Papua New Guinea (PNG) took a significant step forward in its digital transformation journey last month at the Asia Pacific Biometrics Institute Conference held in Sydney, Australia. Representing PNG Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority (ICSA) Deputy Chief

Migration Officer Clarence Parisau delivered a well-received presentation on the country’s progress towards implementing an ePassport system.

Mr. Parisau’s presentation highlighted the milestones achieved so far, the challenges overcome, and the roadmap ahead for PNG’s biometric and digital identity infrastructure.

The session drew interest from regional stakeholders, particularly in the context of enhancing border security and streamlining immigration processes through advanced biometric technologies.

Chief Migration Officer, Wellington Navasivu, said it had been encouraging to see the keen interest of international partners in the progress ICSA is making in the ePassport implementation process.

“The progress we are making is contingent on the continued hard work of our dedicated officers together with sustained funding and strong partnerships. We are committed to ensuring PNG remains at the forefront of digital identity innovation in the Pacific. I commend the hard work and dedication of ICSA officers working together alongside our partners to improve systems to ensure a seamless journey for travelers,” CMO Navasivu said.

He said ICSA’s ongoing progress on ePassport and biometrics complements the National Government’s project on digital identity and border security improvements.

“PNG ICSA will host members of the Pacific Immigration Development Community (PIDC) at a multi-day Biometrics and Passport event in Port Moresby later this year designed specifically for the Pacific in partnership with the Australian Government,” he added.