Western Province rugby league players have taken a major step onto the national stage following Ok Tedi Mining Limited’s K500,000 sponsorship, which supported efforts to showcase local talent and strengthen the province’s push toward the PNG National Rugby League Competition.
The sponsorship supported the hosting of exhibition rugby league matches in Port Moresby, providing Western Province representative teams with the opportunity to compete against established capital‑based sides and demonstrate their readiness to participate at a national level.
Ok Tedi said sport plays a powerful role in uniting communities, developing leadership and creating positive pathways for young people, particularly in provinces where opportunities for national exposure can be limited.
“There is a wealth of rugby league talent in Western Province, and these matches demonstrated what can be achieved when players are given the right platform and support,” an Ok Tedi spokesperson said.
“Our support is about investing in people, building confidence and backing Western Province’s ambition to be represented in Papua New Guinea’s premier rugby league competition.”
The exhibition matches attracted strong community interest and provided players with valuable experience against higher‑level opposition, while further strengthening Western Province’s case for inclusion in the national competition.
Ok Tedi said the sponsorship aligns with the company’s broader focus on community development and nation‑building initiatives that extend beyond mining operations.
“Sport has the power to inspire discipline, teamwork and pride,” the spokesperson said.
“By supporting rugby league, we are supporting youth development, healthy lifestyles and creating pathways for talented athletes from regional and remote communities to be recognised nationally.”
The company also acknowledged the leadership of the Fly River Provincial Government and Western Province Rugby League officials for their commitment to strengthening the sport across the province and creating sustainable opportunities for players and administrators.
Ok Tedi reaffirmed its intention to continue partnering with communities, sporting bodies and institutions to support initiatives that promote social development, unity and long‑term opportunities for Papua New Guineans.
“When communities are given platforms to shine — whether through sport, education or enterprise — the benefits extend well beyond the field,” the spokesperson said.