The Government has acknowledged that cultural heritage provides an irreplaceable identity for communities and individuals as it holds an intrinsic value for both the present and future generation.

Ministry of iTaukei Affairs permanent secretary Naipote Katonitabua says language, food, festivals, rituals, arts and traditions are important features of a community and must be safeguarded.

Speaking at the National Craft Exhibition in Valelevu, Nasinu, Katonitabua praised the Fiji Arts Council for providing such platforms to local artisans so that they can continue making the crafts rooted in the indigenous culture.

Katonitabua is calling on the youths, especially those in urban centres, to take note that the indigenous cultural ways were becoming extinct with transfer of traditional knowledge becoming a major challenge.