Kumulsoft and Ark Cybersecurity Forge Historic Partnership to Digitize PNG Government Asset Management

Thursday, 31 October 2024, 4:21 pm

From (L-R) David Tekwie, CEO Ark Cybersecurity Consultants Limited (right) and Chief Executive Officer of Kumulsoft limited Paul Muingnepe (Left) during the signing (NBC News: Solomon Sumb)

The government is driving a major shift toward digitizing its core functions under the Digital Government Act 2022 and aligned digital transformation policies.

It is prioritizing locally owned software and cybersecurity companies to spearhead these changes.

Kumulsoft Limited, a locally owned software company, is the first that is into discussions with the government to provide fixed asset management services.

To ensure the software’s security, Kumulsoft needs a cybersecurity provider to conduct an ethical screening and verify the system's integrity.

Ark Cyber Security Consultants Limited will perform this crucial cybersecurity screening. Based on Ark’s recommendations, the government will decide whether to grant Kumulsoft a Certificate of Compliance.

To solidify this collaboration, Kumulsoft signed a strategic partnership with Ark Cyber Security Consultants Limited.

The alliance will enable Kumulsoft to leverage Ark’s cybersecurity expertise, enhancing the security and reliability of government digital assets.

David Tekwie, CEO of Ark Cybersecurity Consultants Limited, emphasized the partnership’s significance.

“This marks the first time in PNG’s history that two locally owned ICT and cybersecurity companies have formed such a strategic partnership,” Tekwie said.

“Partnering with a local ICT software engineering company like Kumulsoft introduces a new way of managing digital assets, moving them into the government cloud. It’s an exciting and educational milestone for PNG’s next generation.”

Paul Muingnepe, CEO of Kumulsoft, highlighted the impact of the new system, explaining that millions of kina in government assets have been lost due to inadequate record-keeping.

"This agreement lays the foundation for a relationship built on trust, integrity, and shared goals," Muingnepe stated.

“With Ark Cybersecurity Consultants as our partner, Kumulsoft can fortify its cybersecurity capabilities, enhance its response to emerging threats, and provide our clients with secure digital solutions. Together, we aim to set a new standard for data security in PNG,” Paul Muingnepe said.

Joshua Pomaloh, Executive Manager of the DICT Software Division, praised the partnership, noting the framework’s role in centralizing critical government functions across departments.

“Our goal is to reduce investment costs and streamline technology by implementing a single, adaptable system for all government agencies, avoiding the pitfalls of duplicate or generic off-the-shelf solutions,” Pomaloh explained.