Exepreneur

Premium Business & luxury Lifestyle Media Brand in Papua New Guinea, Fiji and other Smaller Island Nations

Exepreneur is a premium media brand dedicated to showcasing the best in business and luxury lifestyle across the Asia Pacific region. We bring insightful stories, expert interviews, exclusive features, and curated content that cater to entrepreneurs, executives, and discerning audiences who appreciate quality, innovation, and sophisticated living. Our content blends cutting-edge business trends wi

th the elegance of luxury travel, fashion, hospitality, and culture — offering a unique perspective for those who seek inspiration and success. From influential industry leaders to luxurious destinations, we connect viewers with topics that drive growth and enrich lifestyle. Join us to explore the dynamic intersection of commerce and luxury in one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse regions.

18/11/2025

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is actively working to finalize a security agreement with Fiji while also striving to revive a stalled deal with Vanuatu after a diplomatic setback earlier this year.

This push builds on a landmark defence pact recently signed with Indonesia, which analysts say has shifted the balance of power in Asia. Albanese remains optimistic about avoiding military conflict with China over Taiwan.

Speaking from Kirribilli House, Albanese confirmed ongoing talks on a long-anticipated trade agreement with the European Union, following last month's export deal with the United Arab Emirates. He described his recent discussions with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka as productive, signaling strong bilateral relations.

Albanese acknowledged embarrassment over failing to sign the Nakamal agreement with Vanuatu during his visit in September but assured that efforts to finalise the pact were progressing. The pursuit of treaties with these Pacific nations aligns with Australia’s broader strategy to counter China’s regional influence.

The Indonesia security deal was hailed by Albanese as a major government achievement during intensified China-US rivalry. The pact, initiated quietly post-May election with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, commits both nations to ongoing security consultations, joint exercises, and mutual support in case of threats.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong highlighted Labor’s aim to “anchor Australian security in the region,” drawing inspiration from Paul Keating’s vision of seeking security within Asia.

Though the Indonesia deal isn’t a formal alliance like the Pukpuk Treaty with Papua New Guinea, its significance lies in Indonesia’s usual non-aligned stance. Sam Roggeveen from the Lowy Institute expressed surprise at Australia’s ability to secure the deal amid concerns over the AUKUS nuclear submarine program linking Australia closely with the US.

On the sensitive China-Taiwan issue, Albanese endorsed maintaining the status quo and urged against unilateral actions. He declined comments on former US President Trump’s remarks on the matter.

Analyst Gatra Priyandita noted that the Australia-Indonesia relationship “remains among the most comprehensive, institutionalised and resilient,” underscoring Indonesia’s indispensable strategic role in regional stability.

Albanese criticized previous governments for damaging Australia’s foreign relations, contrasting with the current government’s efforts in rebuilding ties with ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum, the US, UK, and Europe.

Photo Credit: The Peninsula Qatar

17/11/2025

Did you know that Re*****on Group is 75 years old—almost as old as Papua New Guinea itself, which gained independence in 1975?

This parallel highlights Re*****on’s deep roots and enduring legacy alongside the nation’s journey

And the man running the show now is Justin Kieseker, a veteran of the industry himself.

Re*****on Group, established in 1948, has been a vital part of Papua New Guinea’s business evolution, transitioning from a typewriter supplier to PNG’s leading technology and service provider.

It supports government, schools, and businesses nationwide, with a footprint across major cities like Port Moresby, Lae, and Mount Hagen.

The Group comprises multiple divisions, including Re*****on Technology, BizPrint, FX Business Centre, OF Communications, and an emerging retail arm, Re*****on Hi-Tek.

Under CEO Justin Kieseker, Re*****on is focused on digital transformation, resilience, and sustainable growth, positioning itself to lead PNG’s journey into the digital era while fostering local talent and partnerships.

Re*****on's story mirrors PNG’s own progress and diversity, supported by tailored services and a strong commitment to innovation and excellence.

Exepreneur had an exclusive interview with Justin Kieseker as part of its CEO Series, uncovering insights from the Re*****on Group CEO on 75 years of innovation, resilience, and Papua New Guinea’s digital future.

Read the feature on our website by clicking the link in the comment section below.

Note: Get your CEO or other C-Suit executives featured on Exepreneur. Email [email protected] to book interview

17/11/2025

As Papua New Guinea heads into the 2026 budget debate, Keith Iduhu, Member for Hiri Koiari, has voiced serious concerns about the state of the country’s economy.

Ongoing issues like excessive borrowing, overly optimistic revenue forecasts, and poor fiscal management has been highlighted again echoing the sentiments shared by many leaders both in public and private sector.

“Good fiscal management means making smart choices to keep the country financially stable and on track,” Iduhu says.

Iduhu pointed to the mid-year economic forecasts from June 2025 which showed unexpected revenue shortfalls, especially in tax collections.

Under Prime Minister James Marape’s leadership, national debt has ballooned to nearly K65 billion, but with little visible progress in key development areas.

“The Opposition is worried that this borrowing isn’t fueling growth, but merely consumption, leaving the next generation to foot the bill through higher taxes and inflation,” he charged.

He highlighted a recent statement by Opposition MP Peter O’Neill, who revealed that the government borrowed an additional K1 billion weeks after taking out more than K1 billion from Kumul Minerals in dividends.

“In just a few weeks, that’s K2 billion raised, yet hospitals lack medicines and the cost of living squeezes families,” Iduhu said, referencing O’Neill’s remarks.

The Member for Hiri Koiari was also critical of the government’s response to healthcare workers’ concerns. After Prime Minister Marape told medical staff to “do more with less” amid cash shortages, Iduhu called this attitude “heartless” and a warning sign for all Papua New Guineans.

“Government’s legitimacy comes from the people, and when it can’t protect their welfare, it fails in its basic role,” he said.

Iduhu lamented declining social services, worsening education standards, law and order breakdown, and rising living costs—all of which undermine Papua New Guinea’s development goals.

He said the 2025 budget fell short in providing relief to families and businesses and missed opportunities for investment and job creation.

“The current government shows both poor financial management and a lack of compassion for the struggling population,” Iduhu stated firmly.

He urged for a government that can cut wasteful spending, reduce borrowing, attract real investments, tackle lawlessness, and most importantly, prioritize people’s needs.

“With the 2026 budget, Papua New Guineans deserve leadership that puts the country and its citizens first,” he concluded.

16/11/2025

Andrew Cole's story is one of grit, learning, and leadership shaped by real-life experiences.

Growing up on a farm, he learned early that how people see you matters just as much as what you can do.

One moment that stuck with him was when he failed his Private Pilot Licence exam—not because he lacked skill, but because his youthful appearance and long hair made the examiner doubt passengers would trust him.

A simple haircut later, he passed with flying colors, learning that first impressions and trust open doors as much as talent.

His rise through the hospitality world wasn’t without bumps. As a new general manager in Wellington, his hotel ranked near the bottom in a brand audit. But a year later, they were top of the group.

Ironically, his request to celebrate this was turned down by the corporate office, which favored another property. This letdown pushed him to seek new challenges where he truly grew into leadership, eventually leading to success as a CEO in a small hotel group.

Andrew believes that leadership is about honesty and making decisions that care for everyone involved.

He’s seen how purely focusing on management can crush a workplace culture, so he blends management with genuine leadership. His famous “engine analogy”—where every role, no matter how small, matters as much as any other—helped shift mindsets in his teams and brought out the best in people.

Coming from a tight-knit New Zealand town, community and connections run deep for Andrew. These values guided him as he revitalized Newcastle’s city center and later turned around a struggling dive company in Fiji. In Fiji, he is more than a business owner; he’s a respected local figure who values mentoring and giving back.

For Andrew, success goes beyond profit or awards. Nothing gives him more pride than seeing his team members develop over the years, like helping Fiji’s first native-born professional scuba diving instructor trainer rise through the ranks.

As he puts it, “The true value of what we achieve in our lives goes well beyond financial success and awards won along the way... I find wonderful happiness living and being a successful business owner here in Fiji, surrounded by a team whose continuous development is my proudest achievement.”

His leadership journey is about people, trust, and lifting others up—a simple but powerful lesson for any organization.

Note: Exepreneur Leadership Series features corporate business leaders across the Pacific sharing their leadership insights. Email us on [email protected] to be featured

16/11/2025

Barrick Mining Corporation is considering splitting into two separate entities, with one focused on its North American operations and the other managing assets in Africa and Asia, according to multiple sources.

This potential move could involve selling off Barrick’s African assets and the Reko Diq mine in Pakistan once financing is secured.

The company is reportedly working to resolve a dispute with Mali’s military administration before any sale of assets in the region.

This plan, if implemented, would effectively reverse Barrick’s 2019 merger with Randgold and allow the company to concentrate on its North American portfolio, including the significant Fourmile gold project in Nevada.

Investors have expressed that Barrick’s shares are undervalued despite a historic gold price rally and that a split could unlock value by separating stable North American assets from riskier holdings in politically volatile regions like Africa and Papua New Guinea.

Earlier this year, Barrick lost control of one of its most profitable mines in Mali due to a dispute over mining taxes, resulting in a $1 billion write-off and ongoing tensions including the incarceration of four Barrick employees.

The discussion of splitting the company is ongoing, with no decisions finalized as yet. Barrick’s interim CEO Mark Hill has declined to comment on the speculation, stating, “The company does not comment on speculation.” The company operates mines not only in Nevada and Mali but also in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, the Dominican Republic, and Papua New Guinea.

Shares of Barrick have risen following news of the split consideration, reflecting investor optimism about the potential strategic realignment.

One investor highlighted the value of Barrick’s Nevada assets, saying, “There has been a view that there is a lot of value in Nevada. If the Nevada mine were a publicly listed company on its own, it would be one of the world’s largest-capitalized gold mining companies.”

Investors have called for the company to divide into one division with stable assets such as Nevada and Fourmile, and another with riskier assets in Africa, Papua New Guinea, and Reko Diq.

This potential split aims to help Barrick better manage risks and capitalize on regional strengths across its global mining portfolio.

14/11/2025

Visa has officially launched its Pacific Islands regional office in Suva, Fiji, signaling Fiji’s readiness to engage at a higher strategic level and solidifying its position as a key financial hub in the Pacific region.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, highlighted the significance of Visa’s decision, stating, “Visa's decision to base their Pacific Islands regional office in Suva reflects confidence in our stability, our people and the direction of our economy.”

He acknowledged the critical role Visa plays by collaborating with local partners to unlock new opportunities and drive sustainable economic progress throughout the region.

Gavoka emphasized that Fiji is situated in a rapidly changing Pacific landscape. “Their work in connecting Fiji businesses, citizens and visitors to global markets has supported our economic development for years,” he said. “Every transaction through their network supports the confidence we work hard to maintain in Fiji's financial system.”

Welcoming Visa’s expanded presence, Gavoka expressed strong support, noting, “I wholeheartedly welcome Visa's fiscal presence in the Pacific Islands so it can serve our region more effectively.”

He also pointed out Fiji’s tourism and trade sectors as central to the economy, adding, “Digital payments sit at the core of these activities as they support the visit experience, and widen market access for local enterprises.” Gavoka further said these advancements “strengthen trust in our financial systems.”

By serving as a central hub, the office enhances access to modern digital payment systems, boosting financial inclusion, facilitating smoother commerce, and fostering deeper regional economic integration. This infrastructure supports small businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly in remote island communities where traditional banking access can be limited.

Visa’s launch of its Pacific Islands office in Suva represents a strategic investment in the region’s financial infrastructure and economic future. It not only strengthens Fiji’s role as a financial gateway but also supports the broader Pacific community’s goals for growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

This development aligns with the Pacific-wide push toward digital transformation and economic resilience, reinforcing Fiji and neighboring island nations as emerging players in the global digital economy.

Photo: Fiji Village

14/11/2025

ANZ Cook Islands is set to see a leadership change early next year, with current country head Jason Murray swapping roles with David Dudley, who is currently the country head of Tonga.

The bank announced yesterday that, pending regulatory approvals, Murray will assume the country head position for Tonga, while Dudley will take over the leadership of ANZ in the Cook Islands, effective March 1, 2026.

Sarah Stubbings, regional executive for the Pacific, commented on the changes, stating: “These changes demonstrate ANZ’s commitment to delivering strong, adaptable leadership across the Pacific and further strengthen our capability in two of our core markets.”

She added, “We thank Jason and David for the significant contributions they have made in Tonga and the Cook Islands and congratulate them on their new appointments. Both Jason and David are passionate about building high-performing teams and supporting local communities, and I’m confident they will bring the very best of ANZ to their new roles.”

Murray has led ANZ’s Cook Islands business since August 2022, successfully driving improvements in process, asset quality, and portfolio management. The statement highlighted Murray’s collaborative style and commercial acumen, noting, “Jason has built strong relationships with customers, regulators, and community stakeholders.”

With over twenty years of banking experience, Murray previously served as the commercial head in Kiribati before his current role.

David Dudley, the incoming country head for the Cook Islands, brings more than 35 years of experience with ANZ and has been heading the Tonga business for the past seven years.

His leadership tenure has been characterized by resilience and strategic guidance through natural disasters, economic changes, and regulatory shifts. Dudley has also held the position of chair of the Association of Banks in Tonga and has maintained strong ties with the Reserve Bank and other key stakeholders.

Stubbings emphasized the importance of the Pacific to ANZ’s international network, saying, “The Pacific remains a key part of ANZ’s international network, and these appointments strengthen our leadership capability in a region we are deeply committed to.”

She noted that both leaders and their teams are “looking forward to continuing to serve our customers, grow digital banking, and deliver financial literacy programs such as MoneyMinded in both markets.”

This leadership swap aims to build on ANZ’s strong presence and commitment in the Pacific markets, supporting both operational growth and community engagement through seasoned and dedicated leadership.

13/11/2025

Most of you know Theodore Tei as the popular Facebook influencer
KAIR BII NEM.

He is outspoken, direct and and not shy to be controversial at times. He gets Facebook talking and that's for sure.

But before Theodore become the social media influencer, he had a Valuation business valuing the properties. Like all other small businesses in PNG looking for a way to breakthrough the noisy market place.

He wasn't well back than in the social media space. He knew nothing about content creation, let alone the fancy equipment need to shoot videos.

It all changed with a decision to tap into the unknown. In an interview with Exepreneur he talks about how a second-hand phone changed his entire business and life around.

“When I started recording videos on my second-hand phone, I had no clear roadmap, only faith, purpose, and a dream that ordinary Papua New Guineans could rise if they believed in themselves,” he shares.

“My biggest struggle wasn’t financial; it was self-doubt. I often questioned whether people would take me seriously… People said, ‘Em husat bai harim yu? You’re just another Facebook man. ’ But deep down, I knew my message was bigger than their opinions.”

Theodore’s breadth of work. From real estate valuation to digital content creation and local filmmaking.

“All my work connects to one mission: empowerment, especially of youths,” he explains.

“Real estate teaches me about ownership and value creation. Content creation awakens ideas among youth who think success is reserved for a few. Acting brings out the storyteller in me—people are moved by stories, not statistics.”

He describes himself as a builder, voice, and bridge, showing that “even a village boy can change lives using modern tools if he believes in himself and God.”

How did Theodore start from selling papaws to becoming a social media influencer and running multiple business?

Read the exclusive feature by clicking the link here https://exepreneur.com/from-selling-pawpaws-to-social-media-influencer-theodore-teis-journey-building-multiple-businesses-from-scratch/

13/11/2025

Renee Mero, founder of Project Yumi, embodies a profound journey of resilience, purpose, and heartfelt commitment to social impact.

Her story is deeply human, rooted in a childhood shaped by frequent moves, a strong work ethic inherited from her parents, and a passion for education that was ignited by inspiring teachers.

This foundation led her through moments of personal doubt and burnout, ultimately guiding her towards a transformative mission that blends education, compassion, and community empowerment in Papua New Guinea.

Renee reflects on her early years: “Both of my parents worked, and my dad served in the Royal Australian Air Force, which meant we moved frequently and had the opportunity to live in different parts of Australia.”

Growing up in multicultural neighborhoods, she learned “the importance of acceptance, respect, and finding common ground with others,” values that continue to guide her approach to both personal life and professional work.

Watching her parents balance their responsibilities taught her “the value of hard work and earning your way through dedication and effort.”

This has led her to Papua New Guinea where she founded Project Yumi.

Project Yumi is an NGO focused on building effective partnerships with local communities across Papua New Guinea to improve education and healthcare services.

By delivering surplus educational resources from Australia to under-resourced schools, Project Yumi’s "Project Skul" initiative helps bridge educational inequalities, enabling students in remote areas to access quality learning materials.

The organization also addresses women's health through "Project Meri," providing maternal packs and hygiene products while fostering community awareness and involvement.

In an exclusive interview with Exepreneur, Renee shares her experiences running the Project Yumi and the incredible work they are doing to build communities in PNG.

Note: Read full article in the link in comment section

11/11/2025

Jarryd Hayne has made some critical observations on sports diplomacy and sport tourism in Papua New Guinea.

Fiji-born rugby league superstar Jarryd Hayne affectionately known by fans as the 'Hayne Plane' recently spent two unforgettable weeks in Port Moresby, immersing himself in the world of Papua New Guinea’s national sport.

In an exclusive interview with Exepreneur, Hayne shared his experiences and his thoughts on sports diplomacy and sports tourism in PNG.

His reflections reveal not only the intensity of the country’s passion for rugby league but also its broader role in uniting communities and fostering regional growth.

“I always knew and felt the passion the people of Papua New Guinea have for rugby league,” Hayne shared.

“But spending two weeks in Port Moresby truly opened my eyes to just how deep that love runs. I had the chance to rub shoulders with everyone—from politicians and business entrepreneurs to everyday locals—and one thing was clear: rugby league unites them all. It’s more than just a sport in Papua New Guinea, it’s the heartbeat of the nation, a powerful force that brings people together across all walks of life.”

Rugby league’s place in PNG is unrivaled, widely recognized as the country’s national sport and a vital thread in its social fabric.

“The Pacific region is witnessing exciting times for rugby league,” Hayne said, pointing to the growing prominence of the Pacific Championships.

“More games between Pacific nations mean more competition and stronger, more elevated rugby league across our region. It’s crucial we build on this momentum and continue supporting the game locally—especially in Fiji, where passion and talent abound.”

But the superstar’s visit was not just about rugby. He experienced the stunning natural beauty Papua New Guinea has to offer—from fishing in crystal-clear waters to exploring remote villages and tasting local delicacies like raw king kina.

“Tourism is a big winner here with the PNG Chiefs and rugby league events,” Hayne noted.

“The whole experience reminded me so much of home in Fiji. PNG has incredible potential to grow its tourism sector, especially leveraging the exposure and opportunities that come through rugby league.”

Hayne’s insights reveals how sport acts as a powerful catalyst in PNG—not only uniting its people but also opening avenues for cultural diplomacy and economic development through sports tourism.

Visit our website for more: https://exepreneur.com/jarryd-hayne-on-rugby-league-culture-and-tourism-connecting-communities-across-the-pacific/

Photo: Nayag News

11/11/2025

Very few people can leave the comfort and security of a well-paid job of nine years, take on a K100,000 loan, and sacrifice everything to build a successful business. It’s definitely not a path for the faint of heart. Something James Murray, the founder of JM&SONS Limited did.

Starting JM&SONS was born out of both necessity and conviction. After spending nine years as the National Survey Sales Manager at Theodist Ltd, James realized that he had built strong relationships and a solid foundation on experience. That gave him the courage to step out on his own he recalls.

He drew strength from his father. Watching him build Murray & Associates from scratch and win the historic Sandline Inquiry case, standing alone against four Queen’s Counsel from Melbourne and triumphing inspired him to take action.

“It taught me that courage, preparation, and faith can move mountains. That lesson continues to fuel me today; that same fire still burns within me, reminding me that belief and persistence can turn any challenge into victory” he says

Business isn't always smooth sail. There was a time when he truly hit the rock bottom. “Government payments were delayed for months, COVID-19 had shut down operations, I was locked out of the office, and my children’s school fees were overdue. As a father, that moment of helplessness was painful. It tested everything he stood for

“But when things were darkest, I looked around and realized I still had one lifeline: my Quantum Trinity F90+ drone, which I had courageously purchased through a loan before the pandemic.

"That drone became my redemption. It opened doors in large-area mapping when no one else could deliver. It wasn’t just a piece of equipment; it was proof that faith and foresight can save a dream. That experience taught me that rock bottom can be the very foundation you rebuild from, stronger than ever”

There are many ways to start a business. Some more riskier. Some not. James opted for the risky option taking a loan. “Taking that SME loan was both terrifying and empowering. I knew it was a huge responsibility, but I also believed in my ability to make it work. Every repayment was a reminder of my commitment to my vision and my family”

With a loan to repay, James double down on his business spending endless nights at the office knowing that time wasted was opportunity lost. Over time, that discipline paid off.

"Today, I can go home at 5 p.m., knowing that the long nights built the structure and systems that now keep JM&SONS LIMITED running efficiently. Risk taught me accountability; responsibility taught me peace. Together, they shaped the leader I’ve become" he says

In this exclusive interview with Exepreneur, James shares his entrepreneur journey, pivotal decisions, fears, definitions of success, and the deeper wisdom gained from building JM&SONS.

Did you read the full article here ttps://exepreneur.com/how-james-murray-defied-the-odds-with-a-k100000-loan-to-build-a-thriving-business/

10/11/2025

About two weeks ago, Steamships Limited appointed Alan Heyns as the CEO for PacificPalms Property.

Chris Daniells, Managing Director of Steamships, said, “Alan takes on the role at an exciting time for the company as both Steamships and PPP prepare for a period of sustained growth over the next three years. Alan’s contributions to developing and executing the vision for PPP’s Property Development, combined with his strong understanding of the business and Papua New Guinea, positions him well to lead the division forward.”

Read more here https://lnkd.in/g7JaYHdz

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The PNG Business is an innovative technology and business news media company, founded in 2020 around a simple idea: enable PNG entrepreneurs to tell their own stories. We are one of the fastest growing digital platform serving the multifaceted startups and established businesses through original content, video and unique digital experiences.

The platform has grown into a market leader in digital space, reaching over a million highly targeted entrepreneurial and the business community every month.

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THE PNG BUSINESS, is continuously looking for new team members to help us continue to scale, cultivate our community, and advance our strategic direction.

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