Papua New Guinea is making a significant cultural impact at the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture (FestPAC), taking place from June 6-16, 2024, in Hawaii. FestPAC, the world’s largest celebration of indigenous Pacific Islanders, offers a vibrant platform for showcasing the rich diversity of Pacific arts and culture. With 3,000 cultural representatives from 28 Pacific Island Countries and Territories, this year’s festival theme, “Ho’olulu Lahui: Regenerating Oceania,” deeply resonates with PNG’s delegation.
Since its inception in 1972 in Suva, Fiji, FestPAC has aimed to halt the erosion of traditional practices through cultural exchange. The festival has grown in stature and importance, becoming a highly anticipated event that not only preserves traditional arts but also serves as a platform for contemporary Pacific Island artists to express their creativity and address modern issues. PNG’s delegation, led by Mr.
Steven Enomb Kilanda, Executive Director of the National Cultural Commission, and Prof. Leo Marai, Deputy Chairman of the NCC board and Executive Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Papua New Guinea, has been actively participating in the festival. Also present are two of PNG’s internationally recognised singer and producer, Anslom Nakikus and award nominee, Sound Engineer, Toxic Mahn.
Their presence highlights the nation’s commitment to cultural preservation and international collaboration. A key moment .