Government endorses social media influencers as part of PNG’s digital economy

The Government, through the Minister for Police and Acting Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, has announced strong support for Papua New Guineans who are monetising social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

This announcement follows a question raised in Parliament by Governor for Northern Province, Garry Juffa, regarding how the government is addressing the growing use of social media as a source of income, especially for young people and digital entrepreneurs.

Minister Tsiamalili confirmed that social media is now a legitimate economic activity, and that many citizens are already participating in the global digital economy through content creation, digital marketing, and online sales. In response, the Government is taking coordinated action across agencies to provide the necessary policy, legal, and technical infrastructure to support and protect those engaging in this space.

Key reforms highlighted include:

• Cybersecurity: PNG’s National Cyber Security Centre is operational. A regulatory framework to enhance digital safety will be tabled in Parliament in September.

• Data Protection: A Cabinet-endorsed policy is in place, with a Data Protection Bill under development to regulate personal data and platform accountability.

• Digital ID System: A national digital ID policy has been submitted to NEC, enabling safe identity verification and compliance for online earners.

• Electronic Transactions Act Review: The 2018 Act is being updated to support secure digital payments, contracts, and encryption standards.

• Cybercrime Enforcement: PNG is preparing to accede to the Budapest Convention to strengthen domestic and international enforcement of online crimes, including scams and impersonation.

The Minister emphasised that content creators and social media influencers are part of PNG’s emerging digital workforce, and the Government’s role is to ensure they are equipped, protected, and recognised.

The Government is also exploring partnerships with the private sector to deliver digital upskilling, financial literacy, and compliance support for influencers and digital entrepreneurs across the country.

“Social media is no longer just for entertainment, it is employment. Our people are already engaged, and we are building the foundation for them to succeed,” the Minister concluded.