The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has clarified that the Commercial Use of Marine Areas Bill 2025, known as the CUMA Bill, is currently in draft form and has no legal validity until it is debated and approved by Parliament. Permanent Secretary Salaseini Daunabuna emphasized that the existing regulations remain effective until the Bill is formally enacted.
Daunabuna explained that the CUMA Bill seeks to repeal the Regulation of Surfing Areas Act 2010. The new framework aims to promote fairness and transparency, allowing customary owners to reclaim rights to marine areas that have been utilized for commercial purposes. The Ministry stressed that the proposed legislation includes legal mechanisms to uphold principles of natural justice, ensuring that all stakeholders are consulted and involved in the decision-making process. It also intends to empower local indigenous institutions to take charge of managing these marine regions.
Despite the developments surrounding the CUMA Bill, the Ministry emphasized that the Regulation of Surfing Areas Act 2010 remains in force. This means that there are currently no provisions for compensation associated with the commercial use of marine areas. According to Daunabuna, discussions about compensation will only occur after the Bill has been approved by Parliament and proper legal procedures have been followed.
To further community involvement, the Ministry is planning nationwide consultations on the draft Bill in collaboration with the Parliament Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights. Details on the consultation schedule and locations are expected to be released soon. The Ministry urges all stakeholders to actively participate in these discussions as Fiji moves towards a sustainable model for managing its marine areas in commercial tourism.
This initiative marks a crucial step towards enhancing equity and ensuring local governance in resource management, fostering a collaborative approach for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.