Yaqona farmers in the North are calling for mandatory registration of growers and sellers to help combat theft and ensure those selling the crop can prove they are its rightful owners.<\/p>\n
The proposal was raised by Wainigadru villager Kalisiana Tarairawa during a public consultation on the proposed Yaqona Bill 2026 in Labasa.<\/p>\n
Tarairawa told the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights that yaqona theft was costing genuine farmers years of hard work, with stolen produce allegedly being sold by people who were not farmers themselves.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey should all have business registration, especially those who sell yaqona in small amounts. When they go to sell their yaqona to a buyer, they should show proof that they are the owners and sellers. We never know whether that yaqona could have been stolen from somewhere.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Tarairawa believes registration would help buyers verify the source of yaqona and reduce the risk of purchasing stolen produce.<\/p>\n Her submission was received by the standing committee as public consultations on the proposed legislation continue across the Northern Division.<\/p>\n The proposed Yaqona Bill 2026 includes registration provisions for industry participants, including growers or cultivators, middlemen or operators, exporters and importers.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 13:51:28","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Yaqona farmers in the North are calling for mandatory registration of growers and sellers to help combat theft and ensure those selling the crop can prove they are its rightful owners.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800942,"headline":"Safety limits and flight restrictions drive costs","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/safety-limits-and-flight-restrictions-drive-costs\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 1:02 pm","unix_time":1791982920,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T13:02:20+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Fiji-link.jpg","content":" Adverse weather conditions, flight restrictions, and limited aircraft utilization continue to make keeping domestic airfares affordable a challenge.<\/p>\n Presenting the Fiji Airways 2024 Annual Report to the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Board Chair Nalin Patel acknowledged that public concerns over high domestic fares are valid and that the airline needs to do better.<\/p>\n He explained that night-flying restrictions keep aircraft grounded for extended periods, reducing operational efficiency and making cheaper fares harder to achieve.<\/p>\n Patel says that limited airport infrastructure and runway conditions also restrict the size of aircraft operating on certain domestic routes.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, the efficiencies are not there because to Savusavu and other places where you can’t take Savusavu. You’ve got resorts there. We can’t take an ATR larger plane because of the safety aspects. We have done studies. Others have done studies. So, the challenge is sometimes the restrictions and the pilot restrictions, and safety comes first.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n He adds that adverse weather and mandatory extra-fuel requirements for safety often leave seats empty, even on fully booked flights.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, today you’ll have people rightfully saying, \u2018where\u2019s my baggage?\u2019 Why? Safety. So, having said that, yes, you’re right. The analogue, sometimes the aberrations happen where we’re selling one or two tickets at 500 dollars, and that shouldn’t happen because there should be a cap on that, because you’re selling only one or two tickets, and it shouldn’t, but it’s because of the dynamic pricing and all that it goes.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Meanwhile, Standing Committee member Ketan Lal stressed the importance of keeping domestic travel affordable for Fijians.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, sitting on a particular seat, you don’t get enough room to put up bags. At the same time, the price or the cost of the air tickets from Suva to Savusavu, let’s take, it’s quite expensive, and I could get a much cheaper fare from here to New Zealand. So, Fijians have raised their concerns, and I think it’s fit that I put this in front of you in this public hearing.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Patel assured the committee that Fiji Airways is working to make domestic fares more affordable while balancing strict safety standards and operating costs.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 13:29:08","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Adverse weather conditions, flight restrictions, and limited aircraft utilization continue to make keeping domestic airfares affordable a challenge.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800946,"headline":"Kadavu women receive $47K support","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/kadavu-women-receive-47k-support\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Sainiani Boila","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"Sainiani.Boila@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"SainianiFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Sainiani-Boila-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 1:00 pm","unix_time":1791982800,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T13:00:23+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Kadavu-Women.png","content":" Sixteen women’s groups across Kadavu received government support through income-generating projects between 2011 and 2017.<\/p>\n Deputy Secretary for the Ministry of Civil Service Samuela Moce says the Kadavu Income Generating Project supported women in Yawe, Tavuki, Sanima and Yale, with a total government contribution of over $47K.<\/p>\n Moce says the initiative supported activities including poultry farming, beekeeping, tie-dye and virgin coconut oil production, helping women develop their entrepreneurial skills and create income opportunities.<\/p>\n He highlighted these initiatives while opening the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection’s REACH programme at Namalata Central School in Kadavu today.<\/p>\n Moce says government has also invested in rural infrastructure, housing, water supply, community access roads and renewable energy projects to improve living conditions and strengthen the resilience of vulnerable families.<\/p>\n Moce says these investments are aimed at improving living conditions and strengthening the resilience of vulnerable families.<\/p>\n The three-day REACH programme brings together more than 26 stakeholders to provide government services and assistance to the people of Kadavu.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 13:31:28","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Sixteen women’s groups across Kadavu received government support through income-generating projects between 2011 and 2017.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800905,"headline":"Concerns raised after Nabukavesi crash","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/concerns-raised-after-nabukavesi-crash\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Josefa Sigavolavola ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"josefa.sigavolavola@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/josefa-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 12:06 pm","unix_time":1791979560,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T12:06:08+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/car-accidents.jpg","content":" The Ministry of Policing and Communications has raised concerns over reports of speeding and dangerous overtaking following an accident along the Queens Highway at Nabukavesi.<\/p>\n In a statement, the Ministry said it was aware of reports circulating on social media regarding the incident and is seeking verified details from the Fiji Police Force.<\/p>\n While extending its thoughts to those affected, the Ministry urged members of the public to rely on official updates as investigations continue.<\/p>\n The Ministry expressed particular concern over reports of motorists speeding and overtaking at bends despite the presence of oncoming traffic, describing the behaviour as a serious risk to public safety.<\/p>\n Drivers are being urged to obey road rules, reduce their speed and avoid overtaking at bends or in areas where there is oncoming traffic.<\/p>\n The Ministry is also encouraging members of the public who witness reckless driving to report it to the Fiji Police Force through the 919 emergency line or the nearest police station.<\/p>\n They says road safety remains a shared responsibility and that every road user has a role to play in helping prevent accidents and saving lives.<\/p>\n The Government has reiterated its commitment to promoting road safety and ensuring that all road users reach their destinations safely.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 11:53:56","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Ministry of Policing and Communications has raised concerns over reports of speeding and dangerous overtaking following an accident along the Queens Highway at Nabukavesi.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800909,"headline":"Fiji, India urged to expand trade opportunities","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/fiji-india-urged-to-expand-trade-opportunities\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"mollyn.nakabea@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mollyn-real-image-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 12:03 pm","unix_time":1791979380,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T12:03:29+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Fiji-and-India-1.png","content":" Fijian and Indian businesses are being encouraged to turn growing trade ties into investment opportunities and stronger local industries.<\/p>\n Assistant Minister for Commerce and Business Development Sachida Nand made the call during a networking reception for a Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) business delegation<\/p>\n Nand says bilateral trade between Fiji and India has more than doubled over the past five years, but there is still significant room for growth.<\/p>\n He says the focus must now be on turning that progress into practical business partnerships and lasting economic benefits.<\/p>\n Nand says stronger partnerships could help local farmers and producers expand food processing, add value to their products and access new markets.<\/p>\n He adds the Government remains committed to maintaining a stable and welcoming investment environment, with the private sector playing a key role in driving commerce and economic growth.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 11:57:22","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Fijian and Indian businesses are being encouraged to turn growing trade ties into investment opportunities and stronger local industries.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800912,"headline":"FCS receives donation for cancer support","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/fcs-receives-donation-for-cancer-support\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"mollyn.nakabea@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mollyn-real-image-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 12:00 pm","unix_time":1791979200,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T12:00:56+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/FCS-1-1.png","content":" The Fiji Pharmaceutical Society has donated $1,000 to the Fiji Cancer Society to support its work with cancer patients and their families during Pinktober.<\/p>\n The donation was presented during a charity lunch organised by FPS at its annual conference.<\/p>\n FPS President Priyanka Prasad says cancer has affected many people, either directly or through their loved ones.<\/p>\n Ms Prasad says the Fiji Cancer Society plays an important role in supporting patients and families as they navigate the challenges associated with the disease.<\/p>\n She says the donation reflects the commitment of FPS and its members to supporting the community.<\/p>\n Accepting the donation, Fiji Cancer Society representative Vokili Ali thanked the society for organising the charity event and contributing to its fundraising efforts.<\/p>\n Mrs Ali also acknowledged the longstanding support from pharmacies, which have helped the society source medicines and other essential items for patients and their families.<\/p>\n The initiative highlights the role professional organisations can play in supporting people affected by cancer and contributing to community wellbeing.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 12:04:40","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Fiji Pharmaceutical Society has donated $1,000 to the Fiji Cancer Society to support its work with cancer patients and their families during Pinktober.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800877,"headline":"Ministry investigates reported cyberattack","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/ministry-investigates-reported-cyberattack\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"mollyn.nakabea@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mollyn-real-image-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 10:05 am","unix_time":1791972300,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T10:05:43+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Cyber-attack.png","content":" The Ministry of Policing and Communications is investigating a reported cybersecurity incident involving a regional organisation based in Suva.<\/p>\n In a statement, Minister Ioane Naivalurua says they are monitoring developments following a public statement issued by the United States Embassy regarding the suspected cyberattack.<\/p>\n The Ministry is urging government agencies, non-governmental organisations and private businesses to strengthen their digital security systems and maintain continuous network monitoring.<\/p>\n Naivalurua adds the Fijian Government remains committed to strengthening cybersecurity resilience and promoting a safe and secure digital environment in Fiji and the wider Pacific region.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 09:49:02","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Ministry of Policing and Communications is investigating a reported cybersecurity incident involving a regional organisation based in Suva.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800871,"headline":"New shelter eases funeral challenges","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/new-shelter-eases-funeral-challenges\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 10:00 am","unix_time":1791972000,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T10:00:43+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Wairuku-funeral-shed.jpg","content":" Families in Wairuku, Rakiraki, will no longer have to struggle with rainy weather when conducting cremations, following the upgrade of their cemetery shed.<\/p>\n The old shed was more than 30 years old and was damaged during Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016.<\/p>\n The upgrade was completed with a 15-thousand-dollar grant from the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs.<\/p>\n Wairuku Cemetery Committee President Vijay Krishna Gounder says the new shed provides proper shelter for cremations and families attending funerals.<\/p>\n He says the upgrade will help families from Wairuku and nearby communities carry out funeral ceremonies more comfortably during the rainy season.<\/p>\n Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs Charan Jeath Singh says cemeteries must be maintained with dignity and respect.<\/p>\n He says the project will support families during the difficult time of losing a loved one.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 09:45:54","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Families in Wairuku, Rakiraki, will no longer have to struggle with rainy weather when conducting cremations, following the upgrade of their cemetery shed.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800857,"headline":"Two drivers killed in Queens Highway crash","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/two-drivers-killed-in-queens-highway-crash\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"mollyn.nakabea@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mollyn-real-image-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 7:16 am","unix_time":1791962160,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T07:16:02+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Road-accident-2.png","content":" Two 26-year-old men, including a police officer, have been killed in a head-on collision along the Queens Highway last night.<\/p>\n The police officer was reportedly on his day off and travelling home to Nabukavesi, while the second victim was a salesman residing in Navua.<\/p>\n Initial information suggests the salesman allegedly overtook several vehicles along a double line before the collision.<\/p>\n However, the circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.<\/p>\n With assistance from National Fire Authority officers, both drivers were removed from their vehicles and rushed to Navua Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.<\/p>\n The national road death toll now stands at 41, compared to 58 for the same period last year.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 07:49:28","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Two 26-year-old men, including a police officer, have been killed in a head-on collision along the Queens Highway last night.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800861,"headline":"HIV myths fuel fear of caring","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/hiv-myths-fuel-fear-of-caring\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Kelera Ditaiki","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"kelera.ditaiki@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/lela-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 7:14 am","unix_time":1791962040,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T07:14:42+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/HIV.jpg","content":" Many people are still hesitating to care for loved ones who have contracted HIV due to widespread misconceptions and the fear of contracting the virus themselves.<\/p>\n Residents of Marata in Wailoku sought clarification regarding these fears during a recent mental health awareness gathering.<\/p>\n Specifically, they asked whether treating the wounds of an HIV-positive patient poses a risk of infection.<\/p>\n Ema Vakabu looked after her nephew, who was living with HIV, caring for his wound and is showing her concern on the spread of the virus if contacted.<\/p>\n “If I am cleaning the wound of someone who is living with HIV, could I contract the virus if their blood comes into contact with my hands while I am caring for them?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Reproductive health specialist Dr. Shayal Sunika reassured community members by explaining how transmission actually works.<\/p>\n Dr Sunika says, HIV virus is in the blood stream, and can only spread in this situation through an open cut.<\/p>\n She advised members not to judge people based on physical symptoms, but rather to encourage early testing.<\/p>\n She added that early testing allows people to know their status and seek treatment, helping them manage their health and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 07:54:09","section":"Health","section_id":51,"excerpt":" Many people are still hesitating to care for loved ones who have contracted HIV due to widespread misconceptions and the fear of contracting the virus themselves.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800863,"headline":"Passenger and flight growth drive recovery","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/passenger-and-flight-growth-drive-recovery\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 7:12 am","unix_time":1791961920,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T07:12:05+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/nadi-airport.jpg","content":" Fiji Airports\u2019 revenue increased by 10.1 percent to $171.9 million in 2024, driven by the recovery in passenger numbers and flight movements post-COVID-19.<\/p>\n Presenting the company\u2019s 2023\u20132024 Annual Report to the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Financial Analyst Sowani Yaca says growth is well above the normal annual rate of three to four percent.<\/p>\n Yaca says aviation activities remain the primary income source, contributing $115.1 million in 2024, up from $104.6 million in 2023.<\/p>\n He adds that this revenue comes from aviation services, including aircraft landings, air navigation and passenger charges, as well as non-aviation activities such as airport concessions, rentals and real estate.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, the growth is driven by the recovery that we had pre-COVID, an increase in traffic, an increase in flight movement, and passenger movement as well. So the operation was basically normalizing after COVID in 2023 to 2024.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Standing Committee members questioned the revenue growth, with Fiji Airports clarifying that it was driven by rebounding passenger traffic and flight numbers after COVID-19.<\/p>\n \u201cSo you mean to say that the income that was coming in before was less than it is now?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n In response, Yaca adds that the boost reflects the return of more flights and passengers as airport operations normalized.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 07:31:01","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Fiji Airports\u2019 revenue increased by 10.1 percent to $171.9 million in 2024, driven by the recovery in passenger numbers and flight movements post-COVID-19.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800827,"headline":"Up to three cyclones predicted for Fiji","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/up-to-three-cyclones-predicted-for-fiji\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 7:10 am","unix_time":1791961800,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T07:10:42+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/cyclone.png","content":" The Fiji Meteorological Office, in its latest outlook, states that two to three tropical cyclones are likely to pass through Fiji\u2019s Exclusive Economic Zone during the 2026\u201327 season.<\/p>\n Director Misaeli Funaki says one to two of these are likely to reach severe Category 3 to 5 intensity. Five to six are expected west of the Dateline, indicating near-average or above-average risk.<\/p>\n To the east, eight to ten tropical cyclones are predicted, representing an above-average risk.<\/p>\n Funaki says the 2026\u201327 season outlook is influenced by a strong El Ni\u00f1o, which is expected to peak around November and December.<\/p>\n He notes that most cyclones during past strong El Ni\u00f1o seasons approached the Fiji Group from the north and east. Therefore, the Northern and Eastern Divisions face an elevated risk this season.<\/p>\n The official 2026\u201327 Tropical Cyclone Season runs from November 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027.<\/p>\n Peak activity in RSMC Nadi\u2019s Area of Responsibility usually occurs during January and February.<\/p>\n Funaki notes that while the season spans November to April, cyclones in the region have occasionally formed in October and May. An out-of-season cyclone cannot be ruled out.<\/p>\n He stresses that these predictions serve only as guidance, and the estimated ranges are indicative. Total cyclone numbers could fall near these estimates rather than strictly within the ranges.<\/p>\n Tropical disturbances, depressions, or decaying low-pressure systems that do not reach cyclone intensity can still cause widespread rainfall and flooding.<\/p>\n All communities are urged to remain prepared throughout the season and heed all alerts, warnings, and advisories from the Fiji Meteorological and Hydrological Service to safeguard lives and property.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 07:54:50","section":"Natural Disaster","section_id":55,"excerpt":" The Fiji Meteorological Office, in its latest outlook, states that two to three tropical cyclones are likely to pass through Fiji\u2019s Exclusive Economic Zone during the 2026\u201327 season.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}],"sports":[{"id":800969,"headline":"White wants to win the hearts and trust of Flying Fijians","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/white-wants-to-win-the-hearts-and-trust-of-flying-fijians\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Taina Basiyalo ","title":"Multimedia Journalist ","email":"taina@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Taina-Byline-200x200-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 5:05 pm","unix_time":1791997500,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T17:05:26+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Jake-white.png","content":" FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Jake White believes building strong relationships with his players will be crucial to Fiji\u2019s preparations for the Rugby World Cup, with trust and unity forming the foundation of his coaching philosophy.<\/p>\n White, who has worked with several Fijian players throughout his coaching career, says earning the players\u2019 confidence must be a two-way process as he looks to establish a united squad ahead of rugby\u2019s biggest stage.<\/p>\n The South African understands the importance of connecting with his players, stressing that mutual trust and confidence will be essential in bringing the best out of the team.<\/p>\n \u201cI think the common theme is you\u2019ve got to win their confidence and you\u2019ve got to win their trust, and I think it works both ways.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n He says creating those relationships will be a priority when the squad comes together, with the right environment needed to build the unity required to compete at the highest level.<\/p>\n With just 353 days remaining until the World Cup, White believes there is little time to waste in strengthening the bond between players and coaches and ensuring everyone is committed to the same goal.<\/p>\n For White, that commitment is captured in the Fijian phrase soria soribaki, which he says will serve as a guiding principle for the team.<\/p>\n The message is simple: every player must understand what is expected of them and be fully committed to the collective effort.<\/p>\n \u201cIf we\u2019re not sure what the answer is, then just ask what soria soribaki is and then the players will understand. There\u2019s no grey area to that, you\u2019re either in or you\u2019re out.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n As he begins shaping the Flying Fijians for the World Cup, White\u2019s focus is not only on the team\u2019s performance on the field, but also on developing the trust, understanding and togetherness that he believes will be vital to Fiji\u2019s campaign.<\/p>\n The Flying Fijians are gearing up for a Test against Japan next Saturday.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 17:49:55","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Jake White believes building strong relationships with his players will be crucial to Fiji\u2019s preparations for the Rugby World Cup, with trust and unity forming the foundation of his coaching philosophy.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800974,"headline":"Minister launches wellness program","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/minister-launches-wellness-program\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Meli Laddpeter","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"meli.laddpeter@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Meli-Laddpeter-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 5:00 pm","unix_time":1791997200,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T17:00:41+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Jese-Saukuru-1-1.png","content":" The Ministry of Youth and Sports has launched a 10-day wellness program aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and strengthening the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs).<\/p>\n The program will include medical check-ups and fitness activities, encouraging staff to take a proactive approach to their health and wellbeing.<\/p>\n Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru says those leading the fight against NCDs must first lead by example.<\/p>\n The program will begin next Monday, with Saukuru encouraging members of the public to join in the initiative and take steps towards healthier living.<\/p>\n “If we want people to listen, we have to take the charge first. This program is important because it is only for our benefit and for yours. We are all excited, and I look forward to the 10-day program.”<\/em><\/p>\n He says the ministry hopes the program will help employees and participating members of the public make positive lifestyle changes and avoid habits that could put their health at risk.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 17:43:41","section":"Sports","section_id":2,"excerpt":" The Ministry of Youth and Sports has launched a 10-day wellness program aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and strengthening the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs).<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800944,"headline":"Milne backs next-man-up mentality","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby-league\/milne-backs-next-man-up-mentality\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Taina Basiyalo ","title":"Multimedia Journalist ","email":"taina@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Taina-Byline-200x200-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 1:37 pm","unix_time":1791985020,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T13:37:54+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Untitled-1.jpg","content":" Fiji Bati centre Taane Milne believes the absence of several senior players presents an opportunity for the next generation to step up and make their mark at the Rugby League World Cup.<\/p>\n While the loss of experienced campaigners is a significant setback for Fiji, Milne says the team must remain focused on the task ahead and trust the young players coming through the ranks.<\/p>\n Milne acknowledges the importance of the missing players, not only for their contributions on the field but also for the leadership and unity they bring to the squad.<\/p>\n \u201cIt’s a big, massive loss for us. They’re leaders in our team. You know what they can do on the field, but it’s off the field what they do. They bring the team together.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n However, the experienced centre believes the situation creates an opportunity for others to step forward and prove themselves on the international stage.<\/p>\n \u201cLike I said, we’ve got the next-man-up mentality. We’ve got young lads coming through. As disappointing as it is, it’s an opportunity for another player to showcase his skills on the big stage. It’s really exciting.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n For Milne, who is preparing for his second World Cup after making his debut at the 2017 tournament, the campaign carries special significance.<\/p>\n He missed the 2021 World Cup in England through suspension but is relishing another opportunity to represent Fiji on rugby league’s biggest stage.<\/p>\n Now in his 10th year representing the country, Milne is among the more experienced members of the squad and understands the responsibility that comes with wearing the national jersey.<\/p>\n \u201cIt’s really important. This is my 10th year playing for Fiji now. I’m one of the older players. When that opportunity comes around every year, I always put my hand up straight away.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Beyond the results, Milne says representing Fiji is also about inspiring the next generation of players and giving young supporters someone to look up to.<\/p>\n He says seeing children proudly supporting the Bati is a reminder of the impact the players can have beyond the field.<\/p>\n \u201cYou just look on the sidelines and you see kids with a smile on their face. To make them happy and be a role model for them, us boys, that just means a lot.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n With the World Cup providing a platform for emerging talent to prove themselves, Milne believes Fiji’s next-man-up approach will be important as the side looks to make its mark at the tournament.<\/p>\n The Fiji Bati will meet Cook Islands in their first match on Sunday at 5.05pm.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, the Fiji Bulikula take on New Zealand in their first match at 2.50pm on Sunday.<\/p>\n You can watch both matches LIVE on FBC Sports.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 13:37:54","section":"Rugby League","section_id":63,"excerpt":" Fiji Bati centre Taane Milne believes the absence of several senior players presents an opportunity for the next generation to step up and make their mark at the Rugby League World Cup.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800884,"headline":"Boginisoko joins Flying Fijians extended squad","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/boginisoko-joins-flying-fijians-extended-squad\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Meli Laddpeter","title":"Multimedia Sports Journalist","email":"meli.laddpeter@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Meli-Laddpeter-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 12:55 pm","unix_time":1791982500,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T12:55:11+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/boginisoko.jpg","content":" Years of hard work and dedication have finally paid off for 26-year-old Nacani Boginisoko, who has earned a call-up to the Fiji Water Flying Fijians\u2019 extended squad ahead of their upcoming Test match against Japan.<\/p>\n The former Fiji Airways Fiji Men\u2019s Sevens representative says he has been working towards the opportunity to wear the Flying Fijians jersey for some time, describing the milestone as a dream come true.<\/p>\n The Kadavu-born player has spent the past two years with the Nadi men\u2019s senior team, competing in the Skipper Cup competition. He also played a key role in helping the side finish at the top of the points table this season.<\/p>\n Boginisoko is encouraging young rugby players across Fiji to remain committed to their goals, saying anything is possible with hard work, dedication and determination.<\/p>\n He also expressed his gratitude to his family for their unwavering support throughout his journey, from grassroots rugby tournaments to the international stage.<\/p>\n “I just want to encourage all my brothers out there to keep working hard. I know along the way there are many challenges and obstacles, but my advice to you is to keep going, one day the opportunity will come. All to have to do is be committed to your dream.”<\/p>\n The Flying Fijians are scheduled to face Japan in a Test match on October 24.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 12:22:26","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Years of hard work and dedication have finally paid off for 26-year-old Nacani Boginisoko, who has earned a call-up to the Fiji Water Flying Fijians\u2019 extended squad ahead of their upcoming Test match against Japan.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800921,"headline":"Ba to face Navua in 2027 Pillay Garments CVC","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/football\/ba-to-face-navua-in-2027-pillay-garments-cvc\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Taina Basiyalo ","title":"Multimedia Journalist ","email":"taina@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Taina-Byline-200x200-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 12:22 pm","unix_time":1791980520,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T12:22:02+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Navua-v-BA.jpg","content":" BA FC will begin its title defence against Navua FC in the 2027 Pillay Garments Champion vs Champion series after completing a historic clean sweep of Fiji\u2019s four major domestic football titles this season.<\/p>\n Fiji Football Association chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf confirmed Navua\u2019s qualification after the side finished runners-up to Ba in the 2026 FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC) Super Premier Division final on Sunday.<\/p>\n The Men in Black capped off a remarkable campaign by winning the Extra Premier League, Fiji FACT, Extra Battle of the Giants and FMF IDC titles, leaving Navua as the next eligible opponent under the CVC competition regulations.<\/p>\n Yusuf explained that the competition traditionally pits the Extra Premier League champions against the FMF IDC winners in the season-opening series.<\/p>\n However, when one team wins both competitions, the Fiji FACT champions become the next eligible challenger. If the same team also wins Fiji FACT, qualification then passes to the Extra Battle of the Giants champions.<\/p>\n With Ba sweeping all four major titles, the regulations automatically hand the CVC berth to the FMF IDC runners-up, giving Navua another opportunity to challenge the country’s dominant side.<\/p>\n Navua earned their place after pushing Ba in Sunday’s final at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, before going down 2-0.<\/p>\n The match remained goalless until the 80th minute, when David Supa broke the deadlock for Ba. Etonia Dogalau then converted a penalty in the 87th minute to seal the victory and complete the club’s historic season.<\/p>\n While the defeat denied Navua the IDC crown, their run to the final has secured them a place in one of the country’s biggest season-opening football contests.<\/p>\n Ba will now look to carry its remarkable winning momentum into 2027, while Navua will have the chance to upset the champions and make an early statement in the new domestic season.<\/p>\n The Pillay Garments CVC series is expected to set the tone for the 2027 football calendar, with Ba aiming to extend its dominance and Navua determined to prove they can challenge the reigning champions.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 12:22:02","section":"Football","section_id":58,"excerpt":" BA FC will begin its title defence against Navua FC in the 2027 Pillay Garments Champion vs Champion series after completing a historic clean sweep of Fiji\u2019s four major domestic football titles this season.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800881,"headline":"More Skipper Cup players in national training squad","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/more-skipper-cup-players-in-national-training-squad\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Akuila Cama","title":"Deputy News Manager","email":"akuila@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"AkuilaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Akuila-Cama-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 10:24 am","unix_time":1791973440,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T10:24:33+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Skipper-Players.jpg","content":" Ten Skipper Cup players have been added to the Fiji Water Flying Fijians training squad.<\/p>\n The 10 includes Sakiusa Vosayaco, Kavekini Boselawa and Manueli Ratuniyarawa fom Nadroga, Nadi reps Peni Naruma, Nacani Boginisoko, Ebenezer Tuidraki and Leone Nawai.<\/p>\n Naitasiri’s Saula Qiolevu and :Etonia Rokotuisawa along with Emosi Tuqiri of Navosa.<\/p>\n Aporosa Vuniyayawa from Counties Manukau has also been included in the training squad.<\/p>\n This is more than just an opportunity for the players and a reminder of the importance of our domestic competition.<\/p>\n It also shows the talent that continues to emerge from our own backyard.<\/p>\n Most of the players are expected to feature in this weekend’s Skipper Cup quarterfinals.<\/p>\n Nadroga hosts Suva at Lawaqa Park, Nadi meets Ba at Prince Charles Park.<\/p>\n Two games are going to be played at the HFC Stadium with Naitasiri taking on champs Malolo at 1pm followed by the Tailevu and Navosa match at 3pm.<\/p>\n You can watch the Naitasiri and Malolo match live on FBC Sports.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 10:24:33","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Ten Skipper Cup players have been added to the Fiji Water Flying Fijians training squad.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800879,"headline":"Wesele embraces World Cup challenge with Bulikula","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby-league\/wesele-embraces-world-cup-challenge-with-bulikula\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Taina Basiyalo ","title":"Multimedia Journalist ","email":"taina@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Taina-Byline-200x200-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 10:17 am","unix_time":1791973020,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T10:17:41+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Bulikula.jpg","content":" Fiji Bulikula head coach Jone Wesele says unity and staying true to himself will be key as he prepares to lead the national women’s rugby league team into the Rugby League World Cup.<\/p>\n While this will be Wesele’s first time taking charge of the national side as head coach at a World Cup, he brings valuable experience from previous tournaments as a player, assistant coach and support staff member.<\/p>\n Wesele says he welcomes the challenge of leading the Bulikula and is determined to help the team reach another level.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll be the old, usual Johnny. I don\u2019t need to change for this position. I love the atmosphere, I love the challenge, and I humbly accept the challenge to take these girls to another level.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n With the opportunity to make history for Fiji’s women’s rugby league team, Wesele acknowledges that pressure will be part of the journey, but believes how the team responds together will be crucial.<\/p>\n The coach says external expectations are unavoidable, but his focus remains on leading with authenticity and building on the support within the squad.<\/p>\n \u201cThere will always be pressure. It\u2019s something that we can\u2019t control. Those are external forces. But I believe if I try to be someone else, it\u2019ll be a problem.\u201d<\/p>\n Wesele believes the Bulikula’s strength will come from the unity within the group, stressing that success will require a collective effort rather than relying on one individual.<\/p>\n He says he is confident in the players’ support and the team’s commitment to standing together as they prepare for the challenge ahead.<\/p>\n \u201cRegardless of the pressure, unity is our ingredient in this journey. It takes the whole group, the whole team, to make it happen, and I believe that.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Wesele’s message sets the tone for the Bulikula as they prepare to represent Fiji on the world stage, with the coach determined to embrace the responsibility and lead the team in his own way.<\/p>\n Fiji Bulikula will meet New Zealand thsi Sunday at 2.50pm.<\/p>\n You can watch the action from the World Cup LIVE on FBC Sports.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 10:17:41","section":"Rugby League","section_id":63,"excerpt":" Fiji Bulikula head coach Jone Wesele says unity and staying true to himself will be key as he prepares to lead the national women’s rugby league team into the Rugby League World Cup.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800801,"headline":"FRU sets World Cup ambitions with White appointment","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/fru-sets-world-cup-ambitions-with-white-appointment\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Taina Basiyalo ","title":"Multimedia Journalist ","email":"taina@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Taina-Byline-200x200-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 5:00 pm","unix_time":1791910800,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T17:00:15+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Flying-Fijians-head-coach.jpg","content":" Fiji Rugby Union chairman John Sanday says the appointment of World Cup-winning coach Jake White is a statement of intent as the FIJI Water Flying Fijians prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.<\/p>\n Sanday officially announced White as the new head coach this morning, describing the appointment as a significant step towards building a more consistent, disciplined and competitive Fiji side.<\/p>\n White, who guided South Africa to Rugby World Cup glory in 2007, brings valuable international experience as Fiji looks to strengthen its position among the world\u2019s leading rugby nations.<\/p>\n Sanday says Fiji has never lacked talent or passion, but believes the next challenge is creating a high-performance environment that allows its players to reach their full potential.<\/p>\n He says White\u2019s experience and championship mindset will be important in raising the team\u2019s standards and preparing the side to compete at the highest level.<\/p>\n With the 2027 Rugby World Cup approaching, Sanday made it clear that Fiji will not travel to Australia simply to make up the numbers.<\/p>\n \u201cOur ambition must be clear. We are not going to Australia simply to make up the numbers. We are going there with a determination to compete, to challenge expectations and to demonstrate what Fiji can achieve when world-class talent is supported by world-class preparation.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Sanday also stressed that White\u2019s appointment extends beyond the next World Cup, with Fiji Rugby aiming to establish a stronger institution and a high-performance culture that will benefit future generations.<\/p>\n He says the team must continue to embrace its Fijian identity, humility, faith and unity while developing the discipline and consistency required to succeed on the international stage.<\/p>\n Sanday has also called on players, supporters and the wider Fijian community to unite behind the team, acknowledging that the journey will bring challenges and difficult decisions.<\/p>\n He believes collective support, patience and a shared commitment to improvement will be crucial as Fiji begins this new chapter.<\/p>\n Sanday says the ultimate goal is to show the world what Fiji can achieve when extraordinary rugby talent meets extraordinary preparation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 17:00:15","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Fiji Rugby Union chairman John Sanday says the appointment of World Cup-winning coach Jake White is a statement of intent as the FIJI Water Flying Fijians prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800791,"headline":"Fiji\u2019s rising footballers train with Auckland FC","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/football\/fijis-rising-footballers-train-with-auckland-fc\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Akuila Cama","title":"Deputy News Manager","email":"akuila@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"AkuilaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Akuila-Cama-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 4:19 pm","unix_time":1791908340,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T16:19:56+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Untitled-design-25.jpg","content":" Three of Fiji\u2019s emerging football talents are experiencing professional-level training with A-League club Auckland FC under the OFC Player Placement Programme 2026.<\/p>\n Maikah Dau, Ryan Naresh and Sterling Vasconcellos have completed their first training session with the Auckland-based club and are now undertaking the programme\u2019s second phase.<\/p>\n They are accompanied by Fiji national assistant coach Marika Rodu, whose involvement also allows him to observe professional coaching methods and player-development systems that could benefit Fiji\u2019s national programmes.<\/p>\n Fresh from competing in the FMF Battle of the Giants tournament, the players are gaining first-hand experience of the intensity, discipline and demands of professional football.<\/p>\n The Fiji Football Association says the placement is designed to sharpen their technical skills, strengthen their tactical understanding and expose them to high-performance training standards.<\/p>\n The OFC programme aims to strengthen development pathways for talented Pacific footballers and create more opportunities for those aspiring to professional careers.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 16:19:56","section":"Football","section_id":58,"excerpt":" Three of Fiji\u2019s emerging football talents are experiencing professional-level training with A-League club Auckland FC under the OFC Player Placement Programme 2026.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800777,"headline":"Namosimalua seals Drua deal","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/namosimalua-seals-drua-deal\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":null,"title":null,"email":null,"twitter":null,"thumbnail":null},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 2:55 pm","unix_time":1791903300,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T14:55:18+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Untitled-design-24.jpg","content":" Taranaki loose forward Josefa Namosimalua has signed for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for the 2027 season.<\/p>\n Namosimalua joins the Drua on a full-time contract, bringing with him valuable experience from New Zealand.<\/p>\n Originally from Naroi, Moala in Lau with maternal links to Naqaidamu in Lomaiviti, Namosimalua\u2019s performances have also earned recognition at international level, with the 23-year-old named in the Flying Fijians extended squad ahead of next weekend’s Test against Japan and the Northern Tour.<\/p>\n The powerful loose forward joins the Drua after an impressive season in New Zealand, where he broke into the Taranaki Bulls squad for the NPC.<\/p>\n Namosimalua made his Taranaki debut against Northland in August before earning a starting opportunity at blindside flanker, following a standout club rugby campaign.<\/p>\n Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Head Coach Brad Mooar said: \u201cIt\u2019s very exciting to have Josefa joining the Drua vuvale. He has been a standout performer for Taranaki in the NPC, with a massive work rate, getting through more than 18 tackles a game. He loves the physical side of the game, enjoys the cleanout work and is also a very skilful and athletic player with ball in hand. Josefa is a great story, from his roots in Lau to attending Suva Grammar School and to Whanganui, where he went to school and played rugby, before working his way into the NPC. He has worked incredibly hard and made the most of every opportunity that has come his way, and he now gets the opportunity to represent the Drua. <\/em>\u201cThis is a really special moment for Josefa, his family and for us as a Club. We\u2019re thrilled to welcome home Josefa, Sandy and Junior into the Drua vuvale.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n His s rugby journey in New Zealand stretches back to his schoolboy days at Whanganui Collegiate School, where he featured prominently in the First XV. He was already making an impact as a No.8 during his school years, with his powerful carries and try-scoring ability.<\/p>\n He later continued his development in Whanganui club rugby, representing Border and earning selection in the wider Whanganui representative squad in 2023.<\/p>\n Namosimalua has since represented Inglewood in Taranaki\u2019s premier club competition, with his performances during the 2026 club season earning him a place in the Taranaki Bulls NPC squad. He was one of six newcomers selected for the province this year.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 14:55:18","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Taranaki loose forward Josefa Namosimalua has signed for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for the 2027 season.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800730,"headline":"Grandmother put fire inside Bati star","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby-league\/grandmother-put-fire-inside-bati-star\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"AAP News","title":"","email":"","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/app-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 1:00 pm","unix_time":1791896400,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T13:00:22+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Donoghue-Bati.jpg","content":" Rough-and-tumble Kurt Donoghoe has a softer side that emerges when he speaks of his beloved late grandmother, who inspired his Rugby League World Cup journey with Fiji Bati.<\/p>\n The 24-year-old Dolphins dynamo will be one of the key men for the Bati in their tough pool that includes Australia, New Zealand and their round-one opponents, the Cook Islands.<\/p>\n When Donoghoe, who grew up in Newcastle, was a lad, his nan Kim was a major supporter of his footy aspirations.<\/p>\n “She is very important to me and is the only reason I can play for Fiji, being my dad’s mum,” Donoghoe told AAP.<\/em><\/p>\n “She was a big part of my life during my whole childhood and took us back to Fiji to show us where she was raised when\u00a0 I was 12. <\/em><\/p>\n “That was a pretty cool experience to go over there and see where she grew up, in a little place called Ba.<\/em><\/p>\n “That moment was a bit of a life-changer and has stuck close to my heart ever since. I know who I am playing for when I run out for Fiji.”<\/em><\/p>\n The Bati are without big guns Tui Kamikamica, Viliame Kikau and Jahream Bula due to illness and injury, but Donoghoe said they would focus on who they do have.<\/p>\n “Jacob Safiti, it’s unreal to get him on board, and we have Api (Koroisau) and (Sunia) Turuva who have won comps in the NRL and are big-game players,” Donoghoe said.<\/em><\/p>\n “I think we’ve got great potential and we will give it a red-hot crack.”<\/em><\/p>\n A charismatic character, Donoghoe has endeared himself to fans for his toughness and flair.<\/p>\n He is modern in his ability to adapt to the requirements of a ball-playing lock, hooker and playmaker with panache, but there is also a 1970s or 1980s mentality about the man they call “Donga”.<\/p>\n He played on with a rearranged schnoz against Canterbury last year after it had been broken and put back in place on the sideline by the team doctor.<\/p>\n It is a nose only a mother could love and has the look of one a child has put on with Plasticine, a bit like some of the “putty noses” worn by hardheads from previous ages of thuggery.<\/p>\n Donoghoe, voted the RLPA best bench player of the year in 2026, was a five-eighth in Jersey Flegg at Newcastle and trained with the Dolphins in the halves early on, before an injury opened the door for him to play hooker on debut in the NRL in the club’s inaugural match in 2023.<\/p>\n All of his seven Tests for Fiji have been played at No.6 or No.7.<\/p>\n “At Q Cup level I played lock for most of that 2023 year and I enjoyed it there too. I could still ball-play and be part of that gritty stuff in the middle, which I like,” Donoghoe said.<\/em><\/p>\n “That’s what I have basically done this year for the Dolphins off the bench. I will play anywhere that Fiji and our coach (Mick Potter) need me to.<\/em><\/p>\n “Whenever I pull the jersey on for Fiji, I am doing it for my nan and that side of the family. I know she would be very proud, as are all my family on my Australian side as well.”\u00a0 <\/em><\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 11:51:13","section":"Rugby League","section_id":63,"excerpt":" Rough-and-tumble Kurt Donoghoe has a softer side that emerges when he speaks of his beloved late grandmother, who inspired his Rugby League World Cup journey with Fiji Bati.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800737,"headline":"Rabitu thankful for Tailevu opportunity","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/sports\/rugby\/rabitu-thankful-for-tailevu-opportunity\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Akuila Cama","title":"Deputy News Manager","email":"akuila@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"AkuilaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Akuila-Cama-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 12:39 pm","unix_time":1791895140,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T12:39:28+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Rabitu.jpg","content":" Flying Fijians and Tailevu fullback, Sikeli Rabitu, is expected to play a key role in their Skipper Cup quarterfinal clash against Navosa at the HFC Stadium on Saturday.<\/p>\n The Naila, Ba, man was instrumental in their win last week, when Tailevu defeated Taveuni 28-8.<\/p>\n Rabitu says he\u2019s thankful to the team management for allowing him to play for his provincial team this year.<\/p>\n Two Skipper Cup and Subrails Marama quarterfinals will be played at the Stadium in Suva.<\/p>\n Nasinu takes on Kadavu at 9am followed by the Namosi and Tailevu women\u2019s quarterfinals at 11am.<\/p>\n Naitasiri will then play defending Skipper Cup champs Malolo at 1pm before Tailevu meet Navosa at 3pm.<\/p>\n The Kadavu and Nasinu match plus the battle between Malolo and Naitasiri will air LIVE on FBC Sports on Saturday.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 12:39:28","section":"Rugby","section_id":57,"excerpt":" Flying Fijians and Tailevu fullback, Sikeli Rabitu, is expected to play a key role in their Skipper Cup quarterfinal clash against Navosa at the HFC Stadium on Saturday.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}],"business":[{"id":800874,"headline":"Climate finance plan for farmers developed","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/climate-finance-plan-for-farmers-developed\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"mollyn.nakabea@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mollyn-real-image-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 10:03 am","unix_time":1791972180,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T10:03:59+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/ADB.jpg","content":" The Fiji Development Bank is working on a proposed guarantee facility to improve access to climate finance for farmers and agribusinesses.<\/p>\n The Green Climate Fund has approved project preparation support for the Fiji Climate-Smart Agriculture Guarantee.<\/p>\n The support will help FDB develop a full funding proposal over the next nine months, with the aim of strengthening Fiji\u2019s agricultural sector against climate change.<\/p>\n FDB Chief Executive Officer Filimone Waqabaca says the initiative also aims to attract more investment into Fiji\u2019s agricultural sector.<\/p>\n “This approval represents an important milestone in FDB’s efforts to expand climate finance to Fiji’s natural sectors that we intend to do by listening to our farmers, fishers, foresters, agribusiness entrepreneurs and other relevant stakeholders to develop an innovative guarantee facility that can unlock greater investment in climate-smart agriculture and strengthen livelihoods across Fiji.”<\/em><\/p>\n The project will assess potential investments in climate-resilient crops, water management systems, cooling equipment and cyclone-resilient agricultural infrastructure.<\/p>\n Green Climate Fund Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Hemant Mandal says Small Island Developing States face significant climate risks but often struggle to access financing.<\/p>\n The project preparation support will help FDB develop a funding proposal for consideration by the Green Climate Fund Board.<\/p>\n The proposed initiative must undergo further review before funding for the full project can be approved.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 09:47:33","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" The Fiji Development Bank is working on a proposed guarantee facility to improve access to climate finance for farmers and agribusinesses.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800859,"headline":"CCTV demand surges","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/cctv-demand-surges\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Josefa Sigavolavola ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"josefa.sigavolavola@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/josefa-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 7:15 am","unix_time":1791962100,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T07:15:07+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/cctv.png","content":" Demand for CCTV cameras has surged across the country following a recent increase in robberies and thefts, with more businesses and homeowners investing in surveillance systems to improve security.<\/p>\n From break-ins and grab-and-run incidents to assaults and road accidents, surveillance footage is increasingly becoming a key source of evidence, with many of these incidents being widely shared across social media and news platforms.<\/p>\n One of the country’s major technology retailers, Bondwell, says CCTV has become one of its fastest-growing business segments as demand for security solutions continues to rise.<\/p>\n Donald Hough, Director of Enterprise Solutions at Bondwell, says the company’s security and CCTV business has recorded significant growth in recent years.<\/p>\n “Well, actually in the last two years, the business itself, as far as security and CCTV, at least at Bondwell, has grown 50% over the last two years, so its definitely something that’s on peoples mind.”<\/em><\/p>\n Hough says both businesses and homeowners are investing heavily in surveillance systems, with customers increasingly seeking coverage for entire properties rather than just entry points.<\/p>\n He believes the trend will continue over the coming year.<\/p>\n “For instance, just for the next at least 12 months, we’re looking at probably another 30% growth in that market. Because we’ve seen it accelerate over the last two years. So that’s the big thing.”<\/p>\n Suva’s retail sector has also reported positive outcomes from CCTV installations across the Capital City’s Central Business District.<\/p>\n Jitesh Patel, President of the Suva Retailers Association, says the cameras have proven beneficial for businesses, the public and law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\n “The cameras have been installed for about a couple of years now and the process has been good, the response and the help from the public and the police and the building owners especially. They have allowed us to put the cameras in the city, it has helped a lot and I know it has helped the police as well to monitor”<\/em><\/p>\n Patel says business leaders are expected to meet with the Fiji Police Force to discuss further security measures ahead of the festive season, when retail activity typically increases.<\/p>\n With security remaining a growing concern for many Fijians, industry players expect demand for CCTV systems to continue rising in the months ahead.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 07:54:25","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Demand for CCTV cameras has surged across the country following a recent increase in robberies and thefts, with more businesses and homeowners investing in surveillance systems to improve security.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800821,"headline":"International Award Boosts Likuliku Resort","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/international-award-boosts-likuliku-resort\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Bose Vavataga","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"bose.vavataga@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Bose-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 5:00 pm","unix_time":1791910800,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T17:00:10+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Tony-Whitton.png","content":" Likuliku Lagoon Resort is expecting a strong 2027, following its latest recognition in the 2026 Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveler USA Reader\u2019s Choice Awards.<\/p>\n The resort was ranked second in Fiji and sixth in Australia and the South Pacific.<\/p>\n Managing Director Tony Whitton says the result reflects the quality of the guest experience and the efforts of its Fijian team.<\/p>\n Whitton says the award is particularly meaningful because it is based on feedback from travellers, rather than a panel of judges.<\/p>\n He says Likuliku was also ranked number one in Fiji\u2019s luxury resort category, competing against established international brands.<\/p>\n \u201cLikuliku in terms of the luxury space was voted number one. And that’s something that I think it’s all goes well for Fiji tourism in terms of our positioning. But also, I think it’s something that I’m really proud of my team at Likuliku Lagoon\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Whitton says the resort\u2019s Fijian ownership, traditional village-inspired design, local cuisine and cultural experiences help set it apart.<\/p>\n \u201cSurveys showed that when international visitors came to Likuliku, one thing that stood out was the natural warmth and the authenticity of the Fijian experience. And at Likuliku, we’re proud that the physical resort is modelled on a traditional village We celebrate every aspect of our Fijian culture that we’re so proud of, the connection with the Vanua, the connection with the goligoli , the connection with the lands\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n He says international recognition helps position Fiji as a luxury destination, attracting high-spending visitors who also contribute to local conservation efforts.<\/p>\n Whitton believes the latest award is not only a milestone for Likuliku, but also an opportunity to showcase Fiji\u2019s tourism industry to the North American market.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 18:15:31","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Likuliku Lagoon Resort is expecting a strong 2027, following its latest recognition in the 2026 Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveler USA Reader\u2019s Choice Awards.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800629,"headline":"FMF Foods launches Amul Condensed Milk","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/ffmf-foods-launches-amul-condensed-milk\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 12, 2026 9:32 am","unix_time":1791797520,"iso_time":"2026-10-12T09:32:53+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Amul-Condensed-Milk-.png","content":" FMF Foods Limited has marked another milestone with the official launch of Amul Condensed Milk.<\/p>\n The new product was launched at the FMF IDC Finals, adding to its growing product range.<\/p>\n Building on the success of Amul Ghee, one of the first Amul products introduced by FMF, the arrival of Amul Condensed Milk marks another exciting chapter in bringing trusted quality products to households across Rich, creamy and delicious, Amul Condensed Milk is perfect for creating delightful desserts, sweet treats, beverages and cherished family recipes.<\/p>\n The official unveiling was brought to life by the Mata Dance Group, adding a vibrant and entertaining touch to the special occasion.<\/p>\n Guests were also treated to complimentary tastings of delicious creations made with Amul Condensed Milk, including Kheer-Puri, Custard Pie, Gulab Jamun and Roti.<\/p>\n As the naming rights sponsor of the FMF IDC, FMF Foods Limited found the championship final to be the perfect occasion to celebrate this launch, bringing together Fiji’s passion for football and love for great food.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 19:24:39","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" FMF Foods Limited has marked another milestone with the official launch of Amul Condensed Milk.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800566,"headline":"FNPF launches 60th anniversary competition","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/fnpf-launches-60th-anniversary-competition\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"mollyn.nakabea@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mollyn-real-image-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 11, 2026 4:48 pm","unix_time":1791737280,"iso_time":"2026-10-11T16:48:02+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/FNPF.jpg","content":" The Fiji National Provident Fund has launched a competition to mark its 60 years of service, encouraging members to grow their savings while standing a chance to win prizes.<\/p>\n FNPF General Manager Member Services Alipate Waqairawai says the competition aims to encourage more Fijians make use of the membership options available.<\/p>\n \u201cWe want this competition to encourage more Fijians to actively engage with their income and savings, and take advantage of the options available to the FNPF\u201d<\/p>\n He says every contribution made today can help build a stronger economy for future generations.<\/p>\n \u201cBeyond the prizes that we offer, our message is simple from FNPF. Every contribution made today can help build a stronger economy tomorrow, not only for you, but for your children and your grandchildren.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Entries can be made by signing up for voluntary or re-entrant membership, registering for additional contributions, or reactivating FNPF accounts.<\/p>\n The competition closes on August 13, 2027.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-11 16:48:02","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" The Fiji National Provident Fund has launched a competition to mark its 60 years of service, encouraging members to grow their savings while standing a chance to win prizes.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800456,"headline":"Banks urged to back green talk with investment","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/bbanks-urged-to-back-green-talk-with-investment\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Litia Cava ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"lcava@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"lcava@fbcnews ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/litia-cava-2-200x200.png"},"dateline":"October 10, 2026 1:10 pm","unix_time":1791637800,"iso_time":"2026-10-10T13:10:21+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/BSP-1-1.png","content":" Pacific banks must move beyond technical green frameworks to ensure sustainable finance delivers actual investment and measurable economic benefits, says BSP Chief Financial Officer Rajeshwar Singh.<\/p>\n Speaking at the Pre-COP31 Taxonomy to Transition event in Suva, Singh stressed that banks need clear evidence of economic value before directing capital toward sustainable projects, warning against treating green classifications as an end in themselves.<\/p>\n \u201cWe bankers are practical people. Show us the money, we’ll give you the money.\u201d<\/p>\n Singh said banks must integrate sustainability into credit standards, balance sheet management, and lending decisions while maintaining commercial viability and profitability.<\/p>\n For the Pacific, this requires financial institutions to ensure investments make economic sense and deliver practical benefits to communities.<\/p>\n He also warned against overly complicated frameworks that risk creating administrative burdens without producing results.<\/p>\n Operating across seven Pacific markets, BSP requires a common direction while allowing implementation to reflect individual country realities, such as differing approaches in Papua New Guinea and Samoa.<\/p>\n Technology, reliable data, and institutional capacity will be critical to measuring outcomes.<\/p>\n Singh adds that BSP is already undertaking ESG work at the group level and outlining a phased implementation over the next 12 months.<\/p>\n Ultimately, Singh stressed that sustainable finance must be grounded in the practical realities facing local customers, with clear outcomes measured rather than commitments existing only on paper.<\/p>\n The discussion comes as Pacific countries look to align green taxonomies and mobilize investment ahead of COP31.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-10 16:29:49","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Pacific banks must move beyond technical green frameworks to ensure sustainable finance delivers actual investment and measurable economic benefits, says BSP Chief Financial Officer Rajeshwar Singh.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800450,"headline":"Vision Motors launches new Proton range","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/vision-motors-launches-new-proton-range\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Lusiana Divokitira","title":"Ms ","email":"lusiana.divokitira@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Lusiana-Divokitira-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 10, 2026 1:02 pm","unix_time":1791637320,"iso_time":"2026-10-10T13:02:44+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/vision-.png","content":" Vision Motors has launched the latest generation of Proton vehicles in Fiji, featuring improved engine performance, new technology and enhanced features in the competitive SUV market.<\/p>\n The launch introduced the updated Proton X50, X70 and X90.<\/p>\n General Manager for Vision Motors, Ajay Lal, says the launch is being rolled out in stages, beginning with existing Proton customers to familiarize them with the new models.<\/p>\n The key improvement is the introduction of a four-cylinder engine, designed to deliver greater power and torque compared to the previous three-cylinder engine.<\/p>\n Lal says Proton is standardizing its vehicle platforms, with the latest X-series models sharing similar design features while differing in size and ergonomics.<\/p>\n Another crossover model is expected around February next year, further expanding the brand\u2019s range in Fiji.<\/p>\n The company believes the new-generation vehicles will stand out when customers compare their features and benefits with competing brands.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-10 13:17:42","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Vision Motors has launched the latest generation of Proton vehicles in Fiji, featuring improved engine performance, new technology and enhanced features in the competitive SUV market.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800434,"headline":"Labasa growth drives business opportunities","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/labasa-growth-drives-business-opportunities\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Peceli Naviticoko ","title":"Multimedia Journalist - North","email":"peceli.naviticoko@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Peceli-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 10, 2026 8:00 am","unix_time":1791619200,"iso_time":"2026-10-10T08:00:08+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Paul-Jaduram.jpg","content":" Investment continues to reshape Labasa, with another major commercial complex taking shape along the town\u2019s main street.<\/p>\n The two-storey Jaduram Mall will house retail shops, restaurants and a food court, with construction already providing local employment opportunities.<\/p>\n However, while major developments continue to boost the town\u2019s commercial landscape, small businesses are navigating challenging trading conditions.<\/p>\n Labasa Special Administrator Paul Jaduram says the new complex is expected to become another key business hub for the Northern Division.<\/p>\n \u201cIt’s a two-storey building which will house shops on the ground floor, and on the first floor will be the food court and restaurants. That belongs to my brother, and therefore <\/em> Jaduram says several other major projects are also underway in Labasa, including the RB Patel development at Wailevu, with further progress expected by early next year.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, business owner Rajesh Chand, who has been trading since 1989, says this year has been the most difficult of his business career, with declining daily sales making it Chand says the reasons for the downturn remain unclear, although he believes wider economic pressures could be contributing to the situation.<\/p>\n Despite these challenges, small businesses continue to serve their customers as new investments create further opportunities and drive Labasa\u2019s growth.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-10 07:43:42","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Investment continues to reshape Labasa, with another major commercial complex taking shape along the town\u2019s main street.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800405,"headline":"RBF pushes banks to turn green policies into investment","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/rbf-pushes-banks-to-turn-green-policies-into-investment\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Litia Cava ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"lcava@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"lcava@fbcnews ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/litia-cava-2-200x200.png"},"dateline":"October 9, 2026 5:08 pm","unix_time":1791565680,"iso_time":"2026-10-09T17:08:14+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/rbff.jpg","content":" The Reserve Bank of Fiji is facing data gaps as it works to turn green finance policies into actual investment.<\/p>\n RBF Chief Manager Financial Systems Development Caroline Waqabaca said limited data was making it difficult to measure the impact of Fiji\u2019s Green Finance Taxonomy.<\/p>\n She explained that Fiji has established the policy framework but its success will depend on whether financial institutions adopt it, direct capital towards eligible projects and demonstrate measurable environmental and economic outcomes.<\/p>\n \u201cThe calls for impact studies have already come through, even though the taxonomy is only about two years into its development. So, one of the challenges we have is really around the data gaps and how we can strengthen data collection and reporting systems to measure the impact of the taxonomy.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Waqabaca states that calls for impact studies have already emerged, despite the taxonomy being only about two years into its development, exposing the need for stronger data collection and reporting systems.<\/p>\n The taxonomy provides a common set of criteria to help financial institutions identify activities that qualify as green and align financing decisions with Fiji\u2019s climate commitments and development priorities.<\/p>\n However, Waqabaca said moving from policy development to widespread market adoption would require more than publishing guidelines.<\/p>\n Financial institutions, she adds, need stronger data reporting and verification systems to consistently classify eligible activities, while banks also require additional training to incorporate the framework into their lending, investment and risk management processes.<\/p>\n Waqabaca said the country must also develop a stronger pipeline of eligible and measurable green projects capable of attracting financing and demonstrating tangible benefits.<\/p>\n RBF is now focused on building market capability, embedding the taxonomy into financial decisions and scaling up investment.<\/p>\n The next phase of the framework will also expand beyond climate change mitigation to include adaptation and resilience, with agriculture, buildings and manufacturing among the sectors targeted for further development.<\/p>\n Waqabaca adds that collaboration between government, regulators, financial institutions, development partners and the private sector will be essential to advancing sustainable finance in Fiji.<\/p>\n This was discussed during a regional discussion on aligning green finance taxonomies and mobilising investment for a low-carbon, climate-resilient Pacific in Suva today.<\/p>\n Hosted by KPMG Fiji, the Pre-COP31 Taxonomy to Transition event brought together representatives from RBF, Bank of Papua New Guinea, BSP, the Green Finance Centre and the International Finance Corporation to discuss the practical implementation of green and inclusive finance taxonomies across the Pacific.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-10 09:13:04","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" The Reserve Bank of Fiji is facing data gaps as it works to turn green finance policies into actual investment.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800370,"headline":"Fiji Link launches Fiji day special fares","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/fiji-link-launches-fiji-day-special-fares\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"mollyn.nakabea@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mollyn-real-image-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 9, 2026 12:31 pm","unix_time":1791549060,"iso_time":"2026-10-09T12:31:12+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Fiji-Day-special-fares.jpg","content":" Fiji Link has launched a five-day domestic fare sale to mark Fiji Day, with special one-way fares available across its domestic network until October 13.<\/p>\n The sale runs from October 9 to 13 with travel valid from October 10 to November 30 2026.<\/p>\n Fares start from $79 for Nadi to Suva and $89 for Suva to Labasa, with special prices also available for flights to Savusavu, Taveuni and Kadavu.<\/p>\n Fiji Airways has also extended its international Fiji Day sale until October 13, giving travellers more time to book discounted fares across its international network.<\/p>\n Fiji Airways Chief Executive Officer Paul Scurrah says the airline is celebrating Fiji Day by encouraging Fijians to explore more of their own country and spend time with The sale coincides with Fiji’s 56th Fiji Day celebrations and Fiji Airways’ 75th anniversary.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-09 12:31:12","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Fiji Link has launched a five-day domestic fare sale to mark Fiji Day, with special one-way fares available across its domestic network until October 13.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800186,"headline":"Resort makes global list","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/resort-makes-global-list\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 8, 2026 11:35 am","unix_time":1791459300,"iso_time":"2026-10-08T11:35:11+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/Shangri-Las-Fijian-Resort.jpg","content":" Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji has been ranked fifth among the Top Resorts in Australia and South Pacific in Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveler\u2019s 39th annual Readers\u2019 Choice Awards, making it the highest-ranked Fijian property in the regional category.<\/p>\n The recognition places the resort among the leading properties across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific in the travel industry\u2019s longest-running and most prestigious reader-voted awards program.<\/p>\n Fiji recorded a strong showing in this year\u2019s regional rankings, with four Fijian resorts placing among the Top 10, led by Shangri-La Yanuca Island.<\/p>\n The 2026 Readers\u2019 Choice Awards attracted more than 798,867 responses from readers across the United States rating their experiences of destinations, hotels, and resorts worldwide.<\/p>\n Resort Manager Sunil Beerbul says being recognised by Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveler reflects the place Shangri-La Yanuca Island has held in Fiji for generations.<\/p>\n Beerbul adds that as they mark 59 years in Fiji this month and look toward their 60th anniversary next year, their legacy is one they value deeply.<\/p>\n He highlights that it gives them a strong foundation and a responsibility to keep evolving while remaining true to the character and sense of place that shaped the resort over decades.<\/p>\n The ranking marks a rise for Shangri-La Yanuca Island, which placed 11th in the 2025 Readers\u2019 Choice Awards before moving into the regional Top Five in 2026.<\/p>\n The recognition comes at an important point in the resort\u2019s history as Shangri-La Yanuca Island prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary next year.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-08 11:35:11","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji has been ranked fifth among the Top Resorts in Australia and South Pacific in Cond\u00e9 Nast Traveler\u2019s 39th annual Readers\u2019 Choice Awards, making it the highest-ranked Fijian property in the regional category.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800170,"headline":"Climate bill puts Fiji in search of finance\u00a0","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/business\/climate-bill-puts-fiji-in-search-of-finance\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Litia Cava ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"lcava@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"lcava@fbcnews ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/litia-cava-2-200x200.png"},"dateline":"October 8, 2026 11:02 am","unix_time":1791457320,"iso_time":"2026-10-08T11:02:42+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Untitled-design-2026-10-08T110705.838.png","content":" Fiji is seeking stronger international financing for climate-resilient infrastructure as it works to protect economic growth from the rising costs of climate impacts.<\/p>\n Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel raised the need for greater investment in resilience during Pre-COP31 discussions with the World Bank and Asian Development Bank.<\/p>\n Speaking on a World Bank panel, Building resilience without scacrificing growth: Pathways for the Pacific, Immanuel states that Pacific countries need investment that can strengthen infrastructure while keeping their economies growing.<\/p>\n The discussions covered key areas including infrastructure, tourism, fisheries, human capital, clean energy and ecosystem protection.<\/p>\n Access to climate finance was also a major focus, as Pacific countries seek funding to meet the growing cost of climate resilience.<\/p>\n Immanuel also attended a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda.<\/p>\n The meeting focused on the ADB\u2019s continued support for Fiji and the wider Pacific, particularly in infrastructure development.<\/p>\n Following the meeting, Immanuel and ADB Director General for the Pacific Department Emma Veve signed an agreement.<\/p>\n The engagements form part of Fiji\u2019s efforts to secure financing for infrastructure and development projects while strengthening the country\u2019s ability to withstand climate-related risks.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-09 09:34:13","section":"Business","section_id":48,"excerpt":" Fiji is seeking stronger international financing for climate-resilient infrastructure as it works to protect economic growth from the rising costs of climate impacts.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}],"world":[{"id":800979,"headline":"Harris warns window closing for AI safeguards, urges US-China cooperation","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/harris-warns-window-closing-for-ai-safeguards-urges-us-china-cooperation\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 6:30 pm","unix_time":1792002600,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T18:30:07+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Former-vice-president-of-the-United-States-Kamala-Harris.png","content":" Former US Vice President Kamala Harris urged governments and technology companies on Wednesday to urgently put safeguards in place for artificial intelligence, warning that the window for containing its gravest risks was \u200bclosing.<\/p>\n Harris said governments \u200band companies must act immediately against what she described as three existential dangers from AI – \u200bcybersecurity threats, AI-enabled weapons and systems escaping human control.<\/p>\n She also urged the United States to engage China on international rules and standards for AI, saying their broader strategic rivalry should not preclude cooperation on shared \u200brisks.<\/p>\n Harris criticised what she called US President Donald Trump’s “erratic tariffs” and their punitive \u200cnature, \u2060before warning against a transactional approach that cost the US global influence.<\/p>\n Harris praised South Korean investment in US shipbuilding, semiconductors, electric \u200bvehicles and clean energy, \u200bcalling it “immensely significant and \u2060valued”.<\/p>\n She also called for renewed US commitment to South Korea, saying growing cooperation among North Korea, Russia, China and Iran was very \u200bconcerning and meant the allies must strengthen deterrence.<\/p>\n The former vice president has \u200bbeen campaigning for \u2060Democratic candidates ahead of the 2026 US midterm elections as she weighs another White House bid.<\/p>\n She said Democrats would win a majority in the House of Representatives and had a “very good shot” \u2060at \u200btaking the Senate, potentially giving Congress a stronger voice \u200bon domestic and foreign policy, including the war with Iran.<\/p>\n Asked whether she would again seek the presidency in 2028, \u200bHarris said: “I’m still thinking about it. I haven\u2019t decided yet.”<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 18:34:00","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Former US Vice President Kamala Harris urged governments and technology companies on Wednesday to urgently put safeguards in place for artificial intelligence, warning that the window for containing its gravest risks was \u200bclosing.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800982,"headline":"Six deaths confirmed in Florida from Hurricane Isaias","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/six-deaths-confirmed-in-florida-from-hurricane-isaias\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 4:35 pm","unix_time":1791995700,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T16:35:09+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/A-drone-view-shows-a-damaged-apartments-building-in-the-aftermath-of-Hurricane-Isaias-in-Milton-Florida-US.png","content":" Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said on Tuesday six people had \u200bbeen confirmed dead in the \u200cstate from Hurricane Isaias, which made landfall last week.<\/p>\n “We have now had six storm-related fatalities,” DeSantis told \u200breporters, opens new tab<\/p>\n The six deaths included two \u200bthat had been previously confirmed. Those two \u2060deaths were in Escambia County in \u200bthe state’s far west. One person \u200bdied when a tree fell on their home while the other died from carbon monoxide exposure caused \u200bby a generator operating inside their \u200bgarage, officials said.<\/p>\n DeSantis said the four newly confirmed \u200cdeaths \u2060included a car crash at an intersection where the traffic signal was not working and storm-related disruptions to the \u200bmedical treatment \u200bof two \u2060people.<\/p>\n Hurricane Isaias made landfall early on Saturday and left hundreds \u200bof thousands of residents in \u200bFlorida, \u2060Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi without power.<\/p>\n Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said on Saturday, opens new tab that two \u2060people \u200bhad died as a \u200bresult of the storm in her state.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 18:43:21","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said on Tuesday six people had \u200bbeen confirmed dead in the \u200cstate from Hurricane Isaias, which made landfall last week.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800926,"headline":"Scientists call for international body to oversee advanced AI","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/scientists-call-for-international-body-to-oversee-advanced-ai\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 2:35 pm","unix_time":1791988500,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T14:35:48+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/An-AI-Artificial-Intelligence-sign-is-seen-at-the-World-Artificial-Intelligence-Conference-WAIC-in-Shanghai-China.png","content":" Around 400 scientists, including AI pioneers Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio, on Tuesday called for an international body \u200bto oversee containment standards and incident reporting for advanced cyber-capable \u200cAI systems.<\/p>\n The proposed body would set industry-wide containment standards and maintain a registry of significant security incidents, which the scientists said should eventually be made \u200bpublic.<\/p>\n In an open letter, the researchers said frontier AI models \u200bshould initially be air-gapped from external networks and subject \u2060to independent oversight, arguing that voluntary industry commitments are not enough.<\/p>\n The \u200bproposal comes a month after Anthropic, OpenAI, Google (GOOGL.O), opens new tab, Meta (META.O), opens new tab, xAI (SPCX.O), opens new tab and \u200bNvidia (NVDA.O), opens new tab signed a White House accord committing to voluntary safety measures without any formal enforcement mechanism.<\/p>\n The letter also follows a series of incidents that researchers say exposed \u200bweaknesses in how advanced AI systems are tested and contained, including \u200bcases where AI models bypassed insufficiently sandboxed environments and compromised external systems.<\/p>\n The signatories \u200cfrom \u206034 countries said organisations developing or testing cyber-capable models should immediately adopt high-assurance containment standards while governments work towards a more formal oversight regime.<\/p>\n Policymakers are increasingly debating how advanced AI systems should be \u200bsupervised. EU tech chief Henna \u200bVirkkunen told \u2060Reuters on Friday that the bloc’s AI Act is sufficient to address risks from rogue AI systems.<\/p>\n On \u200bSunday, the Trump administration lifted its block on US \u200blabs giving \u2060Britain’s AI Security Institute early access to models for safety testing.<\/p>\n Hinton and Bengio shared the 2018 Turing Award with Meta’s Yann LeCun, another \u2060leading \u200bAI researcher. LeCun did not sign the \u200bletter and has argued that recent security incidents primarily reflect engineering failures rather than \u200bexistential AI risks.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 12:25:59","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Around 400 scientists, including AI pioneers Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio, on Tuesday called for an international body \u200bto oversee containment standards and incident reporting for advanced cyber-capable \u200cAI systems.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800900,"headline":"Pope Leo diagnosed with cancer as doctors remove part of lung","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/pope-leo-diagnosed-with-cancer-as-doctors-remove-part-of-lung\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 1:20 pm","unix_time":1791984000,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T13:20:20+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Pope-Leo-1.png","content":" Pope Leo was diagnosed with lung cancer after surgeons removed a part of his right lung on \u200bTuesday, the Vatican said in a medical bulletin, marking a significant health setback for the 71-year-old pontiff.<\/p>\n The pope has lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of cancer, with tissue \u200ctests conducted during the operation confirming what doctors had suspected from preparatory examinations, the bulletin said.<\/p>\n Leo was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Tuesday for surgery to remove the growth that doctors had discovered in a recent routine health check.<\/p>\n The pope’s lead surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, and his personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, said in a statement that the procedure lasted about 90 minutes and was successful, with no complications.<\/p>\n Human lungs have five lobes — three in the right lung and two in the left.<\/p>\n A medical expert said that in \u2060order to assess the pope’s case they would need to know the size of the tumour and whether the cancer had spread to his lymph nodes, information the \u200bVatican did not immediately provide.<\/p>\n The pope regained consciousness normally after the operation and later returned to \u200bhis hospital room, where he was resting, the medical bulletin said.<\/p>\n The Vatican said earlier this week that he was expected to remain in hospital for about a week \u200band all his public events have been cancelled until October 20.<\/p>\n Leo left the Vatican ahead of the surgery shortly before 1 p.m. (1100 GMT) in Rome and was seen waving from the back of \u200ca black \u2060SUV as his convoy drove about 9 km (5.6 miles) north of the Vatican to the Gemelli.<\/p>\n Upon arrival at the hospital, Leo shook hands with several officials, walked in front of a waiting crowd of well-wishers, some of whom shouted ‘Auguri’ (best wishes), and headed in via the main entrance.<\/p>\n Leo, elected by the world’s cardinals in May 2025, is relatively young for a Church leader. He enjoys sports, including tennis, and is not known to be a smoker or to have had recent health issues.<\/p>\n The late Pope Francis, Leo’s predecessor, was \u200bhospitalised several times as he grew frail in \u200bhis later years. He died aged \u206088 in April 2025.<\/p>\n Leo, who spoke in a firm, clear voice at his only public event on Monday, keeps a very busy schedule. He is due to make an 11-day tour of Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from November 6 to 17, but it was not clear \u200bif this trip would still go ahead.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 11:48:38","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Pope Leo was diagnosed with lung cancer after surgeons removed a part of his right lung on \u200bTuesday, the Vatican said in a medical bulletin, marking a significant health setback for the 71-year-old pontiff.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800889,"headline":"Police clash with Imran Khan supporters in northwestern Pakistan","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/police-clash-with-imran-khan-supporters-in-northwestern-pakistan\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 12:25 pm","unix_time":1791980700,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T12:25:13+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/imran-khan-supporter.jpg","content":" Police fired tear gas and live rounds at supporters of jailed former \u200bPrime Minister Imran Khan in northwestern Pakistan.<\/p>\n Clashes erupted over \u200cthe suspension of his party’s provincial government, party officials said, an account the provincial administration rejected.<\/p>\n The federal government imposed a state of emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Sunday and placed it \u200bunder direct control, citing a surge in militant violence.<\/p>\n Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party \u200bsaid that was a pretext for a political takeover.<\/p>\n Samar Haroon Bilour, \u2060who handles information for the provincial administration, said in a written response to Reuters \u200bthat allegations of live firing by police were \u201cbaseless and frivolous\u201d and were spread by anonymous \u200bsocial media accounts using AI-generated footage.<\/p>\n She said police had responded to rioting and vandalism in a calibrated way, and that about 50 people had been arrested and four cases registered under the Anti-Terrorism \u200bAct.<\/p>\n Khan\u2019s aide and PTI spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari shared videos on X that he linked \u200bto the violence in Bara Bazaar, calling the emergency and governor\u2019s rule a coup and warning \u200cit could \u2060spread.<\/p>\n Reuters could not independently verify the footage or the competing accounts of the shooting.<\/p>\n Five people were injured in the clashes that occurred in the province, party officials said, the most serious of them in Bara, about 15 km (9 miles) from the provincial capital \u200bPeshawar.<\/p>\n PTI information secretary Ikram \u200bKhatana said unidentified \u2060people set fire to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) center in Bara and stormed nearby offices.<\/p>\n Bilour said responsibility for \u200bthe NADRA incident would be established through the investigation, including video \u200bfootage and \u2060witness statements.<\/p>\n The sacking of PTI’s only provincial government is the latest blow against Khan, who has been in prison since 2023.<\/p>\n He has been accused of inciting riots targeting military \u2060sites \u200bas well as corruption and other charges.<\/p>\n His wife, three \u200bsisters and scores of activists are also under detention.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 11:28:12","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Police fired tear gas and live rounds at supporters of jailed former \u200bPrime Minister Imran Khan in northwestern Pakistan.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800885,"headline":"South Korean police detain man over stabbing of eight people at shopping mall","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/south-korean-police-detain-man-over-stabbing-of-eight-people-at-shopping-mall\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 11:22 am","unix_time":1791976920,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T11:22:39+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/south-korea.jpg","content":" South Korean police said they had detained a man suspected of stabbing eight people on Tuesday at a shopping mall in the \u200bcity of Incheon, and the Yonhap news agency said one of the \u200cvictims was in a life-threatening condition.<\/p>\n Officers are investigating the motive and circumstances of the attack, a police spokesperson said by telephone.<\/p>\n A witness cited by Yonhap said the suspect appeared to have knives tied to \u200bboth hands and moved through several floors of the shopping mall, attacking people \u200bas he went before being subdued by bystanders and handed over \u2060to police.<\/p>\n President Lee Jae Myung urged a swift and rigorous investigation after visiting the \u200bIncheon Metropolitan Police Agency and being briefed on the case, according to his office.<\/p>\n “I pray \u200bfor a swift recovery of those who were harmed in today’s stabbing rampage incident,” Lee said in an X post. One woman in her 20s \u200bunderwent surgery at a nearby hospital after suffering life-threatening injuries, it added.<\/p>\n Yonhap said the \u200b59-year-old suspect had previously served a four-year prison sentence for attempted murder.<\/p>\n The suspect has been fitted with \u200can \u2060electronic monitoring ankle bracelet since his release in 2019, and had been receiving treatment for mental health issues and alcohol addiction, the Justice Ministry said in a statement.<\/p>\n The electronic monitoring system is a crime prevention programme that covers people convicted of a range of \u200bcrimes including murder.<\/p>\n The ministry pledged to \u200bconduct a thorough investigation \u2060of the system, which uses real-time GPS tracking to monitor high-risk offenders after their release from prison.<\/p>\n Incheon, west of Seoul, is home \u200bto South Korea’s main airport and forms part of the wider \u200bSeoul metropolitan \u2060area.<\/p>\n South Korea was shaken by a series of stabbing rampages in 2023, including attacks that left multiple people dead and injured.<\/p>\n More recently in May, a 17-year-old girl was fatally stabbed \u2060and another \u200bteenager hurt in the southwestern city of Gwangju \u200bby a man in his 20s, who was later sentenced by a court to life in prison.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 11:22:39","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" South Korean police said they had detained a man suspected of stabbing eight people on Tuesday at a shopping mall in the \u200bcity of Incheon, and the Yonhap news agency said one of the \u200cvictims was in a life-threatening condition.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800903,"headline":"Democratic midterm wins could bring scrutiny for Wall Street","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/democratic-midterm-wins-could-bring-scrutiny-for-wall-street\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 10:40 am","unix_time":1791974400,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T10:40:42+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/The-U.S.-Capitol-as-viewed-from-the-National-Mall-at-blue-hour-in-Washington-D.C.-U.S..png","content":" A Democratic victory in one or both chambers of Congress would not stop President Donald Trump’s administration from handing regulatory breaks to Wall \u200bStreet banks, prediction markets and crypto firms, but it would give Democrats powerful tools to probe the industries and their watchdogs.<\/p>\n Polls suggest Democrats are poised to win the House of Representatives and have an \u200cedge in the race for the Senate. If the party prevails in either chamber, it would gain subpoena power, larger investigative staffs and the power to call in agency heads and corporate CEOs to testify, creating headaches and potential legal entanglements for those under scrutiny.<\/p>\n The administration’s financial policy agenda includes easing rules and supervision it says are too onerous and impeding \u200beconomic growth, while promoting innovation that it says will boost the economy, including crypto and prediction markets.<\/p>\n Democrats are already preparing to investigate Trump’s and his family’s ties to the crypto and prediction market industries, Reuters reported. They say such \u200bdealings are a conflict of interest. The party has also been pushing for more oversight of prediction markets, which they say may be creating new avenues for misconduct and \u2060undermining national security by allowing government insiders to broadcast confidential information.<\/p>\n Prediction markets say they vigilantly guard against misconduct. The administration says supporting crypto and prediction market innovation will keep American jobs and capital onshore.<\/p>\n Asked about such potential probes in a September \u200b30 phone interview, Representative Ro Khanna, a Democratic member of the House Oversight Committee, told Reuters: “I absolutely think we need to look at these financial transactions, these crypto transactions, and see if any of our national security has been compromised.”<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 11:54:03","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" A Democratic victory in one or both chambers of Congress would not stop President Donald Trump’s administration from handing regulatory breaks to Wall \u200bStreet banks, prediction markets and crypto firms, but it would give Democrats powerful tools to probe the industries and their watchdogs.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800894,"headline":"Housing supply must be fixed 'hard way', not with caps","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/housing-supply-must-be-fixed-hard-way-not-with-caps\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":null,"title":null,"email":null,"twitter":null,"thumbnail":null},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 9:44 am","unix_time":1791971040,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T09:44:51+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/A-composite-created-on-Wednesday-February-11-2026-representing-the-housing-market..png","content":" Homes are likely to keep getting cheaper for about a year, but the downturn in house prices has not been replicated in rentals.<\/p>\n Property prices are tipped to fall between eight and 11 per cent from their March peak and will only start to recover by September 2027, a survey of 384 real estate experts has found.<\/p>\n That means dwelling prices are only about halfway through a tailspin that has wiped away 5.2 per cent of their value since March, according to property data firm Cotality.<\/p>\n For Sydney and Melbourne, an 11 per cent dip would pull property prices down to levels not seen since as early as February 2021.<\/p>\n Australia scored 4.3 out of 10 on the Australian Property Institute’s index of property market strength in the three months to September 30.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, median rents have hit about $700 a week nationally, according to Cotality, and most Australians are in favour of rental caps, polling from The Australia Institute, released on Wednesday, shows.<\/p>\n Housing Minister Clare O’Neil said she felt for renters, but work had to be done “the hard way” as a rental cap would worsen supply.<\/p>\n “The effect would be landlords taking their homes off the market, reducing our rental stock, and we wouldn’t see the investment in building new homes that we really need,” she told Seven’s Sunrise.<\/p>\n “I really agree that housing is too expensive in Australia, but we have to do this the hard way, and that is building more homes for our country.”<\/p>\n The Property Institute’s research paints a bleak picture.<\/p>\n Victoria, NSW and Queensland fared poorest, scoring below five, with Victoria bringing up the rear with a woeful 3.7.<\/p>\n “Confidence is basically holding back market activity at the moment,” research head Sherman Chan told AAP.<\/p>\n “People are worried about more interest rate hikes on the horizon, and they are after greater clarity.”<\/p>\n Higher interest rates were the property sages’ most feared bogeymen, followed by inflation and then the roll-back of tax concessions for property investors.<\/p>\n The cash rate was hitched up to a 15-year high of 4.6 per cent at the Reserve Bank’s September 29 meeting, which governor Michele Bullock flagged may well be followed by more rises before the year is out.<\/p>\n The bank has made plain it is now willing to sacrifice jobs and ignore plummeting house prices to keep a lid on inflation, which an International Monetary Fund outlook on Tuesday forecast would stay above the RBA’s two-to-three per cent target until the end of 2027.<\/p>\n The Middle East conflict, AI boom and well above-average temperatures caused by a super El Nino climate pattern are jacking up the prices of oil, technology and agricultural products – patterns without a clear sunset and largely beyond Canberra’s ability to tame.<\/p>\n But Dr Chan said the downturn could not be explained by interest rate anxiety alone, adding there would have been more hope for the market if Labor had ironed out and communicated the May budget’s tax changes sooner.<\/p>\n Negative gearing will be limited to new builds, and real capital gains taxed at a 30 per cent minimum from July 2027, the same month the Property Institute thinks a recovery could begin.<\/p>\n But that could come sooner if the government manages to clue in home buyers about the changes before they kick in, Dr Chan said.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 11:45:12","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Homes are likely to keep getting cheaper for about a year, but the downturn in house prices has not been replicated in rentals.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800805,"headline":"NASA's Perseverance rover breaks record","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/nasas-perseverance-rover-breaks-record-for-off-planet-driving-on-mars\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 5:58 pm","unix_time":1791914280,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T17:58:56+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/nasa.jpg","content":" NASA’s robotic Perseverance rover has now driven farther than any other vehicle on the surface of any world \u200bother than Earth,.<\/p>\n They racked up 28.1 miles (45.2 km) since arriving on Mars in 2021, the US space agency said on Tuesday.<\/p>\n The car-sized, \u200csix-wheeled rover reached the milestone 5-1\/2 years into its mission to explore if conditions conducive to microbial life ever existed on Earth’s neighbor.<\/p>\n In doing so, it is visiting some of the most ancient terrain ever encountered in the solar system.<\/p>\n “Perseverance’s engineering hardware and instruments are in excellent shape with all redundant systems still available,” Steven Lee of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in \u200bCalifornia, told Reuters.<\/p>\n “A recent assessment of all systems concluded that they are capable of operating well into the 2030s, likely beyond,” added Lee, the \u200bproject manager for NASA’s two Mars rovers, Perseverance and Curiosity.<\/p>\n Perseverance has exceeded the previous figure of 28.06 miles (45 km) driven \u2060on the Martian surface by NASA’s Opportunity rover from 2004 to 2018. Both also exceeded the driving distances of any lunar rover.<\/p>\n Perseverance, with its \u200bsuite of scientific instruments, has focused on the Jezero Crater, a region in the northern hemisphere of Mars believed to have been flooded with water and \u200bhome to a lake basin billions of years ago.<\/p>\n The rover set the milestone in a journey toward an area called Idubi, through the region off the crater’s western rim nicknamed Lac de Charmes.<\/p>\n Its companion rover, Curiosity, rolls along in the Gale Crater near the Martian equator.<\/p>\n Perseverance is showing no signs of slowing down, Lee added.<\/p>\n Its mobility system mechanisms are being tested to \u200bshow it can drive 100 km (62 miles) or more, he said, with the hardware to be tested to the equivalent of 150 km to 300 km (93 \u200bmiles to 186 miles) in the effort.<\/p>\n NASA attributed a major role in Perseverance’s success to its self-driving capability, an autonomous navigation system called AutoNav. Lee said 90% of its \u200cdrives are \u2060done autonomously, with no human intervention.<\/p>\n “Perseverance takes stereo images of the terrain ahead, generates a 3D software map, and selects the safest path towards a drive goal,” he said.<\/p>\n Another key component is the Vision Compute Element, a fast co-processor computer that allows the rover to process images and run its self-driving software very quickly, almost continuously during drives, Lee added.<\/p>\n That contrasts with previous rovers, which needed to pause to “think” before each drive segment, he said.<\/p>\n “Perseverance builds on the 29-year legacy of \u200bour past Mars rovers \u2014 Sojourner, Spirit, \u200bOpportunity and Curiosity \u2014 each incorporating prior \u2060lessons and improving our ability to drive on another world,” Lee said.<\/p>\n Lee said the rover’s biggest achievement was almost certainly its discovery, unveiled last year, of a potential biosignature, or possible sign of ancient microbial life.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 18:39:59","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" NASA’s robotic Perseverance rover has now driven farther than any other vehicle on the surface of any world \u200bother than Earth,.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800810,"headline":"US immigration authorities raid home of Democratic Trump critic Ilhan Omar","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/us-immigration-authorities-raid-home-of-democratic-trump-critic-ilhan-omar\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 4:16 pm","unix_time":1791908160,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T16:16:22+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/omar-house.jpg","content":" US authorities conducted a predawn raid on Monday on the Washington, DC, home of Democratic US Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, an outspoken critic of Donald Trump who has been the \u200btarget of political insults by the Republican president, as part of an ongoing investigation, the Justice Department said.<\/p>\n A person familiar with the investigation said it is related to alleged immigration fraud, and part of \u200cthe probe concerns the Somali-born lawmaker’s immigration paperwork filled out by her late father when she was a child.<\/p>\n Omar wrote on social media that the US government is being weaponized to target a political enemy of the president.<\/p>\n “For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns,” Omar said. “This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation. I will not be silenced.”<\/p>\n Other Democrats accused Trump and his administration of abuse of power. Omar, 44, is seeking a fifth two-year term in the US House of Representatives in the midterm elections on November \u200b3.<\/p>\n Campaigning in Youngstown, Ohio, Trump quickly turned to Omar, who was born in Somalia and became a US citizen in 2000, settling in Minnesota, home to a large community of Somalis.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 17:24:00","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" US authorities conducted a predawn raid on Monday on the Washington, DC, home of Democratic US Representative Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, an outspoken critic of Donald Trump who has been the \u200btarget of political insults by the Republican president, as part of an ongoing investigation, the Justice Department said.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800802,"headline":"More than 100 foreign trekkers stranded in flood-hit region of Nepal","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/more-than-100-foreign-trekkers-stranded-in-flood-hit-region-of-nepal\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 3:54 pm","unix_time":1791906840,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T15:54:26+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/trek.jpg","content":" More than 100 foreign trekkers are stranded at different locations in Nepal.<\/p>\n This is after the flooding of a river in central \u200bNepal at the weekend swept away hiking trails and bridges, an \u200cofficial said on Monday.<\/p>\n Authorities rescued 321 people, including 12 foreigners, on Monday after a pre-dawn landslide at the weekend in Gorkha district, about 100 km (62 miles) west of Kathmandu, blocked the Budhi Gandaki River, \u200bleading to downstream flooding.<\/p>\n The army said the rescue operation would continue on \u200bTuesday, even as the water level in the river had receded.<\/p>\n The \u2060river is a tributary of the Trishuli River, downstream from another tributary where \u200ba glacier collapse caused a catastrophic flood in August that killed 1,457 people, with thousands still \u200bmissing.<\/p>\n There were no reports of fatalities in the flood, but five villagers were out of contact after black muddy sludge and debris washed away homes and damaged infrastructure, including three hydroelectric plants, national disaster \u200bauthorities said.<\/p>\n Bhuwan Raj Ojha, an official of the Manaslu Conservation Area Project that \u200bincludes a popular trekking route, said there were more than 100 foreign trekkers stranded in different \u200careas \u2060who could not return because part of the trail had been swept away.<\/p>\n “Those hikers who want to return because of the flood need to be rescued. Those who want to continue their trekking can do so from locations that are safe,” \u200bOjha told Reuters from \u200bGorkha.<\/p>\n “There are restaurants \u2060and tea houses along the route. They are safe.”<\/p>\n The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development said the latest flood may \u200bhave been triggered by the failure of a temporary river \u200bblockage created \u2060by a landslide, according to preliminary accounts from Nepal’s authorities reviewed by ICIMOD.<\/p>\n “This event is another reminder of how exposed mountain communities and river corridors remain to sudden, \u2060cascading hazards,” \u200bPema Gyamtsho, director general of ICIMOD, said.<\/p>\n “While response \u200befforts must remain the immediate priority, understanding what triggered this flood will be critical for reducing future \u200brisks and strengthening resilience.”<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 16:56:19","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" More than 100 foreign trekkers are stranded at different locations in Nepal.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800788,"headline":"Reporters accuse India of crackdown on journalists","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/world\/reporters-accuse-india-of-crackdown-on-journalists\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Reuters ","title":"","email":"","twitter":"Reuters ","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Reuters.jpg"},"dateline":"October 13, 2026 2:36 pm","unix_time":1791902160,"iso_time":"2026-10-13T14:36:07+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/india-journalist.jpg","content":" Police used excessive and targeted force on journalists covering youth-led protests in India, local press groups and international media rights bodies said, and warned that \u200bpress freedom in the country was under threat.<\/p>\n Young Indians, mobilised by the “cockroach” youth movement and supported by opposition parties, took \u200cto the streets of New Delhi on the weekend demanding the resignation of India’s Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over a sharply contested revision of voter lists in the country.<\/p>\n They allege the names of more than 130 million voters were deleted from the electoral roll to benefit Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party in the elections, a charge \u200bthe Election Commission denies.<\/p>\n Nearly three dozen journalists from outlets including the Indian Express, Scroll and Newslaundry, were detained for hours before being \u200breleased, according to Reuters interviews with some journalists.<\/p>\n Some were dragged and roughly handled by the police and their phones \u2060were seized, according to a Reuters reporter at the scene, journalists interviewed by Reuters, and footage from mainstream and digital news outlets.<\/p>\n Some of those detained \u200bsaid they were clearly identifiable as members of the press. The Reuters journalist was also briefly detained.<\/p>\n The Delhi police did not immediately reply to an \u200be-mailed request for comment on how many journalists were detained and why, and how they were handled by officers.<\/p>\n Earlier, police said in a video posted on X that some protesters had posed as journalists and had interfered with their work.<\/p>\n The government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.<\/p>\n “The actions of the Indian authorities during the recent \u200bstudent protests, led by the Cockroach Janta Party, demonstrate how their tactics are designed to stifle media coverage and can be combined to suppress \u200bjournalism,” said Ritika Jain, India representative of Reporters Without Borders.<\/p>\n “Detention, surveillance, internet shutdowns, and the removal of journalistic content form a chain of restrictions,” she said, urging authorities \u200cto remove \u2060restrictions on journalists.<\/p>\n The police action led lawyers to seek a ruling from India’s top court on Sunday to allow lawyers and journalists to perform their duties, with the court ruling in favour.<\/p>\n However, some detentions came after the court order, journalists said.<\/p>\n Press Club of India, the nation’s largest journalist group, called the police action “a blatant attack on the freedom of press.”<\/p>\n In a joint statement with three other bodies, it said journalists \u200bwere held while they were filming \u200bthe police detaining protesters and \u2060their devices were seized.<\/p>\n The associations also sought a formal apology and investigation into the actions of senior police officials.<\/p>\n “I was interviewing some people detained in a bus when a police officer came at me and grabbed my mic…I \u200bwas dragged, my phone was snatched and I was forcefully detained along with my producer,” Anmol Pritam, a \u200breporter at Indian digital \u2060news outlet Newslaundry, told Reuters. He was detained for nearly three hours on October 10.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-13 15:49:28","section":"World","section_id":3,"excerpt":" Police used excessive and targeted force on journalists covering youth-led protests in India, local press groups and international media rights bodies said, and warned that \u200bpress freedom in the country was under threat.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}],"headlines":[{"id":800998,"headline":"Lautoka identified for shipbuilding facility","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/lautoka-identified-for-shipbuilding-facility\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 15, 2026 6:10 am","unix_time":1792044600,"iso_time":"2026-10-15T06:10:40+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Lautoka-port-facility.jpg","content":" Plans are progressing for a new $792 million shipbuilding and ship repair facility in Lautoka, following Cabinet’s endorsement of a feasibility study aimed at revitalising Fiji’s shipbuilding industry.<\/p>\n Lautoka has been identified as the preferred location due to its proximity to existing port infrastructure and the availability of land.<\/p>\n The proposed facility is projected to generate $2.7 billion in revenue over 30 years, against estimated operating costs of $2.4 billion during the same period.<\/p>\n The feasibility study recommends a Public-Private Partnership model to attract private investment and expertise while reducing the Government’s financial exposure.<\/p>\n A phased approach has also been proposed, beginning with ship repair services before expanding into shipbuilding operations.<\/p>\n The Australian Government has indicated support for the next phase through technical, legal and financial assistance.<\/p>\n Engagement with the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific will also continue to support procurement and the identification of a suitable private sector partner.<\/p>\n The proposed development is expected to create employment opportunities, attract foreign investment and strengthen local industries and supply chains.<\/p>\n It is also expected to support skills development and technology transfer for Fijian workers and businesses.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-15 06:12:42","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Plans are progressing for a new $792 million shipbuilding and ship repair facility in Lautoka, following Cabinet’s endorsement of a feasibility study aimed at revitalising Fiji’s shipbuilding industry.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":801002,"headline":"State house to mark 100th anniversary","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/state-house-to-mark-100th-anniversary\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 15, 2026 6:09 am","unix_time":1792044540,"iso_time":"2026-10-15T06:09:20+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/State-House.jpg","content":" Fiji’s State House will mark its 100th anniversary next month, with Cabinet endorsing a series of centenary celebrations.<\/p>\n Constructed in 1926, State House serves as the official residence of the President of the Republic of Fiji and holds historical significance in the country’s constitutional governance and national leadership.<\/p>\n The celebrations will be held under the theme \u201cAcknowledging Our Past, Building Our Future Together.\u201d<\/p>\n A series of activities has been planned, including historical features, media programmes, youth engagement initiatives and an oratory competition.<\/p>\n The programme will also feature a Honours and Awards Ceremony and afternoon tea on November 10, followed by the official Centenary Commemorative Dinner on November 11.<\/p>\n The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs will coordinate the celebrations through an inter-agency planning committee.<\/p>\n The commemoration aims to preserve Fiji’s institutional heritage, strengthen public understanding of the country’s constitutional journey and recognise the history of public service.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-15 06:09:20","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Fiji’s State House will mark its 100th anniversary next month, with Cabinet endorsing a series of centenary celebrations.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":801000,"headline":"FRCS clarifies Australian visitor's departure arrangements","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/frcs-clarifies-australian-visitors-departure-arrangements\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 15, 2026 6:06 am","unix_time":1792044360,"iso_time":"2026-10-15T06:06:59+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/FRCS-1280x720-1.jpg","content":" The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service has clarified that it did not detain an Australian visitor following changes to his departure arrangements aboard a yacht.<\/p>\n FRCS says the captain of the yacht, which had a three-person crew, voluntarily informed the authority in writing that the visitor would not be travelling to the vessel’s next overseas destination.<\/p>\n The declaration was taken into account when processing the yacht’s outward clearance.<\/p>\n FRCS says under the Customs Act 1986, vessel masters are required to obtain clearance before departing Fiji and provide accurate information about passengers, crew and travel arrangements.<\/p>\n The authority confirms that the captain initially held the Australian visitor’s passport.<\/p>\n However, following discussions between FRCS and Immigration, the passport has since been returned to the visitor.<\/p>\n FRCS says the visitor holds a valid outbound ticket and is expected to leave Fiji by the end of October.<\/p>\n The authority maintains that it acted in accordance with its border protection responsibilities under the Customs Act and remains committed to treating visitors with courtesy and respect.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-15 06:06:59","section":"Maritime","section_id":54,"excerpt":" The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service has clarified that it did not detain an Australian visitor following changes to his departure arrangements aboard a yacht.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800968,"headline":"110 limbs fitted at Jaipur Foot camp","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/110-limbs-fitted-at-jaipur-foot-camp\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Praneeta Prakash","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"praneeta.prakash@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"PraneetaFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/11\/Praneeta-Prakash-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 5:38 pm","unix_time":1791999480,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T17:38:04+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/legs.png","content":" A total of 110 prosthetic limbs have been fitted under the 2026 Jaipur Foot Camp as organizers work towards a target of 650.<\/p>\n Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti President Satish Mehta says the team began work on October 6 and is on track to meet its target.<\/p>\n The camp is being held across Suva, Labasa and Nadi, with work scheduled to finish in Nadi on November 26.<\/p>\n Mehta says 651 people have registered, and the team will try to accommodate additional patients who come forward before the camp closes.<\/p>\n He says the organization exceeded its target during its previous visit in 2022, fitting 629 limbs against a planned 600.<\/p>\n The team produced and fitted 21 prosthetic limbs in a single day.<\/p>\n Mehta says most patients can arrive in the morning and return home that evening, although more complex cases may require additional time for training and practice.<\/p>\n \u201c The team is very experienced. So that’s a good thing.It’s a small team, but it’s a very experienced team. And led by people who are really very passionate about it, who really want to help. So post-treatment, if there’s any problem, people always go there because your technicians also have been doing Jaipur foot limbs.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Mehta says local technicians are also gaining practical experience to help them continue providing fittings, adjustments, and replacements after the visiting team leaves.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 17:38:04","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" A total of 110 prosthetic limbs have been fitted under the 2026 Jaipur Foot Camp as organizers work towards a target of 650.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800965,"headline":"Ageing properties drive housing costs","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/ageing-properties-drive-housing-costs\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Riya Mala","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"riya.mala@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/IMG_1963-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 5:32 pm","unix_time":1791999120,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T17:32:50+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/ashlin-.png","content":" The Public Rental Board is seeking new partners and investment to expand Fiji\u2019s public housing supply, as rising demand and ageing properties put pressure on the rental market.<\/p>\n PRB Chairperson Asenaca Nawaqalevu says the board needs to find innovative ways to increase its housing stock and provide safe, affordable and sustainable homes for low-income families.<\/p>\n Nawaqalevu says some PRB properties in Suva are over 60 years old, while other sites have been vacant for more than 20 years and need redevelopment.<\/p>\n \u201cThe two glaring examples in Suva are located on Mead Road and in Bagasau, Toorak. Both sit on prime land in our urban areas. The outcomes of the workshop show a shift in stakeholder engagement. Stakeholders emphasized the need to return to a holistic approach to managing apartments, including building safer and more vibrant communities.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Nawaqalevu says the board\u2019s focus is no longer just on providing a roof over people\u2019s heads, but also on creating safer and stronger communities.<\/p>\n \u201cNow, in terms of the stock we have under H9, this refers only to the stock currently held by the PRB. It also includes the fact that we have a lease in Navua, as well as a lease or title for Nadi, which we are looking forward to establishing. Just in case I forget, we need to move forward. It has been over 20 years since it was vacated, and we really need support in terms of finding partners, moving forward legally, and securing financing for that major project.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The new strategic plan will guide the PRB\u2019s work over the next five years, including improving financial sustainability, strengthening governance, and investing in safer housing.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 17:32:50","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Public Rental Board is seeking new partners and investment to expand Fiji\u2019s public housing supply, as rising demand and ageing properties put pressure on the rental market.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800963,"headline":"Careless driving cost two more lives","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/careless-driving-cost-two-more-lives\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Josefa Sigavolavola ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"josefa.sigavolavola@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/josefa-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 5:28 pm","unix_time":1791998880,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T17:28:40+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/car-accidents.jpg","content":" Motorists are being warned against ignoring double lines and traffic laws following a fatal head-on collision along the Queens Highway last night that claimed the lives of two 26-year-old men.<\/p>\n The current death toll stands at 41, and according to statistics, these figures are mostly due to drivers being irresponsible behind the wheel.<\/p>\n In a statement, the Land Transport Authority stressed that road markings and traffic signs are in place to protect road users, with preliminary information suggesting dangerous overtaking may have contributed to the crash.<\/p>\n Acting Chief Executive Makitalena Drova stressed that motorists who disregard road rules not only endanger themselves but also place the lives of innocent people at risk.<\/p>\n “Double lines are not suggestions. They are there to prevent dangerous overtaking and protect road users. Motorists who choose to ignore these markings put themselves and innocent people in danger. If it is not safe to overtake, do not do it.”<\/em><\/p>\n Drova also warned motorists against speeding and reckless driving, saying a few minutes saved on the road are never worth the risk of losing a life.<\/p>\n The Authority reiterated that road safety is non-negotiable and that drivers must strictly obey speed limits, maintain safe following distances, and exercise patience behind the wheel to help prevent further tragedies on our roads.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 17:28:40","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Motorists are being warned against ignoring double lines and traffic laws following a fatal head-on collision along the Queens Highway last night that claimed the lives of two 26-year-old men.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800961,"headline":"Ocean concerns to be taken to COP31","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/ocean-concerns-to-be-taken-to-cop31\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 5:26 pm","unix_time":1791998760,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T17:26:11+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Untitled-1-96.jpg","content":" Pacific Ocean Envoy Inia Seruiratu says protecting the ocean is essential to safeguarding food security, livelihoods and the cultural identity of Pacific communities.<\/p>\n Seruiratu says the ocean is more than a natural resource, as it plays a central role in economic security, traditions and everyday lives.<\/p>\n He says coastal communities are already experiencing climate change impacts, making ocean protection an urgent priority.<\/p>\n The Ocean Envoy is calling for ocean protection to be placed at the centre of international climate negotiations ahead of COP31.<\/p>\n \u201cIt’s all important for us, because for us in the Pacific particularly, the ocean is our life. It defines us. It is our culture. It is our home. It is our food security. It is our economic security. So when you look at human security, the oceans are so important to all of us.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n He says protecting marine ecosystems is not only important for Pacific communities but also for the world.<\/p>\n The Climate envoy from Fiji has stressed that the ocean must remain central to all COP climate discussions, warning that a healthy planet cannot exist without a healthy ocean.<\/p>\n Oceans Envoy Tina Stege says the Pacific wants ocean issues included in discussions on climate adaptation, mitigation, financing and resilience.<\/p>\n “And the only way to do that is to respond forcefully and overwhelmingly to the fact that we will be overshooting 1.5. And that any outcomes in Antalya need to respond to that fact. And I think that we have a clear mandate from certainly the Pacific and others in the room because we heard their response. We need to respond to the overshoot of 1.5. And since that is my portfolio, that is what I’m charged to champion, I will be focused on that all the way into Turkey.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The envoy adds that stronger international partnerships and faster access to climate finance are needed to support communities facing climate impact<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 17:26:11","section":"Climate Change","section_id":605,"excerpt":" Pacific Ocean Envoy Inia Seruiratu says protecting the ocean is essential to safeguarding food security, livelihoods and the cultural identity of Pacific communities.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800958,"headline":"Tikoduadua's daughter set to return home","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/tikoduaduas-daughter-set-to-return-home\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Josefa Sigavolavola ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"josefa.sigavolavola@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/josefa-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 5:22 pm","unix_time":1791998520,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T17:22:48+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/pio-.png","content":" The daughter of Minister Pio Tikoduadua is set to return home this Saturday after spending months recovering from serious injuries sustained while on duty earlier this year.<\/p>\n In a social media post, the Defence Minister described the recovery process as a difficult and deeply personal journey for his family, praising his daughter’s determination and resilience throughout months of treatment and rehabilitation.<\/p>\n Tikoduadua says his daughter suffered multiple serious injuries, including fractures to her right arm and leg, a fractured left knee and significant internal injuries after being struck by a vehicle while manning the Laqere checkpoint in April.<\/p>\n Her condition was so severe that she was placed in an induced coma for five weeks to allow doctors to conduct operations and provide treatment.<\/p>\n Since April, she has undergone extensive treatment and rehabilitation in both Fiji and Australia as she worked toward recovery.<\/p>\n Tikoduadua expressed that he was proud of her courage and her commitment to returning to public service.<\/p>\n \u201cShe is now ready to return home this Saturday. I am proud of her determination and her willingness to return to serving her country.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The Minister has further acknowledged the support of medical teams at Colonial War Memorial Hospital and Epworth Hospital in Australia, as well as the Fijian community in Melbourne and others who supported his daughter’s treatment and recovery.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 17:22:48","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The daughter of Minister Pio Tikoduadua is set to return home this Saturday after spending months recovering from serious injuries sustained while on duty earlier this year.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800955,"headline":"Man convicted of defrauding TC Winston relief fund","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/man-convicted-of-defrauding-tc-winston-relief-fund\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Mollyn Nakabea","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"mollyn.nakabea@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Mollyn-real-image-200x200.jpeg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 3:22 pm","unix_time":1791991320,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T15:22:15+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/bailed.jpg","content":" The Suva Magistrates Court has convicted a man for misusing the Government’s Help for Home Initiative, established to assist households affected by Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016.<\/p>\n Atunaisa Ravatu was charged by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption.<\/p>\n Resident Magistrate Shelyn Kiran found Ravatu guilty of one count of General Dishonesty – Causing a Loss, involving over $22, 200.<\/p>\n He was also convicted of two counts of General Dishonesty – Obtaining a Gain, involving $1,600 and $2,000 received through cash-back promotions offered by Vinod Patel Company Limited under the initiative.<\/p>\n The court heard that Ravatu had taken M-Paisa cards belonging to villagers of Vuna, Taveuni, which were intended to assist them in purchasing building materials to rebuild their homes following Tropical Cyclone Winston.<\/p>\n Evidence presented during the trial established that Ravatu received cash-back payments associated with the cards and had control over the funds.<\/p>\n The court also considered admissions made by Ravatu during his caution interview, in which he acknowledged using other people’s money without their consent.<\/p>\n Having considered the prosecution’s evidence, the court found Ravatu guilty on all three counts and convicted him accordingly.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 15:22:15","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Suva Magistrates Court has convicted a man for misusing the Government’s Help for Home Initiative, established to assist households affected by Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800951,"headline":"Unhealthy lifestyles put pacific lives at risk","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/unhealthy-lifestyles-put-pacific-lives-at-risk\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Bose Vavataga","title":"Multimedia Journalist West","email":"bose.vavataga@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Bose-1-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 3:04 pm","unix_time":1791990240,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T15:04:43+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/Doctor-1.jpg","content":" Heart disease continues to threaten lives across the Pacific, with unhealthy diets and inactive lifestyles increasing the risk of serious illness and death.<\/p>\n Pacific Specialist Healthcare\u2019s award winning cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon Dr Sanjeev Khulbey warns that the danger often builds over years through everyday choices, including fatty foods, sugary drinks, processed meals and a lack of exercise.<\/p>\n Dr Khulbey says food and lifestyle are likely to play a greater role in heart disease than stress alone.<\/p>\n He says that poor eating habits and physical inactivity can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, all major risk factors for heart disease.<\/p>\n In Fiji, ischaemic heart disease and stroke remain among the leading causes of death.<\/p>\n Dr Khulbey says the concern is that many people do not recognise the damage until their condition becomes serious.<\/p>\n By then, treatment may involve major surgery, and the consequences can be life-changing.<\/p>\n Pacific Specialist Healthcare in Nadi has repaired or replaced heart valves in 30 patients from Samoa, Vanuatu, Nauru, Tuvalu, Tonga, Kiribati and the Solomon Islands.<\/p>\n One patient from New Zealand has also received treatment.<\/p>\n The hospital\u2019s work highlights the importance of specialised cardiac services for patients across the region.<\/p>\n However, Dr Khulbey says preventing heart disease must receive greater attention, alongside access to treatment.<\/p>\n He says healthier food choices, regular exercise and early health checks can help people reduce their risk before serious complications develop.<\/p>\n His warning is that heart disease should not be addressed only when a patient reaches the operating theatre.<\/p>\n For Pacific communities, the challenge is to make healthier choices today to prevent avoidable illness and save lives in the years ahead.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 15:19:02","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Heart disease continues to threaten lives across the Pacific, with unhealthy diets and inactive lifestyles increasing the risk of serious illness and death.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800930,"headline":"Government investigates reported cybersecurity incident","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/government-investigates-reported-cybersecurity-incident\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Josefa Sigavolavola ","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"josefa.sigavolavola@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/josefa-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 1:08 pm","unix_time":1791983280,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T13:08:31+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/cybersecurity.png","content":" The Ministry of Policing and Communications is closely monitoring developments surrounding a reported cybersecurity incident involving a regional organisation based in Suva.<\/p>\n In a statement, the Ministry said it had noted a public statement issued by the United States Embassy regarding a suspected cybersecurity incident and is encouraging government agencies, non-government organisations and private sector entities to strengthen their digital security systems.<\/p>\n The Ministry is also urging organisations to maintain appropriate cybersecurity safeguards and continuously monitor their networks as authorities assess the reported threat.<\/p>\n The development comes amid growing concerns over cybercrime and cybersecurity threats in the region.<\/p>\n Speaking to FBC News, Defense Minister Pio Tikoduadua stressed the need for stronger measures to combat cybercrime.<\/p>\n “Cybersecurity is one of those transnational organised crimes that is hitting Fiji badly; we continue to work on ways and means of bettering,particularly the legislation and the powers that are vested in the institution to deal with it”<\/em><\/p>\n Tikoduadua said Fiji continues to work with international partners to address the evolving threat posed by cybercriminals.<\/p>\n China has rejected allegations linking it to the reported cyberattack, while Foreign Affairs Minister Sakiasi Ditoka says Fiji remains committed to working closely with its international partners to address national and regional security concerns.<\/p>\n “I think that’s what we need to work on, but as far as our relations with our international partners, those are all intact, and we also value them very much, and we’d like to strengthen that commitment that we have and value very much.”<\/em><\/p>\n Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says he has not been fully briefed on the reported incident despite claims by the U.S. Embassy that the Fiji Government had been “No, that has not been released to the Prime Minister’s office. I believe there was a suspected attempt during the PreCOP; I don’t know whether it was actually successful or not.”<\/em><\/p>\n Rabuka says any investigation into the matter will be handled by the relevant authorities.<\/p>\n The reported incident has drawn comparisons to a cybersecurity breach involving the Pacific Islands Forum in 2024, highlighting ongoing concerns about the vulnerability of regional organisations to cyber threats.<\/p>\n At this stage, the identity of the organisation affected by the latest reported incident has not been publicly disclosed.<\/p>\n Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening cybersecurity resilience and promoting a safe and secure digital environment across Fiji and the wider Pacific region.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 13:36:15","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" The Ministry of Policing and Communications is closely monitoring developments surrounding a reported cybersecurity incident involving a regional organisation based in Suva.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"},{"id":800933,"headline":"Challenges persist in energy projects","url":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/news\/challenges-persist-in-energy-projects\/","alternative_byline":null,"featured_byline":{"scalar":"","name":"Nikhil Aiyush Kumar","title":"Multimedia Journalist","email":"nikhil.kumar@fbc.com.fj","twitter":"NikhilFBCNews","thumbnail":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/nikhil-200x200.jpg"},"dateline":"October 14, 2026 1:06 pm","unix_time":1791983160,"iso_time":"2026-10-14T13:06:09+12:00","image":"https:\/\/www.fbcnews.com.fj\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/EFL.jpg","content":" Energy Fiji Limited says land approvals, environmental requirements, and procurement processes remain critical challenges for major electricity projects.<\/p>\n EFL Chief Financial Officer Semisi Tawake says securing funding alone is not enough, as projects require extensive technical preparation, regulatory approvals, and commercial planning.<\/p>\n He says these requirements determine how quickly projects move into implementation.<\/p>\n EFL says that infrastructure development requires better coordination across technical teams, financiers, regulators, and stakeholders.<\/p>\n \u201cAt EFL, our experience is that having an infrastructure ambition and having access to capital are both important, but neither by themselves to deliver infrastructure. Between ambition and investment sits a significant amount of work around technical preparation, land approvals, safeguards, procurement, commercial structuring and risk allocation.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Tawake adds that delays in any single area can stall an entire project, regardless of funding availability.<\/p>\n \u201cThere is a journey from identifying a system need to defining a technical solution, securing land for complete environmental and social safeguards and approvals, establishing a commercial structure and risk allocation, preparing procurement and finally achieving financial growth. Any of these areas can become the critical part. Therefore a project can be technically sensible and even economically effective, but still not be ready to absorb financing.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The Ministry of Finance says early engagement with development partners and financiers is essential to identifying potential obstacles before they affect project delivery.<\/p>\n EFL is pursuing a two-billion-dollar investment programme to strengthen Fiji’s electricity grid and expand renewable energy generation.<\/p>\n","mobile_options":{"card_style":"default-1","bar":"foo"},"topics":{"Coronavirus":91,"Something Else":43},"modified":"2026-10-14 13:15:07","section":"News","section_id":1,"excerpt":" Energy Fiji Limited says land approvals, environmental requirements, and procurement processes remain critical challenges for major electricity projects.<\/p>","video_loop":"","video_story":"","api_version":"1.0.1","content_type":"story"}]}
\nFor the Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre Nadi\u2019s area of responsibility, 11 to 15 named tropical cyclones are predicted.<\/p>\n
\nFiji.<\/p>\n
\nit is called Jaduram Mall. It should be completed; as you can see now, it’s at that stage, halfway to completion.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n
\nincreasingly challenging to meet rental payments.<\/p>\n
\nfamily and friends.<\/p>\n
\nThe victims included six women and two men, Yonhap reported.<\/p>\n
\nnotified.<\/p>\n