The prosperity of a society cannot be measured only in monetary terms however it’s measured by the citizen’s safety, inclusiveness, and equal opportunities.

Minister for Waterways, Dr Mahendra Reddy while speaking in support of the President’s address in Parliament yesterday highlighted that now is the time to move ahead as a nation.

Dr Reddy reiterated that every Fijian has equal access to education and economic prospects.

“We are no longer strangers in our own community, we are no longer victims of discriminatory notions of national identity. Our success is not determined by race, religion or color of our skin. The success is determined by one’s character and ability.”

He says some people are still making racist and bigotry comments to grow hatred between Fijians.

“There are some elements in our society who are willing to purposely impact the racial harmony for self-betterment. People continue to use this to poison the mind of the youth risking the incitement of most serious kind of hatred and intolerance amongst us Fijians.”

Government MP Vijendra Prakash while supporting the head of state speech said youth carry the banner of equality and inclusiveness in the future.

Prakash adds the new digital platform opens up new challenges and opportunities for the youth enabling them to connect with the world.