Author: TMC Palau
[Photo: Josefa Sigavolavola] Authorities are warning that drug dealers are increasingly using the real estate market to launder illicit money. The Real Estate Agents Licensing Board has confirmed that cash purchases of houses and land are among the easiest ways for criminals to clean drug money, which raises concerns around the integrity of property transactions. Following the signing of a memorandum of understanding to launch a dedicated code of ethics and a specifically designed education program to protect the integrity of the sector, REALB Chair Dr Ilimotama Cawi stressed that certified agents must carry proper identification to protect the public…
This article is a paid advertorial International human rights group CAP LC submits written statement to U.N. Human Rights Council, urging that administrative and judicial decisions be based on verifiable evidence. Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony, said on July 9 that the international human rights organization CAP LC, the Coordination des Associations et Particuliers pour la Liberté de Conscience, had submitted a joint written statement to the U.N. Human Rights Council expressing concern over the spread of discrimination and stigma against members of Shincheonji Church of Jesus. In the statement, CAP LC focused…
[File Photo] Rural development and government services in Naitasiri can expect a boost after the opening of the refurbished district office in Nadarivatu. The opening coincides with World Rural Development Day, recognizing the role and contribution of rural communities to national development. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the facility will ensure that development reaches rural communities. “Now, it is only appropriate that we look back into the rural and the maritime areas of Fiji and spread the development so that we too can continue. While at the same time, we are looking at resettling those who have grown old in…
[Source: Supplied] Relegated side Vatukoula is determined to begin its 2026 Vodafone Vanua Championship campaign on a positive note when it takes on Yasawa at Churchill Park tomorrow. After competing in the Skipper Cup last season, Vatukoula is now focused on earning promotion back to Fiji Rugby’s top-tier competition. Head coach Emori Ratu admits preparations have been challenging, with a number of players balancing rugby commitments with work responsibilities, but remains confident in his squad. “We’re now preparing for our opening game this week against Yasawa. I have faith in my boys and I know we will play a good…
Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr says countries of the wider region need to work together to reduce geopolitical tensions and the risk of nuclear conflict.This comes after China’s test launch of a nuclear-capable ballistic missile with a dummy warhead into the South Pacific on Monday. Beijing said the test was “consistent with international law and customary international practice and is not directed at any specific country or target”.Whipps spoke to RNZ Pacific about his country’s concerns over China’s actions and how Palau wants a more collaborative and transparent approach to international affairs in the Pacific.(The transcript has been edited for…
Norway forward Erling Haaland (9) celebrates his first goal the match with teammates during a Round of 16 match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images Purchase Licensing Rights One of the world’s most feared strikers stands between England and the World Cup semi-finals, but the upside for Thomas Tuchel’s side is that few international teams know Erling Haaland as well as they do. The prolific Norwegian has spent the last four years terrorising Premier League defences with Manchester City, scoring goals at a remarkable rate and becoming a familiar…
A type of sustainable concrete and grass systems for soil stabilisation were the big winners of the first Wave Makers Pacific Innovation Forum for Climate and Environment held in Vanuatu last week.The event featured a pitching competition which saw Pacific entrepreneurs – the top ten out of 50 nominees – showcasing Pacific-led climate and environmental solutions.Competition lead and V-Lab founder and president Marc Antone Morel said the idea of the forum was to look at the challenge of climate change and environmental degradation through a different lens.”This forum was really about telling a positive story, a story of innovation, a…
[Source: Reuters] Russia introduced a ban on diesel exports on Wednesday as part of a raft of measures to support the domestic fuel market after systematic Ukrainian drone attacks on oil refineries triggered gasoline shortages and price spikes. Drivers in many regions are facing hours-long lines to refuel, as intensifying Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure squeeze supplies of diesel and gasoline. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak told a televised government meeting, chaired by President Vladimir Putin, that the fuel situation remained complex and that “it is clear that the current situation at filling stations is causing concern among the…
[Source: Fijian Drua/ Facebook] Virimi Vakatawa’s first season with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has led to an opportunity he was not expecting, a call-up to the Flying Fijians squad. The former France international was initially named in FIJI Water Flying Fijians extended 50-member squad but did not make the final 32 selected for the Nations Championship. Vakatawa said his focus was solely on establishing himself at the Drua, making his inclusion in the wider national squad a welcome surprise. “I was so surprised when I got picked in the 50-man squad because I wasn’t planning to try and fight…
[Source:Fiji Rugby/Facebook] A total of 18 games will be held tomorrow in round one of the Vodafone Vanua Championship and Royal Tea Ranadi Cup. The Vanua Championship will also include the under-20s games. The Ranadi match between Malolo and Serua, scheduled for the Uprising Sports Complex in Pacific Harbor, has now been moved to Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. The second round of games will be held next Tuesday, and the third next Saturday.Article continues after advertisement Tomorrow’s Vanua fixtures see Bua play Macuata at Bua College, Yasawa host Vatukoula at Churchill Park, and Northland take on Ra. In other games,…