BY LYNTON AARON FILIA
COUNTRY’S Deputy Prime Minister says culture plays an important role in the societies because it makes up the way of life to any society, and Solomon Islands is no exception.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance and Treasury Mr Manasseh Sogavare said culture is regarded as an important mechanism towards shaping a society.
He made this statement during the launching of the Birana I Wala book, which documents the cultural beliefs of the people of Langa Langa in the Malaita province.
Sogavare said “Our cultures which are defined as the languages, beliefs, values and norms are important in our societies because they make up the way of life to any society.
“To disregard our culture is to disregard who we really are in the global community and worst still, which we are in our own country.
“It is a serious denial of our culture heritage.
“If you think this a cheap argument, just think of how much it cost the Australian taxpayers to restore this country to normalcy with SBD$21 billion.
“I do not have to venture into that angle of the discussion, only to say that it is pertinent.”
The government shares the belief that tradition matters because it represents a critical piece of our culture, it help form the structure and foundation of our families and societies.
He said Solomon Islands suffers the consequences of undermining culture 18 years ago.
Sogavare also shared a sentiment saying country belief that tradition reinforces values such as freedom, faith, integrity, a good education, personal responsibility, a strong work ethic and a value of being selfless.
Such values help to establish and shape the destiny of a nation and ensure its sustainability, he adds.
