obtaining or renewing their operational licences. Yesterday’s follow-up enforcement drive was executed to assess compliance levels, verify documentation, and shut down operations failing to adhere to MKA and NCD regulatory frameworks.

As a result of the rigorous operation, a total of 10 shops were inspected, resulting in 10 shops being closed down due to trading without a licence, and 3 shops being confiscated for illegally selling without a liquor licence.

The Motu Koita Assembly expresses its profound gratitude to the Mahuru village wardens and the community police for their outstanding cooperation and professionalism. Their active involvement on the ground ensured a peaceful, orderly, and highly efficient operation. The Assembly also sincerely appreciates local village Councillor Hon. Mal Udia for being at the forefront and actively supporting the MKA Trade Licence Division throughout the entire operation.

Business compliance remains a critical priority for the Assembly to safeguard the regulatory environment and ensure fair commercial practices within our customary boundaries. All non-compliant business operators are strongly urged to visit the Motu Koita Assembly Licensing Team as well as the National Capital District Commission immediately to regularise their documentation and avoid permanent closure.

Under the leadership of Motu Koita Assembly Chairman Hon. Russell Simon Wavik’s vision to improve social order in the Motu Koita community and villages, the Assembly will be enforcing more of such operations across all Motu Koita villages to ensure ongoing regulatory compliance.

14/08/2026

THE 2026 HIRI HANENAMO QUEST!

The Motu Koita Assembly is proud to present our 14th beautiful Hanenamo applicant stepping forward for the prestigious 2026 Hiri Hanenamo cultural quest!

Representing the proud coastal village of Gaire, please welcome 23-year-old Miss Asi Hota!

Hailing from the Idibana clan, Asi is currently a dedicated student at the Port Moresby Business College, where she is pursuing her studies in Tourism and Hospitality. Her academic path perfectly aligns with her passion for heritage, hospitality, and cultural representation.

Miss Hota enters this year's quest with the strong endorsement and nomination of Iru Hera, a renowned traditional tattooist. In nominating her, Iru Hera highlighted Asi’s outstanding personal discipline and her deep, unwavering respect for Motu traditions—qualities that embody the true spirit of a cultural ambassador.

We also want to take a moment to sincerely thank all of our wonderful applicants for following through on their registration and committing to this journey. An official announcement introducing all of the incredible contestants for the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo will be made soon!

As we celebrate the strong, young women stepping up to carry the legacy of our ancestors, we wish Miss Asi Hota the absolute best on her journey in this year's cultural quest!

Keep an eye on our page as we continue to share updates leading up to the upcoming Hiri Moale Festival!

🇵🇬

13/08/2026

NTRODUCING OUR 13TH HIRI HANENAMO APPLICANT! 👑✨

The Motu Koita Assembly is proud to introduce our 13th applicant to complete registration for the prestigious 2026 Hiri Hanenamo Quest, representing the proud village of Kouderika—Miss Margaret Mulaseula!

Hailing from the traditional Mokagaha Clan, Margaret is a 20-year-old first-year student currently pursuing her tertiary education at the International Training Institute (ITI). Driven by a profound respect for her roots, she has stepped forward determined to serve as a cultural custodian and a leading voice for her community.

Her cultural journey is proudly endorsed and championed by her local village leader, Kouderika Councillor Hon. Rausi Goro, who holds strong confidence that Margaret will represent their clan and village with immense grace, intelligence, and pride as a cultural ambassador.

🚨 APPLICATIONS HAVE OFFICIALLY CLOSED! 🚨
Today, Thursday, 13th August 2026, marks the final closing date for submissions.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thank you to everyone who has successfully followed through with the application process from start to finish. Get ready, as the formal vetting is underway and we prepare for the official introductions of all our contestants!

A massive thank you to all the vibrant, inspiring young women across our Motu Koitabu villages who have registered to step up as future storytellers and keepers of our ancestral heritage. Stay tuned to our page as we showcase the remarkable young women vying for the ultimate title of cultural ambassador at the upcoming Hiri Moale Festival!

🇵🇳🐚

13/08/2026

2026 ASI ASI HEAU HELULU - APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN!

The 2026 Hiri Moale Festival is thrilled to announce the upcoming Asi Asi Heau Helulu (Canoe Racing) competition. This highly anticipated traditional event celebrates our rich seafaring heritage and will bring together the finest teams to compete for major cash rewards. Space is strictly limited to ensure a fair and competitive race.

Event Details
• Date: Saturday, 12th September 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Registration Fee: K20 per entry

Important Guidelines
• Participant Limit: Only the first 100 registrations will participate.
• Registration Deadline: Friday, 28th August 2026.
• Standard Race Rules Apply: All competitors must adhere to standard safety and racing regulations.
• Asi Asi Classification - 850cm (All in same size)
• Sail Dimension : 50cm x 45cm

To collect a Registration Form, please contact Lahui directly on mobile at (+675) 7775 6936. For general inquiries, email the event coordination team at [email protected].

12/08/2026

Motu Koita Assembly and BSP Financial Group Partner to Upgrade Kira Kira Cricket Grounds

Wednesday 12th August 2026

KIRA KIRA, PORT MORESBY— The Motu Koita Assembly Office is proud to announce the official ground-breaking ceremony of a major community development initiative to upgrade the Kira Kira Cricket Grounds. In a formal ceremony held today, the Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly and Deputy Governor of the National Capital District, Hon. Russell Simon Wavik, was joined by his deputy and member for Kirakira Hon. Pastor Babani Harry, and Assembly Manager and CEO Mr. Hendry Toua to officiate the occasion.

Representing the project partner from BSP BSP Financial Group Limited was Group GM People & Culture - Mr. Jonathan Harvey, Group CFO - Mr. Glen Skarrot, Group GM Corporate Affairs & Community- Ms. Hari Rabura to break ground on this community-driven infrastructure project.

The upgrade of the Kira Kira Cricket Grounds signals a renewed commitment by the current Assembly administration to restore deteriorating local sporting facilities, preserve cultural sports heritage, and empower the indigenous youth of the Motu and Koitabu villages.

Speaking at the project site, Chairman Hon. Russell Simon Wavik stated:
"This project represents a profound milestone for local sports and our youth. Kira Kira has historically produced some of the finest cricketers to ever represent both our village and Papua New Guinea on the international stage. Over the years, these vital facilities have deteriorated. Today, we step forward to rectify that, bringing world-class sporting infrastructure to our local talent and safeguarding it for future generations."

The Chairman highlighted the special civic pride tied to the development, noting that many current leaders and community figures began their own sporting journeys on these very fields. He also extended deep gratitude to the Kira Kira youth currently employed within BSP PNG, whose initiative helped foster this significant public-private partnership.

This sports development project aligns with the administration's broader vision to modernise infrastructure across all fourteen (14) wards of Motu Koita while uplifting the economic and social well-being of the traditional landowners of the city.

The Motu Koita Assembly conveys its appreciation to BSP Financial Group, local community leaders, and residents who gathered today to celebrate this milestone. Further structural timelines and project milestones will be made public as physical construction progresses.

Address

Level 1, City Hall Annex, Waigani
Port Moresby
121

Telephone

+67582253366

Website

http://www.paclii.org/

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