𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝’𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐬-𝐋𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞

Nice, June 12, 2025 - At the UN Ocean Conference, the governments of Solomon Islands and Vanuatu announced their intention to create the Melanesian Ocean Reserve to safeguard the ancestral waters, homelands, and people of the southwestern Pacific. The area is one of the world’s most biodiverse marine regions. Protecting it will secure the economic and cultural vitality of hundreds of distinct Indigenous Peoples while furthering global climate, biodiversity, and ocean goals.

The Melanesian Ocean Reserve will be the first Indigenous-led multi-national ocean reserve on Earth. When complete, it will span at least 6 million square kilometers of ocean and islands— an area as vast as the Amazon rainforest. It will encompass the combined national waters of the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea, and connect with the protected waters of the Exclusive Economic Zone of New Caledonia.

“For millennia, the Indigenous Peoples of Melanesia have been the wisest and most effective stewards of these sacred waters. That is why the governments of Melanesia are joining forces to create an unprecedented ocean reserve that honors our identities, livelihoods, and spiritual connections,” said Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele.

“It is an objective of our National Ocean Policy to establish this transboundary corridor of traditionally managed ocean space between our countries, and we are delighted that this is now happening,” said Vanuatu’s Minister for Environment Ralph Regenvanu. “The Melanesian Ocean Reserve will give the governments and peoples of Melanesia the ability to do much more to protect our ancestral waters from those who extract and exploit without concern for our planet and its living beings. We hope our Indigenous stewardship of this vast reserve will create momentum for similar initiatives all over the world.”

Ocean Conference shows more progress than climate COPs, says Regenvanu

 

Vanuatu’s Minister for Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, says the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice has left him more optimistic than previous global climate gatherings (Conference of the Parties/COPs), due to a number of concrete and transformational announcements by world leaders.

“I definitely feel much more positive being at this United Nations Ocean Conference than I ever have at any COP,” he said. “This is because we have seen important commitments—such as French Polynesia announcing the world’s largest marine protected area, and our neighbour, the Solomon Islands, declaring a moratorium on deep-sea mining within their jurisdiction.”

The Minister added that while these pledges are voluntary, the fact that national leaders made them personally inspires confidence they will be upheld. “It feels like these are not just words. These are real commitments that leaders intend to keep,” he said.

Regenvanu also acknowledged the leadership of small island nations, particularly the Presidents of Palau and the Marshall Islands. “They have been champions in environmental protection, climate action, and safeguarding our oceans. These are not only policy statements—they are actions already underway. I believe we are beginning to see a shift in global efforts,” he said.

The Minister reflected on his role in an event marking the formal depositing of instruments of ratification for the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement). “At least 20 countries, including six from the Pacific, deposited their instruments at this conference. This shows legal protections for the ocean are taking shape,” Regenvanu said.

He stressed the need for legal approaches to climate challenges, noting frustration with the slow progress of UN climate negotiations over the past 30 years. “We believe legal measures are necessary because the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) process has not delivered enough. Despite the Paris Agreement’s goal to keep temperature rise below 1.5°C and cut global emissions, we are seeing record emission levels and temperatures above that limit,” the Climate Change Minister added.

Regenvanu also criticised the lack of follow-through on climate finance promises. “We keep hearing about climate finance, but it has not materialised as promised,” he added.

Source VDPost

PACIFIC STORY PLATFORM EMPOWERS SME VENDORS

Small business owners and vendors participating in the final day of the Amazing 50th Celebrations - Pacific Story at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium have expressed deep appreciation to NCD Governor Powes Parkop for providing a valuable platform that empowered local and regional SMEs.

Among the many vendors was Daisy Magrick Orelly, a first-time visitor from the Solomon Islands, who showcased her vibrant collection of handmade fans, hats, baskets, and purses. 

“It’s my first time traveling outside my country, and I’m glad to be here. I thank Governor Parkop for organizing this event,” she said, highlighting strong sales and the welcoming atmosphere.

Brenda Kumbia, also from the Solomon Islands and married to a Papua New Guinean, sold out her traditional tapioca 

and cassava dishes. 

“I made good sales, made friends, and had many visitors. This was a great opportunity,” she shared.

Melinda Ton from Kairuku, married to a West Papuan, echoed the praise after selling out her hot dogs. 

“This platform is empowering for SMEs, especially for mothers like us. We need more of these,” she said.

West Papuan vendor Yanti Marteshop also spoke highly of the event. 

“My sales are going well. It’s nice to be part of this big event,” she said, looking forward to participating in future celebrations because she really enjoyed the safe and friendly environment and meeting other West Papuans and friendly Pacific Islanders from other Melanesian countries.

The owner of Lulu’s Arts and Crafts, Lucy K. Areke, earned a good income from selling crafts, bilums, Meri Kolos, drinks, and home-baked cakes during the Asia-Pacific Stories event, she told City Sivarai.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for SMEs with unique products to sell to the people of the Pacific. For me, it has been a thriving opportunity, and I’ve doubled my usual monthly sales,” Areke said.

She added that most of her items sold out for the first time, and she is truly grateful for such an amazing opportunity and the platform that the NCD Governor and his team from NCDC have created for mothers like her.

On the same note, she expressed her appreciation for the coordination team from Amazing Port Moresby, including Melissa Brabar and her team, for consistently involving SME stalls in flagship events across the city.

“It’s not just about making money—it’s about showing other cities that Port Moresby is safe for women and girls to come out at night and sell our products.”

The Pacific Story not only celebrated cultural unity but also opened economic opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs across the region.

Solomon Islands High Commissioner Celebrates PNG’s 50th Anniversary with a Message of Pacific Unity

In a moving address on the final day of the Pacific Story celebrations at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Solomon Islands High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency William Soaki, delivered a heartfelt tribute to PNG on its 50th Anniversary of Independence.

Speaking before a vibrant crowd, Commissioner Soaki reflected on the unbreakable cultural, historical and spiritual bonds between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. 

"We are neighbours by geography, brothers and sisters by our common Melanesian identity, and united in spirit through our churches and many shared ties," he said.

He acknowledged the deep people-to-people connections—from missionaries and trade to education and intermarriages—emphasizing shared milestones such as former Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare being born in PNG and current Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele graduating from the University of Papua New Guinea.

Commissioner Soaki extended warm congratulations to the government and people of PNG on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government and people, praising NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop and the NCDC for giving Pacific communities a platform to celebrate unity through culture.

He also acknowledged the contributions of Pacific Island communities from Fiji and West Papua, expressing unity with them.

Soaki lauded Governor Powes Parkop and the National Capital District Commission for their vision in hosting the Pacific Story, highlighting its platform for showcasing Pacific cultures and providing a voice for Pacific Islanders residing in PNG.

He called for the celebration to be more than just a celebration, but a catalyst for new friendships, partnerships, and cultural exchanges across the Pacific family.  

“Let tonight not just be a celebration but the beginning of deeper friendships and regional solidarity,” said Soaki. 

“To you PNG, you do not just stand tall in the Pacific—you lead as you rise.”

"In all our diversity, we are strongest when we stand together," concluded Soaki.  

The event featured Solomon Islands performers including Wantok Point of View, Cool Roots, and cultural groups from Malaita and Western Province.

Masyarakat adat Tambrauw menolak YKAN

 

Sorong, Jubi – Masyarakat adat suku Abun di Kabupaten Tambrauw menolak kehadiran Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) untuk melakukan segala jenis kegiatan di atas tanah adat marga Yeblo Sah dan Yeblo Sir.

Dalam aksi penolakannya, Masyarakat adat Suku Abun dari distrik Sausapor, Bikar dan Kwor bersama marga Yeblo Sah dan Yeblo Sir selaku pemilik hak ulayat di distrik Bikar dan Pulau Dua melakukan pemalangan Kantor Unit Pelaksana Teknis Daerah (UPTD) Tour Informasi Center (TIC)  yang  digunakan Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara sebagai kantor pada Senin, (3/6/2025).

Perwakilan marga Yeblo Sah, Welmus mengatakan kehadiran YKAN di wilayah adat mereka tanpa sosialisasi atau pertemuan dengan pemilik hak ulayat.

“Kami tidak tahu apa tujuan dari YKAN. [mereka] tidak pernah ada pertemuan dengan kami selaku pemilik hak ulayat. Kami pemilik hak ulayat kaget juga kalau ada YKAN setelah beberapa kegiatan yang dilakukan di distrik Bikar,” katanya.

Welmus mengaku, kehadiran YKAN tidak memberikan dampak yang baik pemilik hak ulayat.  Menurutnya YKAN hanya memanfaatkan potensi sumber daya alam di wilayah adat mereka untuk kepentingan YKAN bukan masyarakat setempat dan pemilik hak ulayat.

“Kami dengar banyak turis yang didatangkan selama ini untuk menikmati keindahan alam maupun terumbu karang di Pulau Dua. Tapi hasilnya kami pemilik hak ulayat tidak mengetahui,” ujarnya.

Cosmas Yeblo, perwakilan marga Yeblo Sir menegaskan sejak pemasangan papan bertuliskan penolakan, Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara harus keluar dan berhenti beraktivitas di wilayah adat Suku Abun, khusunya marga Yeblo Sah dan Yeblo Sir.

Jika Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara mengabaikan penolakan Masyarakat adat, jika terjadi sesuatu YKAN yang bertanggung jawab.

“Kami sudah tolak YKAN. jika terus melakukan aktivitas maka kami pemilik hak ulayat akan tindak tegas dan resiko yang akan terjadi ditanggung YKAN,” tegasnya.

Yustina Yesnath, perwakilan tokoh perempuan suku Abun menambahkan aksi yang dilakukan masyarakat adat suku Abun dan pemilik hak ulayat hanya menegaskan dua poin penting.

Yustina menegaskan poin tuntutan mereka itu lahir berdasarkan hasil kesepakatan dalam beberapa pertemuan internal yang dilakukan masyarakat adat suku Abun dan pemilik hak ulayat.

“Poin tuntutan kami cuma dua. Yang pertama menolak tegas YKAN beraktivitas di wilayah adat suku Abun terutama tanah adat marga Yeblo Sah dan Yeblo Sir. Sedangkan poin kedua itu, stop lakukan sasi (larangan) di Pulau Dua tanpa izin dari kami pemilik hak ulayat,” tegas.

Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) adalah organisasi nirlaba berbasis ilmiah yang hadir di Indonesia sejak 2014. Bekerja di 600 desa dan 9 provinsi termasuk provinsi Papua Barat dan Papua Barat daya. YKAN bekerja di isu lingkungan seperti kehutanan, dan kelautan. (*)

Governor Parkop Acknowledges Pacific Unity as "Pacific Story" Closes in Grand Celebration

Thousands of city residents packed the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium on Saturday May 31, to join the Amazing 50th Celebrations with Fiji, Solomon Islands and West Papua, concluding with day 3 of Pacific Story.

The crowd started building up early in the day as many Papua New Guineans are fans of Pacific music and were eager to see their favourite artists from groups namely, Point of View band, Ghemu, Westpa Trio, Ramo, Jammin, Seru Serevi & Georgina, Kool Rootz and Onetox from these Melanesian countries.

The final day of the “Pacific Story” celebration concluded on a powerful note, as NCD Governor and host of the event, Hon. Powes Parkop, paid tribute to the Pacific communities who contributed to the success of the three-weekend event, part of the official countdown to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, 2025.

He emphasized the significance of the "Pacific Story" in commemorating PNG's 50 years of nationhood, acknowledging both the challenges and triumphs of the journey.  

He underscored the importance of reflection and learning from the past to build an even brighter future.  

"This is our journey, our story, about our country and our people," he stated.

The Governor extended heartfelt gratitude to the Pacific Island communities who participated throughout the three-day event, specifically mentioning Samoa, New Zealand, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Tonga, Cook Islands, Tahiti, Hawaii, Solomon Islands, Fiji, and West Papua.  

He praised their enthusiastic participation and the powerful storytelling through their cultural performances.  

"Our story is not complete without acknowledging their contributions," said Governor Parkop.

He highlighted the historical significance of these communities' involvement in shaping PNG's history, citing examples such as the contribution of police officers from Tonga, Fiji, and Solomon Islands to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary in 1902, the role of Fiji Medical School in educating PNG's early doctors, the influence of Fijian missionaries in various regions of the country, and the significant contributions of the West Papuan community since 1962 across various professions.

Governor Parkop emphasized the deep and enduring ties between PNG and its Pacific neighbors, stating that the event was 

crucial in recognizing these connections.  

He extended thanks to the participating artists, particularly from the three Melanesian countries especially Fiji, Solomon Islands and West Papua, whose performances concluded the "Pacific Story" on a high note.  

Looking ahead, he announced plans for future events showcasing the contributions of other communities in shaping PNG’s journey. The closing ceremony served as a powerful affirmation of PNG's identity and its place within the broader Pacific community.

This Saturday 7th June 2025, at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, the ” Australian will be hosting the Australian Community Day" as part of the lead-up to Papua New Guinea's 50th Independence Anniversary. This event will highlight the "Pacific Story" and lead into the "Asia Story" with the Filipino Community Day.

Following this, the "Philippines Day" celebration will take place on Sunday, June 8th , 2025, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM , again at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.

 This event is also in support of PNG's 50th Independence Anniversary and promises a vibrant immersion into rich Filipino culture. 

Attendees can expect:

Live performances: Including a mini-concert by Filipino artist Jason Fernandez and Filipino cultural dancing.

Filipino food & drinks: A chance to savor authentic cuisine.

Games, prizes, and family fun: Entertainment for all ages.

Raffle draw: Opportunity to win a brand-new pickup truck and other exciting prizes for K100 per ticket.

The Papua’s Friend of Nature Institute and Mapping of Storylines

 

The Institute of the Friends of Papuan Nature (Lembaga Sahabat Alam Papua - SAPA) has been at the forefront of efforts to document and map out the customary story-lines in West Papua. These story-lines, passed down through generations, are crucial in understanding the spiritual connection that the indigenous people of West Papua have to their land. They also play a significant role in shaping the cultural, social, and economic development of the community.

Customary story-lines are a form of traditional knowledge that encapsulates the history, myths, legends, and spiritual beliefs of the indigenous people of West Papua. These narratives provide a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that informs the identity and sense of belonging of the community. By documenting and mapping out these story-lines, SAPA aims to preserve and protect this cultural heritage for future generations.

One of the key aspects of customary story-lines is their connection to the land. For the indigenous people of West Papua, the land is not just a physical space but a sacred entity that is imbued with spiritual significance. The story-lines serve as a guide for understanding the relationship between humans and the natural world, emphasizing the importance of respect, harmony, and reciprocity with the environment.

Moreover, customary story-lines also inform social relationships within the community. They provide a framework for governance, conflict resolution, and decision-making, as well as guidance on moral and ethical behaviour. By documenting these story-lines, SAPA is not only preserving cultural traditions but also promoting social cohesion and solidarity within the community.

Economically, customary story-lines play a significant role in the management of natural resources. They contain customary laws and practices that regulate the use of land, water, and forests, ensuring sustainable resource management and environmental conservation. By recognizing and institutionalizing customary social organizations within modern frameworks, there is potential to leverage this traditional knowledge for sustainable development and economic empowerment of the indigenous communities.

Legalizing customary laws and institutionalizing customary social organizations can have far-reaching implications for the governance of natural resources and land rights in West Papua. It can provide a legal framework for the recognition and protection of customary land tenure rights, as well as facilitate community participation in decision-making processes related to resource management. However, it is essential to ensure that these institutional practices are inclusive, transparent, and accountable to the community.

One example of the significance of preserving and protecting customary traditions is the case of the Arfak community in West Papua. The Arfak people have a rich oral tradition that narrates their history, customs, and spiritual beliefs. By documenting these story-lines, SAPA has been able to support the community in asserting their land rights and cultural heritage against external threats, such as deforestation and mining activities. This has led to the establishment of community-based conservation initiatives that have helped protect the environment and enhance the livelihoods of the Arfak people.

In conclusion, the efforts of SAPA in documenting and mapping out the customary story-lines in West Papua are crucial for preserving and protecting the cultural heritage of the indigenous people. Recognizing the spiritual connection to the land embedded in these narratives is essential for promoting sustainable development, social cohesion, and environmental conservation in the region. By legalizing customary laws and institutionalizing customary social organizations, there is potential to leverage traditional knowledge for the benefit of the community and ensure the empowerment and self-determination of the indigenous people of West Papua.