Weno, Chuuk — October 31, 2025 — The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Department of Health and Social Affairs (DHSA) joined national and state representatives at the 2nd FSM Cybersecurity Symposium, held from October 27–31, 2025, at the Chuuk State Government Auditorium. The event was organized by the FSM Department of Justice (DOJ) through its Division of Cybersecurity, in collaboration with NRD Cybersecurity, a Lithuania-based firm specializing in cybersecurity solutions and consulting.
Representing the health sector, Mr. Joey Wichep, National Health Planner, and Mr. Kevin Tugruw, PHIG Evaluator from the FSM DHSA, participated in the weeklong symposium alongside IT staff from the Yap Department of Health and the Chuuk Department of Health. Their participation underscores the FSM health sector’s commitment to strengthening cybersecurity awareness and readiness—particularly as health information systems become increasingly digitized across the country.
The symposium aimed to align the implementation of the 2024 FSM National Cybersecurity Strategy with national and state priorities, enhance coordination across government agencies, and build capacity for critical infrastructure protection and incident response. It also sought to strengthen partnerships with regional and international stakeholders and develop actionable roadmaps for cybersecurity initiatives.
In his opening remarks, the Honorable Aren B. Palik, Vice President of the FSM, emphasized the importance of cybersecurity for national resilience and service continuity, citing recent cyber incidents in the health sector as examples of emerging risks. Other distinguished attendees included the Honorable Carl Apis, Secretary of the Department of Transportation, Communication, and Infrastructure (TC&I); the Honorable Tulensa Palik, Governor of Kosrae; Assistant Attorney General Josephine Joseph; and Assistant Secretary Minoru Stephen, among other national and state officials.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in technical sessions and group exercises facilitated by Dr. Vilius Benetis, CEO of NRD Cybersecurity, and Mr. Paulius Dauksas, Cybersecurity Consultant. Key topics included national cybersecurity governance, incident response, Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) development, policy frameworks, and workforce development.
A special presentation by Mr. Hagai Mei Zahav from the World Bank highlighted the economic benefits of investing in cybersecurity, noting that stronger cyber resilience contributes to economic growth, improved public service delivery, and accelerated digital transformation.
In addition to the symposium, the DHSA team conducted side meetings with Director Bosco Buliche of the Chuuk Department of Health and CEO Inoufich Shomour of the Chuuk Community Health Center (CHC), to discuss ongoing digital health and operational challenges, including network connectivity issues and infrastructure limitations affecting service delivery.
