BY LYNNISSHA RUNA – SUNDAY ISLES FREELANCER
IN Honiara, the rush to meet the SIM card registration deadline earlier this week left many residents stressed and scrambling. Long lines at Telekom offices were a common sight as citizens tried to meet the original deadline today. However, a sense of relief has swept through the public with the announcement of an extended registration deadline until July 4, 2025.
For many, like local resident Mr. Abel Narasi, the extension offers a chance to breathe easily. “I’m almost late for my SIM card registration today,” Narasi said, waiting at the Telekom office early this morning. “Although I’m based in Honiara, I’ve been very busy with personal commitments. But now I’m here, registering my SIM card, and I’m glad I can finally get it done.”
The SIM card registration exercise, which started months ago, has only seen about 40% of subscribers complete the process. The remaining 60%, including people from Honiara and other provinces, had yet to register, prompting the call for an extension from both major telecommunications companies, Solomon Islands Telekom and Bmobile. The new extension gives subscribers an additional 220 days to finalize their registrations.
Anna Diau, another local citizen, shared her relief, “I’m happy for the extension. Some of us have busy schedules, and it was hard to make time before. A few more weeks would be even better, but I’m glad to know we now have until 2025.”
The extension of the deadline until July 2025 was confirmed by Mr. Calvin Ziru, the Commissioner for the Telecommunications Commission of Solomon Islands (TSCSI). He emphasized that the decision was made after careful consideration of the market needs and the public’s feedback. “This extension will allow all subscribers, especially those who haven’t registered yet, to do so without stress,” Ziru said.
Despite the extended deadline, Ziru confirmed to Sunday Isles that no further extensions would be granted, urging everyone to take advantage of the time provided. The extended period is expected to have a significant impact on ensuring the registration process reaches all citizens, with the hope that those who missed the initial deadline will now complete the registration.
For many, this extension is more than just an opportunity to register—it’s a weight off their shoulders, offering the time and peace of mind needed to comply with the national requirements.
Over 800 residents of Honiara successfully registered their SIM cards after lunch hour today, according to local agents.
