Member for Abau and a long-serving leader in PNG, Sir Puka Temu has claimed that PNG is entering the new year 2026, under the weight of real and persistent hardship.
He said for many families, daily life has become more difficult than at any time in recent memory.
“Rising living costs, insecurity in our communities, unreliable services and limited employment opportunities have forced ordinary citizens to rely increasingly on their own resilience.
“In these tough times, people are doing what they must to survive—taking care of themselves, supporting extended families and leaning on community networks where government presence is often absent.
“As a long-serving leader of this country, I make these remarks with great humility. I have witnessed periods of hope and growth, as well as moments of deep frustration and missed opportunity. I speak not to inflame division or score political points, but out of genuine concern for our people and for the future direction of our nation.
“At the core of national stability lies the family. Strong families create disciplined children, responsible citizens and cohesive communities,” he said.
Sir Puka reiterated that when families are united, communities are safer, social values are upheld and national unity is strengthened.
He said in a time when institutions are under strain, the family remains the strongest defence against social breakdown, and it must be protected and supported through policy, education and community leadership.
“Yet resilience and family unity alone cannot solve the challenges before us. There must be stronger and more vocal advocacy against the rising levels of lawlessness that continue to terrorise communities. Our health system is struggling, leaving vulnerable citizens without proper care. Education standards are declining, threatening the future of our children.
“At the same time, very low income levels and a lack of job opportunities are robbing young people of hope and dignity. These are no longer isolated problems—they are national emergencies that require decisive and coordinated action.”
He said Government priorities must be realigned with law and order, health, education, agriculture and manufacturing taking the centre of national planning.
“These sectors are not abstract policy areas; they directly determine whether our people can live safely, stay healthy, gain skills and earn a decent living. Agriculture and manufacturing in particular hold the key to job creation, food security and economic self-reliance, yet they continue to be underdeveloped and undervalued.”
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