By Dalcy Lulula
This year, several distinguished Papua New Guineans were recognised in the 2025 New Year Honours List.
The annual list, which acknowledges outstanding service and contributions across the Commonwealth, includes a number of Papua New Guineans who have dedicated their lives to public service, community development, education, health, and church leadership.
Among the top honours this year were:
●Maria Lucia Kopkop, who was awarded the Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (D.B.E) for services to the Public Service, Education and Women’s Rights
●Robert Igara C.M.G, who received the Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire K.B.E for Distinguished Service to Public Service, Higher Education and Community
●Sinai John BROWN, recognised with the Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire K.B.E for services to Public Service, Politics and the Development of East New Britain Province
● Yano BELO, awarded the Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire K.B.E for services to Politics and Public Service
● Hon. Plia NININGI, who received the Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George C.M.G for service to the Legal Profession and Politics in Papua New Guinea
● Hon Soroi EOE, who was recognised as well for the Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George C.M.G for services to Public Service and Politics in Papua New Guinea
●Donald Gire LILO, who was awarded the Order of the British Empire O.B.E for services to Agriculture and Politics
●Dangang James TAPELE, also was awarded the Order of the British Empire O.B.E for services to Primary Education and Politics in East New Britain Province
●Milfred WANGATAU, was recognised for the Order of the British Empire O.B.E for services to Public Service in the Legal Profession
●Ponnusamy MANOHAR, was awarded the Order of the British Empire O.B.E for services to Tertiary Education in Papua New Guinea
●Elias Rahuromo WOHENGU, also awarded the Order of the British Empire O.B.E for services to Public Service and Foreign Service
●Timothy James WARD (Jr.), who was awarded the Member of the British Empire M.B.E for services to the Public
●Alice JOEL, who also was recognised for the Member of the British Empire M.B.E for services to the Public Service Education
●John Waso ISO, recognised for the Member of the British Empire M.B.E for services to Public Service Education
●Philip TIKI, also awarded the Member of the British Empire M.B.E for service to Public Services Education, Religion, Community and Sports
●Rose BOLGY, was awarded the Member of the British Empire M.B.E for service to Public Service Education
●Rottona GIRANA also awarded the Member of the British Empire M.B.E for service to Public Service Education
●Thomas PONJOM and Peter TUPMA were awarded the Member of the British Empire M.B.E. (Military Award)
The New Year Honours List continues a long-standing tradition within the Commonwealth, where individuals from all walks of life are acknowledged for making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Someone called my dad, telling him that he will be awarded so we were looking towards that. Unfortunately, his name isn’t listed here.
We are confused.
Long term leader of the United Church in Papua New Guinea.
Reverend Minwas More.
Please can you confirm this.
Thank you.
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