He’s well known for his open door policy accepting every appointment regardless of who and what the appointment is for.

And Tuesday this week at the Private Sector Dialogue with Leaders session, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi used that policy to encourage dialogue between the regional private sector and their respective governments.

“Open up the line of communication by talking to your government leaders,” urged the Prime Minister.

 “Tell them your woes even if the Minister in charge is unfriendly. Don’t worry; take your issues to your Prime Minister.

“As politicians we have perfected the art of public address and we look and sound good but it does not resolve obstacles faced by the private sector unless your speak up and share it with government leaders.

“Going to the media will not resolve anything because they don’t have the solutions you need.

“I need to hear from the private sector,” he told the meeting attended by regional private sector representatives.

In Samoa’s case, Tuilaepa says that he is mindful that access to finances like many of the region’s private sector is a thorn.  And if government is not approached it will continue to be a problem.

For example he noted that for some years now, the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa, (SROS) has developed the gluten free flour from breadfruits.

The concept initiated by government is for business to commercialize the gluten free flour however this has not been the case as he knows very well that financing was a deterrent. 

In his opening address, the Samoan Government acknowledged the challenges faced by the regional private sector in their respective countries.

And he says that the Forum Leaders are aware of the “peace meal” on offer to the private sector. 

But he advocated the need for the business sector to work with their respective government through dialogue to resolve issues.