The Minister for Police, Peter Tsiamalili Jr, and the Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Timothy Masiu, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formally collaborate on the rollout of Papua New Guinea’s first Digital ID—‘SevisPass’—within the security sector.
The signing marks the beginning of a strategic cross-sectoral partnership to operationalize SevisPass in critical national security functions. As part of this collaboration, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) will immediately begin exploring the piloting of SevisPass for identity verification, authentication services, and enhanced cybercrime investigation capabilities.
Initial areas for operational implementation will include possible introduction of event or location specific digital passes for the purpose of:
– Border control and management
– Securing national events
– Protection of key economic zones
– Security preparedness for the 2027 National General Elections
“We (RPNGC) are in active discussions with the Civil Registry Office for the need to access and store personal data (with the consent of citizens) specifically for law enforcement purposes.” said Minister Tsiamalili Jr.
“The rollout of SevisPass is not only about improving how government delivers services—it’s also about securing our systems, empowering the private sector, and creating a trusted digital ecosystem that benefits all citizens. We are delighted that the RPNGC will be one of the first users of PNG’s first Digital ID,” said Minister Masiu.
This partnership aligns with the national digital transformation agenda, and in particular, the pending Digital ID Policy, which calls for the adoption of a single, secure digital identity to be used across both government and private sector systems and digital services.