PNG Chiefs star spearheads nation’s sports tourism push

Rugby league star Jarome Luai arrived in Port Moresby, stepping into his role as the face of Papua New Guinea’s sporting future while headlining the presentation ceremony for the PNG Open.

Luai, who recently made history as the inaugural signing for the PNG Chiefs ahead of their upcoming entry into the National Rugby League [NRL], joined Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Belden Namah to honor over 120 professional golfers competing from Australia, the United States, Europe, Asia, and New Zealand.

The Minister framed Luai’s arrival not just as a sporting milestone, but as a crucial pillar in the country's broader strategy to position itself as a Pacific sporting powerhouse.

"Jarome Luai has already won the hearts of Papua New Guineans through his achievements on the field," Minister Namah said.

"His commitment to the PNG Chiefs marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for rugby league in our country.

"When world-class athletes visit, they become ambassadors who experience our unique culture and share it with millions globally."

Minister Namah congratulated Luai on becoming the inaugural signing of the PNG Chiefs, saying the country looked forward to welcoming him back when the club joins the NRL.

He said internationally recognised sporting personalities such as Luai played an important role in promoting Papua New Guinea to the world.

“When world-class athletes visit our country, they become ambassadors for Papua New Guinea,” he said.

“They experience our unique cultures, our natural beauty and the warmth of our people, and they share those experiences with millions of people around the world.”

He said sports tourism was becoming an increasingly important pillar of Papua New Guinea’s tourism strategy, alongside cultural, adventure, eco-tourism and cruise tourism.

“The Papua New Guinea Open is much more than a golf tournament,” Namah said.“It is an opportunity to showcase our country as a safe, welcoming and exciting destination for international visitors.

“We want everyone who comes here to leave with unforgettable memories and to return with their families and friends.”

He said the Government, through the Tourism Promotion Authority and its partners, would continue supporting international sporting events that promote Papua New Guinea globally while creating economic opportunities for local businesses, hotels, restaurants, transport operators, tour companies and communities.