Little attention given to PNG history, heritage, says Sir Michael

Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare says little attention is being given to Papua New Guinea’s heritage and history today.
“Important events have taken place in PNG despite the challenges,” he said.
Launching a book about a brief history of Madang since the visit by famous Russian explorer Nicholai Miklouho-Maclay, who’s name is still used to describe the Rai Coast, arrived at Gorendu on Sept 20, 1871.
His work made him a household name in Russia.
The book “Flagged History of Madang,” is written by Mary Mennis.
“PNG remains a model to other developing countries that have emerged from virtual stone age to what we are today,” Sir Michael said.
“It is often said that unless we know where we come from, we cannot plan to know where we are going.”
Sir Michael said the book spells out more than 149 years’ history and it would play a great role in educating young people.
“Thank you, Mary for writing the Flagged History of Madang.
“I hope this encourages all other provinces to document their history.
“Thank you, Sir Peter Barter and the Melanesian Foundation for funding and publishing this book which I understand is available for K20 per copy.
“Last year I had the opportunity to meet his grand nephew, of the same name.
“He was made welcome by thousands of people from Rai Coast.
“Next came the Germans who in a large way colonised New Guinea due to the reputation left by Maclay.
“It was during this time that agriculture was developed.
“Cotton, copra plantations and later cocoa were developed and even today play the backbone of the economy not only in Madang but throughout PNG.”
Following World War I, the British came and under the League of Nations administered by the Australian government which at the time was a colony of Great Britain.
At the outbreak of WW2, New Guinea was invaded by the Imperial Japanese Government after which, the Angau was established and Australia became more interested in PNG which ultimately led to independence.
“I am proud to say I was a part of this history being the founding prime minister,” Sir Michael said.
“I am also proud that this book by Mary Mennis is being launched in the Sana Room, my father who lived a great part of his life through the historical events written about in this book.”