Ela Motors Attends TISA Bank SME Business Breakfast with Prime Minister

June 27, 2025

Ela Motors CEO Mr. Masaru Mikami along with Mr. Ewen McDonald – Australian High Commissioner to PNG , Hon. James Marape, MP – Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea Mr. Sunil Pokharel – Group CEO, TISA Bank Mr. Des Yaninen – President, MSME Council, Mr. Reuben Yap – PNG Cooperatives Secretariat

Ela Motors PNG proudly participated in the 7th TISA Bank SME Business Breakfast, where the Honourable James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, acknowledged the company as a key corporate supporter of the SME sector. 

Held at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, the event brought together influential leaders and stakeholders committed to the growth of small and medium enterprises in the country.  Distinguished guests included: 

• Hon. James Marape, MP – Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea 
• Mr. Sunil Pokharel – Group CEO, TISA Bank 
• Mr. Nicholas Booth – UNDP Resident Representative, PNG 
• Mr. Ewen McDonald – Australian High Commissioner to PNG 
• Mr. Des Yaninen – President, MSME Council 
• Mr. Reuben Yap – PNG Cooperatives Secretariat 

In his keynote address, Mr. Masaru Mikami, Chief Executive Officer of Ela Motors PNG, emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration in strengthening PNG’s SME landscape. He commended the ongoing efforts of development partners, government agencies, and private sector leaders. 

Mr. Mikami stated, “It is a privilege to once again serve as the Naming Rights Sponsor for the upcoming SME Awards 2025—an initiative we have proudly supported since its inception in 2020.”  

 The SME Awards have expanded to over 30 categories, with more than 60% of submissions led by women entrepreneurs. Many past finalists have reported significant business growth and visibility, with Ela Motors proud to play a part in their success. 

 This year’s awards are significant as Papua New Guinea marks its 50th Golden Jubilee. The celebration symbolizes both the resilience of local enterprises and the nation’s progress toward inclusive and sustainable development. 

As part of its ongoing commitment, Ela Motors will again sponsor a Hino truck for the 2025 SME of the Year – a practical and transformative asset to drive business growth and employment. 

Mr. Mikami concluded, “On behalf of Ela Motors PNG, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to our valued guests, partners, national leaders and Mr. Andrew Runawery & PNG SME Team. Together, let us continue empowering Papua New Guineans as we step confidently into the next 50 years.”