In recent years, Tonga has taken a holistic approach to the development of its wider Internet ecosystem.
In 2013 the Fiji-Tonga submarine cable came online, strengthening connectivity. Since then, the Pacific Island nation has taken steps to both bolster the Internet’s enabling characteristics while guarding against the security challenges it can bring.
Last Friday (15 July 2016) marked a major milestone in this effort with the launch of CERT.to, the first national Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) in the Pacific.
It was only in May that APNIC travelled to Tonga for a CERT workshop organized by the Minister for Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications. The incredible progress, made in such a short time, shows how committed the Tongan community is to building a vibrant and secure Internet ecosystem.
APNIC’s Director General Paul Wilson was invited to give the keynote address at the official launch event, which was headlined by the Hon. Prime Minister Samuela ‘Akilisi Pohiva and Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni.
Tune in below for a short conversation with APNIC’s Adli Wahid and Klée on the development of the CERT and to listen to a recording of Paul’s speech.
The views expressed by the authors of this blog are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of APNIC. Please note a Code of Conduct applies to this blog.
A very Warm Congratulations to the Kingdom of Tonga and its leaders for the establishment of your national CERT! This is a proud achievement for the InfoSec community in the Pacific Islands and I’m really proud to see this a success. I’m looking forward to also seeing Fiji’s National CERT/CSIRT established in the very near future.
Malo!