Grace Built & Design-Fiji Pte Ltd has raised serious concerns regarding a damaging social media post issued by the Fiji Immigration Department, which involved one of their employees. The company stated that their block layer, Masud Rana, possesses a valid work visa and is legally employed. Currently, Rana resides in the company flat in Lautoka and works under the firm’s supervision.
This incident marks the third time the company has faced similar issues with the immigration department, which Grace Built & Design-Fiji claims often issues corrections by stating that the misinformation pertained to different staff members. The company criticizes the department for failing to maintain an accurate record of employees and has found it frustrating to receive little to no communication from immigration officials despite their attempts to clarify visa-related concerns.
The company condemned the online “wanted” post as defamatory, highlighting that Rana has been an exemplary employee. Furthermore, Grace Built & Design-Fiji has faced significant operational challenges as it reports a loss of nearly 90 percent of its local workforce to overseas employment opportunities. This shortage has forced the firm to rely on skilled workers from countries such as Bangladesh and the Philippines.
The company emphasized that without the ability to employ foreign workers, they would struggle to operate effectively and meet client needs. The disruption could have wider implications, potentially affecting local clients, investment, tax revenue, and the overall economy. Grace Built & Design-Fiji’s plight underscores the ongoing labor challenges in Fiji’s construction sector and highlights the importance of a responsive immigration system to support local businesses.
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