A forum onthe recent removal of artifacts from Parliament was hosted bythe National Cultural Commission recently. It was aimed at breakingthe deafening silence and showingthe position of those inthe cultural service, including artists and ther cultural practitioners.
Executive Director of National Cultural Commission, Dr. Jacob Simetosaid it was a concern that despite attempts by Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill, and Sir Michael Somare,there was a relentless effort in replacingthe cultural artifacts’.
Director ofthe National Museum, Dr. Andrew Moutu, said a museum is a place for treasures, not for removals. He said following an exchange of letters withthe Speaker,there was no follow-up dialogue.
Those at today’s forum expressed concerns especially inthe way thatthe cultural significance ofthe relics weren’t seriously considered.
Dr. Winduo said cultural re-education was needed for the national lLeaders who make decisions for the people ofthe country. There was shared concern thatthe removal of artifacts fromthe parliament was justthe beginning of cultural degradation which will seethe identity oPNG now being at stake.
thers suggested drastic action such as boycotting hosting ofthe Melanesian Festival of Arts & Culture which will be hosted in Port Moresby next year.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=-M397Ypx8MU%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0