PNG Department of Information and Communications Technology

PNG Department of Information and Communications Technology PNG Government ICT news, awareness, advice, and announcements from the PNG Department of ICT

  Part of the DTS26 – Application Phase Now OPEN! The second edition of the PNG National Digital ID Hackathon is here, p...
11/06/2026

Part of the DTS26 – Application Phase Now OPEN!

The second edition of the PNG National Digital ID Hackathon is here, part of Digital Transformation Summit 2026.

To support participants in both tracks, Higher Education Institutions and Financial Services, the Department of Information and Communications Technology and MicroSave Consulting are hosting two webinars.

Whether you’re a student or a private sector innovator, join us to:
- Understand SevisPass, PNG’s national digital ID platform
- Learn how to design impactful use cases
- Get practical guidance on registration and onboarding

Webinar 1: Information & Onboarding
- Introduction to the hackathon and SevisPass ecosystem
- Role of digital identity in PNG’s wider ecosystem
- Walkthrough of the registration process
- Live Q&A to address participant issues
- Practical insights into SevisPass features: identity verification, authentication, and solution development

📅 Date: 12 June 2026
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM (PNG Standard Time)
🔗 Joining Link: https://lnkd.in/g56iM9HU

Make the most of your hackathon journey, deepen your understanding, explore opportunities, and get your questions answered directly by the team.

Stay updated here: https://lnkd.in/gqRkYQTp MSC - MicroSave Consulting

  PNG–Australia Strategic Digital Partnership to Advance Connectivity, Cybersecurity, AI Governance, and Public Service ...
11/06/2026

PNG–Australia Strategic Digital Partnership to Advance Connectivity, Cybersecurity, AI Governance, and Public Service Delivery
Papua New Guinea and Australia are moving forward on several key initiatives under their strategic digital partnership, following high-level discussions in Port Moresby today.

Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Peter L. Tsiamalili Jr., OBE, MP, met with Australia’s Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Ms Jessica Hunter, and senior officials to review progress on digital cooperation.

“We discussed the development of Pacific Digital and AI Principles, which Papua New Guinea and Australia are seeking to advance with Pacific Islands Forum partners,” Minister Tsiamalili said.

“These principles are intended to promote digital sovereignty, responsible adoption of artificial intelligence, regional resilience, transparency, accountability, and value-for-money digital investments across the Pacific.”

The meeting also covered the modernisation of ICT and cyber cooperation through an updated Memorandum of Understanding. The new framework will reflect priorities such as secure digital infrastructure, cyber capability development, AI governance, online safety, and protection of critical technology systems.

Minister Tsiamalili welcomed progress on the Pukpuk Digital Connectivity Initiative, a major undersea cable project that will deliver three new international routes serving Northern PNG, Southern PNG, and Bougainville.

“This investment is designed to strengthen our international connectivity, improve network resilience, and reduce single points of failure,” he said.

Another highlight was the Sevis Data Exchange (SevisDEx), part of PNG’s Digital Public Infrastructure agenda. Australia has committed K5 million to the project, which will enable secure interoperability across government systems.

“Once implemented, SevisDEx will serve as the secure platform connecting registries and digital services, enabling more efficient, secure and citizen-centric service delivery,” Minister Tsiamalili noted.

The two sides also reviewed the Telecommunications Blueprint for PNG, led by Professor Rod Sims and Special Advisor Jack Tomon, which will guide reforms to expand connectivity, improve affordability, strengthen competition, and enhance cyber resilience.

Looking ahead, preparations are underway for the Digital Transformation Summit 2026, co-hosted by PNG and Australia. Building on the success of DTS25, which attracted more than 1,500 participants, the Summit is expected to be one of the largest digital policy and innovation gatherings in the Pacific.

“Papua New Guinea’s digital future must be secure, sovereign, inclusive and resilient,” Minister Tsiamalili affirmed.

“I thank Australia for its continued partnership and look forward to advancing these important initiatives for the benefit of our people and the wider Pacific region.”

Read Article and Media Statement: https://www.ict.gov.pg/png-australia-advance-strategic-digital-partnership/

Australian High Commission Papua New Guinea Hon. Peter Tsiamalili MP Steven Matainaho ゚

  DICT, ITI Signs 5-Year MoU to Advance AI Capacity Building and Research to Progress Digital TransformationThe Departme...
10/06/2026

DICT, ITI Signs 5-Year MoU to Advance AI Capacity Building and Research to Progress Digital Transformation
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the INTERNATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE (ITI), signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) yesterday to strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), ICT skills development, training, research, and digital innovation in Papua New Guinea.

The agreement focuses on building ICT capability through curriculum enhancement, internships, corporate training, staff upskilling, and the joint development of AI-driven use cases aligned with national digital transformation goals.

From the agreement, a technical Working Group will be established to guide and coordinate the implementation of the partnership over the five-year period.

The signing ceremony brought together DICT Secretary Mr. Steven Matainaho, Deputy Secretary (Policy & Emerging Technology) Mr. Flierl Shongol, and senior officials from the department. Representing ITI were Chairman and Co-Founder Mr. Senthil Kumaran Sentheyval and Director/Dean of Studies Mr. Sivanathan Sivaruban, alongside the institution’s academic leadership team.

ITI Chairman and Co-Founder Mr. Senthil Kumaran Sentheyval said the partnership reflects a shared vision in advancing technology, education, and innovation.

“We want to progress, we are also going into IT and AI, so this is something we would like to do — to find out where we can share. DICT has its own summit and conference, and we have ours. Working together in the same direction is good, and it is encouraging to collaborate with the department to progress further,” he said.

He added that ITI’s role continues to focus on training while also contributing to innovation in digital transformation and artificial intelligence.

“As an institution, we are here for the training side, but also to be part of the innovation of future progress in digitalization and AI. It is always good to have the educational side involved in that as well,” he said.

DICT Secretary Mr. Steven Matainaho emphasized that the partnership is aligned with government priorities on digital government, digital economy development, and the national AI strategy. He noted that artificial intelligence must be applied in practical use cases to deliver real value.

“AI alone is nothing, but AI pegged to a use case — that’s where you start to see the value. This partnership is about exploring and incubating those ideas and use cases, and what better way to do it than with higher education institutions.”

Read news: https://www.ict.gov.pg/dict-and-iti-sign-five-year-mou-to-advance-ai-ict-skills-and-digital-transformation/

 , Financial Services Track - Part of the DTS26The PNG National Digital ID Hackathon, organized by the Department of Inf...
08/06/2026

, Financial Services Track - Part of the DTS26

The PNG National Digital ID Hackathon, organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and MSC - MicroSave Consulting introduces two exciting tracks for this year, as part of the Digital Transformation Summit 2026 - The Higher Education Institution Track, and the Financial Services Track.

This year, we have introduced a Financial Services track in the PNG National Digital ID hackathon. This track is designed for private sector players who want to build solutions that make financial services more accessible, inclusive, and efficient for PNG citizens.

Across Papua New Guinea, many people still face challenges in proving their identity, opening accounts, accessing credit, or using digital financial services. This track invites start-ups and private companies operating in the financial sector to develop SevisPass-enabled solutions to address these barriers while creating real business opportunities.

Private sector players who are interested can compete in teams of 2–4 members and will receive mentorship and access to the SevisPass staging environment. The top six finalists will have the opportunity to showcase their solutions at the Digital Transformation Summit 2026 in Port Moresby.

Registration is now open and closes on June 21, 2026.

Download the Financial Services Track application form here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ltmdCzaW_Xd6oKcl2C085zWymrbXLqbX/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=109857721598801785643&rtpof=true&sd=true

Register now: hackathon.dts.gov.pg

For more information, visit our website - https://www.digitalidinnovations.com/png-hackathon-2026/

゚ ゚viralシ

  is BACK for 2026, Part of the DTS26The PNG National Digital ID Hackathon, organized by the Department of Information a...
05/06/2026

is BACK for 2026, Part of the DTS26

The PNG National Digital ID Hackathon, organized by the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and MSC - MicroSave Consulting is back, bigger and bolder for its second edition!!!

After a successful first edition at the DTS25, we're introducing separate tracks for students and private organizations, each focused on creating innovative solutions using SevisPass, PNG's national digital ID platform.

If you are a student who wants to use digital ID technology to solve real-world challenges and contribute to Papua New Guinea's development, you can participate in the Higher Education Institution track.

Build innovative SevisPass use cases across sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture, and turn your ideas into working prototypes.

You can participate in teams of two to four. All team members must be enrolled in a PNG higher education institution at the undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral level, and each team must include at least one female participant.

Shortlisted teams will participate during the Digital Transformation Summit 2026, from 19th to the 23rd July, at Stanley Hotel Port Moresby.

Registration is now open and closes on June 21, 2026.

Download the HEI application form here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sZ5UbIerxo8bfoMy0NBJRei7KfreOFFr/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=109857721598801785643&rtpof=true&sd=true

Register online: hackathon.dts.gov.pg

For more information, visit our website - https://www.digitalidinnovations.com/png-hackathon-2026/

  DISINFORMATION and AI Misuse Threaten Effective Governance - 2 Day Public Sector Branding and Communications Summit Co...
29/05/2026

DISINFORMATION and AI Misuse Threaten Effective Governance - 2 Day Public Sector Branding and Communications Summit Continues...
Rampant disinformation and the misuse of artificial intelligence are driving a severe national trust crisis, forcing the state to reclassify public communication as a critical national security and economic capability. This was revealed today by Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Deputy Secretary Mr. Flierl Shongol at Apec Haus, during the formal opening of the two‑day Public Sector Branding and Communications Summit hosted by Exepreneur, part of PNG Public Relations Week 2026.

Mr. Shongol warned that weak state branding and fragmented communication channels are directly stalling government programs and eroding public confidence. He stressed that disinformation is no longer a peripheral issue but a direct threat to governance and national stability.

To counter this, the DICT is leading a strategic communications overhaul that compels state agencies to abandon defensive, secretive public relations practices in favor of full transparency. Guided by the National Media Development Policy 2024 and the forthcoming National Freedom of Information framework, the government is mandating comprehensive training for public information officers. The aim is to eliminate the entrenched habit of hiding public data behind false “confidentiality” labels and instead foster a culture of openness.

Recognizing the state’s current deficit in public trust, the summit is being used to bridge gaps between government and society. Public media teams are being directed to adopt proven, empathy‑driven branding strategies from private sector leaders who have successfully built credible consumer relationships.

Mr. Shongol emphasized that modern governance can no longer rely on isolated press statements or sporadic announcements. While digital infrastructure and data systems are expanding, he noted that technology alone cannot transform a nation—people must understand why reforms matter.

Ultimately, the government’s radical communication shift aims to build a credible, citizen‑focused brand that transforms ordinary citizens into informed participants in development.

DICT is the event partner for the PNGPR Week Public Sector Branding and Communications Summit and Workshop, as the recognizes the critical need to build the capacity of communications and PR officials in the public sector to support the digital transformation agenda.

Source: https://www.ict.gov.pg/disinformation-threatens-governance/

゚ ゚viralシ

  Telcos and ISPs Begin Blocking of Inappropriate and Harmful Online Content in PNG Telecommunications companies and Int...
29/05/2026

Telcos and ISPs Begin Blocking of Inappropriate and Harmful Online Content in PNG

Telecommunications companies and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) across Papua New Guinea have officially commenced filtering inappropriate and unlawful websites, including po*******hy, following the Government’s directive.

Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr., confirmed that Starlink has already complied with the policy.

“Starlink has effectively complied, with the blocking of unsuitable websites, including po*******hy, taking effect as of today,” he said.

The Minister stressed that the move is aimed at safeguarding families, schools, and communities from harmful online material.

“This action is necessary to protect our children, families, schools and communities from harmful online content. The internet must support education, business, communication and national development rather than the distribution of po*******hy, abuse or other unlawful material,” he stated.

He reminded citizens that po*******hy is not a harmless matter under Papua New Guinea law. The Cybercrime Code Act 2016 criminalises the production, distribution, transmission, or access of po*******hy for publication or transmission, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. The Classification of Publication (Censorship) Act 1989 also prohibits objectionable and unclassified publications contrary to accepted standards of morality and decency.

Citizens were warned against accessing or sharing pornographic material through mobile phones, social media, messaging apps, or any online platform.

“Any material involving children is a serious criminal offence and will be dealt with under the full force of the law,” the Minister cautioned.

The Ministry will continue monitoring compliance by telcos, ISPs, Starlink, and regulators, with updates to be reported to Cabinet. Looking ahead, Hon. Tsiamalili Jr. announced that the Government intends to introduce new Social Media Legislation before the end of 2026. The law will strengthen mechanisms to restrict underaged access to inappropriate platforms and impose penalties, including possible bans, on platforms that fail to comply with PNG regulations.

Read news: https://www.ict.gov.pg/telcos-and-isps-begin-blocking-harmful-online-content-in-png/

゚ Hon. Peter Tsiamalili MP Steven Matainaho

  PNG Joins Global 50-in-5 Campaign to Accelerate Digital Public Infrastructure Transformation The Government of Papua N...
29/05/2026

PNG Joins Global 50-in-5 Campaign to Accelerate Digital Public Infrastructure Transformation
The Government of Papua New Guinea, through the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and its SevisPNG Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Program, has officially announced the country’s participation in the global 50-in-5 campaign.

Papua New Guinea now joins a coalition of nations working to accelerate the safe, inclusive, interoperable, and citizen‑centric implementation of Digital Public Infrastructure to strengthen public service delivery and drive inclusive digital transformation.

The 50-in-5 campaign is a country‑led initiative that supports nations in implementing foundational DPI components — including Digital Identity, Digital Payments, and Data Exchange systems — within five years through collaboration, shared learning, and international cooperation.

Secretary for the Department of ICT, Mr. Steven Matainaho, said Papua New Guinea’s participation reflects the Government’s commitment to modernizing public services under the broader Digital Government agenda and the SevisPNG Program.

“Papua New Guinea’s participation in the 50-in-5 initiative demonstrates our commitment to accelerating digital transformation and building trusted, inclusive, and interoperable Digital Public Infrastructure that improves service delivery for all Papua New Guineans. Through SevisPNG, we are laying the foundation for a connected digital government ecosystem that will enhance accessibility, transparency, efficiency, and innovation across government services,” Mr. Matainaho stated.

The SevisPNG DPI ecosystem is designed to build trust and confidence for citizens, businesses, government agencies, and the private sector to safely transact and interact online. Cybersecurity, digital trust, and data protection remain central pillars of the SevisPNG architecture, supported by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the National Cybersecurity and Cyber Coordination (N3C) frameworks.

Through SevisPNG, Papua New Guinea is progressing key foundational initiatives including:

– a citizen digital identity credential enabling secure authentication and eKYC capabilities.

– a secure credential wallet for trusted digital documents.

– a secure interoperability and data exchange platform governed by API integration standards.

– a neutral government payment gateway for interoperable digital transactions.

– a unified portal providing streamlined access to government services.

Participation in the 50-in-5 campaign will provide Papua New Guinea with opportunities to collaborate with other countries, development partners, and global DPI experts to share knowledge, learn from international best practices, and accelerate implementation outcomes.

The initiative also aligns with Papua New Guinea’s national priorities around digital inclusion, public sector modernization, financial inclusion, economic participation, cybersecurity resilience, and improved citizen access to services.

The Department of ICT acknowledged the support of international partners and stakeholders working alongside the Government to advance the country’s digital transformation agenda.

゚viralシ ゚

  USA Commits US$30 Million for Satellite Internet Connectivity in PNG The Ministry for Information and Communications T...
28/05/2026

USA Commits US$30 Million for Satellite Internet Connectivity in PNG
The Ministry for Information and Communications Technology has welcomed a major commitment from the United States Government to provide US$30 million for satellite internet connectivity, aimed at bridging the digital divide for rural and remote communities.

Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Peter L. Tsiamalili Jr., OBE, MP, said the announcement followed the second United States–Papua New Guinea Strategic Partnership Dialogue and represents a timely boost to the country’s connectivity efforts.

“I welcome the announcement by the Government of the United States of America of its intention to provide US$30 million for satellite internet connectivity in Papua New Guinea,” Hon. Tsiamalili stated.

The funding will support connections for remote health facilities, schools, disaster centres, and expand access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and global markets.

“This is a timely and practical commitment. For Papua New Guinea, satellite internet can help bridge the connectivity gap for rural and remote communities where geography, cost and infrastructure challenges remain significant,” he said.

Read news and Statement: https://www.ict.gov.pg/usa-commits-us30-million-for-satellite-internet-connectivity-in-png/

Hon. Peter Tsiamalili MP Steven Matainaho

  Tsiamalili Announces Drafting of Verifiable Credentials Bill, All Partners to Align Systems for Rollout by July Follow...
22/05/2026

Tsiamalili Announces Drafting of Verifiable Credentials Bill, All Partners to Align Systems for Rollout by July
Following the endorsement of the National Digital ID Policy, the Ministry of ICT has commenced the drafting instructions and proposed Bill for the Digital Identity and Verifiable Credentials legislation.

ICT Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr, in a statement today announced that the drafting process follows the endorsement of the National Digital ID Policy, stating that it begins a path for a legal framework that will enable citizens to securely identify themselves and access trusted digital services.

“Since taking office ten months ago, my focus has been clear, make government systems interoperable, strengthen trust in digital services, and lay the foundations for Papua New Guinea’s digital economy,” Minister Tsiamalili stated.

The proposed legislation will support the national rollout of SevisPass, SevisWallet, SevisDEx, and other approved Verifiable Credentials, drawing from global best practices such as India’s DigiLocker, Singapore’s Singpass, Estonia’s e‑ID, UAE Pass, Saudi Arabia’s Absher/Nafath, Brazil’s gov.br, Argentina’s Mi Argentina, and the European Union’s eIDAS 2.0 Digital Identity Wallet.

“The SevisWallet App is now available on both the iOS App Store and Google Play, giving citizens a practical pathway to register, hold, and present trusted digital credentials,” he said.

Minister Tsiamalili urged all key partners, including banks, financial institutions, mobile network operators, telcos, government agencies, education institutions, and professional bodies, to work closely with NICTA and the Department of ICT to complete technical, regulatory, and operational readiness by the end of July.

Read News and Minister's Statement: https://www.ict.gov.pg/tsiamalili-announces-drafting-of-digital-id-bill-all-relying-partners-to-align-systems-for-rollout-by-july/

゚viralシ Hon. Peter Tsiamalili MP Steven Matainaho

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