Singapore, May 26, 2025
Papua New Guinea’s Minister for ICT, Hon. Timothy Masiu, during the Pacific Islands Telecommunications Association (PITA) meeting in Singapore, emphasized the urgent need to strengthen digital infrastructure, security, and inclusivity across the Pacific.
Minister Masiu reaffirmed the collective commitment of Pacific nations to bridging the digital divide, underscoring that connectivity must extend beyond mere cables and coverage to become a “lifeline access to education, healthcare, markets, and emergency response.” He noted that while progress has been made, “many Pacific islanders still lack reliable internet access or remain priced out of it. This digital divide is not just a technology issue—it is a development issue.”
At the heart of his speech was the Lagatoi Declaration, a framework endorsed by Pacific ICT Ministers aimed at advancing digital inclusion and cooperation. Minister Masiu highlighted key pillars driving the region’s digital future, including resilient infrastructure, cybersecurity, policy development, and local capacity building.
As climate-related disasters continue to impact Pacific nations, the Minister stressed the need for “climate-resilient networks that can withstand cyclones, tsunamis, and extreme weather events,” along with investment in green ICT solutions that align with the region’s environmental priorities.
Minister Masiu also addressed pressing cybersecurity concerns, noting that cyber threats and misinformation are increasingly jeopardizing digital progress. “As our digital footprint grows, so too must our vigilance,” he said. He called for coordinated regional action to harmonize cybersecurity strategies and enhance digital trust frameworks.
Recognizing that technology alone is insufficient without skills, he urged both government and industry players to prioritize digital literacy, technical training, and support for ICT careers. “Technology without skills is wasted potential,” he remarked. “When we empower our people, we multiply our impact.”
Concluding his address, Minister Masiu drew on the Pacific’s iconic Lagatoi canoe—a symbol of shared journey and cooperation—to reinforce the region’s unity in building a “regional platform for innovation, equity, and inclusion.” He urged PITA members and stakeholders to continue their collaborative efforts, ensuring that every Pacific islander is “connected, protected, empowered, and inspired.”
The PITA meeting brought together ICT leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders from across the region, reinforcing discussions on digital transformation strategies that will shape the Pacific’s future.