A major cyber incident in Fiji could cripple essential public services, compromise citizen data and erode public trust in government institutions.
This was the warning from Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua, as he addressed Parliament while welcoming a $112,500 allocation to support the implementation of a national cybersecurity framework.
“The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber threats targeting our critical infrastructure across 11 designated sectors poses significant risks to Fiji’s national interest,” Mr Naivalurua said.
“A major cyber incident would paralyse public services, compromise citizen data and erode trust in our institution.
“The allocation of $112,500 to support the implementation of a structured and sector-aligned critical infrastructure cyber security framework is therefore a critical investment in our national resilience.”
He said the ministry remained committed to developing a secure and inclusive artificial intelligence ecosystem.
“The ministry is permitted to building an artificial intelligence ecosystem that promotes innovation, inclusion and safety while safeguarding the rights and dignity of every Fijian.
“I take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Government of Japan and JICA for their partnership in the cyber security capacity building project for Fiji and the Pacific.”
Mr Naivalurua also acknowledged the support of the Australian government during Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent visit.
“This reflects the growing confidence in Fiji’s security sector reforms and our shared interest in a secure and prosperous Pacific,” he said.
