Minister for State-Owned Enterprises William Duma, has praised the partnership behind the country’s first sovereign Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centre, describing it as a strategic collaboration that will shape the country’s digital future.

Speaking at the launch on March 27 at the Hilton Hotel & Residents in Port Moresby, Minister Duma acknowledged the joint effort between Telikom PNG, Datec PNG, and CloudSigma, saying the initiative reflects strong coordination between state-owned enterprises and private sector partners.

“This partnership reflects a combined strategy between government entities and SOEs working together for the country,” he said.

He then framed the project as more than just a technological rollout, emphasizing its deeper national significance.

“This is not just a launch. This is about sovereignty.”

He explained that sovereign AI ensures data generated within Papua New Guinea across government systems and businesses, remains within the country, rather than being stored offshore.

“This is about our data staying within our borders. It is about national security and national power.”

The Minister noted that local data control will lead to more efficient and reliable services, with AI-driven systems expected to improve how government and businesses operate.

He added that the infrastructure will play a key role in strengthening the country’s digital independence while creating long-term benefits for future generations.

“This is an investment not just for today, but for the generations to come.”