KING’S BATON VISIT TO PNG STRENGTHENS TIES WITH UK; GOVERNOR MARUM

Picture Caption: ENB Youths happily showcasing the Kings Baton as they relayed through Kokopo town. Picture Supplied PNG

BY WASITA ROYAL, in Kokopo.

FOLLOWING the recent journey of the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games Kings Baton to East New Britain province over the weekend, it signals the strengthening of ties between the country and the United Kingdom.

The Kings Baton for the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games was received at Tokua Airport on Friday by Governor Michael Marum, from PNG Olympic Committee President, Emma Waiwai and the delegates accompanying the Kings Baton into the province.

Governor Marum said this visit will strengthen PNG’s ties with the United Kingdom and it proves East New Britain’s readiness for the world stage, with ongoing investments in the international-grade infrastructure.

From the official welcome, the baton’s journey dove into the heart of the province’s rich heritage, with a brief stop over at the historic Bitapaka War Cemetery, then later traveled through the streets of Kokopo, and onto Takubar Sports Field.

The Kings Baton then journeyed into the Baining area to a tradition welcome of the iconic Baining Fire Dance in Gaulim.

On Saturday, the relay was showcased in the breadth of East New Britain visiting Pigeon and Pangpang Islands, in the Kokopo district, then Warangoi in Pomio District and concluded in Gazelle District.

Its final departure from Kerevat and Rakunai St Peter Torot Basilica was marked by the beats of the Garamut and a traditional initiation, a practice symbolising first entry into Tolai society.

The baton left East New Britain shores, continuing its global journey, but leaving behind a renewed sense of pride and unity.