Tuesday 26 November 2024
Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Timothy Masiu, addressing the World Internet Conference Wuzhen, Ministerial Summit, China on 20 November 2024.
Minister for Information and Communications Technology Hon. Timothy Masiu, underscored the nation’s commitment to bridging the digital divide during his address at the 2024 World Internet Conference in Wuzhen, China, themed “Opportunities and Challenges in Bridging the Digital Divide in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”.
Minister Masiu emphasized the importance of collective efforts towards creating a future driven by digital innovation, which can uplift communities and unlock economic potential.
Addressing the conference, Mr Masiu remarked that Papua New Guinea faces unique barriers in connectivity, access, and digital literacy. However, he noted the immense potential in digital transformation and artificial intelligence as tools to empower the people.
The Minister highlighted the government’s ongoing endeavors to ensure that no citizen is left behind in the digital age.
“Guided by the Digital Transformation Policy 2020 and supported by the Digital Government Act 2022, we have laid the foundation for a robust and inclusive digital economy,” he said.
Significant milestones achieved by the government include the establishment of the National Cyber Security Centre, which successfully advanced Papua New Guinea’s ITU Global Cyber Index Ranking from Tier 5 to Tier 3 within just four years.
“By securing our cyberspace through the National Cyber Security Centre, we are building trust in our digital systems, enabling us to progress rapidly,” Minister Masiu noted.
In October this year, the government launched two flagship initiatives that mark significant advancements in their digital journey: SevisPass and SevisPortal.
SevisPass serves as a secure digital identity solution, allowing every citizen easy access to governmental and private sector services.
Conversely, SevisPortal functions as a comprehensive eGovernment platform that simplifies transactions and enhances public service delivery.
By expanding access to digital identity through SevisPass, Masiu stated that the government aims to ensure no citizen is left behind, further reinforcing its objective of inclusivity.
Mr Masiu also shared insights on regional cooperation efforts, noting that, under his leadership as Chairman of the Pacific ICT Ministers’ Dialogue, the Pacific Island Forum adopted the Lagatoi Declaration and its Action Plan earlier this year.
He articulated the necessity for a united voice in tackling challenges such as digital connectivity and cybersecurity in the region, which he termed “crucial for small island nations to thrive in the digital age.”
The Minister reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s dedication to digital transformation by announcing the upcoming release of an AI Adoption Policy Framework aimed at advancing the nation’s digital agenda further.
“Papua New Guinea is a young democracy, rich in culture and diversity, and eager to contribute to the global digital economy,” he said.
Moreover, Minister Masiu called for greater collaboration among development partners, urging them to align their support with the objectives outlined in the Lagatoi Declaration.
“Together, we can harness the power of digital transformation and artificial intelligence to build a world that is inclusive, secure, and sustainable.”
The initiatives and policies championed by the government demonstrate a clear commitment to enhancing digital accessibility and fostering economic growth that directly benefits the people, paving the way for an empowered and connected future.
ICT Minister Timothy Masiu meeting with Vice Chairman of the 2024 World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit, Professor Francis Gurry.