A remarkable visit to Papua New Guinea

It is not every day that a rabbi from Melbourne finds himself in Papua New Guinea. Yet this past week I had the extraordinary privilege of spending just over twenty four hours in Port Moresby, invited to speak at two community events together with Israel’s Ambassador to the Pacific, Roi Rosenblit. What I experienced there has left a lasting mark on me, and I believe it carries a message worth sharing with our Jewish community here at home.

From the moment I arrived, I was embraced with warmth, joy, and friendship. I had been told that Papua New Guinea holds a natural affinity for Israel, but nothing could have prepared me for the depth of feeling I encountered. People went out of their way to express their love for the Jewish people and their unwavering support for the State of Israel.

At both events where I spoke, I was welcomed like a celebrity. After my words, I was surrounded by people of all ages who wanted to take selfies, shake hands, and share blessings. Some told me that it was their dream to one day visit Israel. Others said that their hearts break for the people of Israel during these difficult times and that they pray daily for peace and safety. I was struck by the sincerity and passion of their voices. These were not polite formalities, they were heartfelt commitments.

The gatherings themselves were filled with song, energy, and a spirit of celebration. Papua New Guinea is marking its 50th anniversary of independence this year, and that sense of pride in their own story infused the way they related to ours. They understood, in a very real way, what it means for a people to seek freedom, dignity, and a place among the nations. Perhaps that is why their empathy for Israel feels so natural.

One of the most moving aspects of the visit was seeing how leaders, influencers, and especially young people in PNG connect with Israel. They are eager to learn more, to deepen ties, and to stand publicly as allies. In private conversations, we discussed ideas to strengthen the relationship further, through education, cultural exchanges, and building lasting friendships that go beyond politics.

I am deeply grateful to Gil Grinberg for facilitating this journey, and to Douveri Henao, who tirelessly opened doors and introduced me to so many inspiring people. Their commitment made it possible for me to encounter a community that few of us in Australia know much about, yet one that feels so close in spirit.

Ambassador Rosenblit spoke passionately about Israel’s role in the Pacific and its friendships across the region. To hear him explain how deeply countries like Papua New Guinea value their ties with Israel was both affirming and humbling. In a world where criticism of Israel often dominates headlines, it was refreshing to stand in a place where support is loud, proud, and joyous.

What did I take away from all this? First, a renewed sense of pride. Sometimes in our Jewish lives we can feel weighed down by the negativity directed at us. Standing in Papua New Guinea, hearing songs of love for Israel sung by people far removed from our daily struggles, reminded me that the Jewish story resonates far beyond our borders. Our light shines in places we may never have expected.

Second, I learned the power of connection. A smile, a word of Torah, even a selfie, all of these become bridges. In those moments I saw the truth of the verse, “Am Yisrael Chai.” The people of Israel live, not only in our resilience at home, but in the way our story touches hearts across the globe.

As I return to Melbourne, I carry with me the faces, voices, and songs of Papua New Guinea. I carry their blessings for Israel, their respect for our tradition, and their desire to stand side by side with us. And I carry a message for our own community: never underestimate how far our story travels, nor how many friends we truly have. Sometimes, the most powerful reminders come from the most unexpected places.

Rabbi Daniel Rabin is rabbi of Caulfield Hebrew Congregation.