Port Moresby, 28 May 2026
Telecommunications companies and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) across Papua New Guinea have officially commenced filtering inappropriate and unlawful websites, including pornography, following the Government’s directive.
Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Peter L. Tsiamalili Jr., confirmed that Starlink has already complied with the policy.
“Starlink has effectively complied, with the blocking of unsuitable websites, including pornography, 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 pornography, abuse or other unlawful material,” he stated.
He reminded citizens that pornography is not a harmless matter under Papua New Guinea law. The Cybercrime Code Act 2016 criminalises the production, distribution, transmission, or access of pornography 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.
[Image Credit: NBC PNG]