PORT MORESBY, April 8, 2026
Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, has announced that the National Digital ID will soon be the mandatory standard for all government procurement processes.
Speaking at the conclusion of the first day of the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) Contractors Conference at APEC Haus, Minister Tsiamalili, who also serves as the Minister for Works and Highways, warned that the “digital wave” is no longer optional for the private sector.
He emphasized that the Digital ID will serve as the “sanctified” and primary form of authentication for any Papua New Guinean or business entity participating in state tenders.
“Digital ID is a one-stop shop,” Minister Tsiamalili stated. “Going forward, every submission on any procurement will require a Digital ID to authenticate exactly who you are. If you have not accustomed yourself to where technology is heading, you will be left behind.”
Backing the earlier remarks of Secretary for Works and Highways, Mr. Gibson Holemba, the Minister noted the rapid migration of the industry toward Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications. He stressed that AI is moving far beyond social media and into the core of industrial and legal operations.
“AI is a tool that is cross-cutting. It isn’t just for civil works; it is even impacting the legal perspectives of our government,” the Minister explained.
“Industry players must adapt to these tools because they are the primary drivers of modern efficiency.”
The Digital ID will be the benchmark for identity in the procurement space to ensure transparency and reduce fraud.
This shift aligns with the National Digital Identity Policy 2025, aimed at creating a secure, verified digital public infrastructure.
The Minister concluded by reminding the hundreds of contractors in attendance that the government’s goal is to simplify business through technology, but it requires the industry to step up and embrace these new digital standards.
“What you’re doing is changing lives. To continue doing that effectively, we must move together into the digital age.” said Hon. Peter Tsiamalili