PAPUA New Guinea’s 50th Independence documentary, Wan Kantri: The Next 50 Years, has received international recognition after winning a Special Award at the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Together for the Planet, People and Peace (T4P) Media Awards.
The documentary, co-produced by the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), was honoured during the awards ceremony in Paro, Bhutan, on June 17, 2026.
Produced as part of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations, the documentary explores the nation’s history, achievements and aspirations for the future while highlighting the enduring partnership between NBC and ABC.
The production brought together media professionals from both countries to tell Papua New Guinea’s stories to audiences across the Asia-Pacific region through a collaborative approach to storytelling.
NBC Senior Producer and Presenter Maureen Orea said the project provided an opportunity to celebrate Papua New Guinea while learning from international colleagues.
“This project allowed us to see things beyond our own borders. We learned from each other, respected each other’s skills, and understood what everyone brought to the table,” Ms Orea said.
She added that the collaboration strengthened both professional skills and regional relationships.
“When we work together, we build skills, strengthen relationships, and help the next generation tell their own stories.”
The award recognises the combined efforts of the production teams from ABC Australia, NBC and the Media Development Initiative (MDI), which is funded through the PNG–Australia Partnership and implemented by ABC International Development.
Australian officials said the recognition reflects the value of supporting initiatives that strengthen media capability, foster people-to-people connections and empower Papua New Guineans to tell their own stories in their own voices.
Wan Kantri: The Next 50 Years was produced to commemorate Papua New Guinea’s Golden Jubilee and showcases the country’s rich history, diverse cultures and vision for the next 50 years.
The international award marks another milestone for Papua New Guinea’s media industry, highlighting the country’s growing capacity to produce compelling stories that resonate with audiences across the region.