MVIL Board Chairman Dr. John McKup (second left) presenting the items to Major Benjamin Misel as MVIL Chief Operating Officer Mr Bafino Koi (right) and Executive Manager Customer Service Division Mr Avi Hubert look on.

The PNG Defence Force Joint Task Force Highlands Operations’ personnel at the PNGDF Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Tari, Hela Province, are thankful for the assistance by Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited (MVIL).   

The assistance came in the form of solar panels, battery, invertor, regulator, adapter, led lights, solar cables and a 60-inch television that was presented by the MVIL Board Chairman Dr. John McKup at the MVIL Mt Hagen Regional Office on 10 October 2024.

Joint Task Force Highlands Operations Officer Major Benjamin Misel, while receiving the items, thanked MVIL for its support and said the gesture was much appreciated as it would greatly enhance army operations in Tari.

He said the deployment of soldiers to provide security and to ensure projects operate smoothly were part of the PNGDF’s Pillars of Nation Building and Aiding Community Power.

“The biggest challenge for the new base at Tari is consistent power supply. Thus, the items will greatly serve the base. There are more than 400 soldiers currently engaged in various security operations right across the Highlands Region.” 

While the PNGDF is working with the Hela Provincial Government to come up with long-term measures for proper infrastructure and facilities, MVIL has assisted with solar panels and accessories for their immediate need.

Dr. McKup said the PNGDF and MVIL were there to serve the people of this country, and as part of MVIL’s Community Service Obligation, the company is happy to assist with the Joint Task Force’s operations. 

MVIL has a mutual understanding with the PNGDF, especially in the Highlands, where the army is usually engaged to provide escort and security for staff traveling to different parts of the region.