RISING CRIME AND SECURITY THREATS AFFECT BUSINESS OPERATIONS IN RABAUL

Picture Caption: East New Britain Governor Michael Marum addressing the Business community at Rabaul Hotel yesterday.

BY Wasita ROYAL

WITH the increasing law and order issues, criminal activities frequenting business in the Rabaul town area of East New Britain, it has detrimental effect on business operations and workforce retention and economic stability.

This is the concern raised by the business community in Rabaul in their meeting yesterday with the Governor Michael Marum and other members of the provincial government to address escalating law and order issues, citing significant economic repercussions, and demanded immediate action from local authorities.

Tom Tong, representing the Hongland Group of Companies and the Chinese Community in Rabaul, stressed the challenge of maintaining a stable workforce amongst growing security fears, despite businesses investing in private security measures.

“The instability directly affects our ability to operate efficiently,” stated Tong,pointing out the economic strain placed on businesses.

The meeting revealed that the business community, employs an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 individuals, a vital economic driver for Rabaul.

However, this current security climate threatens this economic foundation.

Acting Rabaul District Administrator Freddy Lemeki acknowledged the economic implications of the security crisis, outlining planned interventions focused on strengthening police presence and addressing contributing factors to crime.

He said, a Police Reservist training program, scheduled for April, is aimed to increase manpower and improve security patrols.
“Our goal is to create a secure environment that supports economic activity,” Lemeki stated, emphasizing the need for a stable business climate.