Milne Bay Governor Gordon Wesley has removed an Asian company accused of illegal logging operations on Woodlark Island.
“This company continues to evade our laws, utilising loopholes, bribery of bureaucratic process and public servants to continue carrying our illegal activities,” he said.
“While my people of Woodlark Island fall victims, exploited and watch on as spectators on their own lands being raped in broad day light.”
Governor Wesley brought the matter to the attention of Forest Minister Salio Waipo during the recent Parliament sitting.
“Further to our conversation yesterday (6/08/2025) on illegal logging in Milne Bay. It has come to my attention that a logging company of Asian origin under the name of Kula Wood is illegally logging on Woodlark Island and surrounding islands within my province, Governor Wesley wrote in his letter to Minister Waipo.
“I am reliable informed that this company has also registered multiple businesses and ventured into alluvial mining and beech-der-mar. Such entities or Small Medium Enterprises (SME) is encouraged for the island residents of Milne Bay.”
He added that his provincial office had never received or seen documentation giving clearance for the company’s operation in Milne Bay.
“This company did not get any form of approval from my office and am sure they are avoiding any forms of fees or fines to the Forestry Authority,” Governor Wesley said.
The Governor called for the immediate termination of all licences for Kula Woods until such a time that all transparent collaborative processes and protocols were followed.
“I have notified my officers on the ground to assist teams from Port Moresby to immediately look into the operation of Kula Wood Operation and associates.
“Milne Bay Province and its residents are in support of the Marape-Rosso Government. We continue contributing to the economy of our country 50 years on through fisheries, agriculture and tourism,” Governor Wesley said.
ENDS