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From Spectator to Competitor: Sharllyma Aruhane’s Journey to the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant

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    Miss Coral Sea Sharllyma Aruhane with Coral Sea Staff.

    BY INDY MAEALASIA

    GROWING up, 20-year-old Sharllyma Aruhane was captivated by the glitter and glam of the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant, eagerly following it year after year. It had never crossed her mind that she would one day compete herself.

    However, fast forward to 2024, and Aruhane finds herself vying for the prestigious title, competing as Miss Coral Sea Resort & Casino.

    As a young woman, Aruhane is driven by a fiery passion to help others of her gender.

    “I have a passion to help other young girls and women realize their worth,” she remarked.

    Upon her return from the Marshall Islands earlier this year, where she spent eight years, Aruhane soon realized her calling to advocate for ending violence against women and girls.

    “I realize that domestic violence is an issue, and this has motivated me to join the pageant and try to advocate for the issue,” Aruhane said.

    Hailing from East Are’Are, Malaita Province, and Simbo, Western Province, Aruhane is a first-year law student at the University of the South Pacific (USP), the second of three siblings, and is making history for her family.

    “I would be the very first one in my family to ever contest in the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant,” she said proudly.

    Aruhane’s journey to the pageant was inspired by her mother, Esther Aruhane, whom she sees as a “role model” and deeply adores.

    “My role mother is my own mother; she is hardworking; she has gone through a lot of struggles, but she has never shown this to her children and kept it all to herself.” Aruhane beamed while describing her beloved mother.

    “As I grew older, I started realizing what she went through and regarded her as a strong woman. I want to have those qualities,” she said.

    Her mother initially pushed her to give it a try. “I was hesitant at first because it would be my first time and I didn’t know what to expect, so eventually afterwards, I decided to participate,” Aruhane said.

    Reflecting on the memorial moment she was selected as a contestant, Aruhane felt a surge of shock, excitement, and worry all at the same time.

    “I was worried, as I have always struggled with self-doubt. I thought I wasn’t good enough to join, but when the feedback came and I was accepted and I was representing Coral Sea Resort, I was happy. I was like, is this real?” she said.

    The journey ahead to the crowning night on August 31st proves to be an exciting but competitive one; however, Aruhane is excited for what is to come.

    “For me though, if i do not take the crown; it is still okay because I have learned something from the show, and I could keep that for the rest of my life,” she said optimistically

    Reconciliation held over fatal accident at Fauambu

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    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    A reconciliation ceremony between parties related to a fatal accident at Faumbu, in west Kwara’ae was held on Friday June 5 at the Auki police station.

    The traffic accident happened on Wednesday June 3 night between 11pm-12pm, when a man in his early 20s was allegedly ranover by a 3-ton passenger truck.

    According to Auki police, it was alleged that the decease was drunk and slept in the middle of an iron bridge at Faumbu area, when the truck ranover him.

    Auki police said the truck was heading on the northern direction when the accident happened. The truck took a high speed, and has problem with its light that avoided the driver to see clearly ahead.

    They said only when the truck approached the decease, the driver tried to brake and even turned the truck to avoid hitting him but its too late.

    Auki police said the bridge was also narrow and any attempt to turn on either side of the bridge to avoid hitting the decease would be catastrophic for passengers in the truck.

    They said the truck was unfortunately took the decease starting from his legs to his head and pronounced death on the spot.

    Auki police was later alerted and deployed a team to the scene around 1pm on the night. The driver was later arrested by Malu’u police, while the truck was also detained.

    In a reconciliation to cement relationship between parties to the accident, party representing the suspect presented 20 shell monies and $SBD10,000 to the party of the decease.

    The party representing the decease also presented a shell money to the party of the suspect as gesture of accepting the reconciliation.

    Both parties apologised to each other, united together and vowed to work toward peace among them and their relatives and tribes.

    Auki Operation Manager, Mr Michael Ramosaea thanked the parties for portraying the spirit of forgiveness, reconciliation and unity in addressing the incident.

    Premier Elijah Asilaua also thanked the parties for their heart to accept each other amidst the darkest moment they face in life.

    He also assured them to relay what had happen to relatives especially on the decease’s side to refrain from taking any further action on the matter, while it is now before the police.

    DEVELOPMENT RACE IN MALAITA HEATS UP  

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    BY SAMIE WAIKORI

    Development in Malaita province is intensifying as the country’s partners compete to contribute.

    Major players like the USA, Australia, Japan, PRC, World Bank, and New Zealand are already supporting various projects in the province.

    The US-funded SCALE program is active, Japan will start upgrading Kilu’ufi hospital early next year, and Australia and New Zealand, along with other donors, are backing the Bina Harbour project.

    In connection with Bina Harbour, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was recently signed by the Malaita provincial government and the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources to build an office for the project in Auki.

    Australia will also fund the Malu’u market project, while the World Bank and other donors through SIG support the SIRAP infrastructure projects in Malaita.

    Additionally, PRC will fund the Auki tar-seal road network.

    Another new project is the Auki-Bina tar-seal project, also funded by Australia, aimed at complementing the Bina Harbour project.

    Premier Elijah Asilaua announced that his government is working with Australia on this project, which will stretch from Auki to Bina in West Kwaio, along the south road.

    Details of the project will be revealed soon, with the MOU set to be signed on August 15, during Malaita’s 2nd Appointed Day, allowing Malaitans to witness this milestone.

    The Malaita provincial government will also sign MOUs with other donors on this occasion.

    Premier Asilaua expressed gratitude for these development projects and affirmed that his government will work closely with all partners to see them realized.

     He emphasized the country’s foreign policy of “friends to all, enemy to none” and called on resource owners to collaborate with the Malaita Provincial Government (MPG) and development partners.

    Laena inspiring debut goal stuns Vanuatu at Oceania Men’s U19 Championship

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    James Laena celebrate after scoring his first debut goal against Vanuatu yesterday-PHOTO OFC.

    BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

    SOLOMON Islands national Men’s U19 striker James Laena impacted the U19 team with his first debut goal against Vanuatu yesterday.

    Laena and the team kicked off their Oceania Men’s U19 Championship with a positive 1-0 over a well-determined Vanuatu in the first match of Group A.

    The 19-year-old selected through the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Talent Identification Programme in Western Province was exceptional in the national Men’s U19 team starting eleven against Vanuatu yesterday.

    His 16th-minute goal helped the team to earn their first three points and a positive start at the tournament. He proved himself as one of the promising talents, making his way from grassroots football to the national level.

    Included in the team alongside Laena were four talents selected through the SIFF Talent Identification program in Rennell Bellona, Makira/ Ulawa, Choiseul, and Western Province.

    The other four players will be looking forward to making their mark for the national side once coach Batram Suri gives them to expose their potential at the tournament.

    A bonus for the team in their first victory as defender Gordon Iro received the Player of the Match award for the opening matches of Group A at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship.

    Next up is Tahiti on the 11th of June.

    WINNERS CROWNED 

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    Womens Division Champions of the Annual National Volleyball Championship, Team West Honiara recieving their trophy and cash prize on Thursday evening at Heritage Park Hotel.

    …. Volleyball glory at Heritage Park

    BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

    THE Heritage Park Hotel played host to a thrilling ceremony as the winners of the Annual Volleyball National Championship were crowned last Thursday. The event, organized by the Solomon Islands Volleyball Federation (SIVF), witnessed a celebration of volleyball excellence.

    The ceremony commenced with gratitude and appreciation. SIVF President extended heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, acknowledging their pivotal role in the championship’s success. The total prize pool of $75,000 was made possible through the support of major sponsors, including Biz Solution Limited, National Olympic Committee of the Solomon Islands (NOCSI), Soltuna, Honorable John Tuhaika Jnr, Honiara City Council (HCC), and National Sports Council (NSC).

    The President specifically highlighted the longstanding support from Biz Solution Ltd, who generously sponsored the two prestigious perpetual trophies for the National Championship. Soltuna Limited’s contribution of 6 cartons of white flakes for consolation prizes was also gratefully acknowledged.

    The evening progressed with excitement as the winners were announced. The SIVF President congratulated the victorious teams, commending their unwavering commitment and exceptional performance throughout the week-long tournament. The atmosphere buzzed with pride and sportsmanship as the top four teams were recognized and awarded.

    Individual players were not forgotten, as consolation prizes were distributed to acknowledge outstanding performances. The event showcased the incredible talent and dedication within the Solomon Islands’ volleyball community.

    “We are truly blessed to have such supportive sponsors,” the President remarked. “Their contributions have not only made this championship possible but have also fostered the growth and development of volleyball in the Solomon Islands. We are incredibly grateful.”

    The Annual Volleyball National Championship serves as a testament to the passion and dedication of the players and organizers. The event concluded with a sense of camaraderie and anticipation for the future of volleyball in the Solomon Islands.

    As the sun set on Heritage Park, the champions proudly held their trophies, inspiring a new generation of volleyball enthusiasts. The SIVF, with the support of its sponsors, continues to foster a vibrant and thriving volleyball community, leaving a lasting legacy for the sport in the Solomon Islands.

    The order of presentation is as follows:

    The 17th Annual National Championship Order of presentation:

    (Men’s Consolation Prizes)

    Most Valuable Player (MVP) – Tam Teriba

    Best Spiker-Tam Teriba

    Best Server- Navere Junior

    Best Receiver-Tim Kaipua

    Best Blocker-Chris Andrew

    Best Setter- John Tamou

    Best Libero-Claudy Agikianga

    (Women’s Consolations)

    Most Valuable Player (MVP)-Hannah Donga

    Best Spiker-Hanna Donga

    Best Server-Kerstian Puia

    Best Receiver- Aka Bauro

    Best Blocker- Laezerlyn Eddy

    Best Setter- Susie Teno

    (Men’s Competition Winners)

    1st Malaita Atolls-$10,000.00

    2nd Honiara East -$7,000.00

    3rd Temotu Arrows- $5,000.00

    4th Renbel Storms0$3,000.00

    (Women’s Competition Winners)

    1st Honiara West-$10,000.00

    2nd Renbel Storms-$7,000.00

    3rd Renbel Lakers-$5,000.00

    4th Makira Paoa-$3,000.00

    Prizes total up to $75,000.00

    Naha FC gears up for SWPL round 2

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    Naha FC session at Naha field -Photos Lydia Koosui Tegerobo.

    BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

    Solrais Women’s Premier League (SWPL) side Naha FC resumed preparation for the second round of the season competition.

    The SWPL first-round competition ended last month with Naha FC signing off with a strong statement for a positive campaign in the second round, by beating the defending champions Henderson Eels FC 2-1.

    Club Manager Diana Taison confirmed the team’s ongoing preparation for the second round kicked off on Tuesday at the Naha football field.

    “After a week-long break, it was nice to be back in training and see everyone eager to train.

    “First day back in action, so we had to slowly ease them back in before picking up momentum.

    “Thank you to the Naha Ward Councilor and Naha Communities for allowing us to train at the Naha Community Field for the next 2 weeks before returning to our usual training venue,” she said.

    Taison added that the surface may not be the best, but we are grateful for the Naha Community support.

    “Looking forward to SWPL Round 2,” she added.

    The SWPL 2024 season’s second round is expected to resume on the 20th of this month at the East End Stadium.

    YTASI writes history:  First Solomon Islander receiving 4th dan black belt

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    Grand Master Ra presenting a Balck to one of YTASI students during the Grading ceremony last week.

    BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR

    THE Yuns Taekwondo Academy Solomon Islands (YTASI) proudly hosted its grading ceremony and annual cultural event last week at the Honiara City Council (HCC) Multipurpose Hall. The occasion was a significant milestone for the academy and its students.

    Leading the ceremony was YTASI Master Instructor and Owner, Master Joses Duddley, who himself achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first Solomon Islander to earn the 4th Dan Black Belt Kukiwon, enhancing his status as a Master of Taekwondo.

    “I am thrilled to have achieved this milestone alongside my students,” Master Duddley said. “A total of eight of my red belts achieved their black belt promotion test for the 1st Dan black belt, and one of my 2nd Dan Black Belt students successfully tested for their 3rd Dan.”

    Among the students who underwent the grading was a young female practitioner who demonstrated her skills and earned her First Dan Black Belt promotion test under the guidance of Grand Master Sang Hyun Ra, an 8th Dan Black Belt Kukiwon certified Grand Master.

    “I extend my warmest congratulations to my seven new First Dan Black Belt students,” Master Duddley added. “It is a pleasure to witness their progress and dedication to Taekwondo. We are also deeply grateful to Grand Master Sang Hyun Ra for conducting the promotion tests and being a part of this special occasion.”

    The presentation of belts took place during the cultural event hosted at the same venue the following day. The event was a celebration of the students’ achievements and a showcase of the rich cultural heritage that Taekwondo embodies.

    Grand Master Sang Hyun Ra, who is the Taekwondo Coach for the Fiji Taekwondo team competing in the upcoming Paris Summer Olympic Games, flew in specifically for the grading ceremony. His presence added a prestigious element to the event, and he returned to Fiji the following day.

    The YUNS Taekwondo Academy Solomon Islands continues to foster a community of dedicated practitioners, and the recent grading ceremony and cultural event served as a testament to the academy’s commitment to excellence in the martial art of Taekwondo.

    Ezinma Keni Kausua shines to combat NCD as raise to the MSIP podium approaching

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      BY MORRIS NAFU

      In the heart of the Solomon Islands, where culture intertwines with the lush landscapes of Guadalcanal Province, Ezinma Keni Kausua emerges as a beacon of resilience and advocacy.

      At 23 years old, Ezinma’s path to the Miss Solomon Islands pageant (MSIP) 2024 is more than a quest for a crown—it’s a transformative journey shaped by her dreams, heritage, and steadfast commitment to social change.

      Born into a mixed ethnic heritage from East Guadalcanal and South Malaita, Ezinma is the eldest in a family of four siblings with two sisters and one brother.

      Her upbringing, grounded in simplicity and family bonds, instilled in her a deep appreciation for community and culture—a foundation she proudly represents at such a prestigious event.

      Ezinma’s aspiration to participate in MSIP thrived during her influential years, inspired by local competitions that showcased the beauty, talent, and potential of Solomon Islands specifically young women.

      “This was my dream since childhood.” she expressed, reflecting on her journey.

      “Now that I’m here, I see it as more than a pageant.

      “It’s an opportunity to open doors for my future and to make a difference”.

      Her passion for advocacy stems from personal experience.

      Since birth, Ezinma has battled with heart disease, a moving reminder of the healthcare challenges faced

      by many in her homeland and throughout the country.

      According to health reports, Ezinma quoted, six people died each day of NCDs in the Solomon Islands.

      “Clinical data shows every one to two Solomon Islanders die from heart attack, one from stroke, one

      from type 2 diabetes and one from cancer.

      The sum of deaths is about six and therefore Solomon Islanders die every day due to NCDs”

      Through the MSIP, she aims to elevate awareness of Non-Communicable

      Diseases (NCDs), particularly heart disease, which she identifies as a pressing issue in Guadalcanal and across the nation.

      “The lack of proper facilities to combat these diseases has taken too many lives,” Ezinma laments,

      highlighting the urgency of addressing healthcare gaps.

      Her advocacy seeks not only to raise awareness but also to catalyze tangible improvements in

      healthcare infrastructure and support systems for NCD patients in the Solomon Islands.

      Beyond health advocacy, Ezinma is a proud ambassador for Guadalcanal Province’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Her educational journey began at a humble Numbu Primary School in North East Guadalcanal a place she holds so dear.

      She went on to complete her grade 6 at Naha SDA before she kicked off her secondary school at King George VI National Secondary School.

      From King George VI National Secondary School to completing a Bachelor of Commerce with majors in Banking and Law at Fiji National University, reflects her commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.

      Currently is employed as a casual worker at Pasifiki HR, Ezinma navigates her professional responsibilities alongside the rigorous preparations for the Miss Solomon pageant.

      Her dedication to both her career and her advocacy underscores her complex approach to effecting change as what she aims to achieve.

      As she prepares to represent Guadalcanal on the MSIP 2024national stage, Ezinma’s message to the youth of her province is clear: “Take pride in your identity. Embrace our culture and the uniqueness it brings.

      “We are the proud descendants of Guadalcanal, and through unity and resilience, we can achieve Greatness”.

      Ezinma Keni Kausua’s journey represents the spirit of empowerment and determination.

      Beyond the glitz and glamour of the pageant, she expresses a young woman driven by a vision for a

      better future—a future where health equity, cultural pride, and community resilience converge to uplift the Solomon Islands.

      Come August 31, 2024, as the final crowning approaches, Ezinma stands composed not only to compete for a title but to continue her journey as an advocator, a cultural ambassador, and a catalyst for positive change in her beloved homeland and the country as a whole.

      Work on new cemetery and landfill site ongoing: HCC Clerk

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      City Clerk for HCC Justus Denni.

      BY JOHN HOUANIHAU


      The Honiara City Council (HCC) Clerk has said work on the new burial and landfill site is progressing.


      Justice Denni made the statement amid ongoing debate on the land earmarked for these projects being involved in controversy, facing legal challenges and ongoing occupation by illegal squatters.


      However, speaking to Island Sun, Mr Denni said that the new cemetery land is the responsibility of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Lands and Housing.


      He pointed out that a taskforce chaired by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) was set up in 2022 for this national project.
      According to Denni both the HCC and Guadalcanal Province Government (GPG) are members of the Taskforce.


      “The taskforce met with GPG on three occasions. Land identified behind Gilbert Camp is owned by Solomon Islands Government (SIG), bought from local landowners is waiting on MHA to secure land for development of cemetery,” said Denni.
      He also revealed that as for new landfill, the land already acquired or secured under Asian Development Bank (ADB) Project.
      “The new landfill is led by Ministry of Environment, supported by Ministry of Lands,” he said.


      “So, land already secured by government. Land is part of same parcel for new national referral hospital. Work pending now is for ministry of lands to complete master plan for the whole parcel to demarcate hospital location, access roads, cemetery. For landfill land, it is also secured,” he said.


      Denni that the ministries responsible are progressing with the project.


      He said that HCC and GPG will be recipients of these projects and the government ministries are the implementing agencies though HCC and GPG are members of respective project taskforces.

      Call on Renbel premier to update Renbel people on his government’s progress with 100-day policy

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      Renbel

      BY MORRIS NAFU

      A call has been made on the Premier of Renbel province to update the people of the province on the progress his new government has made on its 100-day policy.

      A spokesman for a group of concerned elders from West Rennell brought the matter to the media following what they claim as silence from the new government over slow and inaction by premier Derick Pongi and his executive.

      The spokesman who prefers to be called by his first name, John, says since passing the meagre budget of $3million, premier Pongi and his executives have travelled and spent two months in Honiara paying courtesy calls while the people of Rennell and Bellona are suffering from a lack of ship since the national general elections.

      “After the April elections, our leaders left us and forgot about us,” spokesperson John said.

      “There has been no ship to the two islands, and premier Pongi and his new executive are in their second month of courtesy calling.

      “Premier Pongi’s 100-day policy states 31 to 60 days they will be carrying out road maintenance to hills and sections of the road to East Rennell, and they have not done so.

      “Dialogue with the province’s investors, review business licence payments, lease agreements, and work on the province’s policy framework. All these they have not done.”

      Spokesperson John said the people of Rennell and Bellona are concerned why and how Premier Pongi and his new government are not bothering to inform them on the progress of their government.

      “Some members of Premier Pongi’s government upload selfies and other non-relevant material on facebook without ever considering that we the people want to hear what their progress is,” spokesperson John said.

      He adds that now, according to Premier Pongi’s 100-day policy, they should be engaging with the people of the province, “building trust and promoting the government’s vision and priorities”.

      “Premier Pongi’s first 100 days plan says after 61 days they should be travelling to the wards and engage with the public of Rennell and Bellona, reviewing current ordinances and work on making new ones, review provincial admin staff, review provincial assets and lands, carry out negotiations for the Bellona and East Rennell substations, hold consultation meetings on the fisheries ordinance, work on the province’s second appointed day, and work on the road construction road project for Rennell.

      “All of these things listed, premier Pongi and his government have failed to do, as they continue to live in Honiara and pay courtesy visits while a lot of things are needed to be done with the province,” spokesperson John said.

      Spokesperson John said he has been reliably informed that Premier Pongi and his new government are still confused how they will lead the province and are not strictly fulfilling their 100-day plan.

      When sought for comments yesterday, Premier Pongi said that he will not be responding to these raised concerns unless the complainant comes out with his real identity.

      “The concerns are true and legitimate and  I have every answer but I will not respond unless the anonymous chief is willing to reveal himself as I am not responding to ghosts,” said Premier Pongi.

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