The National Parliament House celebrated its 41st Anniversary with a colourful event at the State Function Room on Thursday the 7th of August 2025 in Port Moresby.
Speaker of Parliament Hon. Job Pomat, in his keynote speech, reflected on the significance of the day, saying the Parliament is not just a place for lawmaking but “a house for all the people of Papua New Guinea.”
He reminded the audience that the Parliament was opened on 7 August 1984 by Prince Charles, now King Charles III, and that the building stands as a symbol of democracy and national unity.
“The architecture of this building reflects the strength of our traditions and the spirit of our people. Each carving, each design speaks of the thousand tribes that now work together as one nation,” said the Speaker.
The event brought together pioneer legislators, students reps from secondary and technical school from all regions, UPNG SRC representatives, former and current Miss Bird of Paradise titleholders, and other special guests.
Pioneer leaders including Dr. John Momis and Sir John Kaputin delivered heartfelt reflections. Dr. Momis described politics as “the noblest of sciences,” while Sir Kaputin provided a brief history of the evolution of the country’s legislature, from the Legislative Council in the 1950s to the current National Parliament.
Sir Kaputin also spoke of the decision to base the design of the Parliament House on the traditional haus tambaran style, saying it was a conscious choice to reflect the country’s cultural identity.
UPNG Student Representative Council (SRC) President, Mr. Clinton Maliaba, also addressed the gathering. In his speech titled “A House That Reflects the Nation,” Maliaba said the Parliament stands as a living symbol of unity and democracy.
He acknowledged the legacy of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, whose statue will unveil later tonight, and paid tribute to pioneer leaders including Dame Josephine Abaijah, Sir Yano Belo, and Sir Pato Kakaraya.
“Let us honour the past, engage the present, and shape the future, with courage, with unity, and with pride,” Maliaba said.
The celebration also featured essay and poem presentations by student representatives, showcasing the thoughts and hopes of the younger generation for the country’s future.
The 41st anniversary served as a moment not only to reflect on how far the nation has come but also to renew its commitment to the values of democracy, unity, and service to the people as the country looks ahead.