Government of the Republic of Fiji

01/23/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/23/2024 22:23

DEPUTY PM AND MINISTER FOR TRADE, CO-OPERATIVES, SMEs, AND COMMUNICATIONS HON. MANOA KAMIKAMICA'S...

The Founder of Pacific Recycling Foundation, Mr. Amitesh Deo,
The Team of Pacific Recycling Foundation,
Invited Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Yadra Vinaka and a very good morning to you all.

It is always a pleasure to be here in Nausori - a township that hosts Fiji's second-largest airport, the Syria Monument and Fiji's longest and widest river, the Rewa River - and today is extra special as we join Mr. Deo and his team in officially launching digital business cards for Pacific Recycling Foundation - a great start to the New Year!

Ladies and gentlemen, the excitement and anticipation surrounding today's event is an innovative endeavor for the team towards sustainability, and in any business operation, it is important to embrace sustainability which underscores the Government's ambition in supporting a "Digital Economy".

In the age of rapid technological advancement, it is only fitting that we redefine the way we exchange contact information and make lasting connections.

The traditional paper business card, though a symbol of professionalism for decades, is now making way for a more efficient, eco-friendly and dynamic alternative. In essence, today we are displaying the support of your Government for greener and environmentally responsible solutions and above all innovation.

Ladies and gentlemen, I lead a Ministry with a young and robust workforce and we believe that innovation is a game-changer! Let me share with you a few reasons why:
Firstly, digital business cards are environmentally friendly. With sustainability at the forefront of our global concerns, reducing paper usage is a small yet significant step towards a greener future. By adopting digital business cards, we contribute to the conservation of our planet's resources.

Secondly, digital business cards are convenient, because you can effortlessly share your details anywhere anytime through your smartphone allowing for dynamic and real-time updates.

Thirdly, the practical advantage also appreciates fostering innovation and progress leaning towards a more connected and efficient future.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
These all tie well with the work we have commenced this year in developing our first ever National Digital Strategy. This strategy considers the importance of having the right conditions in place to ensure businesses are positioned to unlock further opportunities in addition to their core business goals.

Apart from this, we will also be developing our National Cybersecurity Strategy reinforcing the importance of businesses and organisations making necessary cybersecurity investments. These investments involve putting in place safeguards to protect employees and customers as we continue to see the increasing frequency of scams. Beyond everything, staying safe in the digital world is paramount and requires all of us to play our part responsibly.

Coming back to today's event, I want to acknowledge the Management and team of Pacific Recycling Foundation for contributing to the concept of a "circular economy". I am sure many of you would have heard me speak about the importance of having a circular economy. Simply put, it is a model of producing and consuming resources with existing materials for as long as possible - and is a perfect way to reduce our dependence on externally sourced inputs.

As the innovators of our society, please give that concept some thought and contribute to the progress of sustainable businesses.

In closing, I congratulate Mr. Deo and his team for being a part of a business that is dedicated to building and supporting a sustainable Fiji - and with those few words, it gives me great pleasure to officially launch the Digital Business Cards for the Pacific Recycling Foundation. Let's continue to support businesses that forge a path towards a brighter, greener and sustainable future.

Thank you and Vinaka Vakalevu.