Islands region unite in Sir Rabbie Namaliu’s traditional ceremony

Various cultural groups from the New Guinea Islands Region gathered today in Kokopo to witness and participate in a traditional ceremony to mark the end of the grieving period for the late senior statesman, Sir Rabbie Namliu.

The event which took place at the Kalabond Sports Ground brought together family, friends, and dignitaries to celebrate the life and legacy of one of the nation's most respected leaders.

Prime Minister, James Marape and other MPs both from the government and opposition travelled to East New Britain to participate in the occasion.

Yesterday's overcast gave way to a perfect Thursday for a milestone event in the history of East New Britain province.

Chief John Momis and Sir Leo Dion were also amongst friends and family of late Sir Rabbie that convened this morning ahead of the proceedings.

Given the importance of the occasion, the prime minister, James Marape, despite his busy schedule, was the guest of honor to the occasion, where he spoke highly of the former Kokopo MP.

He arrived from Port Moresby at midday today accompied by his wife, Rachael and other senior MPs both from government and the opposition.

The late Sir Rabbie’s Kutu Tabu ceremony today was a deeply rooted cultural tradition and included a series of traditional rites, that centers around the East New Britain’s tubuan society and the tabu shell money.

Over a thousand people gathered to witness and participate in the occasions, marking the end of the grieving period of the late Sir Rabbie.

Sir Rabbie passed away on March 2023 at the age of 75.

However, the final traditional ceremony was further delayed until today.

The traditional Tolai ceremony held came a few days after the burial of another senior statesman, Sir Julius Chan.

Both the East New Britain and PNG Flags were flown at half mast and a minuite of silence was given, as a show of respect for the two political leaders.

Both Sir Julius and Sir Rabbie were regarded as dedicated individuals who helped mold and shaped PNG’s political and administrative landscape.