NRL & Identity: The PNG Chiefs keep stacking star power for their 2028 debut, signing Samoan winger Brian To’o on a multi-year deal, with club leaders stressing his family values and Pacific cultural fit as much as his on-field record. Climate Diplomacy: Forum foreign ministers backed a stronger Pacific climate push ahead of COP31, calling for more climate finance, renewable investment and louder Pacific leadership through Pre-COP31 meetings. El Niño Support: PNG is set to access up to K300 million in World Bank disaster financing to respond to worsening El Niño impacts, including crop loss, low rivers and water shortages. Digital Governance: PNG is seeking public feedback on proposed digital ID and data protection laws, while also expanding SevisWallet credentials and rolling out a Digital Arrival Card for border processing. Indigenous Rights: The MSG Secretariat reaffirmed support for Indigenous rights, languages, cultures and traditional knowledge across Melanesia, highlighting living kastom and community-led conservation. Culture on Screen: Bougainville communities celebrated the restored return of the historic film Tukana- Husat I Asua after more than 40 years, with screenings supported by partners including Australia’s film archive. Women & Health: NCDPHA marked National Women’s Day with Miss PNG Iampela Popena, focusing on justice, action and stronger protections for women and girls in health and beyond. Sports Funding Debate: Former PNG footballer Alex Davani says FIFA’s development funding system is flawed, arguing smaller federations may stay quiet because the money can be their entire operating budget. STEM Education: PNG’s STEM scholarship programme has now supported about 470 students overseas since 2023, with another 137 scholars preparing to depart. Protest & Fossil Fuels: Climate protesters accused insurers of using “corporate spies” during a Coral Triangle-themed action opposing LNG underwriting in the world’s most biodiverse marine region.