*Police Minister Tsiamalili Jnr. Commends Successful Testing of ICT Control Systems to Ensure Responsible Use of Facebook*

Police Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jnr. today praised the successful testing of innovative technology designed to regulate the use of Facebook and other online platforms to mitigate hate speech, misinformation, pornography, and other detrimental content impacting Papua New Guinea.

The test, conducted under the framework of the Anti-Terrorism Act 2024, was executed by the Government in partnership with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), and various internet service providers. 

This initiative seeks to ensure responsible usage of social media platforms like Facebook while keeping harmful content out of public discourse.

“We are not attempting to suppress free speech or restrict our citizens from expressing their viewpoints,” Minister Tsiamalili stated. 

“However, the unchecked proliferation of fake news, hate speech, pornography, child exploitation, and incitement to violence on platforms such as Facebook is unacceptable. 

These challenges increasingly threaten the safety, dignity, and well-being of our populace.”

The Minister underscored that this new technology equips the government and law enforcement agencies with the means to monitor and regulate harmful content while preserving genuine freedom of expression. 

The objective is to foster a safer online environment where women, children, youth, and the general public can participate without exposure to dangerous or exploitative material.

“Today’s successful test demonstrates our enhanced technological capacity to more effectively regulate social media platforms. 

The government is committed to working closely with relevant agencies, including NICTA, the Police Department, telecommunications companies, and internet service providers, to promote responsible communication in Papua New Guinea,” Minister Tsiamalili remarked.

He further urged Meta, the parent company of Facebook, to collaborate with the government in advocating for responsible use of the platform within the nation.

“We expect Facebook and other social media companies to act with responsibility and to partner with us in ensuring their platforms are not exploited for harmful purposes. 

If these platforms continue to be misused, the government will not hesitate to take decisive action to safeguard our citizens,” he cautioned.

Minister Tsiamalili also noted that the government will collaborate with internet service providers to ensure that all operators are appropriately registered, thereby promoting accountability and responsible communication.

“Responsible use of communication platforms is crucial as it influences not only security but also commerce, education, and the overall well-being of our society. 

As we progress technologically, we must ensure that these tools are leveraged in ways that benefit our people rather than cause harm,” Minister Tsiamalili concluded.