12/01/2024
Dear Business Owners and Operators,
In the aftermath of the regrettable events on January 11, 2024, where your businesses, specifically supermarkets, and warehouses, became targets of looting and arson due to the public servant's payroll glitch and the subsequent law enforcers' strike, we, the majority of law-abiding citizens of Papua New Guinea, stand united in extending our deepest sympathies.
Amidst these challenging times, we wish to express our profound gratitude for the pivotal role your businesses play in job creation and contributing to the economic fabric of our beloved nation. Your dedication to providing employment opportunities serves as a cornerstone in the foundation of Papua New Guinea's economic growth.
As responsible citizens, we recognize the significant contributions of businesses to our economy. The taxes generated contribute to vital services such as education and healthcare, which, in turn, benefit each one of us. Supermarkets and transport companies, being integral to our daily lives, play a pivotal role in bringing essentials closer to us โ from food and medicine to clothing.
However, recent events have highlighted the vulnerability of businesses to opportunistic acts. As a cautionary measure, we urge our fellow citizens to respect and protect our business houses. They are the pillars of our economy and are currently navigating their own challenges.
Let us collectively exercise a sense of responsibility, understanding that the stability of our businesses is directly linked to our collective well-being. By respecting and protecting our business establishments, we not only preserve jobs but also ensure the continued accessibility of essential goods and services.
In this trying period, we stand in solidarity with the affected businesses and owners, supporting the rebuilding efforts. Together, let us foster an environment of respect and unity, recognizing that our businesses are essential partners in the journey towards a prosperous Papua New Guinea.
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