Salutations:
Ni Sa Bula Vinaka and a very Good Afternoon to you all !!
Acknowledgement
Let me first begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land on which we stand today.
“Ki Sukanacagi, vua na Momo na Tui Vitogo”
We pay our respects to their elders, past and present, as well as emerging leaders and acknowledge their role in caring for the Vanua.
Special acknowledgement is also extended to the “Na Momo Na iTaukei Vidilo kei Na Momo na iTaukei Saqele – or their representative present here today.
Introduction – Opening Remarks
I am indeed proud and honoured to be here to officially receive the feasibility study report compiled by Arup Australia, alongside our partners from the Australian High Commission and the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP).
The comprehensive study represents an important milestone in our commitment to revitalise Fiji’s shipbuilding industry and re-establish our position in the global maritime landscape.
Through our Elevated Vuvale Partnership, Australia’s commitment is in line with the Ocean of Peace concept, which is envisioned as a strategic goal for the Pacific region.
History
Fiji has a proud legacy within the shipbuilding discipline, one that has played a fundamental role in our maritime history and economic development.
In the years following our independence, our shipyards—Fiji Ships & Heavy Industries Limited and the Government Shipyard—were regional leaders in ship construction and maintenance.
The MV Reef Endeavour, built in 1994, was the last vessel constructed by the Government Shipyard, symbolising the final chapter of our shipbuilding operations.
However, our history stands as a testament to our ability to re-establish ourselves as a key player, and our vision is to achieve on a larger scale than ever before.
Sector Revitalization Work
The Fiji Coalition Government, in partnership with the AIFFP, has taken a decisive step to ensure that this vision becomes a reality.
Through the AIFFP, Arup Australia has carried out this important study that will lay the groundwork for the establishment of a world-class shipbuilding facility that will position Fiji as a hub for maritime engineering, ship construction, and repair services in the Pacific region.
The location where we stand today, marks the precise site where the shipbuilding facility will be constructed and operated.
The construction of the site will be undertaken in a phased approach, with the initial development occurring right here, and later expanding into the Public Works Department site next door.
The newly-built facility will be managed by Oceania Shipbuilding and Engineering Pte Limited – a government company formed to oversee its operations and ensure the success of this venture.
As we move into the next phase, we remain committed to fostering partnerships that will strengthen our technical capacity and ensure that Fiji’s shipbuilding industry is not just competitive regionally – but also globally.
Ladies and gentlemen, the benefits of this initiative for a small economy such as ours cannot be overlooked.
This important venture will not only open up career pathways and employment, but it will also drive the development of a newly skilled workforce.
A Vision for High Performing State-Owned Enterprises
State-Owned Entities (SOEs) play a pivotal role in the Fijian economy given their vast asset base, contributions to GDP, employment generation and provision of public goods and services.
The Fiji Government through the Ministry of Education, is currently exploring the development of education and training programmes aimed to cater for specialised certifications related to shipbuilding.
Furthermore, this initiative will strengthen regional trade and connectivity by ensuring that our maritime transport sector remains robust and efficient, promoting Fiji as a hub for shipbuilding and ship repair services.
Through the enabling of production and maintenance of critical maritime assets, we will also enhance our national security and disaster response capabilities – an important component of assuring the welfare and the protection of the best interests of our citizens.
Women Participation
As we commemorate this milestone, I must acknowledge that it is very fitting that today, March 8th, marks International Women’s Day – a global celebration of the contributions and achievements of women in our society.
The shipbuilding industry, like many other fields, has traditionally been male-dominated. However, as we re-build our position, we will strive for equal opportunities for women in all roles within the industry.
Through this initiative, the Government will remain committed to fostering inclusive growth by encouraging more women to pursue careers in maritime professions.
Through such inclusive growth, we can strengthen our nation’s resilience, innovation, and further progress our development agenda.
Strategic Partnership & Call for Collective Action
Building and revitalizing the shipping industry and systems requires a united effort.
As we are embarking on a new chapter – and it has only been made possible with the help of the Australian Government.
I acknowledge with gratitude the Australian Government for their continued support through the Elevated Vuvale Partnership.
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the service of His Excellency, Mr. Ewen McDonald, as he approaches the conclusion of his tenure as the Australian High Commissioner to Fiji.
Mr. McDonald has been a steadfast partner and an exceptional representative of the Australian Government, playing a pivotal role in advancing our Vuvale aspirations.
His invaluable contributions, and particularly his diligence to facilitating this project, will leave a lasting impact on Fiji’s development, and I express my sincere gratitude to him for his service.
I also extend my sincere thanks to the AIFFP, for their commitment to this initiative. I am glad that the preliminary work has progressed well.
We very much acknowledge AIFFP’s support in revitalising Fiji’s shipbuilding industry and transforming the nation into the Pacific’s major port of entry and transshipment hub, leading to increased job opportunities, specialized skillsets, and economic stimulation
A special thanks is also due to the team at Arup Australia for their immense dedication and hard work in delivering this important study – and contributing towards our vision for building a greater Fiji.
As we move forward, let us embrace this opportunity with determination and a shared sense of purpose.
Together, we will build a stronger, more self-reliant Fiji—one that is ready to sail towards a future of innovation, economic prosperity, and maritime excellence.
Conclusion
With these words, let this report serve as a catalyst for revitalization.
I acknowledge once again the Australian Government and your Team for the event today and it is with great pleasure that I launch the Study Report.
Vina’a vakalevu, dhanyabad and thank you.