New building board vows to strengthen compliance and promote safe, sustainable development in Morobe
Seven new members of the Morobe Provincial Building Board have been officially sworn in this week during a ceremony held in Lae.
The Building Board plays a key role in ensuring that all construction activities in the province comply with the Building Regulation Act, to promote safe, sustainable, and legally compliant development across Morobe.
Newly appointed Chairman Leonard Gawi, who is also the Provincial Works Manager, pledged to lead with integrity and responsibility during his maiden speech.
“As I take on this responsibility, I do so with a clear vision: to ensure that development in Morobe Province is safe, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of our people,” Gawi said.
“This Board’s role is not just technical, it’s about safeguarding lives and protecting our future.”
Gawi said the board would focus on strengthening compliance with building codes and safety standards, improving permit processing and inspection systems, promoting transparency and accountability.
They will also be tasked to build stronger partnerships with stakeholders, introduce digital solutions to streamline operations and collaborate to achieve key priority areas.
The chairman called for all industry players to work together.
“I call on architects, engineers, contractors, and community leaders, I invite your collaboration,” he said.
“Raising the standard of development in Morobe is a shared responsibility.”
He acknowledged the challenges of rapid urban growth, resource constraints, and infrastructure pressure but expressed confidence in the Board’s ability to respond with smarter planning and coordination.
The newly inducted members of the Morobe Provincial Building Board are; Leonard Gawi as chairman with members Cameron Wangihomie [Department of Works and Highways], Eugene Totobu and Michael Mimsai [Water PNG], Luke Mungkuas and Alfred Sila [PNG Fire Service] and Sedester Elecor, representing the Department of Lands and Physical Planning.
Ms. Elecor is the only female member on the board, representing a step forward in promoting gender inclusion in provincial governance structures.