THE family of late Correctional Services officer John Molik from Apangai village in Maprik, East Sepik province, has presented a traditional gift – a yam measuring 2m and weighing 20kg – to NCD Governor Powes Parkop to acknowledge his assistance.
The wife of late Mr Molik, Margaret, handed the yam and a bilum to Mr Parkop in a brief ceremony at Airways Hotel said the gift was to say “thank you” for his financial contribution in sending late Mr Molik’s body to Maprik.
As part of the Maprik tradition, such yam are only given to special people for acknowledging what they have done for them (Maprik people).
Mr Parkop thanked Mrs Molik and the people of Apangai village for acknowledging his assistance and his leadership in supporting the people in such time of need.
“As we all know, yam is part and parcel of Maprik way of life and I respect and acknowledged their kind gesture,” he said.
Mr Parkop also wished the people of Apangai, a belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.