Datec outlines Kina-backed expansion plans

The soon-to-be opened Datec shop in Lae, Morobe *(Image: NBC News)*

Datec PNG is embarking on a major expansion into new age Information Communication Technology [ICT] services, extending its operations across the country and into the Pacific region.

Datec PNG chief executive officer Preetam Talukdar revealed the expansion plans during the launching of the company's new showroom in Lae, Morobe.

Talukdar said Datec PNG remains the largest ICT solutions and service provider in the country, currently employing 250 Papua New Guineans.

"We are decentralising to Mt Hagen, and will extend our services to Honiara (Solomon Islands), and open another commercial building opposite APEC Haus this year," Talukdar said.

"We will then also upgrade our branches in Wewak, Rabaul and Alotau by next year. As we extend to those parts of the country, we are going to increase the number of our employees to 500 by the end of next year."

Talukdar also confirmed that the company plans to establish its own charity foundation to support community initiatives in centers where it operates.

Datec PNG is a subsidiary of state-owned telecommunications provider Telikom PNG. Established in 1986, Datec originally started operations at the Lae Papuan Compound as a subsidiary of Steamships Trading Company before its acquisition by Telikom.

Telikom PNG chairman Shedrick Sendeke assured the people of Lae of the quality, reliability, and relevance of the technology services being offered.

Sendeke said Datec's return to Lae was a homecoming, but on a much larger scale with advanced technological standards designed to keep local businesses and residents connected.

"Returning to Lae is like returning to our origin, so it is not a new location, but on a bigger scale and advanced technology standard service given to the people, so they are not left behind in the newest technology," Sendeke said.

Meanwhile, Talukdar said the official public opening date for the Lae showroom will be announced soon.

Once open, customers in Lae will gain access to the latest IT consumables, consumer electronics, and Artificial Intelligence [AI] integrated products.