NEWLY appointed Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) Board president Neville Choi of Papua New Guinea has paid tribute to outgoing president Kalafi Moala, thanking him for his leadership, guidance and confidence in the incoming board.
Speaking after taking up the leadership role at the 8th Pacific Media Summit in Savusavu, Choi said Moala had left the board with an important message about the Pacific — that while its oceans may be wide, they were also what connected its people.
“Our land, our sea, our mountains, and you always have a tale about all these things that continue to remind us that we are from one island and one nation, which is the Pacific,” Choi said.
He said one message from Moala that would remain with him was: “The oceans may be wide, but it’s what connects us.”
Choi thanked PINA members for their confidence in appointing him to lead the organisation and acknowledged the experience he had gained from Moala during his tenure.
“I have learned much from you. You have shown confidence in me to represent you at times when you could not represent the council or the PINA Board,” he said.
“I truly, truly value all the experience that you have given to me and the board.”
Choi also asked Moala to continue providing advice even after returning to Papua New Guinea.
“So, until Papua New Guinea, I would like you to still continue to provide advice because we do value your advice, Kalafi,” he said.
The 9th Pacific Media Summit will be held in Papua New Guinea in 2028.
