Papua New Guinea has reaffirmed its commitment to building a safer digital environment as the country marked Safer Internet Day 2026.

ICT Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr said the Government, through the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology, the Department of ICT (DICT), the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), and the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), is strengthening efforts to promote responsible internet use.

This year’s theme, “Smart tech, safe choices by exploring and responsible use of AI,” highlights the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in everyday life and the need for safe digital practices.

Minister Tsiamalili said the Marape-Rosso Government is committed to reforming the ICT sector and accelerating digital transformation.

“I reaffirm the Prime Minister’s declaration during the Digital Transformation Summit 2025 that Information and Communication Technology and Artificial Intelligence will be the driving force of the nation’s next 50 years of development, growth and public sector reform,” he said.

He said the Government’s Reset@50 agenda and the Digital Government Plan 2023–2027 aim to improve accountability, transparency and service delivery through technology.

While social media has improved communication, business engagement and access to government services, the Minister acknowledged growing risks.

“Social media plays a significant role in connecting people, businesses and government services. However, the rapid evolution of social media, including the use of AI, has presented challenges including privacy breaches, misinformation, online harassment, hate speech and data security risks,” he said.

To address these issues, the Government introduced the Papua New Guinea Social Media Policy 2025.

“The goal of this policy is to promote safe usage of social media platforms and to maintain our cultural and Christian values as we continue to adapt to changing lifestyles influenced by technology,” Minister Tsiamalili said.

He urged citizens to take personal responsibility online.

“I encourage all Papua New Guineans to take ownership of this policy and be accountable so that we can create a safe social media environment.”

The Government says Safer Internet Day serves as a reminder that digital transformation must go hand in hand with online safety, responsibility and national security.

“Let us continue to work together to embrace technological advancement to positively contribute to the development of our country,” the Minister said.