Malaria Research: Papua New Guinea and Japan have launched a five-year joint research project to strengthen PNG health systems and work toward malaria elimination, with East Sepik as the main field site and additional work in Madang and Port Moresby. Pandemic Readiness: WHO and partners unveiled a Western Pacific Pandemic Fund-backed project to improve disease surveillance, labs and emergency response across 12 countries, aiming to stop outbreaks before they escalate. HIV Harm Reduction (Regional): Fiji passed a needle exchange law to support harm-reduction services as the country tackles a growing HIV emergency, joining PNG, Australia and New Zealand with formal needle and syringe programmes. Health Governance: PNG’s Constructional and Law Reform Commission has started a national review of the Provincial Health Authority Act 2007, calling on health workers and communities to share on-the-ground realities. Remote Care Access: Australia is partnering with Samaritan Aviation to expand seaplane-based emergency medical flights and supply delivery to isolated areas in East Sepik and Gulf. Maternal & Newborn Emergency: Three premature babies died in Markham after delayed access to specialised neonatal care, highlighting gaps in emergency maternal and newborn services in remote PNG. Family Planning: A report warns PNG has a “conversion problem” in family planning—knowledge is high, but voluntary contraceptive use remains low—calling for policy that supports informed choice. Connectivity for Health: Remington Group says Starlink satellite connectivity could help remote PNG communities access services where mobile coverage is limited. Infrastructure & Health Facilities: Australia’s infrastructure pipeline in PNG is expanding, including health infrastructure procurement and advisory support.