There needs to be an explanation from the Office of the Regulator regarding the directive to halt SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service. If there are concerns, then these must be explained. There needs to be transparency and supporting evidence to do so.

If Starlink internet services are not to be allowed in Samoa, then the same should be done with Kacific Technologies. This company has won a government tender to set up the school connectivity project. The modus operandi of this company is the same as Starlink. A search on this company’s website links Space X as one of their partners.

Under the Telecommunications Act, all service providers operating in Samoa need to have a license, however, Starlink does not have a license and while the company is not trying to come into Samoa yet, it is the people who are using the service. They have found that they can buy the equipment in New Zealand and pay as little as $99 per month and use the services in Samoa.

The reason they are doing this is because it is much cheaper than the current prices being offered by the service providers in Samoa. Commercial entities are paying thousands of talas each month for the use of data, which in today’s day and age is a requirement to operate a successful business.

Unlike, Vodafone and Digicel, Starlink uses hundreds of satellites owned by Space X to broadcast their signal, so the only physical structure needed by customers are receivers. It is a little unfair on the two companies who have used millions of dollars to build communications infrastructure to connect people in Samoa. The two companies are also employing hundreds of Samoans as well.

Starlink does not do that and if these two companies did file a complaint with the regulator, they are looking after their commercial interests. But at the end of the day, people want cheaper data and if Spacelink provides that to the people, they will choose that.

IT expert Malaeulu Jobenz Manoa asks a very important question. He said why Samoan residents are going to considerable lengths to purchase satellite internet equipment (Starlink kits) from overseas, shipping them internationally, and subscribing to foreign payment platforms, instead of exploring local options.

Upon comparison, the overseas alternatives are significantly cheaper. This prompts a broader examination of the local internet service landscape and pricing structures, calling for a more competitive approach to meet the needs of the Samoan population.

The order by the Regulator insinuated that Starlink poses security risks to Samoa. What exactly are these risks? The Regulator has to elaborate more on this.

The expert believes that the lacks substantiation and doesn't directly address the broader cybersecurity challenges faced by all internet services.

All internet services carry the potential for malicious actors to abuse them. Banning Starlink in isolation does not effectively tackle this underlying concern.

It has been advised that a more practical approach would be the implementation of comprehensive and standardised cybersecurity measures applicable to all internet service providers. This ensures a secure digital environment for all users.

The reported user preference for Starlink is due to its cost-effectiveness compared to local providers. Local service providers should reassess their pricing models to remain competitive.

The Regulator should assess all the factors contributing to Starlink's affordability and incorporating similar strategies locally can enhance the competitiveness of domestic internet services. Now this would be a great thing.

In the Pacific, Fiji maintains its position as the country with the cheapest mobile data region, with an average cost of $0.09 per GB. This price is incredibly competitive globally, as Fiji ranks third worldwide for the lowest mobile data prices.

Samoa follows as the second most affordable in the region at $0.36 per GB, with prices ranging from $0.24 to $1.09 for the most expensive package. If this price were to come down, then ban Starlink and people would not say a thing.

There has to be collaboration between the government, the regulator, and service providers to ensure locals have access to cost-effective and secure internet.

Instead of resorting to bans, policymakers should engage with innovative providers like Starlink to develop regulatory frameworks that not only encourage competition and innovation but also address legitimate concerns related to cybersecurity, public safety, and national security.

A transparent and evidence-based approach is crucial in addressing concerns about internet services in Samoa, with a specific focus on cybersecurity.

Echoing what the IT expert has said, collaboration among stakeholders can foster a regulatory environment that supports innovation while ensuring an affordable, secure and reliable digital landscape for all citizens.