Koror, Palau – Palau’s National Congress, the Olbiil Era Kelulau (OEK), took ownership of a new joint website for the Senate and the House of Delegates during a handover ceremony held on 26 May 2026, making an important step towards greater transparency, accessibility and public engagement in the legislative process.
The ceremony brought together Floor Leaders and members of both chambers, representatives of the Government of Japan, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to celebrate the successful completion and transfer of the platform to the OEK.
The website was developed under Phase two of the Strengthening Legislatures in Pacific Island Countries (SLIP II) project, a UNDP initiative funded by the Government of Japan that enhances the effectiveness and transparency of parliamentary systems across Fiji, the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Palau, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu.
The development process was carried out by expert digital designers in close collaboration with the staff of both chambers, ensuring the platforms are tailored to the specific needs of the Parliament and are sustainable over the long term.
Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the OEK, Senate Floor Leader, Honourable Kerai Mariur underscored the Parliament’s commitment to keeping citizens informed and engaged in the legislative process.
“The purpose of establishing a website for the Olbiil Era Kelulau goes far beyond
simply creating an online presence. It is about strengthening transparency, accountability, promote public engagement and public access to the work of the national legislature. Through this website our people can stay informed about legislation, public hearings, enacted laws, and the work of their elected representatives.”
House Floor Leader Honorable Warren S. Umetaro who delivered the closing remarks, acknowledged the support of the Government of Japan and UNDP in making the initiative possible.
“The direct impact of this project will create a stronger connection between the people and their national legislature by ensuring information is timely, accessible, accurate, and professionally managed.”
Japan’s Ambassador to Palau, His Excellency Kenichi Kasahara, reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting good governance and parliamentary democracy across the Pacific.
“The website will enable not only the people of Palau, but also those in Japan — located approximately 3,200 kilometers away — to stay informed about the latest developments in Palau in real time. We have long anticipated the launch of such an information platform, and the Government of Japan is honoured to have play a part in this important endeavour.”
UNDP North Pacific Deputy Resident Representative Gulbahor Nematova said the handover forms part of a broader regional agenda to bring Pacific parliaments closer to the citizens they serve.
“Whether Palauans are here in Koror, Sonsorol, or across the oceans in other countries, this website will enable them to see the OEK’s work in real time, to follow and contribute to critical public discussions, and understand the work of their elected representatives in terms of representation, legislation and oversight. “
Once launched, the website will provide easy access to information on elected representatives, legislative schedules, committee activities, and official announcements. Built on a modern Content Management System, the platform includes the technical infrastructure and governance arrangements needed to support regular updates and ongoing maintenance by OEK staff.
As part of the handover process, content management training was provided to OEK staff as part of the handover process to ensure the platform remains current and functional. The OEK is expected to announce a public launch of the website in due course.
The handover marks the successful completion of another milestone under the SLIP II project, reinforcing ongoing efforts by the Government of Japan and UNDP to strengthen parliamentary institutions and promote transparent, inclusive, and accountable governance across the Pacific.
For more information please contact:
Gayeshan Jayasundara, Governance Focal Point Officer | UNDP Pacific Office | (E) gayeshan.jayasundara@undp.org or Risiate Biudole, Communications Analyst | UNDP Pacific Office | (E) risiate.biudole@undp.org
