Prabha Chinien,
Registrar of Companies

“Company secretaries have now become gatekeepers in the context of AML-CFT”

Prabha Chinien, Registrar of Companies, emphasized the growing importance of technology in the corporate services sector. She highlighted how advancements have enabled companies to streamline operations, enhance compliance, and improve client service. “The launch of this rebranding tonight is a statement of commitment by the industry to innovation and progress,” she remarked, noting that embracing digital solutions fosters a more conducive business environment and supports economic growth. Mrs. Chinien also discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital services, including plans to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into the Registrar’s systems for improved efficiency. She announced new initiatives, such as SMS alerts and 24/7 online services, aimed at enhancing communication and accessibility for stakeholders. 

During the rebranding event where Intercontinental Secretarial Services Ltd (ISSL) transitioned to OneLink, Prabha Chinien, Registrar of Companies, emphasised the importance of technology in modern corporate services. 

Mrs. Chinien began by highlighting the critical role that technology plays in the business sector, particularly in company secretarial services. She pointed out that advancements in technology have allowed companies to streamline their operations, improve compliance, and ensure better client service. “The launch of this rebranding tonight is a statement of commitment by the industry to innovation and progress,” she said. “By embracing technology, we create a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive and contribute to our nation’s economic growth.”

Mrs. Chinien further elaborated on how digital transformation has reshaped the role of company secretaries, stating that “the traditional role of support to boards and ensuring governance and regulatory compliance has now expanded to (them) being gatekeepers, especially in the context of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT).” She emphasized that technological solutions can help companies better navigate these complexities by offering tools that enhance transparency and efficiency.

I urge all service providers to take full advantage of the innovations that can drive better compliance, efficiency, and client satisfaction

During her speech, Mrs Chinien provided insights into the government’s ongoing efforts to improve digital services for companies. She shared that the Registrar of Companies has been on a digital journey since the 1990s, starting with basic IT systems that have gradually evolved to more advanced solutions. “We began by compiling names of companies in a digital database, and today we are developing more sophisticated IT solutions to streamline processes,” she said.

She announced plans to introduce a new version of the existing system which will include the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) to further reduce human intervention. This upgrade, she explained, will allow for faster and more efficient service delivery, enhancing user experience. “Our objective is to provide seamless services, enabling company secretaries and stakeholders to access our systems online, without the need to visit our offices,” Mrs. Chinien said.

The Registrar of Companies also shared details about upcoming initiatives aimed at improving communication and compliance. “We are introducing SMS services that will notify stakeholders about important deadlines, such as filing returns, paying registration fees, and compliance notices,” she announced. This initiative is expected to be operational by the end of the year and is part of a broader strategy to enhance engagement with companies.

She also mentioned the introduction of a 24/7 online service that will enable stakeholders to access essential information and services, even outside regular business hours. “This is particularly beneficial for the global business sector, where different time zones can affect operations. By providing round-the-clock services, we aim to make Mauritius a more attractive destination for business,” she noted.

Mrs. Chinien praised OneLink for leading by example in adopting technological solutions to enhance its service offerings. “OneLink has set the pace for others to follow. By integrating technology into their service delivery, they are improving transparency and accessibility, which is essential for the growth of the corporate sector,” she remarked.

She concluded her speech by encouraging other companies to leverage the opportunities presented by new technologies. “I urge all service providers to take full advantage of the innovations that can drive better compliance, efficiency, and client satisfaction. Together, we can build a transparent and robust regulatory environment that fosters business growth,” Mrs. Chinien said.

The event ended with a token of appreciation presented to Mrs. Chinien by Tommy Lowe, Director of OneLink, in acknowledgment of her support and contributions to the corporate sector.