Council sees hike in locals promoted

By SHIRLEY MAULUDU
THE PNG Business Council has noted an increase in the number of locals being promoted to positions once held by expatriates.
Executive director Douveri Henao said most were “white collar” jobs in the “senior and middle management” level.
“Many of them are undergoing promotions because of the vacuum made by foreign workers who are being made redundant because of the foreign exchange challenges. So most of them will be pushed,” Henao said.
But he warned that “it is not sustainable because the economy will become better again”.
“The big issue is that PNG workers who are now benefiting – the white collars – should really make a mark now,” he said.
“The blue collars are obviously undergoing significant challenges.
“It’s not only foreign exchange-related but technology is also driving them out of their jobs.
“We are seeing machine replacements and related developments pushing them out.
“But there is an interesting point shared that is really the same message on competency and reliability.
“It’s not a skills-based thing but its attitude. A major retailer was stating the fact that he brings people in and then they just give up and they walk out.
“They are trying to find out how they can retain them.
“It’s a common thing happening in the market space.
“Because of that, the reliability of staff are affecting business performance.”