Independent at 71
The story of 71-year-old Bimla Wati shared life-long lessons. Bimla, who is from Yasiyasi in Tavua, moved with her children to Rokara Place in Nasinu after her husband’s death and has since then been selling vegetables at the market — something she describes as fun. She shared that she didn’t like to stay at home, and she loved to be at her stall, where she was able to mingle around with her friends and customers and her time passed well. I must thank her children for looking after her well. As far as her experience in the market was concerned, she shared that her market sales fluctuated depending on the supply and demand, but she was able to make a profit from her sales, and with her savings, she was able to go on overseas trips as well. She believes in hard work and advises others to work hard. Waking up at 3am to get her supplies from the Suva market, she ensures she reaches her stall in the market at 6am every day. This shows her commitment and dedication. At the age of 71, she is an idol to the senior citizens of or beloved Fiji. She is independent and is fit. Her story made my day, thanks to Rakesh Kumar and The Fiji Times! Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Defying age
An interesting article by Rakesh Kumar titled “Independent at 71” (FT 14/05) features a market vendor, Bimla Wati, who loves being at her stall. Despite being 71-years-old, she remains determined, waking up at 3am for her work. While many her age might seek welfare assistance and take it easy, Ms Wati continues to push forward despite the hardships in her business. Her resilience serves as a valuable lesson, especially for the younger generation caught up in drugs or unemployment. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to rise and carry your cross. RODNEY CLARENCE RAJ Naleba, Labasa
Poor understanding
One week after the 2024 Coca-Cola Games and Fijians are still sharing on social media this newspaper’s online update titled: “MBHS unofficial winner, new champion in girls’ division”. Most think that it is referring to Marist being the new girls’ champion. Shows that either they didn’t see the comma after the word “winner”, and did not fully understand that it is a multiple meaning sentence. Or it is the direct result of the inexcusably deteriorating sad state of the English language in our country. Vaoca! Wise Muavono Balawa, Lautoka
No surprise
It is not a surprise to see the appointment of Ms Ana Mataiciwa, as the new Supervisor of Elections. In my opinion, she has very good knowledge, understanding and wisdom, regarding the responsibilities necessary, for the Fiji Elections Office. Apart from her professional qualifications, she already possess the “applied” experience that is suitable, besides being young and very determined, even during her acting appointment tenure. In the future, there will be no female leaders; there will be just leaders. Let us be hopeful, that the COC continues to appoint as such, for the greater good of our nation. Samu Silatolu Nakasi
Fijian workers
Our two dailies have reported on the large number of Fijians working in Australia under the PALM Scheme who have breached their work conditions. The Ministry of Labour seems to blame our Fijian workers in Australia to be the ones at fault but to be fair, our affected workers should be heard and their grievances answered. In helping them with their Australian visas, it grieves me to learn all the different problems they have gone through and the reasons why they have breached their work conditions. We will all laugh at the drawing in one of the dailies showing a Fiji representative trying to pull a horse with a rope tied around its neck to return to Fiji (representing Fijian workers), but the horse with both front feet bracing and refusing to return home, saying they will be unemployed and the pay rate is low! Sadly, those who have breached their visa conditions through no fault of theirs had their visa cancelled when they came to Fiji for a break and stopped at the Nadi Airport when trying to return. This is why affected Fijian workers in Australia will jump to another substantive visa with work rights or apply for the 482 skill work visa, which is an open door to PR in Australia. The Pacific Engagement Visa which will allow 300 Fijians to become Australian residents is coming up on June 3, 2024 and all our workers in Australia under 45 should give it a try.
Whatever you do, please remember your families struggling in Fiji. Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa Tacirua
Sugar industry
We need to have a time-frame for the sugar industry. If government cannot turn things around then there needs to be an end to it. Without a timeframe, the decision-makers just end up going with the flow and nothing definite happens. Just a lot of ranting and blame game. So which year should we earmark? 2030? Kiran Khatri Samabula, Suva
Leaders trained
The chairman of the GCC Ratu Villiame Seruvakula’s release on training of members of the Great Council of Chiefs by the National University (FT 9/5) is a way forward for development of Fiji for all Fijians. It’s never too late to learn in a conducive learning environment. Seek knowledge from cradle to grave. Tahir Ali
Hamilton, New Zealand
Overseas Fiji Indians
Very magnanimous of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to invite all descendants of girmitiya who fled from Fiji after his violent 1987 military coup to return to the country of their birth. I wonder how many from the tens of thousands who have made their homes in foreign lands would take up Rabuka’s invitation? I suspect not too many given the first world standard of living and democratic governance they enjoy in their adopted countries. Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
President’s vehicle
I did not know that it was so easy to hit the President’s vehicle and not be caught. Who was escorting him? Ajai Kumar Waqadra, Nadi
Good news
The Australian government will give $58million in direct budget support to the Fiji government. This was proudly approved by the Cabinet. The Japanese government will provide a $10m grant for ice-making machines again proudly accepted by miracle man and Acting PM. I cannot remember how many millions will be provided by Australia to fix some of the issues at CWM Hospital. No doubt the people of Fiji are truly blessed as these charity are showered upon God’s chosen people. The Fiji government is doing an excellent job, no doubt. Jan Nissar Sydney, Australia
Bridge issue
The following is a response from FRA to my letter to the editor regarding Nadi Bridge FT 16/9/23: “We acknowledge your concern and would like to assure you that the FRA is aware of the situation and that the Nadi bridge is part of the 40 critical bridges program for replacement. Currently, the bridge is in the design phase. The FRA recognises the importance of maintaining safe and reliable infrastructure, especially when it comes to bridges. Therefore, the Nadi bridge has been included in the priority work list.” I thank FRA for providing the update which I am sure people concerned would be appreciative of. No one can deny the fact that properties public or private, to keep them in good order, their maintenance from time to time is a must. Looking at the future needs of our escalating traffic situation, I think consideration must be given towards extending the Navakai Bypass Rd and merging it with Queens Rd in Navo as a matter of urgency and done while the Nadi bridge is still standing. Without additional roads and bridges, you can’t address the congestion problem and improve the traffic flow through Nadi Town. We need to work on expanding the road network and not just make unnecessary and senseless changes. Suresh Chand Nadi
Marine eco-system
As a concerned citizen deeply invested in the future of Fiji’s natural heritage, I write to express my fervent advocacy for the preservation of our precious marine ecosystem. Our oceans are not just a source of beauty and wonder; they are the lifeblood of our nation, sustaining livelihoods, biodiversity, and cultural identity. However, recent developments have underscored the urgent need for decisive action to protect our marine environment. From plastic pollution to overfishing, human activities continue to threaten the delicate balance of our ocean ecosystems. The degradation of coral reefs, depletion of fish stocks, and loss of biodiversity are not merely environmental concerns but pose significant socio-economic challenges for our nation. It is imperative that we prioritise sustainable practices and enact robust policies to safeguard our marine resources for future generations. This entails collaborative efforts between government agencies, local communities, and stakeholders to implement effective conservation measures, enforce regulations, and promote eco-friendly practices. Furthermore, education and awareness initiatives are crucial in fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and empowering individuals to make informed choices that contribute to the health and resilience of our oceans. In the face of escalating environmental pressures, complacency is not an option. Now is the time for decisive leadership and concerted action to ensure the long-term viability of Fiji’s marine ecosystem. Together, let us rise to the challenge and become guardians of our oceans, preserving their beauty and bounty for generations to come. Melaia Nasilokia University of the South Pacific
