As Fiji moves to modernize its public health framework, a review of the century‑old Public Health Act of 1935 is prompting calls for tougher penalties on public health infringements to curb habitual violations and strengthen enforcement.
During a stakeholder consultation led by the Health Ministry, Public Health Consultant and Senior Lecturer at the University of Fiji, Samuela Korovou, urged that penalties be significantly increased. He argued that the current sanctions are not enough to deter violations and could allow risky behaviors to become ingrained, potentially worsening the spread of infectious diseases and other public health threats. He warned that “without a higher penalty, there is no deterrent,” and that existing fines—described as low and insufficient to deter violations—allow harmful practices to persist.
Acting Chief Health Inspector Luke Vonotabua acknowledged the concerns raised and confirmed that the issue of penalties will be considered in the review process. He noted that the general penalty has repeatedly surfaced as a point of discussion during consultations and argued that outdated penalties undermine effective public health enforcement, with some fines deemed too small to reflect the government’s response to outbreaks.
Korovou highlighted a troubling trend in Fiji’s health landscape: vector-borne diseases, especially dengue, are appearing with greater frequency, now occurring annually in some areas instead of every decade. He stressed that stronger penalties could serve as a key tool in reducing not only disease risk but also the broader public health threat posed by non-compliant behavior. The stakeholder consultation is set to continue the following day.
Context surrounding the review shows that it is part of a broader government effort to modernize health legislation. Cabinet has approved a comprehensive evaluation of health laws, including the Public Health Act of 1935, as part of updating frameworks that guide public health policy and practice. Officials say extensive consultations with government agencies, communities, and other stakeholders will shape reforms designed to reflect current health challenges and improve service delivery.
Experts say the reform process holds promise for empowering communities and strengthening health services, education, and enforcement capacity, including better outreach to rural areas and education on health practices. If implemented effectively, the reforms could enhance public health protections, foster greater trust in health systems, and support proactive community engagement in health and wellbeing.
Summary: Fiji’s push to revise the Public Health Act 1935 and expand penalties comes as health officials seek to modernize laws to address contemporary challenges, including rising dengue cases. With consultations ongoing, the reforms aim to improve enforcement, boost deterrence, and strengthen public health outcomes nationwide.
Comments and analysis: Strengthening penalties must go hand in hand with resources for enforcement, public education, and accessible health interventions—especially in rural communities where outreach can be constrained. A well‑designed update could deter violations, improve compliance, and better protect vulnerable populations while supporting a more resilient public health system.
Positive note: Many observers view the review as an opportunity to modernize Fiji’s public health framework in a way that safeguards communities, enhances transparency, and builds public confidence in health protections. The ongoing consultations signal a collaborative approach to shaping laws that meet today’s health realities.
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