The Fiji Museum is advocating for an enhanced focus on the cultural heritage the country presents to visitors, emphasizing the importance of institutions that highlight national identity and diversity. Ratu Jone Balenivalu, the museum’s matanivanua (herald), stressed that a visitor’s initial and lasting impression of a country is often shaped by its culture.
“Upon entering a country, the first encounter is its culture,” Ratu Jone noted. While Fiji is celebrated for its stunning beaches, he pointed out that similar coastal attractions are found worldwide. This raises the question of what distinguishes Fiji from other locations. “We know on the western side there is sun, sand, and sea, but anywhere else in the world you have sun, sand, and sea. What else can we offer? That’s where the museum comes in,” he explained.
According to Ratu Jone, the Fiji Museum Act mandates that the institution conserves, researches, and displays artifacts that reflect the nation’s material culture, fostering an environment where both locals and tourists can engage deeply with Fiji’s heritage. He emphasized the need for collaboration within the cultural sector across all forms of art—be it painting, dance, or other expressions—not just representing one ethnic group, but embracing the entire diversity of Fiji.
A significant focus of the museum’s initiatives is on the youth, aiming to help them appreciate not only their own cultural backgrounds but also the cultures of others residing in Fiji. Ratu Jone elaborated, “The target group are the young leaders—the leaders of Fiji tomorrow. We want them to understand each other’s culture.” This understanding is deemed crucial for fostering respect and social cohesion among different communities in the future.
By nurturing a culture of mutual respect among the younger generation, the Fiji Museum hopes to lay the groundwork for a society where neighbors appreciate and honor their differences.
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