Japan Donated ICT Equipment Towards OEK Digitalization

A handover ceremony for ICT equipment, aimed at supporting the digital transformation of the Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK), was held at Palau Royal Resort on the evening of June 24. Prior to the ceremony, OEK was provided with ICT equipment worth US$ 86,322.  The event brought together key members of Palau’s legislative leadership and international partners in a demonstration of continued collaboration for good governance and institutional development.

In attendance were Hon. Stevenson Kuartei, Vice President of the Senate; Hon. Kerai Mariur, Floor Leader of the Senate, Hon. Gibson Kanai, Speaker of the House of Delegates and Hon. Warren S. Umetaro, Floor Leader of the House of Delegates. Also present were Hon. Tina Rose Muña Barnes, Senator of Guam, and Mr. Rustam Pulatov, Team Leader of Effective Governance and Inclusive Growth at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

In his address, Ambassador of Japan to Palau, H.E. Hiroyuki Orikasa, emphasized that these incremental steps will not only enhance the assistance and services available to the Palauan people but also contribute to the growth of a digital culture in the country. He expressed hope that the reinforcement of ICT infrastructure for the OEK will promote good governance in cyberspace and ultimately improve the quality of life for Palauan citizens. The Ambassador specifically emphasized that development of the OEK website targeted by October is the first step toward realizing OEK’s digitalization.

In his remarks, Mr. Pulatov expressed appreciation for Japan’s ongoing contributions to stability, democracy, and good governance in the Pacific region. He emphasized that realizing digital transformation within the OEK requires not only technological tools but also the collective will to work together toward this common goal.

House of Delegates Floor Leader Hon. Umetaro noted that the handover marks a significant milestone for the Strengthening Legislatures in the Pacific Island Countries (SLIP) project. He highlighted that the accompanying briefing seminar provided an effective opportunity for both legislative houses to build a shared understanding and that the use of ICT equipment will support better decision-making for a stronger future for Palau.

The ceremony concluded with a shared sense of optimism for continued cooperation and the ongoing modernization of Palau’s legislative institutions.