Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu, OBE has acknowledged the Satellite Licensing Breakthrough by urging NICTA to expedite final approvals for telecommunication service providers like Starlink.
This follows the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology, formally announced a landmark regulatory outcome that clears the path for the licensing of satellite broadband services, including the high-profile entry of Starlink into the national market.
The Chief Secretary welcomed the Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr decision as a critical win for national connectivity, disaster resilience, and the digital economy.
While reinforcing the need for all operators to comply with PNG’s legal and regulatory frameworks, the Chief Secretary has called on the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) to move with urgency to finalize the licensing process.
“This outcome affirms Papua New Guinea’s commitment to a transparent, rules-based regulatory environment,” Mr. Pomaleu stated.
“Our people in remote and underserved communities cannot afford to wait for the benefits of high-speed, reliable internet,” he said. Mr. Pomaleu highlighted several key areas where expedited satellite licensing will have an immediate impact:
• Disaster Preparedness: Providing a critical communications lifeline during natural disasters when terrestrial networks may fail.
• Bridging the Digital Divide: Reaching dispersed populations across PNG’s challenging terrain where traditional infrastructure is not viable.
• Government Coordination: Supporting first responders and ensuring the continuity of essential services in remote districts.
• Economic Growth: Enhancing inclusive digital access to fuel innovation and local entrepreneurship.
The Chief Secretary reaffirmed that the Government views the entry of Global Innovators like Starlink, as a strategic opportunity to strengthen national resilience.
Hence with a faster licensing timeline, the Chief Secreatry said the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology aims to ensure that the “clear and enabling pathway” created by this recent decision is utilized immediately to bring PNG’s ICT sector up to international standards.
“This is a strong signal that PNG is open for innovation,” Mr Pomaleu stated.
Mr. Pomaleu stressed that we must facilitate Responsible Investment and align it with our National Priorities without further delay.
“We remain committed to working constructively with Starlink and other internet providers, but the priority now is speed,” he said.
The Chief Secretary reiterated that while speed is essential, the integrity of the regulatory system remains paramount to ensure fair competition and consumer protection.