THE Lae Tourism Bureau has launched *Ples Man*, a locally produced film aimed at raising awareness among unemployed youth and rural populations in Papua New Guinea (PNG). This Johan Film Production, scripted, directed, and funded by Malaysian-Indian businessman Ramanathan Undiapah, serves as a direct message for people to utilize their land for agriculture, fisheries, and tourism.
Undiapah, who has spent a decade in PNG, observed the struggles of traditional landowners and sought to address these through his film. He highlighted the unique advantage of PNG, where 90% of the land is owned by the people, unlike in other countries where the government holds most of the land. Despite this, many Papua New Guineans migrate to cities in search of employment, only to continue living in poverty.
To reach a broader audience, Undiapah, with no prior filmmaking experience, produced the movie at a cost of K300,000. Filmed in Lae City and the remote Kabwum area in Morobe, the movie emphasizes the economic potential of land ownership. *Ples Man* will premiere at the Paradise Cinema in Port Moresby on July 11th, followed by screenings on television and the filmmaker’s YouTube channel.
The recent launch of *Ples Man* in Lae marks a significant milestone in Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) burgeoning film industry. While filmmaking in PNG is still in its infancy, the success of this locally produced film underscores the medium’s potential to drive social change and economic awareness.
In a country where literacy rates vary and access to formal education can be limited, films offer an accessible and engaging way to convey important messages. *Ples Man* exemplifies how storytelling can inspire communities, especially the youth, to rethink their economic opportunities. By highlighting the untapped potential of land ownership, the film presents a powerful argument for returning to agriculture, fisheries, and tourism as viable pathways out of poverty.
Statistics reveal that a significant portion of PNG’s agricultural land remains underutilized.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), only about 30% of the available agricultural land in PNG is currently being used productively. This underutilization represents a missed opportunity for economic development, as the majority of the population relies on subsistence farming but lacks the resources or knowledge to maximize their land’s potential.
Agriculture has the potential to be a savior for many Papua New Guineans. With 90% of the land owned by the people, as highlighted by *Ples Man*, there is a substantial opportunity to boost local economies through improved agricultural practices. By embracing modern farming techniques, diversifying crops, and investing in sustainable practices, communities can significantly increase their income and food security. Government support is crucial in this transformation. Policies that provide training, access to quality seeds and equipment, and market access can empower landowners to fully utilize their resources. Additionally, initiatives that promote agricultural education and entrepreneurship among the youth can help reverse the urban migration trend, fostering rural development and self-sufficiency.
*Ples Man* not only showcases the power of film in raising awareness but also highlights a crucial economic pathway for PNG. By harnessing the potential of their land, Papua New Guineans can cultivate a more prosperous and self-reliant future. This film serves as a call to action for both the government and the people to invest in and prioritize agriculture as a cornerstone of national development.
Filmmaking in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been relatively sparse, with only a handful of notable productions emerging over the years. The country’s film industry began to take shape in the late 20th century, with pioneering works such as *Tukana: Husat i Asua?* in 1984 and *Tinpis Run* in 1991. Despite the rich cultural narratives and diverse stories waiting to be told, the industry has struggled with limited funding, resources, and technical expertise. Recent years have seen a slow but steady increase in locally produced films, often driven by passionate individuals and small production teams. The launch of *Ples Man* marks a significant step forward, showcasing the potential for film to address social issues and promote economic development within
PNG.
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