The people of Central province view the hasty execution of the Connect PNG Programme as having potential risks of trespassing by vagrants from other parts of the country, which prompted the Governor to call for stronger border control measures. Governor for Central Province, Ms. Rufina Peter stressed that the Vagrancy Act is no longer adequate to effectively address issues of urban migration and the deteriorating law and order situation. Instead, she said management and border control is essential and needs a comprehensive approach to addressing these pressing and volatile issues. Governor Peter in a statement said that the recent violent killings in the Highlands Region highlights the urgent need for a new National Security Strategy, including the installation of high-tech boom gates for multiple services. "To enhance border security in Central province, the Provincial Executive Council has taken the first vital step to commit funds for the feasibility study to determine the appropriate infrastructure for the types of risks, and the corresponding border control and management measures including socioeconomic and environmental aspects of the border area development," said the governor. “The Central Provincial Government in turn seeks funding support and other requisite resources from the National Government, International Donors and the Resource Developers to strengthen and fortify border security in Central province.” Moreover, the implementation of a rigorous border control system in Central remains a topmost priority to safeguard the safety and security for her people and the broader region, which includes NCD and the Southern Region. “As we progress with the Connect PNG programme, it is incumbent upon Central province, under my leadership, to elevate its strategic and operational security and risk management measures.” In addition, she said it is essential to underscore the need for proactive engagement with neighbouring provinces and national security agencies to collectively strengthen the border control measures. She stated that collaborative efforts will be pivotal as the provincial government works to enforce a unified approach to border security and mitigate the potential risks posed by the rapid developments in the region. “I am committed to spearheading a multi-faceted initiative that encompasses not only legislative and policy reforms, but also the enhancement of border control and management infrastructure and the deployment of well-trained personnel to patrol with appropriate technology to safeguard our borders,” she said. “By doing so, we aim to create a secure and stable environment that fosters prosperity and uphold the rule of law for the benefit of all who call Central province home.”