Telstra International, in conjunction with Google and APTelecom, is spearheading the Central Pacific Connect initiative, poised to significantly boost connectivity for businesses in the region. The initiative encompasses two cables, named Bulikula and Halaihai, connecting Guam to Fiji and Guam to French Polynesia, respectively.
The term “Bulikula” translates to “golden cowrie” in Fijian, representing a rare shell in the Pacific Ocean worn by local chieftains as a symbol of rank. Meanwhile, “Halaihai,” linking Guam and French Polynesia, is named after a beach-dwelling vine and is part of the Chamorro expression “tilifón halaihai,” signifying the spread of information from person to person.
Expanding on the October 2023 South Pacific Connect initiative, the Central Pacific Connect will establish a ring connecting Guam, French Polynesia, and Fiji. This ring will feature pre-positioned branching units, facilitating other Oceania countries and territories to tap into the initiative’s touted reliability and resilience.
Once operational, Bulikula and Halaihai will augment Guam’s existing subsea cable portfolio, including Apricot, Echo, and Taiwan-Philippines-US, solidifying the island’s role as an international connectivity gateway.
The Government of Guam is committed to bridging the digital divide, with initiatives to expand internet access and strengthen telecommunications infrastructure. Governor Lou Leon Guerrero emphasized the contribution of the subsea cables to connecting the northern and southern Pacific islands, recognizing the importance of digital technology for economic growth.
Moreover, Telstra and Google are partnering on the Tabua cable, complementing the Central Pacific Connect to diversify paths between Guam, Australia, Fiji, and other Pacific islands, as well as between the US mainland and Australia.