Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today confirmed the updated State Funeral Programme for the late Sir Julius Chan, following discussions with his family.
“Yesterday, we received Sir Julius’ body from Kavieng, and together with Speaker Hon. Job Pomat and Opposition Leader Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa, we led a delegation of national leaders. After placing the body at the funeral home, we sat with the family to finalise funeral arrangements,” said Prime Minister Marape.
“The National Government initially planned a State Tribute in Parliament, aligning with the seven- day notice requirement for a parliamentary recall. However, his family was firm in honouring his will—that he be buried within seven days in Huris, his home village in New Ireland.
“Sir Julius designated three days for the National Government, three days for the province, and burial on the seventh day.
“In light of his explicit wish, we had to, in tears, let go of the intention to hold a grand farewell in Parliament. Instead, Parliament will dedicate its first sitting in March to condolence messages and recognition of Sir Julius’ lifetime of service,” Prime Minister Marape said.
FUNERAL PROGRAMME
Saturday, February 1, 2025 – Public Memorial and Cultural Observances
3:00 PM – New Ireland Community Programme at Kopkop College, Gerehu (Public welcome)
7:00 PM – Programme ends, casket remains at Erima Funeral Home overnight.
Sunday, February 2, 2025 – State Funeral and National Haus Krai
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM – State Funeral Service at St. Mary’s Cathedral (PNG Defence Force Ceremonial Guard present)
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM – National Haus Krai at Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium (Tributes, cultural presentations, and speeches by national leaders, including Prime Minister Marape)
Monday, February 3, 2025 – Lying in State at Parliament and Departure to Kavieng
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM – Lying in state at Parliament Grand Hall (State dignitaries and MPs pay respects)
12:30 PM – Casket departs Port Moresby for Kavieng (19-Gun Salute by PNGDF at APEC VIP Terminal)
Tuesday, February 4, 2025 – Provincial Funeral and Customary Observances
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM – Public Mass in Kavieng, followed by customary processions (Tikana, Konos, Namatanai, and arrival at Huris at sunset for overnight stay at his residence)
Wednesday, February 5, 2025 – Burial at Huris, New Ireland
11:00 AM – Burial service for the Late Rt. Hon. Sir Julius Chan at Huris, his home village
Honouring Sir Julius Chan’s Legacy
“National leaders, MPs, and party leaders will speak on behalf of their constituencies and political parties at the National Haus Krai,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He acknowledged Sir Julius’ significant role in shaping Papua New Guinea, calling him one of the last surviving members of the first post-independence leadership team.
“As Prime Minister, I will personally accompany Sir Julius’ body to its final resting place on Wednesday. The Government will honour him while staying true to his final wish,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“When Parliament reconvenes in March, the first two days will be dedicated to recognising his immense contributions to Papua New Guinea.
“We owe him our gratitude for a lifetime of service. He was a visionary leader, a founding father, and a statesman who shaped our history. The nation will take this time to reflect on his legacy and give him the farewell he rightfully deserves.
“May Sir Julius Chan rest in eternal peace.”