According to the DICT, it outlines key principles including privacy, consent, accessibility, and legal safeguards to prevent misuse of personal data. Photo: 123RF
The Papua New Guinea cabinet has endorsed a national digital identity policy "setting a new standard for digital governance in the Pacific", the government says.
In a statement on Thursday, the country's Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) announced that National Executive Council (NEC) had officially endorsed the National Digital Identity Policy 2025.
The policy, developed by DICT, will create "a secure, inclusive, and interoperable digital identity system for all citizens", the department siad.
It said the policy aims to establish a foundational digital identity framework that will streamline access to government services, reduce fraud, and enhance data protection across sectors."
According to the DICT, it outlines key principles including privacy, consent, accessibility, and legal safeguards to prevent misuse of personal data.
PNG's Acting ICT Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr described it as "a transformative moment for our nation's digital future".
"This policy is not just about technology - it's about empowering our people," Tsiamalili was quoted as saying in the statement.
"With a trusted digital identity, every Papua New Guinean will be able to access services more efficiently, securely, and with dignity."
The DICT said the policy aligns with the broader Digital Government Act 2022 and supports the implementation of the National Identification and Civil Registry system, as well as complements PNG's commitments under the Pacific ICT Ministerial Dialogue and the recently launched Lagatoi Declaration.
"We are laying the groundwork for a future where digital inclusion is a right, not a privilege," Tsiamalili said.
He said the policy ensures that the country's citizens were at the center of every digital reform.
"We are not just catching up-we are setting a new standard for digital governance in the Pacific. This is about building trust, protecting rights, and unlocking opportunities for every citizen," he added.
DICT secretary Steven Matainaho said the policy will guide the development of a national digital ID platform, which will be integrated with existing registries and databases.
Matainaho said the platform will adopt international best practices while remaining sensitive to PNG's unique cultural and legal context.
