Koim’s transformative leadership at IRC commended

Prime Minister James Marape, Public Service Minister Joe Sungi, and longest serving staff of Internal Revenue Commission [IRC] Arua Naimi have commended Commissioner General Sam Koim for his outstanding leadership, which has propelled the IRC to unprecedented levels of success over the past four years.

Under Koim's leadership, the IRC has consistently delivered strong results, making it one of Papua New Guinea's most impactful state agencies.

Prime Minister Marape emphasized the commission's immense contributions, stating, “If there is any state agency that has contributed enormously to Papua New Guinea, no other agency comes close to the Internal Revenue Commission.”

Public Service Minister Joe Sungi echoed these sentiments, calling Koim’s appointment a bold and visionary move by the government.

“Traditionally, IRC commissioners came from within IRC or PNG Customs.

“The National Executive Council’s decision to appoint someone from outside was unique and, as we now see, a masterstroke. Only God could have guided such a decision,” Sungi said.

The acknowledgement extended beyond government leaders.

Arua Naimi, who has served with the IRC for 37 years and rose through the ranks from filing officer to director, described Koim’s leadership as exceptional.

“Under Mr. Sam Koim’s leadership, the IRC has exceeded expectations. It is not just performing well now but is on track to become the best tax administration in the South Pacific.”

Naimi attributed the IRC’s success to Koim’s innovative strategies and ability to inspire staff to strive for excellence.

The consistent high performance of the IRC under Koim’s stewardship has earned it praise from within and outside the government, marking it as a model of efficiency and effectiveness in public service delivery.