Lume vows to end non compliance

The era of tolerated non-compliance within the information and communications technology [ICT] sector is over, says newly appointed National Information and Communications Technology Authority [NICTA] chief executive officer Polume Lume.

Lume made the bold declaration today during his official swearing-in ceremony in Port Moresby, where he assumed the top role for a four-year term alongside new board members Charles Chew and Charlie Gilichibi.

Addressing a room of stakeholders and government officials, Lume did not shy away from the challenges facing the regulator, admitting that a recent assessment revealed serious governance gaps and enforcement failures within the institution.

"A regulator that does not enforce the law cannot protect consumer standards or maintain industry confidence," Lume said. "For too long, the non-compliance that we tolerated over the last 15 years, that era will end now."

Lume, who has been serving as acting CEO in recent months, said his appointment was not a personal achievement but a national responsibility to steer the country’s digital future.

He outlined a four-point strategic roadmap for his term, focusing on strengthening internal governance, stepping up firm and fair law enforcement, creating sustainable revenue, and expanding the ICT sector to drive economic growth.

A key highlight of his address was the recent licensing of satellite provider Starlink, which he said was a significant shift for national connectivity.

"If you look at the connectivity announcement, the entire country is covered in blue," he said. "This is not about one company… it is about the technology. It sends a clear signal that PNG is open to innovation, open to competition, and serious about digital transformation."

The new CEO said under his leadership, NICTA would move beyond being a regulator in name only to becoming a proactive enabler of modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence [AI], Fintech, and Cyber Security.

He further committed to confronting past audit findings and financial oversight issues directly to restore public trust.

"The reforms will not be easy, but they are necessary," he told NICTA staff. "Every license used, every enforcement action taken, and every policy developed must improve people’s lives."

NICTA Chairman Brian Riches, while welcoming the new board, affirmed that the appointment of Mr. Lume and the new directors would bring the right people to the table to ensure transparency and accountability in the sector.