Australian High Commissioner welcomes baby Sawong back to PNG

The Australian High Commissioner has welcomed baby Sawong and his parents back to Papua New Guinea, celebrating the infant's survival and resilience. The joyous occasion is tinged with sadness, as Sawong's twin brother, Tom, tragically lost his life, enabling Sawong to live.

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There are few things in life more precious than a happy, healthy, thriving baby. With joy and gratitude, I welcome baby Sawong and his parents, Kevin and Fetima, back home to Papua New Guinea.

Over the past months, Sawong, his parents Kevin and Fetima, and their wider community have demonstrated extraordinary resilience. Sawong faced each challenge with remarkable tenacity and strength. Australia played a role in facilitating his care at the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, working alongside numerous partners.

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At the same time, I acknowledge and pay my respects to Sawong’s late twin brother, Tom, who sadly gave his life for Sawong to live.

The High Commissioner expressed sincere thanks to everyone involved, including family, friends, church and community members, exceptional healthcare professionals in both PNG and Australia, and generous donors. The collective effort behind the scenes was crucial in making this moment possible.

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The resilience of Sawong, his parents, and his wider family and community over the past months has been nothing short of extraordinary.

As Sawong returns home, Australia reaffirms its commitment to partnering with PNG to foster a bright future for children across the nation. The successful facilitation of Sawong's care highlights the collaborative spirit between the two countries in addressing critical health needs.

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I am honoured by the role Australia has been able to play in Sawong’s journey, working with a wide range of partners to facilitate his care at the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network.