A statewide alcohol ban is to be enforced in Papua New Guinea's Highlands in an effort to restore law and order.

People in PNG's Southern Highlands province have been told they have until May 11 to drink or sell their alcohol.

That is when a total alcohol ban approved by the provincial government will come into effect.

The government is providing police with $500,000 to enforce the restriction.

Superintendent Jimmy Onopia says the ban will remain in place for as long as it takes to restore law and order across the province.

"Liquor contributes to at least 75 per cent of the law and order problems," he said.

Hoteliers and retailers have complained about the loss of income but Superintendent Onopia says the community's safety is more important.