The Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) today held an official handover ceremony between outgoing Acting Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr., OBE, MP, and incoming Minister Hon. Robert Naguri, MP, at Melanesian Haus.
Heads of ICT sector agencies including the Department of ICT, National Information and Communication Technology Authority and the National Broadcasting Corporation, witnessed the formal transition of ministerial duties and celebrate achievements made over the past year.
Outgoing Acting Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr. highlighted the progress achieved under his leadership, including the elevation of the Department of ICT to Level 5, the introduction of the SevisWallet, and integration of SevisPass with the National Identification system.
Minister Tsiamalilii Jr. acknowledged the work of former Minister Hon. Timothy Masiu and expressed confidence in Minister Naguri’s technical leadership.
He noted that the Prime Minister had appointed Hon. Naguri because of his technical expertise and said he was confident the Ministry would move forward quickly.
Incoming Minister Hon. Robert Naguri thanked his predecessors for their leadership and pledged to continue driving the Government’s ICT agenda.
He said his role was to guide the sector, make life easier through ICT, and create a safe and free environment where everyone can thrive. He emphasized that his focus would be on delivering one or two key government priorities set by the Prime Minister, rather than spreading efforts too thin.
Agency heads also shared their appreciation and commitment to continued collaboration. NICTA CEO Mr. Lume Polume commended the outgoing Minister for his service and reaffirmed NICTA’s readiness to build on the strong foundation established by both Ministers.
Acting DICT Secretary Mr. Flierl Shongol described the occasion as an important milestone for the sector, acknowledging Minister Tsiamalili’s leadership in elevating the department and driving digital transformation.
He expressed confidence in Minister Naguri’s direction and noted the upcoming Digital Transformation Summit next week.
Managing Director of NBC Mr Kora Nou thanked both outgoing Ministers, Hon. Timothy Masiu and Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr., and welcomed Minister Naguri to the sector, pledging NBC’s full support.
The Ministry reaffirmed its focus on implementing the National Sovereign Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation Strategy, expanding the SevisPNG Digital Public Infrastructure, and strengthening cybersecurity and connectivity across the country.
Read joint Press Statement