SEVEN tribes that jointly own the historic Laulasi Island in Langalanga, Malaita Province, have pledged their full support to revive tourism in that region.
This significant show of unity was marked by a milestone peace and reconciliation ceremony held on Wednesday on the island.
The event brought together tribal leaders in a renewed commitment to restore Laulasi as a prominent cultural tourism destination in the Solomon Islands.
The ceremony was attended and witnessed by Malaita Province Deputy Premier Randol Sifoni, Provincial Government Secretary Erick George, officials from the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs, provincial tourism representatives, chiefs, and community members.
Genesis Kofana, a representative from the Ministry of Traditional Governance, Peace and Ecclesiastical Affairs, commended the initiative.
He said, such move aligns with the Ministry’s mandate to support peaceful and united communities.
“This reconciliation is a positive step forward,” Mr. Kofana said.
“It demonstrates strong leadership from within the community, and it creates the foundation for development,especially in reviving Laulasi’s once-thriving tourism industry.”
Laulasi gained international attention in the early 1970s as a cultural tourism centre, attracting visitors eager to witness unique traditional practices such as shell money minting and ancestral spiritual customs.
Mr. Kofana added that by coming together in peace, it opened the doors to rebuild the Laulasi tourism centre and invite the world once again.”
Deputy Premier Sifoni praised the organizing committee and tribal leaders for their unity and vision.
“Laulasi holds immense potential as a cultural and historical tourism destination,” Mr. Sifoni said.
He added, its a place where the rich traditions and identity of the Langalanga people are preserved and proudly shared with both local and international visitors.
He said the successful reconciliation, paired with the bold step to launch the Laulasi tourism revival, marks a new chapter for Malaita’s development.
The event sets the foundation for progress, aiming to create lasting peace and economic opportunities for the region.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
