By ORCHY REX
THE iconic NBC Broadcast House, today marked 60 years of service, a landmark that has stood at the heart of Papua New Guinea’s broadcasting space.
The building, which first opened its doors on September 5, 1964, has been home to the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and its predecessor, the Australia Broadcasting Commission (ABC).
Speaking at the commemoration event, NBC’s Deputy Chairman, Mr. Henao Iduhu, highlighted the historical significance of the building and acknowledged the Australian government’s contribution.
“We must give respect where its due applaud the Australian government for this great gift,” Mr. Iduhu said.
“When the ABC decided to give its assets, including this building, it was a public broadcaster. And it still exists as a public broadcaster, providing community service broadcasting to the people of Papua New Guinea.”
The NBC Broadcast House initially housed the ABC’s operations, including radio studios, a sound and reference library, the newsroom, and technical units. After PNG achieved self-government in 1973, the ABC transferred its buildings, land, and assets to the newly established National Broadcasting Commission.
Reflecting on the transfer, Mr. Iduhu stated, “In 1973, when the country attained self-government, the Australia Broadcasting Commission ceased its operations and, out of its heart, transferred all its buildings, transmission land, and assets to the National Broadcasting Commission of Papua New Guinea.”
The NBC Broadcast House has witnessed decades of change and progress in PNG’s media sector. It continues to serve as the corporation’s headquarters, housing studios, administrative offices, and the newsroom. The building also represents a lasting symbol of the strong relationship between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
Calling the building a “silent witness” to PNG’s media evolution, Mr. Iduhu said, “It stands as a quiet beacon of our media freedom, something we cherish and must use with great responsibility.”
He further emphasized the importance of the NBC’s recent achievements, particularly the transition from analog to digital broadcasting, which he called “a great achievement.”
Mr. Iduhu urged the government to invest in modernizing the building to ensure its continued service to the nation as the NBC moves forward into digital space.
“The government should recognize the important role of this organization and assist in replacing or modernizing this iconic building,” he said
He further emphasized the importance of the NBC’s recent achievements, particularly the transition from analog to digital broadcasting, which he called “a great achievement.”
Mr. Iduhu urged the government to invest in modernizing the building to ensure its continued service to the nation as the NBC moves forward into digital space.
“The government should recognize the important role of this organization and assist in replacing or modernizing this iconic building,” he said
