Port Moresby, August 9, 2024 – Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the people of Papua New Guinea to the family, friends, and business associates of the esteemed businessman, Sir Soekandar Tjandra, who passed away in Singapore on Friday, August 9, 2024.
Sir Soekandar, together with his wife, Lady Susan Tjandra, founded the Papindo Group of Companies in Lae in 1974. Over the decades, the company has grown to become the largest nationally-owned retail chain in Papua New Guinea.
“On behalf of the people of Papua New Guinea, I pass on our heartfelt condolences to Lady Susan, family, friends, and business associates of leading businessman, Sir Soekandar Tjandra, who passed away in Singapore today,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Sir Soekandar and Lady Susan Tjandra were well-known for their continuous support of the people of Lae City and Papua New Guinea, for which we are all grateful.”
Papindo started its humble beginnings on 4th Street, Lae, as a single retail store in 1974, co-founded by Sir Soekandar and Lady Susan Tjandra. Over the years, Papindo Trading Company has steadily expanded, becoming the largest nationally-owned retail chain in Papua New Guinea, with supermarkets and department stores throughout the country. Its headquarters remain in Lae, providing employment to hundreds of Papua New Guineans.
Prime Minister Marape also expressed his gratitude for Sir Soekandar’s contributions to the nation since the establishment of the first Papindo shop on February 20, 1974.
“Sir Soekandar and Papindo have done so much for the country, and at the same time, have endured senseless violence and looting over the years, the most recent being on January 10, 2024,” the Prime Minister noted.
“I urge the people of Papua New Guinea to reflect on Sir Soekandar’s contributions to our country and work towards a better future as we prepare to celebrate 50 years of independence—a milestone he will, sadly, not be with us to celebrate.”
“Thank you, Sir Soekandar, for your many contributions to Papua New Guinea.”
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