Monday 28th July, 2026
Following the handover of duties by outgoing Acting ICT Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr. to incoming Minister Hon. Robert Naguri earlier this month, outgoing Minister Hon. Timothy Masiu today officially handed over the ICT Ministry keys to Minister Naguri at the Department of Information and Communications Technology. The transition marks the end of Mr. Masiu’s six-year leadership and the continuation of Papua New Guinea’s digital transformation agenda under new guidance.
During his tenure, Mr. Masiu spearheaded reforms to modernize digital laws and strengthen PNG’s role in regional technology cooperation. A cornerstone of his leadership was the Lagatoi Declaration, established in Port Moresby to unite Pacific island nations in advancing internet safety, technology legislation, and online growth.
Reflecting on the region’s past, Mr. Masiu noted that Pacific countries once lacked a strong voice in global technology discussions.
“We were just like tiny little islands floating in the ocean without a voice,” he said, emphasizing PNG’s success in proving it could lead regional policy.
He urged the Department and Minister Naguri to continue the momentum and “let the Lagatoi flow.”
Mr. Masiu highlighted that building strong technology laws requires patience and a solid foundation, likening the process to constructing a house. Under his leadership, several landmark achievements were delivered:
- Digital Government Act 2022 – enabling government offices to share data and deliver services online.
- Cybersecurity Policy and various Standards – protecting government systems and data from digital threats.
- Media Development Policy – supporting responsible and transparent news reporting.
- Radio Support Program – restoring NBC radio stations to ensure remote communities receive news and disaster alerts.
He called on all department staff to give their full support to Minister Naguri, describing him as a capable and experienced leader. Mr. Masiu expressed full confidence that Minister Naguri would carry the ICT responsibilities forward and guide the country’s digital future.