Government Strengthens Cybersecurity with New Digital Protection System

New technology defends against cyber threats, safeguards public data, and ensure

more secure and reliable IT services for all citizens

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten – (October 17 2025) — The Government has taken a

major step forward in protecting the nation’s digital infrastructure with the

installation of an advanced firewall system under the Digital Government

Transformation Project (DGTP). This new technology significantly enhances the

government’s ability to defend against cyber threats, safeguard public data, and

ensure more secure and reliable IT services for all citizens.

Prime Minister, the Honorable PM Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina, emphasized the

importance of this milestone for national digital security.

“This upgrade comes at a pivotal time,

” said PM Dr. Mercelina.

“Over the past few

years, several institutions on our island have faced cyberattacks, including

ransomware incidents that raised serious concerns about the safety of sensitive

information. Today, we are acting decisively to protect our digital future.

Every improvement to our systems strengthens the public’s trust in government. It

ensures that citizens can access essential services safely, efficiently, and

confidently. This investment is more than an upgrade, it’s a transformation that

positions Sint Maarten firmly in the digital age.

”

The new firewall consists of two (2) physical Next-Generation Firewall devices.

These hardware devices are designed to detect and block unauthorized access and

prevent cyberattacks before they can affect government systems.

The newly implemented Next-Generation Firewall devices are some of the world’s

most widely used firewall technologies and is known for protecting sensitive

information and securing complex networks. The new firewalls are part of a larger

effort to replace outdated technology, reduce cybersecurity risks, and build a more

connected and efficient public service. It also strengthens the government's ability

to continue operation during disasters or disruptions and support the development

of future digital services, such as electronic IDs and data exchange. This investment

is a key milestone in Sint Maarten's journey toward a safer, more modern digital

government, one that citizens can trust and rely on.

DGTP is led by the Government’s Digital Leadership Team (DLT), tasked with

advancing digital reform across ministries. The project is implemented by the

National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB) on behalf of the Government of Sint

Maarten. It is funded through a $12 million grant from the Sint Maarten Trust Fund,

which is financed by the Government of the Netherlands and managed by the

World Bank.

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Photo Caption: The Council of Ministers of St. Maarten meets with the Digital Leadership Team (DLT),

representatives of the World Bank, and consultancy firm NRD Companies to discuss the next phase of the Digital

Government Transformation Project, marking continued progress toward a more efficient, transparent, and digitally empowered government.

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