Who is Sasindran Muthuvel? He is the first foreign-born citizen to ever win an election to Papua New Guinea’s National Parliament.
When people talk about the diversity of Papua New Guinea (PNG), they often think of its 800 languages and countless tribes. Yet the story of Sasindran Muthuvel adds another layer – that of an immigrant who, through hard work and community service, rose to the very top of provincial politics and made history as the first foreign-born national elected to PNG’s Parliament.
Early Life in India
Sasindran Muthuvel was born in 1974 in Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, a bustling town in southern India. After completing his studies in Tamil Nadu, he sought opportunities abroad. Like many from his region, he first worked in Malaysia and Singapore before finding his way to Papua New Guinea, a country that would eventually become his permanent home.
Building a Life in PNG
Arriving in PNG as a young migrant, Muthuvel started small but worked tirelessly to build a livelihood. He established Hamamas Trading Ltd, a retail and trading business in West New Britain Province. Beyond business success, he earned the respect of local communities by supporting schools, clinics, and development projects, especially in remote areas where government services were often absent.
By the mid-2000s, he had taken up PNG citizenship, committing himself fully to the country he now called home. Facebook page of Sasindran Muthuvel, affectionately known as “SASI” by his constituents.
Entry into Politics
In 2012, Muthuvel contested the West New Britain Provincial seat – the governor’s position – and won. This victory marked a milestone: he became the first Indian-born and first foreign-born national to be elected to PNG’s Parliament. He was re-elected in 2017, consolidating his position as a trusted leader.
In Parliament, he also rose to the national cabinet as Minister for State-Owned Enterprises, where he advocated reforms to improve the management and efficiency of PNG’s public enterprises. Watch an interview with Governor Muthuvel.
Sasindran “Sasi” Muthuvel, Governor of West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea
Recognition and Honours
Muthuvel’s journey has been recognised both in PNG and internationally:
- In 2014, he received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, the highest award for overseas Indians, for his contributions to public life abroad.
- In 2024, he was honoured with the Padma Shri, one of India’s most prestigious civilian awards, acknowledging his role in public affairs and his service as a bridge between India and the Pacific.
A Symbol of Dedication and Integration
Sasindran Muthuvel’s story is more than just one of personal success. It shows how immigrants can integrate, contribute, and even lead in their adopted countries. From humble beginnings in southern India to the governorship of a province in Papua New Guinea, his life illustrates the value of hard work, community service, and cross-cultural understanding.
In a nation as diverse as PNG, Muthuvel stands as a living reminder that leadership is not bound by birthplace – but by dedication to the people you serve.
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