Parkop clarifies land deal at Chinatown

NATIONAL Capital District Governor Powes Parkop says its physical planning board approved the development plan for the Chinatown project because of the land title issued by the Lands Department.
Parkop was responding to a statement by Opposition MP Kerenga Kua questioning whether due process was followed on the sale of the land between Telikom and PNG Land Limited.
Parkop said the law relating to titles was based on the principle that whoever had the title deed had legal right to the land.
“If there are issues with the value of the sale of land or other dealings on the land, this is not a primary issue for planning purpose,” he said.
“Our planning laws and regulations are very clear and we complied with it. The project was not rushed. Initial approval was granted in 2016 and then changed two times before the final plan was approved this year.”
Parkop said it was a private development and had no government input or involvement.
“We are happy it’s (Chinatown project) happening because it will result in employment, business opportunities for our people and our city. It’s a massive investment which should be welcomed. We are open to assist both national and foreign investment in our city.”
He said Star Mountain and others were investing in the Hilton Hotel and its complex and urged other landowners companies from resource development areas to invest in the city.
“The super funds are investing but I want them to invest more. If the investment and business sector is growing, it is a good sign for PNG. It shows real wealth is being created and more opportunities open up for our people.”