Prime Minister commends Temotu province’s museum plan
Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele has commended Temotu Province’s development vision, to establish a museum in Lata to preserve and celebrate the unique culture and traditions of its people.
During a courtesy call to the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet last week, Temotu Premier Hon. Stanley Tehi shared details of the proposed museum, emphasizing its potential to boost the province’s tourism sector.
He noted that the project aligns with ongoing plans to upgrade airport infrastructure in the province.
Prime Minister Manele welcomed the initiative and assured Premier Tehi of the national government’s support—both through budgetary allocation and potential assistance from development partners and donors.
Premier Tehi also highlighted the museum’s potential to attract international visitors, particularly from the nearby Republic of Vanuatu, identifying it as a key market for cultural tourism.
In addition to the museum project, Premier Tehi sought national government assistance to operationalize the provincial vessel, LC Temotu.
Prime Minister Manele acknowledged the transport challenges facing the province and confirmed that the Ministry of Infrastructure Development will work to address the issues surrounding the vessel.
He also revealed plans for an additional vessel to provide intra-provincial shipping services aimed at improving connectivity within Temotu.
On environmental priorities, Premier Tehi called for the government’s support in fast-tracking the establishment of a national marine resources protected area.
In response, Prime Minister Manele assured him that the Ministry of Environment would work with the province to progress the initiative in line with laws governing marine conservation.
Premier Tehi also reiterated Temotu Province’s strong support for the Special Economic Zone Bill, describing it as a key instrument for driving both economic and social development.
He further expressed full confidence in Prime Minister Manele’s leadership and reaffirmed the province’s commitment to national development efforts.
Temotu, the easternmost province of Solomon Islands, lies closer to the Republic of Vanuatu and is known for its cultural diversity—home to both Melanesian and Polynesian communities.
Premier Stanley Tehi is the longest-serving member of the Temotu Provincial Assembly, with over 15 years of dedicated public service.
[end]Prime Minister’s Press Secretariat