Community leaders calls for stronger values

Ahi president Bingumalu Ahie has called on parents and communities to guide young people with discipline and responsibility to help build a safer and healthier society.

Speaking at a community event in Lae, Morobe, Ahie said discipline should teach children right from wrong so they grow into responsible adults.

"When we discipline our children in a way that helps them learn, they will understand and take better care of themselves," Ahie said.

He said families, communities and institutions all have a role to play in shaping the behaviour of young people.

Ahie also urged Papua New Guineans to protect the country's social values and work together to keep communities safe and healthy.

"I hope our country understands the importance of the university and the surrounding community working together," he said.

"We will not allow outside influences to dominate our community or damage the wellbeing of our people."

Ahie said communities must stand together to promote respect, responsibility and positive behaviour among young people.

"We will not tolerate this," he said.

Ahie said lasting change begins at home, with parents, community leaders and institutions working together to raise children with strong values and respect for others.