Tuesday, April 15, 2025
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to revolutionize public services in Papua New Guinea through the implementation of a digital identification system (Digital ID).
During a recent discussion on the Nasfund FM100 talkback show, Deputy Secretary for Policy and Emerging Technology, Flierl Shongol, emphasized the critical role this digital transformation will play in modernizing how citizens access government services.
“The essence of this initiative is to authenticate and verify individuals online,” Shongol explained.
“As we transition to a digital framework, the issuance of a digital ID will be essential for citizens to efficiently access a wide range of services provided by both the government and the private sector.”
The introduction of the Digital ID is a crucial part of Papua New Guinea’s larger vision for digital transformation, aimed at enhancing public services across the nation.
A robust digital public infrastructure is currently being developed to facilitate the issuance of digital IDs.
This comprehensive framework will not only streamline access to government services but will also support interactions with financial institutions and telecommunications providers.
Shongol emphasized that the Digital ID is designed to empower citizens to engage more effectively in the digital economy.
He remarked on the importance of enabling individuals to utilize technology that can enhance their businesses and everyday activities, highlighting the economic implications of this initiative.
In addition, Shongol indicated that PNG is working diligently to close the digital gap and catch up with other nations that have already implemented digital ID systems.
“PNG is playing catch up at this stage,” he noted.
“As digital ID adoption becomes a global trend, the government aims to ensure that PNG remains competitive and keeps pace with these advancements.”
With this initiative, the government hopes to create a more efficient and inclusive digital landscape, ultimately benefiting its citizens and the economy as a whole.
A focal point of the discussion was the importance of security within the digital ID system.
Shongol reassured citizens that security will be an integral aspect of both design and implementation, effectively addressing concerns about data privacy and identity theft.
“Comprehensive regulatory measures are being developed to protect citizens’ data throughout its lifecycle,” he assured.
Inclusiveness is another vital principle driving this initiative.
Shongol stated that digital ID must be accessible to everyone, particularly those in remote and underserved areas.
“This initiative aims to ensure that even individuals without formal identification can obtain a digital ID,” he said.
As the country gears up to roll out the Digital ID, the government is in the final stages of developing the National Digital ID Policy.
This policy will frame the operational mechanisms of the digital IDs and establish guidelines through consultations with key stakeholders across various sectors.
High-priority services, including e-voting and digital banking, are set to be integrated as part of this initiative, with objectives extending towards a fully operational framework by 2027.
“We must operate collaboratively; this endeavor requires unity among all government sectors and the economy,” concluded Shongol.
“Investments in digital public infrastructure today will empower our nation and be key drivers for future economic growth.”