2 weeks Ago By Post-Courier Contributor
Eastern Highlands Provincial member Simon Sia wants to get as much done for the province he initially chose as his adopted home for business prospects in the early 80s. Upon his arrival to PNG for business interests, he made his choice – selecting the Goroka as his adopted home. He has lived there for more than 30 years until he wat elected into office as the Provincial Member for Eastern Highlands in 2022 National General Election.
Sia feels that every leader has his style of leadership and ways of interacting with people when it comes to executing duties and responsibilities. Malaysian-born Simon Sia is no exception. He displayed his leadership role well before his time as a businessman – sponsoring the Eastern Highlands rugby league team – the Goroka Lahanis for a consecutive 15-year period with well over K30 million in funding.
Having his Bintangor Trading stepping in as major franchise owner of the Goroka Lahanis team is something no other business personality can dare do for that long with the injection of such magnitude of funds. What Eastern Highlands adopted son and now leader did is an indication he had compassion in wanting to give back to the province for a worthy cause with what his business has built up over the years in Nokondi land. Sharing is caring and Sia has a rare and unique heart.
Sia through his countless philanthropy work in the community as a businessman — was given nickname ‘Mr Generosity’ by Eastern Highlanders. Now in his capacity as the province CEO, Sia wants to see all state funds that are earmarked for the province to be used for all development projects for the benefit of the province and its people. Past Eastern Highlands Provincial MPs have done their part in one way or another before their exit.
So likewise, “Papa blo Goroka Lahanis” wants to get something done in his term before his time is up. It became evident – a leader of Simon Sia’s calibre – he wanted to get as much done because he had life satisfaction already and his intentions and motives are very different. But to get as much done and to reach the unreached and to wipe away the tears of many.
There has to be enough funds at hand to cater for every much-needed infrastructure, goods or services set up and delivery for the province and people. In 2024, several projects were identified and screened to be funded including all roads and bridges in every district. While a fraction of the province budget is appropriated for tuition fees for all Eastern Highlands students attending tertiary institutions around the country as well as those attending schools within the province.
Apart from highlighted projects, there are several other projects underway or being considered to kickstart whenever funds are made available..
