The President of the Fiji Medical Association, Dr. Basharat Munshi; Executive Members and Members of the Fiji Medical Association;
Medical Practitioners; and
Members of the Media.
‘Ara na Yadra and a Victorious Morning to you all,
As I stand before you today, some may wonder about the presence of the Acting Supervisor of Elections at a gathering of medical professionals. Allow me to clarify: my name is Ana Salaivalu Mataiciwa and I am a in addition to being the Acting Supervisor of Elections I am a Wife, Mother, Daughter, Sister, and Aunt. While my profession may differ from yours, I am no stranger to the challenges and triumphs faced by working professionals, including those in the medical field. Today, I am honored to join you as your Chief Guest for the FMA West Mini-conference, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers for this gracious invitation.
Let us begin by recognizing the profound history and esteemed legacy of the Fiji Medical Association. Since its establishment in 1967 through the merger of the Fiji Medical Officers Association and the Fiji Branch of the British Medical Association, the FMA has been instrumental in shaping our nation’s healthcare landscape.
As a collective, you shoulder a significant responsibility, extending beyond addressing the health challenges of our nation to championing initiatives that promote holistic well-being and freedom from disease. True health encompasses not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. In the words of the third book of John, Chapter 1, verse 2, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”
Your unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct and competence in the medical profession serves as a beacon of hope for our society. The objectives outlined in Section 105 of the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act 2010 underscore the pivotal role that the FMA plays in advancing healthcare in Fiji, from maintaining standards of practice to safeguarding the welfare of medical professionals and advocating for the interests of practitioners and the public alike.
I commend all healthcare professionals for their resilience, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Though it has been four years since the pandemic, its impact remains vivid in our memories. The pandemic underscored the importance of adaptability in healthcare systems, a lesson we continue to carry forward.
Today, under the theme of “Connecting Minds, Cultivating Solutions, and Inspiring Action,” we acknowledge the collective power within each of you to effect positive change in our healthcare system. Your expertise, passion, and dedication are the driving force behind our shared vision of a healthier and thriving Fiji.
In conclusion, I urge you to persevere with dedication and determination in upholding the objectives outlined in Section 105 of the Medical and Dental Practitioners Act 2010. Your role in ensuring that health standards and practices are observed in Fiji, while championing the interests of both the profession and the general public, is paramount. I encourage the Fiji Medical Association to advocate for international health standards, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement in healthcare delivery for the benefit of all Fijians.
Let us unite our efforts, harnessing the spirit of collaboration and innovation to overcome the challenges ahead and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future for all Fijians.
Once again, I extend my deepest gratitude for the opportunity to address you today. I eagerly anticipate the fruitful discussions and initiatives that will undoubtedly emerge from this conference.
At this juncture, I offer blessings to you and your families and declare Victory over your respective noble endeavors for Fiji. With that declaration, I now officially declare the FMA West Mini Conference open.
