BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Pacific Ocean Portal upgrade has been described as ‘timely’, coming about when a lot of challenges are being reported across the region.
The Pacific Community (SPC) recently launched the newly redeveloped Pacific Ocean Portal, marking a significant step forward in providing open access to ocean information for the Pacific region.
The launch took place on Wednesday at The Club, Heritage Park Hotel in Honiara, with SPC’s Deputy Director for the Ocean and Maritime Programme, Jens Krüger, highlighting the importance of the upgrade.
The portal was first developed under the Climate and Ocean Support Program in the Pacific (COSPPac) in partnership with the Australian Bureau of Meteorology before being transitioned to SPC in 2016.
Krüger noted that the 2025 upgrade was “timely” and a reflection of Pacific-led capability and innovation.
“I’m proud to say that it’s been completely reimagined now. It took a while, working on Pacific time after all, but good things take time. And I’d say this upgrade has arrived at exactly the right time,” Krüger said.
The new version of the portal is now built entirely on open-source technology, with the code publicly available on GitHub for anyone to use or contribute to.
Krüger said the shift ensures transparency and fosters collaboration across the region and beyond.
SPC has already conducted training in 15 Pacific countries to ensure users can navigate and benefit from the upgraded system. Additional sessions are planned for Pacific territories, including American Samoa.
Krüger also extended gratitude to Australia and New Zealand for their long-term support of the project.
He emphasised the significance of reliable ocean data for Pacific communities.
“The ocean is not a space. It’s full of waves, tides, currents, storms, and heatwaves. These physical aspects define us and shape our activities. You can’t manage what you can’t measure,” he said.
Krüger said the portal provides vital information for a wide range of ocean activities, from fishing to scuba diving, while supporting the region’s broader efforts in ocean management and resilience.
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