Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu has called on public servants to embrace a renewed commitment to service delivery, accountability, and ethical leadership.
Speaking at the 2026 Public Service Dedication Service, Mr Pomaleu welcomed public servants throughout PNG and acknowledged the presence of Prime Minister James Marape, Ministers, Members of Parliament, departmental heads, heads of statutory bodies, members of the diplomatic corps, development partners, faith-based organizations, civil society groups, and representatives of non-government organizations.
He acknowledged the work of the 2026 Public Service Dedication Service Organizing Committee, volunteers and sponsors, recognizing their dedication and hard work in delivering the national event.
He also acknowledged public servants tuning in nationwide, commending them for taking time from their busy schedules to participate in the dedication service in person and across the provinces.
“The essence of today’s event is not only to celebrate the dedication of the public service for 2026, but to affirm our commitment as public servants in service delivery to the nation and the people we are established to serve,” Mr Pomaleu said.
This year’s theme, “Reset, Recommit, Dedicate for a New Beginning in the PNG Public Service,” is drawn from Isaiah 43:18–19, and reflects the broader national milestone of Papua New Guinea’s 50 years of nationhood.
“With this historic milestone, it is only right that we claim this year as a year of restoration—for ourselves as agents of change, and for the public service as the central mechanism for effective service delivery,” Mr Pomaleu said.
He emphasized that 2026 would not be an easy year and that instructions had been issued under the Reset 50 initiative, including directives for all departments to submit performance and reform reports to his office by 31 March 2026.
“These circular instructions must be adhered to as we recalibrate and reposition our work for the year ahead,” he said, adding that the Prime Minister would outline further expectations in his address.
Mr Pomaleu also called on public servants to take personal responsibility for promoting good governance, transparency, accountability, ethical conduct, and respect for General Orders and Christian values.
“Today is a time for us to reflect on our role, our attitude, and our dedication to service. We are establishing our accountabilities—to our people and to our God,” he said.
He urged public servants to listen carefully to the guidance and expectations outlined by government leaders and to actively contribute to nation-building within their respective roles.
“As we reflect on how far we have come, let us find better ways to perform our duties and deliver meaningful outcomes for our stakeholders,” Mr Pomaleu said.
The Chief Secretary concluded by thanking all participants and extending blessings to public servants and their families as they commence the 2026 public service year.