Friday 6 December, 2023
Minister for Information and Communication Technology, Hon. Timothy Masiu, MP, has officially released the draft National Digital Identity Policy 2024 for public consultation. This important policy is aimed at improving citizen, business and government access to digital services and creating a safer, more secure digital environment for all Papua New Guineans.
“I am proud to announce that Papua New Guinea now has a draft National Digital ID Policy 2024,” Minister Masiu stated. “This policy sets the pathway for digital ID as an enabler for citizens to access digital services. It will play a critical role in ensuring a safe and secure digital environment where citizens can actively participate in e-commerce and the digital economy.”
The Policy is establishing an official Digital ID system, locally designated as SevisPass, which will serve as a critical Digital Public Infrastructure to ensure that every citizen, including those in our rural areas, are registered and given digital identity to access digital services and participate in the digital economy.
“The SevisPass has many use cases,” the Minister elaborated. “One of the most important is to empower over a million Papua New Guineans, particularly those in rural areas, to open bank accounts and gain access to financial services. We are committed to working with banks and financial institutions to streamline identity verification processes through secure digital Know-Your-Customer (e-KYC) procedures.”
The SevisPass will also transform the telecommunications sector, addressing SIM card registration challenges. “With SevisPass, tiered Know-Your-Customer processes will ensure identity verification before SIM card activation,” Minister Masiu explained. “This will help prevent fraud and maintain accurate user details in the telecom system.”
Minister Masiu highlighted the importance of collaboration in shaping the policy, calling on all stakeholders to actively participate in the consultation process.
“I invite all stakeholders—government agencies, private sector partners, civil society organizations, technical experts, and citizens—to provide feedback on this policy. Your insights will help us refine and finalize a framework that meets the needs of every Papua New Guinean.”
The National Digital ID Policy 2024 draft is accessible on the Department of ICT’s website at www.ict.gov.pg, and feedback or inquiries can be directed to Deputy Secretary – Policy, Mr. Flierl Shongol at flierl.shongol@ict.gov.pg or Executive Manager, Mr. Allan Long at allan.long@ict.gov.pg.
“This policy is a critical component of the government’s vision for a digitally inclusive Papua New Guinea, where citizens and businesses alike can thrive in the digital age.”
“Together, let us embrace this digital future and ensure that no one is left behind.”