Koim’s exit marks end of high-intensity reform era at IRC

The Internal Revenue Commission yesterday farewelled Commissioner General Sam Koim, closing a tenure widely regarded by senior officials as one of the most demanding and transformative periods in the organisation’s history.

In an emotional final meeting with Deputy Commissioners and Assistant Commissioners, IRC leaders described Koim’s leadership as a driving force that reshaped the institution’s pace, discipline and strategic direction. Many said that under his watch, “everything was urgent” and the organisation learned to move with unprecedented speed and precision.

Senior managers credited Koim with lifting staff conditions, strengthening professional development and embedding a new performance culture. Several long-serving officers, who have served under multiple Commissioner Generals, said the tone, accountability and expectations introduced by Koim were unlike anything they had experienced before.

His high-intensity approach, often marked by late-night directives and next-morning priorities, was repeatedly cited as a hallmark of the reform push that modernised the tax administration.

In his farewell remarks, Koim said he was leaving the IRC with full confidence in the team that will carry the reform agenda forward.

“The foundations have been set, the vision is clear, and the momentum is real,” he said.

The Senior Management Team pledged to see the reforms through, defining the outgoing Commissioner General’s tenure as a turning point for the institution and for tax administration in Papua New Guinea.

The IRC formally thanked Koim for his leadership and service, commending his contribution to the country’s revenue system as he prepares for the next phase of his career.