MALONGIM IS NEW MIDDLE FLY DA

By Kenny ROMANUS

A historic ceremony took place at the district headquarters in Nomad as the community gathered for the handover of the District Administrator position, a first in the newly established district.

Outgoing District Administrator, Mr. Jerry Tamop handed over the role to Mr. Petrus Malongim. In his speech, Mr. Tamop reflected on the challenges faced while managing a district without an established headquarters.

He emphasized the need for progress and expressed his commitment to continue supporting the people’s work in the future. He also thanked the Western Provincial Administrator and the community for their trust during his two-and-a-half-year tenure.

Mr. Malongim thanked Mr. Tamop for his service, acknowledging the district’s challenges, including the lack of office infrastructure and staff. He stressed the importance of having the right team to execute projects and maintain operations. He promised to work closely with politicians, provincial administration, and partners to bring positive change to the district and announced plans to move to Nomad within two weeks.

Provincial Administrator, Mr. Kaiyun congratulated both administrators for the smooth transition, calling it an exemplary moment for public servants in the province. He also clarified that the district treasury would operate from Nomad and urged the public to cooperate with public servants to ensure smooth processes.

Middle Fly MP Maso Hewabi spoke about the difficulties encountered in establishing the district without proper infrastructure and urged the people to support the new administrator. He also clarified that all district operations would be based in Nomad, not Kiunga.

Governor Yoto highlighted upcoming developments, including the construction of a police station and public servant housing in Nomad. He also revealed plans for the Ramsite-Strickland-Nomad Road project, which will be funded by the North Fly DDA, Middle Fly DDA, Fly River Provincial Government, and OTML Tax Credit Scheme under the Connect PNG program.

The ceremony concluded with the symbolic passing of a bow and arrows from Mr. Tamop to Mr. Malongim, followed by the signing of the handover certificates and Mr. Malongim signing his contract.