Dear Editor – Please allow me space to discuss and explain the core subject of the above proposed development in North Malaita Constituency. I for one hereby wish to say something regarding the above subject with due respect to recent national and provincial infrastructure projects like Malu’u wharf, Malu’u Fishery Centre, Malu’u Copra Buying Centre and others including the redevelopment of Malu’u Market project currently ongoing.
In brief history, prior to our political independence on 7th July 1978, Malu’u Sub-District Headquarter was already established there by the Colonial (British) Administrators.
After independence in early 1980s, Malu’u was established as a government sub-station similar to other sub-stations within the province and other parts of the country, when Area Councils were introduced as part of the country’s three-tier governance structure.
Malu’u sub-station was administered by an Area Council Admin Officer/AAO until the dissolution of Area Councils in 1999.
Since then Malu’u was elevated to a government station, a status it continues to hold today. The station serves as a crucial link to and for government services in the northern region of Malaita Province.
Therefore, I call on to emphasize the importance of structured governance to support ongoing and future development in Malu’u. With the recent and current rapid infrastructure development in Malu’u have indicated a positive and relevant location for a potential mini-township without any doubt.
There are existing government institutions in the area include key ministries such as Agriculture, Education, Fishery, Forestry, Health/Medical and Police. In addition, Solomon Power supplies electricity in and around Malu’u Station including the nearby communities.
The station hosts a mini-hospital, a provincial secondary school, a rural training center located on the outskirt. There are retail shops, trade stores, fuel depots and rental accommodation venues. There is a gravity water supplies provided 24/7 to the station at no cost.
Without any doubt I can confirm that northern region of Malaita is to be a recognized tourism hub, boasting various resorts and homestays.
The recent ground breaking ceremony for the redevelopment of Malu’u Market, funded by the Australian Government. It marks a major milestone for economic development in the region.
The production of beef mince further strengthen local economic significance, and with this the need for a commercial bank to be established in Malu’u to support local business activities including education, health, construction industry, shipping, tourism and etc.
In view of Malu’u Market project prior to its successful completion in due course, in terms of waste management must be considered seriously and handle effectively.
This is to ensure effective management of the market facilities and services related to other critical infrastructure. I appeal to local market committee, provincial government, land owning tribes and stakeholders to consider where to cart away the daily market solid green wastes and etc.
Please prepare in advance to address the waste management issue and other related matters. Otherwise, Malu’u Market will repeat the same old story once encountered by Auki Main Market due to no designated dump site provided.
Therefore, it is my wish that North Malaita Constituency office consults Malaita Provincial Government for the establishment of Malu’u Town Council to ensure better organization and recognition of Malu’u as a key government station for business activities and tourism center in North Malaita Province.
To conclude, I urge the Malaita Provincial Assembly to endorse the establishment of the Malu’u Town Council and called on the Division of Local Government and the Executive Government to facilitate the necessary provisions and budgetary allocations to make it a reality.
Thank you.
Phil Wright
Kombevatu Housing Estate
Central Honiara.
