Prime Minister urges collective effort to fight against Cyber Abuse & illicit drugs

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA- 12 May 2026 – Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polata’ivao Fosi Schmidt has called for collaboration among government, community, and church leaders to foster unity and a safer society is combating online abuse and the fight against illegal drugs.

He made the call during the opening of Cyber Week awareness Sunday night where he urged spiritual leaders to lead the fight against online abuse and illegal drugs.

He stressed the importance of spreading the spiritual word and kindness to understand the serious impacts of online misconduct and drug abuse.

Churches has a large gathering and what better place to spread the word than from the pulpit, he said.

He also called for collaboration among government, community, and church leaders to foster unity and a safer society.

Prime Minister La’aulialemalietoa Leuatea Polata’ivao Fosi Schmidt launching Cyber Awareness Week on Sunday night.

Along with Cyber Week, Samoa is also joining the Pacific region celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Pacific Police Education Program Week.

Supported by Pacific island nations including Samoa, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and others the initiative aims to combat online crimes that threaten children and vulnerable groups.

These online crimes include drug sales, abusive language, and scams on digital platforms.

The program focuses on developing strategies to prevent illegal online activities.

The Samoa Police, Prisons, and Correction Services (SPPCS) is collaborating with other Pacific nations to raise awareness about the dangers of misusing online platforms.

SPPCS is addressing issues like fake pages and scams is central to protecting communities and promoting responsible digital behaviour.

The effort is supported by 15 police offices across the Pacific, alongside the Australian Federal Police and Cyber Safety Pasifika.

La’auli stresses that Cyber security education and awareness remain vital by engaging communities and promoting appropriate responses.

As Pacific nations aim to reduce crime and build resilience against online threats, the message is clear: working together with compassion and education is key to safeguarding the future of Pacific communities.