By Vasinatta Yama – EM TV, Port Moresby
The Koari people of the Kairuku-Hiri District in Central Province witnessed a momentous ground breaking ceremony, on their land today.
Central Provincial Government in partnership with two Malaysian companies will establish a satellite township for Central people at the Ilimo Farm.
Bautama will still remain the proposed Central Provincial City.
Three hundred hectares of land at the Ilimo farm at 14 Mile was allocated to Jayacorp Holdings Limited and Iris, two Malaysian companies, to transform the land into a small township called, Ilimo Satellite town.
The first of 30 houses for public servants will be built, with a technical college and high school, and industrial factories. Within the first five years, more than 500 houses will be constructed.
Central Province Governor, Kila Haoda addressed settlers today, saying they will be relocated to a new area.
Sir Puka Temu, who was also present to witness the ground breaking ceremony, says that the current NCD boundaries will remain where they are.
Land outside of the city belongs to Central Province, and it should not be touched.
Kairuku-Hiri MP, Peter Isoaimo says the Ilimo farm has been sitting idle for 10 years because of political interests. He said that the development of the farm has massive potential, as it will bring basic necessities like electricity and water into the area.
The two Malaysian companies said that PNG is known for ground breaking ceremonies, but delay the outcome, and promised to get the job done quickly.
Meanwhile, concerns were raised for landowners to protect their land, but must use it for development purposes.
Central Province students are also privileged to study in Malaysia. Each year 20 scholarships will be given to them.
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