Overview:
Palau has officially launched its first locally-founded think tank, headed by Ongerung Kambes Kesolei. The institute will provide research-based insights on governance, economic policy, and sustainability to help leaders make informed decisions for the country’s future.
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau — Palau has launched its first locally based think tank, the Compass Point Institute, marking a significant milestone in the efforts to promote evidence-based policymaking and civic dialogue.
The Compass Point Institute, or CPI, was officially launched Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, at the Belau National Museum. Founder Ongerung Kambes Kesolei described CPI as “a locally-rooted, non-partisan institution dedicated to academic rigor and civic progress. Our mission is to strengthen policy discourse through evidence-based research and informed public debate.”
Kesolei said the institute’s name is a play on his nickname, “Kambes,” a Palauan pronunciation of “compass,” reflecting the idea of a navigation tool that helps people find their way. “As Palau navigates complex regional and global shifts, our goal is to help our nation find its own ‘true north,’” he said, adding that “CPI enters the landscape at a critical time.” He also acknowledged the consistent support of Cleo Paskal, whose support was invaluable in establishing CPI.
CPI is Palau’s first locally established think tank dedicated to advancing evidence-based policy research, fostering civic dialogue and strengthening Palau’s voice in regional and global affairs. A think tank is an organization that conducts research, analysis and advocacy to generate ideas and solutions for public policy, social issues, economic strategies or scientific and technological problems, and may operate independently or be affiliated with universities or private institutions.
Diplomatic missions and regional partners sent congratulatory messages to mark CPI’s launch.
From the United States Embassy, Ambassador Joel Ehrendreich said, “Congratulations to Kambes and the Compass Point Institute on the establishment of the new think tank. This is a great development for Palau and for public discussion in Palau on the most pressing issues facing Palau and the region. I look forward to seeing CPI grow and hope you will not hesitate to ask if you feel the embassy could be of any help in making this endeavor successful. Good luck to all involved and again, congratulations.”
From the Embassy of Japan: “We would like to congratulate the establishment of the new think tank, the Compass Point Institute. We believe that the think tank can play a very important role in democratic society. So we are certain that today’s event will be remembered as significant milestone for Palauan democracy. The embassy is looking forward to working with the Institute. Again, congratulations.”
From Ambassador Kang-I Chen, Republic of China (Taiwan) ambassador to Palau: “Congratulations on the establishment of the CPI Think Tank. Owing to a previous conflicting schedule, we are unable to attend this auspicious event. We look forward to the fruitful and constructive engagements with CPI.”
From Tevita Motulalo, founding fellow of the Kingdom of Tonga’s first think tank, the Royal Oceania Institute: “I am pleased to send my heartiest congratulations to Kambes on the founding of CPI. Especially now, the Pacific needs independent, fact-based discussions, rooted in our own soil. Knowing Kambes as a man of integrity, courage, tenacity and intelligence, I am sure CPI will produce work that will shape the future of Palau and the region and we look forward to working with him going forward.”
From the Habele Research Institute in Yap: “The Habele Research Institute extends its warmest congratulations to Kambes and colleagues on the founding of the Compass Point Institute. At a time when the Pacific faces complex and consequential choices, independent, locally grounded, evidence-based research and insight are more important than ever. Rooted in Palau’s own history and priorities, CPI is well-positioned to develop ideas that help navigate these challenges and resonate across the wider Pacific.”