Fijians are urged to give feedback on the current 23 flag designs, suggest new designs and join the crusade to find a national symbol all Fijians can identify with.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says Fijians should give feedback of a design that speaks of the experience of being a Fijian now and in the future.

He says public reaction to the 23 flag designs that have been put out hasn’t been entirely positive.

Bainimarama says many do not object to the flag being changed but want a design they like.

“In our vakamalua attitude to most things, it sometimes takes us Fijians a while to get involved but now that is happening. And that is good. I welcome this debate about the designs, the criticism of designs as well as the positive responses that have come in. I can assure you that as a Government, we don’t intend to cut corners and we certainly intend to listen to the new suggestions. As we have said before none of the current designs are locked in stone. And if necessary, we will review the current process to get the right result.”

Bainimarama says a lot of Fijians are now getting engaged and suggesting new ideas, only after the designs have been put out.

The new flag is expected to be hoisted on Independence Day on October 10th 2015.