Facebook issue complicated

WE live in a time where scientific and technological achievements have become an everyday part of our lives.
People can travel around the globe physically and on the internet, they can engage in commercial activities or access goods and services, wherever they are needed.
Computer and communication technologies are now opening up vast stores of knowledge.
They are supporting not only economic and social growth and development, but also strengthening effective democracy and good governance.
This week, the story-making headlines is the State Minister responsible for Communication and Information Technology Sam Basil notifying the country about
shutting down Facebook for a month.
Basil said this was to carry out important work, particularly in making it more user-friendly and taking measures for cyber security and wider social issues such as fake news and illicit materials.
Essentially, the SIM card registration was one way in curtailing irresponsible usage of Facebook.
While the approach is for all expressed reasons, we must also appreciate that Papua New Guinea is ready to host the Apec Summit under the theme “Harnessing
Inclusive Opportunities, Embracing the Digital Future” in a few months.
This means discussions will be centred around creating a borderless trade regime for the region on the back of digitalisation and emerging technology.
The aftermath of this meeting will ultimately dictate trade arrangements PNG has with Apec and other bilateral relations with its member economies.
The future is already here, making science, information, communication and technology the basis for trade and investment going forward.
Now that places a huge challenge on Minister Basil and his team to chart through the Straits of Scylla, sabotaging Facebook communication for a greater good, and Charybdis of letting things as they are for the sake of Apec and continued business.
However, it doesn’t mean Facebook is the sole currency for communication and business via social media.
Many countries have issues with Facebook.
China has banned Facebook outright and Great Britain is considering whether to do the same. One likely, and probably the best way forward, is to involve line agencies and bodies in the area of information, communication, science, research, technology, security and national intelligence to coordinate a broader national strategy.

David Lepi
Ialibu
Southern Highlands