Government planning local content: Masiu

The National Business

THE Government plans to promote the development of local content by regulating its delivery in the broadcasting space, says Information Communications Technology Minister Timothy Masiu.
“Foreign content is a silent killer of cultures and traditions,” he said.
“Hence, the time has come for us to focus on developing local digital content to proudly showcase our unique cultures and traditions and our identity as Papua New Guineans.
“We will also be establishing cross-media ownership rules, ensuring that there is no monopoly over broadcasting and that other players can enter the market if they so desire.
“We understand that with convergence broadcasters also cross over the market and can potentially dominate the other sectors and we want to make sure that the market remains open to all on an equal basis.
“I have tasked the department to work with the National Broadcasting Corporation, the Censorship office and Nicta (National Information, Communication and Technology Authority) on a national digital content policy that will embrace the aspirations of the people, the Government and nation as a whole.”
Other interventions being planned include:

  • revisiting the Cybercrime Act – partnering with international organisations working in this area such as the Council of Europe;
  • working in emerging policy spaces in the cyber domain such as cyber-security, data protection, communication decency; and,
  • critical infrastructure.

PNG has become a member of the Global Forum of Cyber Expertise.
“We are keen to work with the newly created Pacific hub on capacity building activities,” Masiu said.