The importance of security in the tourism sector is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in shaping Fiji’s reputation as a desirable destination. The country’s allure rests significantly on the perception of safety, allowing tourists to freely explore its beautiful beaches, oceans, forests, and vibrant shopping scenes.
The presence of friendly police patrols in urban areas and diligent security staff monitoring resorts, hotels, ports, and restaurants contributes to this sense of security. Thousands of security personnel, dressed in various uniforms, actively work to ensure the safety of visitors, guiding them in and out of locations while always being vigilant against potential threats.
To address security risks, tourism operators are consistently reminded to comply with the Security Industry Act of 2010. This ensures that all security practices are effective, legally compliant, and adhere to workplace standards regarding pay and employment conditions. Operators must verify that any outsourced security service providers possess a valid Security Master Licence and establish clear contracts that define their responsibilities.
The Master Licence serves as a legal permission for individuals or companies to conduct security-related activities. Whether it be hotels employing their own security teams, a resort hiring consultants, or a tour company installing surveillance systems, all are required to have a valid Master Licence to operate lawfully.
Holding a Master Licence is not merely a legal requirement but signifies a commitment to maintaining high security standards. Failure to comply can lead to severe legal repercussions, including fines reaching $10,000 for organizations and up to $5,000 or imprisonment for individuals.
During busy seasons, security personnel can typically be seen managing access to resorts, often greeting guests with a warm “BULA!” However, high occupancy rates in recent years have strained hotel and resort services due to increased staff turnover and the challenges of training new employees.
This situation often leads to pressures on food and beverage services, especially when resorts host additional guests for conferences or events. As a result, walk-in visitors may find themselves turned away if they do not have confirmed reservations, particularly at smaller, rural resorts. Larger urban hotels might accommodate unexpected guests more readily, but those in less populated areas must prioritize their registered guests’ experiences.
Remote resorts must enhance their security measures, which has, in part, led to confrontations at gates when unexpected visitors inquire about entry. Security staff are often mandated to allow access only to expected guests and authorized personnel and to request identification from all entrants. This policy aims to alleviate pressure on food and beverage operations and ensure that in-house guests feel prioritized.
Additionally, the rising number of restaurants and convenience stops along highways offers more options for travelers, making it less necessary for them to seek meals or snacks at remote resorts.
Incidents of security breaches, such as unauthorized individuals accessing guest belongings around public areas, highlight the necessity for enhanced security protocols, particularly as resorts contend with high occupancy and staff shortages.
To mitigate these risks, resorts are deploying more security staff to monitor entry and exit points, ensuring that guests are safe, food services are not overwhelmed, and personal belongings are secured. The importance of child safety, drug activity awareness, and illegal marine dealings has become increasingly central to security efforts at island resorts as well.
The industry is committed to employing well-trained security staff to minimize risks and maintain compliance with security regulations. While some days see smooth operations and minimal complaints, there are instances where security measures may fail, necessitating prompt resolutions to guest issues.
Overall, safeguarding visitors is an essential expectation across the industry, as any incidents can quickly garner negative media attention, potentially damaging Fiji’s carefully cultivated image as a safe destination. The continued efforts to enhance security are vital for maintaining the country’s economic prosperity.