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Chief Minister Embarks on a Mission to Foster Collaboration among  Three Arms of Government

In order to foster effective governance and drive the nation closer to achieving President’s Bio’s ‘Big Five’ agenda on public sector and justice reform, the Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, convened a crucial meeting on the 8th September, 2023 with the Legislative, Judicial and Executive arms of the Government.

The meeting, which brought together esteemed leaders from the three branches of Government, focused on enhancing collaboration in key areas, particularly within the realms of the public sector and the justice system.

This proactive engagement is part of the Government’s unwavering commitment to usher in substantial reforms in these domains, aligning perfectly with the fourth goal of the ‘Big Five’ agenda: public sector and justice reform.

During the session, Dr. Sengeh expressed his gratitude to the heads of Parliament, the Chief Justice, the Attorney General, and governance experts for their dedicated participation. He emphasized that this collaboration would serve as a roadmap for institutions to work harmoniously in order to provide more efficient public services, particularly in the pursuit of goal number four, which centers on public sector and justice reform.

Under the President’s ‘Big Five Agenda,’ the fourth goal focuses on public sector and justice reform as a critical component. Dr. Sengeh underscored the necessity of cooperation between the Legislative-Parliament, the Judiciary-Chief Justice, and the Executive-Attorney General and Minister of Justice to realize those ambitious reform goals.

In his role as Chief Minister, Dr. Sengeh is taking the lead in coordinating and ensuring the effective functioning of the collaborative effort, which is integral to the success of the public sector and justice reform initiative. Key among the reforms discussed was the modernization of the long-standing Criminal Procedure Act of 1965.

Highlighting the significance of reforming archaic laws, Dr. Sengeh likened the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965 to the recently abolished Criminal Libel Law of 1965, both of which have been in existence for decades. He emphasized that the meeting was a continuation of the ongoing dialogue among institutional heads, aimed at ensuring that these laws are brought in line with the national constitution. The Government is committed to meticulous planning and concerted efforts to drive reforms that benefit the people of Sierra Leone.

In summary, Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has embarked on a mission to foster collaboration among the three arms of Government, with a particular focus on public sector and justice reform. This landmark meeting signifies a pivotal step forward in the pursuit of the President’s ‘Big Five’ agenda and reaffirms the Government’s commitment to ensuring that laws are harmonized with the national constitution for the betterment of the nation’s citizens.

WFP Boosts Agriculture Ministry with 31 Motorbikes to Enhance Mobility of MAFS Staff

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), has on the 8th and 9th September, 2023 generously offered thirty-one motorbikes valued at $30,335 to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS). The donation is aimed at enhancing the mobility of MAFS personnel and improving their access to remote and hard-to-reach rural areas where they provide essential technical support to farmers engaged in agriculture and marketing activities.

The official handover ceremonies took place  at the WFP Sub-Offices located in Kenema and Makeni. The motorbikes will be allocated to eight specific districts: Tonkolili, Pujehun, Moyamba, Kambia, Kenema, Koinadugu, Falaba, and Bonthe.

Speaking at the handover, Celina Auko, Head of WFP Kenema Sub-Office, emphasized that the motorbikes would address the challenges faced by MAFS technical staff in reaching out to farmers. She also highlighted that the support would contribute to increased agricultural production, benefiting farmers who, in turn, supply their produce to the home-grown school feeding program and contribute to the realization of the Government’s Feed Salone initiative.

Michael Stanley, acting Head of WFP Makeni Sub-Office, echoed those sentiments, emphasizing that the collaboration between WFP and MAFS underscores their joint commitment to advancing agriculture, promoting food security and ensuring that remote communities receive the necessary support in the fight against hunger.

On behalf of MAFS, the Assistant Director of Extension, Arouna Rashid Kamara, expressed profound gratitude to WFP for the invaluable donation. Kamara stressed that the mobility of frontline staff is critical to ensuring food security, and this support aligns perfectly with the Government’s vision.

District Agricultural Officers representing the eight beneficiary districts also extended their thanks to WFP for the timely and impactful donation. They noted that the motorbikes would enable them to reach and support more communities, particularly those located in remote areas.

Prior to the donation, WFP had relied on community youth contractors, but frequent visits by MAFS technical staff were challenging, hindering knowledge exchange and peer learning in best agronomic practices.

The handover of keys to the motorbikes marked the successful conclusion of the ceremony, underscoring the partnership’s commitment to bolstering agricultural development and food security in Sierra Leone.

US Govt. Backs Africell SL with Funding for Internet Access Expansion Feasibility Study

By Amin Kef-Ranger

In a new development, the U.S. Government, this week, acting through the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), has awarded a grant to Africell Sierra Leone Limited (Africell) to conduct a feasibility study aimed at expanding internet access to over 95,000 individuals across Sierra Leone.

It maintained that the study will pave the way for the nationwide extension of Africell’s fiber backbone network and the simultaneous expansion of fixed broadband networks in up to 32 cities and towns.

“USTDA is deeply committed to bolstering internet accessibility throughout Africa in collaboration with both the private and public sectors,” affirmed Enoh T. Ebong, Director of USTDA.

“Our agency boasts a longstanding history of partnering with African nations as they navigate the swiftly evolving technology landscape, envisioning a digital future. This initiative represents tangible progress toward achieving the goals of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Digital Transformation with Africa initiative. It will create opportunities for U.S. companies to actively participate in Sierra Leone’s digital infrastructure market,” the Director optimistically stated.

The U.S.-funded study will comprehensively evaluate the economic and technical feasibility of expanding Africell’s existing telecommunications network in Sierra Leone.

Also, the assessment will further encompass an examination of consumer demand for fixed broadband services, taking into account factors such as topography, demographics and income levels.

Furthermore, it will include an evaluation of the existing infrastructure and incorporate a thorough legal and regulatory analysis, alongside a detailed project implementation plan.

In essence, the study will lay the groundwork for large-scale internet infrastructure investments crucial for extending access and reducing the cost of internet connectivity.

Ziad Dalloul, CEO and President of Africell Group, the sole U.S.-owned mobile network operator in Africa, expressed optimism about the grant’s impact: “This grant will expedite the rollout of reliable digital connectivity to thousands of households in Sierra Leone. When expanding our network, our mission has always been to deliver both social impact and commercial returns. The USTDA-funded feasibility study will play a pivotal role in achieving this objective by providing invaluable insights into the technical and economic requirements.”

USTDA’s study aligns with the U.S. Government’s commitment to the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, aimed at implementing transformative projects to bridge the infrastructure gap in developing nations. It also reinforces the Digital Transformation with Africa initiative, designed to enhance digital access across the continent.

ONS Urges Public to Remain Calm Amidst Social Media Protest Threats Today

The Office of National Security (ONS), under the leadership of  Abdulai Caulker, has on the 9th September, 2023 disclosed that it had been vigilant in its efforts to thwart any potential acts of lawlessness orchestrated by unidentified Sierra Leoneans, particularly those residing abroad. According to the ONS, these individuals have been using social media platforms to disseminate their grievances.

It continued that in response to recent social media posts hinting at planned protests scheduled for Monday, September 11, it has called upon citizens to continue their regular activities with the assurance that the Security Sector remains committed to safeguarding lives and property.

ONS expressed the view that the majority of Sierra Leoneans have refrained from endorsing what they view as mere propaganda propagated by unpatriotic individuals residing mainly overseas adding how those individuals have sought to create chaos within the country.

The institution pointed out that those who were misled into participating in violent protests in August 2022 have learned the harsh lesson that chaos masquerading as “peaceful protests” ultimately yields counterproductive results.

It stated that people are now more aware that the rise in commodity prices, low consumer spending, and inflation, among other economic challenges faced in Sierra Leone, are part of a global issue affecting numerous countries attributing such awareness to the availability of  the internet, smartphones and other technological advancements,  .

The ONS stated that the temporary shortages of onions and flour experienced in Sierra Leone were consequences of a poor onion harvest in India, one of the world’s largest producers, and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has disrupted wheat exports.

Abdulai Caulker pointed out that attempts to place blame on the Government for these global economic issues are misguided adding that even  the former US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, David Reimer, recognized in his parting interview that Government should not be held responsible for the challenging economic situation, as the United States itself was grappling with inflation and its repercussions.

He said people should not use a well-known global problem as a smokescreen to advance disruptive agendas within the country furthering how the citizens of Sierra Leone understand the fragility of peace and will not allow the nation to relive the horrors of the period from 1991 to 2002.

According to the ONS, the current Government has faced significant challenges due to rising global costs, but it continues to navigate those challenges admirably affirming that despite the high cost of goods, they remain available, unlike in some other nations where store shelves sit empty.

It further stated how the Government has made considerable sacrifices to support importers and ensure a steady supply of goods saying sinister propaganda and calls for lawlessness by a select few will not resonate with the people of Sierra Leone.

Violence cannot lower prices, the ONS argued adding that in a state of anarchy, ships will avoid the nation’s ports, and investments will dwindle asking the question: In such an environment, how can a better life be achieved for the less fortunate?

It continued that Civil Society, political parties and the majority of well-meaning citizens must continue to promote peaceful coexistence stressing how ethno-regional rhetoric circulating on social media against President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership is unfounded, as evidenced by the diverse composition of his recent cabinet and public office appointments.

In a further development, during the week, Abdulai Caulker, head of the ONS, convened a meeting attended by Internal Affairs Minister, Retired Major-General David T.O. Taluva, key stakeholders in the Security Sector and representatives of the Traders Union. The purpose was to reassure all stakeholders that the nation cannot be held hostage by a few individuals and that citizens can go about their daily lives without disruption as long as they adhere to the law.

Abdulai Caulker said traders have unequivocally distanced themselves from any activities that might undermine the nation’s peace emphasizing that all State security agencies, including the police and military, have been strategically positioned to respond to any threats to the country’s peace and stability.

He urged the public to ignore social media posts from unidentified individuals and instead focus on seeking their livelihoods within a peaceful environment.

QNET’s Silver Jubilee: V-Convention 2023 Kicks Off in Penang, Malaysia

By Amin Kef Sesay

The V-Convention 2023, celebrating the 25th anniversary of QNET, commenced on Friday, September 8, 2023, at Penang’s SPICE ARENA Convention Centre. This monumental event is set to unfold over two sessions, from September 8th to the 12th, and then again from September 17th to the 21st, 2023. With a capacity to host 12,000 attendees, this year’s V-Convention promises to be a remarkable experience.

For a quarter-century, QNET has been on a transformative journey, and V-Malaysia 2023 is the pinnacle of this extraordinary legacy. It reflects QNET’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional lifestyle products globally, empowering individuals, and catalyzing positive change on a global scale.

The event features captivating exhibitions that illuminate QNET’s vibrant history, providing attendees with immersive product experiences at the QNET Carnival. Experts are on hand to provide insights, offer hands-on product experiences and unveil exclusive merchandise and special promotions.

Chief Pathman Senathirajah, Director of Marketing and Sales, passionately encouraged attendees to reflect on QNET’s incredible journey. He underlined the remarkable transformation of the company from its founder’s humble beginnings into a global powerhouse.

Amidst the festivities, a birthday cake was ceremoniously cut, adorned with the theme. “Legacy Impact, Future,” commemorating QNET’s 25th anniversary.

Founders, Dato Sri Eswaran and Joseph Bismark took to the stage to share profound insights, urging attendees never to surrender to adversity. Dato Sri Eswaran introduced his wife, Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran, an influential figure behind initiatives such as Taarana School for children with special needs and the Maharani Camp, which has positively impacted thousands of girls in Malaysia.

Dato Sri Vijay Eswaran, the visionary founder of QNET, delivered a compelling discourse on the company’s resolute commitment to gender equality and empowerment. He underscored QNET’s dedication to bridging the gender gap by allocating a portion of the group’s revenues to the RYTHM Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the QI Group. Dato Sri emphasized the critical role of men in actively promoting equal opportunities in both the workplace and at home.

QNET’s commitment to gender equality shines through its corporate structure, boasting a workforce where 46% are women, with 43% in managerial roles and 30% represented on the board.

YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Tourism Minister, extended a warm welcome to the event’s distinguished guests, including Dato Sri Vijay Eswaran and Joseph Bismark. He acknowledged the presence of over 12,000 delegates from more than 50 countries, highlighting the event’s positive impact on Penang.

Wong Hon Wai underscored Penang’s role as the backdrop for V-Con, a city where visionaries, entrepreneurs, and leaders converge for inspiration and enlightenment. This year’s theme, “Touching A Billion Hearts,” epitomizes the power of unity within the global community of entrepreneurs.

Wong Hon Wai encouraged delegates to seize the opportunity to immerse themselves in Penang’s rich culture, savor its diverse culinary offerings, and explore its breathtaking natural beauty.

The convention boasts an array of activities, including training programs led by industry experts, motivational seminars featuring accomplished speakers, and a mega-exhibition showcasing QNET’s lifestyle and wellness products.

Penang, acknowledged by UNESCO as both a World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve Site, has evolved into an international city, a favored destination for investors and a top choice for tourists.

In closing, Wong Hon Wai expressed heartfelt gratitude to the delegates for selecting Penang as the venue for this momentous convention. He encouraged all to make the most of their time in Penang and wished for an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.

The V-Convention 2023 is set to be more than an event; it’s a vibrant community of kindred spirits converging to celebrate 25 years of success and chart a future filled with promise.

The opening ceremony concluded with a spirited concert, captivating dance performances, and motivational speeches, creating an electrifying atmosphere that sets the stage for the exciting days ahead.

SLPP North America Women’s Council to Host 2nd Annual Conference in New Jersey

According to the SLPPNA Women’s Council Publicity Committee, the North America Women’s Council of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) will host its second annual conference on September 23, 2023, at the Royal Ambassador Banquet Hall, located at 2863 Woodbridge Avenue, Edison, NJ 08837.

The First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Fatima Maada Bio, will serve as the esteemed guest for the event during which she will deliver the Keynote Address on the theme: “Gender Equality and Women Empowerment.”

The conference will also see the participation of notable figures such as the SLPP National Women’s Leader, Madam Hawa Foray and the Minister of Gender, Dr. Isata Mahoi, along with other Party and Government Officials. It is important to note that the event in New Jersey, USA, aims to strengthen discussions related to gender equality and women’s empowerment.

Aminata Amara, the SLPPNA Regional Women’s Leader, revealed that dedicated committees have been established to ensure the conference’s success. Besides the daytime conference, the event will conclude with a victory dance in the evening, graced by the presence of the President, His Excellency Rtd. Brigadier Julius Maada Bio, and his wife, Dr. Mrs. Fatima Maada Bio. Government officials, diplomats, community leaders, and friends of Sierra Leone will also attend the celebration.

It must be underscored that the conference’s overarching goal is to support the aims and objectives of His Excellency, President Julius Maada Bio’s Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE) bill of 2021.

Worthy of note is that achieving gender equality necessitates the enforcement of policies and legislation at all Government levels to empower women and girls. Indisputably, Gender-sensitive policies that have already been established can play a pivotal role in narrowing the existing gender gaps.

This medium was briefed that the event underscores the readiness of girls and women to take action, with a shared determination to drive change for the better.

MRCG & MoICE Concludes Stakeholders Engagement to Scrutinize Draft National Media & Information Policy

A workshop, aimed at scrutinizing the draft National Media and Information Policy was conducted by the   Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), on September 7, 2023, at Dohas Hotel in Bo.

Representatives from the Right to Access Information Commission, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, Women in the Media Sierra Leone, the Independent Media Commission and various other stakeholders were in attendance.

Chernor Bah, the Minister of Information and Civic Education, in his keynote address underscored the pressing need for reform in Sierra Leone’s information ecosystem. He lamented the existing dysfunction, describing it as so poorly organized that it seemed deliberately designed for chaos. He emphasized the absence of cohesion in messaging, a dearth of values and principles in communication, and the need for adherence to international standards.

The Minister emphasized that Government institutions, with outdated or non-functional websites, face credibility issues when applying for grants from international organizations. “If they have a website that looks reasonably good they will say that is an institution with some credibility. That is a foundational step, but we have Government Ministries in Sierra Leone that do not even think about updating their websites,” the Minister lamented. He emphasized that proactive information dissemination, rather than defensive measures, is key to countering fake news and negative propaganda.

Chernoh Bah revealed that, at the request of President Bio, they were conducting an assessment of Sierra Leone’s information architecture, aiming to map information flows and improve Government-citizen interaction. “We want to see and map out where we are now in terms of information flow and use that map to propose how it ought to be for the Government to function well.”

He also stressed the importance of civic engagement and feedback mechanisms, stating that citizens’ voices must be heard. “To achieve these goals, the development of comprehensive policies, such as the National Media and Information Policy, is essential,” he stated.

The Minister commended MRCG for its efforts and called on all stakeholders to collaborate in achieving the outlined objectives.

Earlier, Dr. Francis Sowa, the National Coordinator of MRCG, underscored how the document under consideration is not one they have created but rather a compilation of discussions on key issues that could inform future policy decisions.

He continued by emphasizing that the Government has its established process for policy development with the current document likely incorporating input from various stakeholders.

“It’s crucial to understand that this is a multifaceted process with numerous steps, which the facilitators will elaborate on later. Our primary objective today is to acknowledge the existence of this draft document. However, we must ensure that we do not present an outdated document before engaging with the Minister and his team. Therefore, updating and contextualizing these documents will provide a solid foundation for our discussions,” he maintained.

On his part, the Chairman of the Independent Media Commission, Dr. Victor Massaquoi and the MRCG Board stressed the pivotal role of a well-defined information policy in reducing confusion and enhancing coordination further acknowledging the policy’s content richness and anticipated improved information flow and quality in Sierra Leone.

President of Women in the Media Sierra Leone, Estina Taylor, highlighted the policy’s relevance in the digital age, particularly in addressing issues of misinformation, disinformation, and Cybersecurity. Taylor emphasized the importance of gender equality in information dissemination, underlining the policy’s potential to combat gender bias and harassment while fostering an environment conducive to women’s professional growth.

Acting Director of Information at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Emmanuel AB Turay, emphasized the significance of the National Information Policy and highlighted the necessity of having a comprehensive national policy to ensure the effective implementation and operation of information resources, services and systems.

“This policy aims to provide timely access to relevant information for citizens across the country, enhance coordination within the national information system, and align with existing legislation,” he said.

Turay also stressed the importance of a dedicated session to assess the current state of affairs and align with international standards to improve the national policy further. He stated that the primary objectives of this policy include supporting national development initiatives, enhancing the quality of life for citizens by facilitating systematic and secure communication through information strategies and revitalizing investments in information and communication infrastructure.

The workshop concluded with a facilitative session led by Dr. Isaac Massaquoi and Umaru Fofana, followed by group work where members collaborated to generate ideas for the development of the information policy climaxed.

NP (SL) Ltd Serves as an Inspiring Example for Successful Indigenous Business Ventures

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd serves as a beacon of hope for those contemplating the establishment of their own businesses. This distinguished petroleum importing and marketing company illustrates how determined groups of Sierra Leoneans, armed with vision and clear goals, can achieve remarkable success through solid investment.

Today, NP-SL stands as the foremost petroleum marketing company in Sierra Leone and beyond due to the unwavering commitment of 35 Sierra Leonean nationals who wisely invested their end-of-service benefits in its inception.

The success story of NP-SL Ltd, if emulated by forward-thinking and ambitious individuals, has the potential to yield fruitful dividends and foster the growth of the private sector. Although NP-SL Ltd is a homegrown or indigenous enterprise, its shareholders and Management embrace calculated risks by expanding into various regions of the country. NP-SL Ltd’s ethos centers around breaking new ground, a driving force behind its expansionist strategy.
Venturing into uncharted territory exposes the company to invaluable learning experiences, improving service delivery effectiveness.

NP-SL Ltd has simplified fuel purchases with the introduction of the NP Smart Card, enabling organizations and individuals to conduct seamless transactions at Filling Stations without physical cash. Harnessing the power of the latest technological innovations for business transactions is a modern trend, especially for burgeoning enterprises seeking growth opportunities.

NP-SL Ltd stands as a living example of the effective implementation of the Local Content Policy. As a matter of policy, Management exclusively hires Sierra Leonean nationals, extending this practice to all the countries where the company operates. This commitment not only reduces costs but also fosters a sense of ownership and enhances competencies, a valuable lesson for any aspiring business.

Within the realm of local content, NP-SL Ltd manufactures NP Gas cookers of various sizes. These environmentally friendly devices can be refilled at any NP Filling Station, offering a safer and more sustainable alternative to cooking with charcoal and wood. NP-SL Ltd’s efforts to promote such eco-friendly practices are commendable and align with the goal of preserving our forests and safeguarding health.

Aspiring entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from the remarkable journey of NP-SL Ltd. With determined efforts and a commitment to translating ideas into action, dreams can indeed transform into tangible realities on the ground. NP (SL) Ltd’s success story serves as a testament to the potential for indigenous businesses to thrive and make a positive impact.

QNET Engages West African Journalists to Address Scam Allegations and Set the Record Straight

By Amin Kef Sesay

In a bid to address allegations and misconceptions about its operations, QNET, a leading lifestyle and wellness direct selling company, held a roundtable discussion with journalists from Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at the Amari Hotel on the Penang Island in Malaysia.

The discussion, which was attended by top QNET officials including Ramya Chandrasekaran, Group Chief Communications Officer QI Group, Trevor Kuna, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Biram Fall, Regional General Manager SSA, Malou Caluza, Deputy Chairperson, and Nikhil Patel, Chief Legal Officer, provided an opportunity for the journalists to ask questions about QNET’s activities in their respective countries.

The roundtable was convened as part of the on-going media visitation to the head office of QNET and participation in this year’s V-Conference, QNET’s headline Conference that brings its independent representatives together from different parts of the world.

QNET officials used the opportunity to clarify issues on the allegations of fraudulent travel and education schemes in Sierra Leone, purportedly linked to the company.

Biram Fall, Regional General Manager SSA, emphasized that QNET has a zero-tolerance policy towards any independent representatives who flout its ethical marketing policy. He said punitive actions, including immediate suspension, termination, and legal action, would be applied if any of them is found misrepresenting the company. He clarified that QNET does not offer employment, guaranteed returns, investment opportunities, travel assistance related to immigration, or scholarships in exchange for payment. QNET does not involve itself in any of these.

Ramya Chandrasekaran, Group Chief Communications Officer, pledged the company’s commitment to collaborating with Sierra Leone authorities to weed out criminals posing as QNET employees.

Trevor Kuna, Chief Transformation and Reputation Officer, reiterated that QNET has been selling high-quality health, wellness, and lifestyle products since 1998. He explained that QNET offers a direct selling business opportunity to customers who wish to become distributors of their products, referred to as Independent Representatives.

Nikhil Patel, Chief Legal Officer, said that in the past six months, many legal cases have been filed against a number of people and independent representatives across West Africa to seek redress on issues and allegations of misrepresentation and scam. This, he said, is part of the company’s commitment to rebuild its reputation as a brand that upholds integrity, ethical marketing, and international best practices.

Malou Caluza, Deputy Chairperson, QNET, emphasized the company’s commitment to conducting its business in Sierra Leone in compliance with all local laws and regulations. She also stated that QNET does not offer any product related to travel assistance with immigration service or overseas jobs in exchange for payment.

Over the last 25 years, QNET has been on a mission to touch a billion hearts, driven by the core philosophy of RYTHM — Raise Yourself to Help Mankind. The company is committed to providing high-quality products that allow people to live healthier, more holistic lives; supporting micro-entrepreneurship in emerging economies; and helping underserved communities by investing in people and equipping them with the tools they need to rise above their circumstances.

QNET’s Silver Jubilee: V-Convention 2023 Kicks Off in Penang, Malaysia

V-Convention 2023.jpg

By Amin Kef Sesay

The V-Convention 2023, celebrating the 25th anniversary of QNET, commenced on Friday, September 8, 2023, at Penang’s SPICE ARENA Convention Centre. This monumental event is set to unfold over two sessions, from September 8th to the 12th, and then again from September 17th to the 21st, 2023. With a capacity to host 12,000 attendees, this year’s V-Convention promises to be a remarkable experience.

For a quarter-century, QNET has been on a transformative journey, and V-Malaysia 2023 is the pinnacle of this extraordinary legacy. It reflects QNET’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional lifestyle products globally, empowering individuals, and catalyzing positive change on a global scale.

The event features captivating exhibitions that illuminate QNET’s vibrant history, providing attendees with immersive product experiences at the QNET Carnival. Experts are on hand to provide insights, offer hands-on product experiences, and unveil exclusive merchandise and special promotions.

Chief Pathman Senathirajah, Director of Marketing and Sales, passionately encouraged attendees to reflect on QNET’s incredible journey. He underlined the remarkable transformation of the company from its founder’s humble beginnings into a global powerhouse.

Amidst the festivities, a birthday cake was ceremoniously cut, adorned with the theme “Legacy Impact, Future,” commemorating QNET’s 25th anniversary.

Founders, Dato Sri Eswaran and Joseph Bismark took to the stage to share profound insights, urging attendees never to surrender to adversity. Dato Sri Eswaran introduced his wife, Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran, an influential figure behind initiatives such as Taarana School for children with special needs and the Maharani Camp, which has positively impacted thousands of girls in Malaysia.

Dato Sri Vijay Eswaran, the visionary founder of QNET, delivered a compelling discourse on the company’s resolute commitment to gender equality and empowerment. He underscored QNET’s dedication to bridging the gender gap by allocating a portion of the group’s revenues to the RYTHM Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the QI Group. Dato Sri emphasized the critical role of men in actively promoting equal opportunities in both the workplace and at home.

QNET’s commitment to gender equality shines through its corporate structure, boasting a workforce where 46% are women, with 43% in managerial roles and 30% represented on the board.

YB Wong Hon Wai, Penang State Tourism Minister, extended a warm welcome to the event’s distinguished guests, including Dato Sri Vijay Eswaran and Joseph Bismark. He acknowledged the presence of over 12,000 delegates from more than 50 countries, highlighting the event’s positive impact on Penang.

Wong Hon Wai underscored Penang’s role as the backdrop for V-Con, a city where visionaries, entrepreneurs, and leaders converge for inspiration and enlightenment. This year’s theme, “Touching A Billion Hearts,” epitomizes the power of unity within the global community of entrepreneurs.

Wong Hon Wai encouraged delegates to seize the opportunity to immerse themselves in Penang’s rich culture, savor its diverse culinary offerings, and explore its breathtaking natural beauty.

The convention boasts an array of activities, including training programs led by industry experts, motivational seminars featuring accomplished speakers, and a mega-exhibition showcasing QNET’s lifestyle and wellness products.

Penang, acknowledged by UNESCO as both a World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve Site, has evolved into an international city, a favored destination for investors, and a top choice for tourists.

In closing, Wong Hon Wai expressed heartfelt gratitude to the delegates for selecting Penang as the venue for this momentous convention. He encouraged all to make the most of their time in Penang and wished for an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.

The V-Convention 2023 is set to be more than an event; it’s a vibrant community of kindred spirits converging to celebrate 25 years of success and chart a future filled with promise.

The opening ceremony concluded with a spirited concert, captivating dance performances, and motivational speeches, creating an electrifying atmosphere that sets the stage for the exciting days ahead.

 

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