𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐓𝐀 𝐂𝐄𝐎 𝐃𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲

NICTA CEO Kila Gulo-Vui has emphasized the need for greater coordination in digital regulation following reports of Facebook being inaccessible in Papua New Guinea throughout Monday.

In a statement, Mr. Gulo-Vui confirmed that NICTA had immediately launched an investigation, reaching out to the PNG National Cyber Security Centre and Meta, Facebook’s parent company.

However, the cause of the access issue remains unclear. “We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding as we continue to investigate this matter and will provide updates as more information becomes available,” he said.

The issue took on a new dimension after a media statement by Police Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jnr surfaced, claiming the successful testing of innovative technology to regulate Facebook and other online platforms. Mr. Gulo-Vui clarified that NICTA was neither consulted nor involved in the testing referenced by the Minister.

“Public confidence in our digital governance relies on transparency and consistency in how we approach online regulation,” Mr. Gulo-Vui stated.

“It is essential that all key stakeholders, including NICTA, law enforcement, telecommunications providers, and government agencies, collaborate closely to ensure that any actions taken are well-understood and properly executed.”

While acknowledging that online regulation falls within legal frameworks such as the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024 and the National ICT Act 2009, Mr. Gulo-Vui stressed that digital freedom and security must be balanced.

“National security is a priority, but we must ensure that regulation does not inadvertently erode public trust or digital rights,” he added.

Mr. Gulo-Vui is set to meet with the Minister for ICT to discuss NICTA’s role in the government’s broader policy on digital governance.