Namah: Government must invest in sustainable industry to solve law and order issues

Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Belden Namah (right) holding stone axe, spear and the infamous Bird of Paradise (called Kuri and Paraka in Melpa language) and a bilum made from wool and cuscus fur called the 'Wal Kupun' around his neck gifted by the people of Western Highlands as an appreciation for opening and closing the 65th Mt Hagen Cutural and Agricultural Show. (Vanessa Ripa)

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Belden Namah has called on the Government to invest in sustainable industries to address the country’s ongoing law and order problems.

Namah said successive governments had failed Papua New Guineans by neglecting sustainable development and relying too heavily on the extractive industry.

“When we get money from oil, gas, gold, copper and nickel, these funds must be reinvested into sustainable industries such as tourism, agriculture, fisheries and forestry,” Namah said.

He stressed that reinvesting resource revenues into sustainable sectors would empower citizens, create inclusive opportunities, and reduce crime.

“I believe if the Government of the day channels funds into these areas, we will not face law and order problems. In sustainable industries, people do not need academic qualifications to participate — they only need support from Government,” Namah said.

He added that when people engage in meaningful work, they have no reason to turn to crime or violence.

“The reason for law and order problems is simple: we do not empower our people. When people have no money in their pockets, they turn to stealing, tribal fighting and other crimes. I want the Government to stop preaching and start acting by investing in sustainable industries,” Namah said.

Meanwhile, Namah thanked Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa for continuing to stage the Mt Hagen Cultural Show, which he said empowers communities by promoting cultural heritage and agriculture in the province.