Chief Censor Jim Abani has issued a strong call for responsible use of technology as Papua New Guinea begins enforcing nationwide internet content filtering under regulatory measures.
This will be led by the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) and the Office of Censorship (OoC).
The move follows a directive issued by Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Peter Tsiamalili Jr, implementing National Executive Council Decision No. 265/2023 on internet content filtering.
In a press release dated May 19, NICTA confirmed it has activated regulatory measures and begun a phased enforcement program targeting restricted online content across the country.
NICTA has issued formal compliance instructions to all licensed Internet Service Providers under the NICT Act 2009, giving operators a 14-day response window to comply.
A further 30-day compliance instruction has also been issued to all ISPs, including wholesale provider PNG DataCo Limited, requiring implementation of content filtering across their networks.
Low Earth Orbit satellite operators have also been directed to comply with the same requirements.
Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NICTA, Polume Lume, said that the authority has activated its regulatory and licensing powers to support the directive.
He warned that show-cause notices under Section 244 may be issued to non-compliant licensees.
The enforcement framework targets five categories of restricted online content including pornography and sexually explicit material, violent content, hate speech and discrimination, substance abuse, and illegal activities.
While the Office of Censorship continues its statutory role in classification and content oversight, it will also provide monthly updates to NICTA covering additions, removals, and classification methodology.
A tri-agency working group involving NICTA, the Office of Censorship, and the Department of Information and Communication Technology, has submitted a 30-day action plan to the government through the Minister.
Mr. Abani said the rapid expansion of digital platforms, artificial intelligence, cybercrime and online bullying has made digital responsibility more urgent than ever.
“I call every citizen to take ownership and be more responsible in the use of technology.”
He also referenced the Office of Censorship slogan, “Censorship Starts at Home,” urging families and communities to play an active role in guiding responsible online behaviour.
“If everyone takes ownership and responsibility in the use of technology, you will see that the country will be at another level as a society where everyone is happy,” Mr. Abani added.
Authorities state that a legal enforcement framework is also being strengthened in parallel, with agencies working under existing laws to identify offenders and ensure compliance within the justice system.
At the end of the 30-day period, the Technical Working Group is expected to present a final compliance report to Acting Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr.
