PNG PM Welcomes NRL Star Jarome Luai to Port Moresby

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has extended a warm reception to visiting NRL star Jarome Luai, who arrived in Port Moresby with his family and management team.

Mr Marape said the presence of the high-profile five-eighth in PNG reflects the country’s growing standing in international rugby league and is a proud moment for the nation.

 PNG PM Welcomes NRL Star Jarome Luai to Port Moresby/Photo suppplied

He described Luai as one of the leading players in the National Rugby League, saying his visit offered an opportunity to showcase Papua New Guinea’s culture and hospitality.

“On behalf of the people and Government of Papua New Guinea, I welcome him and his family to our country,” Mr Marape said.

Luai, who rose through the ranks with the Penrith Panthers, played a key role in the club’s premiership success and has built a reputation as one of the competition’s most dynamic playmakers.

The Samoan international also featured prominently in his nation’s campaign to the final of the 2022 Rugby League World Cup, cementing his status as a leading Pacific athlete.

Now contracted to the Wests Tigers under a long-term deal signed in 2025, Luai remains one of the most talked-about figures in the game.

Reports from Australian media indicate the playmaker met with officials linked to PNG’s proposed NRL franchise, expected to enter the competition in 2028.

Mr Marape, however, clarified that no formal arrangements were in place and stressed the importance of respecting existing contracts.

“At this stage, there is nothing formal or concrete. Jarome remains contracted to the Wests Tigers, and we fully respect his current obligations,” he said.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the Tigers and coach Benji Marshall for allowing the visit during the season.

He said Luai’s attendance at local matches highlighted the deep passion Papua New Guineans have for rugby league.

“Rugby league is more than a game in our country. It is a force that unites people from hundreds of languages, cultures, and provinces into one nation,” he said.