Papua New Guinea's ICT sector entered a new chapter following the ministerial handover between outgoing Information and Communications Technology Minister Timothy Masiu and incoming Minister Robert Naguri at the National Broadcasting Corporation headquarters in Five Mile, Port Moresby.
The ceremony marked the end of nearly seven years of Masiu's leadership, during which he oversaw major digital reforms, national ICT policies and regional cooperation that helped shape Papua New Guinea's digital transformation.
Reflecting on his departure, Masiu said his exit was a government decision and not because of his health.
"I got sick not because I was not doing my work. I got sick because I worked hard. The body was tired because it did not get enough rest," he said.
Masiu recalled that his final official assignment took him through Japan, New Zealand, Australia and the Philippines before he fell ill.
"My last work I did was July 5. From there I travelled from Japan, New Zealand, then to Australia. From Canberra I went to Manila and got sick."
Despite leaving office, Masiu urged staff from the Department of ICT, NICTA and NBC to continue the reforms already underway.
"I must not diminish the big achievements and big plans that we have made. This plan must continue."
During his time as minister, Masiu oversaw key reforms including the Digital Government Act 2022, the Digital Transformation Policy, National Cloud Policy, National Cyber Security Policy and Strategy, and the National Media Development Policy.
He also led Papua New Guinea's hosting of the 2023 Pacific ICT Ministers Dialogue, which produced the Lakatoi Declaration, giving Pacific nations a stronger collective voice on digital development.
"Our dream was to have one voice in the Pacific. Through working together with ICT ministers, we made sure our voice was heard."
DICT Secretary and CEO Steven Matainaho also paid tribute to Masiu, recalling how their professional relationship began.
"During my first week, I did not meet with the minister. On the third day, he called me in and scolded me for not coming to see him."
Matainaho said that conversation became the foundation of a strong working relationship.
"From that day, we developed good communication. I learned a lot under his leadership."
The ceremony also recognised Masiu's support in strengthening the National Broadcasting Corporation, including expanding provincial radio services to improve access to information across Papua New Guinea.
In handing over the portfolio, Masiu expressed confidence in his successor and the future of the ministry.
"I hand over this ministry with pride and confidence. I hand over this ministry knowing that you are a capable leader and minister, and you will continue to connect our country," he told Minister Robert Naguri.
With Robert Naguri now assuming the ICT portfolio, officials said the focus remains on continuing Papua New Guinea's digital transformation agenda while building on the reforms introduced under Masiu's leadership.
