Airai State Government

𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐇𝐢𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬

– 20 May 2026 –

The Ministry of HRCTD, through the Bureau of Cultural and Historical Preservation (BCHP) and the Bureau of Tourism (BOT), has formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 08, 2026 with the State Governments of Airai, Aimeliik, and Ngchesar, together with the Palau Visitors Authority (PVA), to develop, maintain, and promote a network of interconnected hiking trails.

On May 20, 2026, the Ministry was honored to award the participating state governments with the initial funding to officially commence the initiative and support the early stages of the trail’s development and maintenance.

This landmark agreement highlights Palau’s commitment to advancing sustainable tourism practices while expanding opportunities for terrestrial tourism. In addition to enhancing the visitor experience, this initiative will integrate and protect significant cultural heritage sites, ensuring that Palau’s natural beauty and legacy are preserved for both visitors and future generations.

The ministry sincerely thanks the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its generous support through the Climate and Biodiversity Smart Grant Project for Marine Spatial Planning, which has made this initiative possible. We also want to extend our utmost gratitude to the State Governments of Airai, Aimeliik, and Ngchesar for their cooperation and partnership in this endeavor. We look forward to collaborating on this initiative, which is foundational and reflects Palau’s vision for sustainability, cultural preservation, and community strengthening.

05.15.2026

*Late Post*

Congratulations to all Palau Community College students, especially the students from Airai State, on your hard work, dedication, and achievements.

Your commitment to furthering your education reflects determination, perseverance, and a desire to build a brighter future for yourselves, your families, and our community.

As you continue your educational journey, remember that your efforts today will inspire future generations from Airai State to pursue their dreams and strive for success.

Wishing you all continued success in your studies and future careers.

05.19.2026

The Office of the Attorney General, serving as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Focal Point for the Republic of Palau, conducted a National Multi-Stakeholder Consultation on the Draft National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS) at the Ked Community Center from 9:00 AM to 11:45 AM.

Members of the Airai State Cheldebechel and some state employees participated in the consultation, contributing to discussions focused on strengthening transparency, integrity, and accountability within Palau.

The consultations reaffirmed four key priority areas for the NACS: the re-establishment of the Ombudsman Office; addressing unexplained wealth and strengthening asset declaration systems; ensuring whistleblower protection for victims and witnesses; and promoting transparency and accountability in the land registry system.

05.05.2026

*Part 2*

Happy Seniors Citizens from Airai and Ngaraard 🐚🔥

The collaboration between the two states for Senior Citizens Day highlights a meaningful effort to bridge generations and honor the wisdom of elders.

By coming together, both states created a space where seniors could share their life experiences, cultural knowledge, and values with younger generations, strengthening community bonds.

The event not only celebrated the contributions of senior citizens but also reminded everyone of the importance of respect, learning, and unity. Through storytelling, shared activities, and conversations, this collaboration fostered a deeper appreciation for tradition and the role elders play in guiding the future, making it a powerful example of how communities can connect across ages.

Shoutout to Ngaraard and Airai Youth because of them the event went as planned. Also, Airai State and Ngaraard State Rangers for the traffic control.

Office of the Governor, Ngaraard State Government

05.05.2026

*Part 1*

Happy Seniors Citizens from Airai and Ngaraard 🐚🔥

The collaboration between the two states for Senior Citizens Day highlights a meaningful effort to bridge generations and honor the wisdom of elders.

By coming together, both states created a space where seniors could share their life experiences, cultural knowledge, and values with younger generations, strengthening community bonds.

The event not only celebrated the contributions of senior citizens but also reminded everyone of the importance of respect, learning, and unity. Through storytelling, shared activities, and conversations, this collaboration fostered a deeper appreciation for tradition and the role elders play in guiding the future, making it a powerful example of how communities can connect across ages.

Shoutout to Ngaraard and Airai Youth because of them the event went as planned. Also, Airai State and Ngaraard State Rangers for the traffic control.

Office of the Governor, Ngaraard State Government

05.04.2026

The Airai State Government, Airai Elementary School and citizens of Airai bid their final farewell to Rubak Rekemesik Surangel S. Whipps.

Your leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the people have left a lasting impact that will not be forgotten.

May you rest in peace. You will always be remembered.

04.24.2026

The Airai State Rangers and BIOTA assisted Airai Elementary School 8th grade students during a coastal cleanup at Ngkesill Rock Island as part of their Earth Day Week Activities.

Students worked together with rangers and volunteers to collect trash along the shoreline, learning firsthand the impact of pollution on marine life and the surrounding environment. This activity not only helped restore the natural beauty of the Airai Rock Islands but also gave students a sense of responsibility and pride in caring for their community.

Earth Day is important for students because it teaches them the value of protecting natural resources, encourages environmentally responsible habits, and inspires them to become future stewards of the environment.

Keeping the Airai Rock Islands clean is essential to preserving marine ecosystems, supporting local livelihoods, and maintaining the beauty of one of Palau’s most treasured natural areas for future generations.

04.23.2026

REMINDER

For the past few weeks, the Airai State Rangers have received multiple reports of fire outbreaks. As we enter the drought season, this is a reminder to the Airai community that starting fires—including bonfires—is strictly prohibited.

Please be advised that a burn ban issued by the Environmental Quality Protection Board is in effect as of April 22, 2026, and will remain in place until further notice.

We encourage everyone to do their part in preventing wildfires and conserving water. Thank you for your cooperation.

04.21.2026

Governor Norman H. Ngiratecheboet, the Airai State Rangers, and Chief Mycellyne Gast of DOPD joined Airai Elementary School students, staff, and parents for an Earth Day campaign in front of the Palau Solar Office. The event aimed to raise awareness about Earth Day and encouraged individuals to take personal responsibility through actions such as recycling, planting trees, cleaning up neighborhoods, and reducing plastic use. Let’s take care of our Earth and especially our home of Airai.