A call has been made for the declaration of the shipwreck site of the *Syria* near Nasilai Village in Fiji as a National Heritage Site. Rahul Chand, the Protected & Conserved Areas Coordinator at IUCN Oceania, voiced this request in a letter to the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Charan Jeath Singh, emphasizing the site’s cultural and historical significance.
In his letter, Chand expressed pride in being a descendant of the Girmitiyas and highlighted the value placed on preserving their legacy. He noted that the tragic shipwreck that occurred on May 11, 1884, which resulted in the deaths of over 50 indentured laborers, is a crucial part of Fiji’s history regarding the Girmit system. This site not only represents the suffering of ancestors but also the compassionate response by the Fijian community of Nasilai, which saved several lives during this tragedy.
Chand pointed out that the *Syria* site remains unprotected and largely unknown to younger generations. He urged the government to consider this initiative seriously, as declaring the site a National Heritage Site could pave the way for its recognition under UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This recognition could potentially lead to partnerships with international organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), ensuring support for the preservation and promotion of this significant site.
The implications of this declaration would be profound. It would honor the memory and sacrifices of the Girmitiyas, offer a space for education and reflection for future generations, facilitate cultural tourism, and promote community stewardship. Chand believes that proclaiming this site during the 2025 Girmit Commemoration, especially on May 11, would serve as a poignant reminder of this tragic chapter in history.
The importance of preserving historical memories and fostering cultural pride in Fiji is underscored by recent events and discussions within the community. With the government’s previous commitment of allocating $200,000 for the Girmit Commemoration and initiatives to improve cultural heritage recognition in line with the amended Fiji World Heritage Bill 2023, there’s a hopeful trajectory towards acknowledging Fiji’s rich and diverse history.
This movement towards recognition and preservation not only cultivates a deeper understanding of Fiji’s past but also lays a robust foundation for future unity and shared cultural appreciation among all Fijians.
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