Managing Director of Jokhan Reatlors, Mr Reginald Jokhan,
Management and Staff of Jokhan Realtors,
Invited Guests,
Bula Vinaka and good evening to all.
It is a pleasure to be here to celebrate Jokhan Realtors’ 22-year journey.
In better times, we would have been celebrating Jokhan Realtors’ 20-year journey two years ago. But as they say, better late than never.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today, we have restored freedom. Freedom that now affords us family time, freedom to return to work, and the joy to celebrate achievements.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have known Reginald for a number of years. I have seen his dedication and his drive to the real estate industry – which is commendable.
What started with a vision to manage real estate property, has now become a renowned real estate service provider and a household name in the Industry.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Like all successful businesses, built on strong values and ethics, I can say that these principles and leadership has brought Jokhan Realtors to where it is today.
Every sector has had its fair share of challenges. But we’ve endured. We’ve endured a once in a lifetime pandemic. We’ve lived through natural disasters. And through it all – we’ve shown resilience.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The real estate sector looks after our homes and our businesses. They’re a huge part of our economy.
For the real estate sector to thrive – we need to work by the law. We need to bring in the right skills and the right discipline.
Everyone has had to work smarter to find solutions so that every Fijian has the opportunity to one day, own their own home.
Real estate agents and salespersons play a major role in the revival of the sector as we progress with our economic recovery. Agents are essentially the ambassadors of the sector. So there is great expectation to hold the highest standard of conduct, integrity and professional standards.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Fijian Government has worked very closely with the Real Estate Agents Licensing Board (REALB) to modernise service offering.
The Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, together with the REALB has developed initiatives to ensure the real estate sector remains consistent, reliable and of choice to its customers.
Last year, I launched REALB’s rebranding initiative amongst other key projects that aim to foster a thriving, clean real estate industry. Their three-year strategic vision set specific priorities for the betterment of the real estate industry.
We are:
● developing a rigorous curriculum to enhance real estate agents’ and salespeople’s quality of services;
● proactively creating awareness and advocating for best practices;
● developing a code of conduct; and
● strategically reviewing the Real Estate Act.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
These strategic priorities complement our aim of ‘Transforming Fiji’. We’re doing this by increasing compliance, efficiency and the quality of information to Fijians interested in the real estate business.
We are developing a service-oriented culture, instilling confidence in the private sector and strengthening the foundation of a robust and sustainable Fijian economy.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
We’ve seen cases of dishonesty. But we’ve also seen cases of trust. And it’s where there is professionalism, consistent commission rates and customer service where we see trust thrives. It is this trust that builds relationships, transparency and a good deal.
As Government, we will continue bringing about the necessary reforms and best practices that support critical sectors like real estate.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the revised 2021-2022 national budget designed policy measures to support Fijians and businesses by addressing the challenges and providing a level playing field for the operators. We have in place the new Investment Act 2021. With the re-opening of the international border, Fiji is now the most sought destination for both tourism and investment.
The Investment Act provides a leaner and easier to understand legal framework for investors, both domestic and foreign. It at the same time provides ample protection to micro, small and medium enterprises and aftercare and guidance will be provided by Investment Fiji.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
So, this is a perfect time for the industry to unite and focus their efforts in creating transparency and confidence to enhance the importance of the real estate industry and what it represents.
With more than 20 years of success behind you and your ability to stay afloat during the World’s worst economic period presents a great foundation to propel more future success.
Coming back to tonight’s event, I would like to wish the Management and the team of Jokhan Realtors all the best for the year ahead and I look forward to meeting you all at REALB’s National Workshop, later in May this year.
Enjoy the rest of the evening – Thank you and Vinaka Vakalevu