Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Koliniwai Ravunawa underscored the significance of valuing mother languages as a key element in building trust within healthcare delivery. Speaking during an event in Suva to observe International Mother Language Day, Mr. Ravunawa articulated that language goes beyond simple communication; it encompasses identity, history, and cultural heritage.
“Our mother tongue is the foundation of who we are. It connects generations and preserves our traditions,” Mr. Ravunawa emphasized. He commended the event’s organizers for their efforts in fostering cultural awareness while advocating for healthy living. He noted that the collaborative efforts between Fiji and India have yielded positive results in health, education, agriculture, and capacity building within communities.
Ravunawa shared a personal anecdote from his early days as a medical practitioner in Labasa, where learning simple Hindi phrases like “Ram Ram” enabled him to connect meaningfully with elderly patients. This experience reinforced his belief that speaking in a patient’s native language is crucial for fostering trust, enhancing understanding, and ultimately achieving better health outcomes.
“Communication in one’s own language builds trust, improves understanding and supports better health outcomes,” he remarked, highlighting that inclusion starts with being heard and understood. He pointed out that Fiji’s multicultural and multilingual landscape is one of the nation’s greatest strengths and encouraged respecting each other’s languages to strengthen community bonds.
He concluded by urging communities to actively preserve their linguistic heritage while working together to create “a healthy, inclusive and united society.” This dedication to promoting language not only honors individual and cultural identities but also contributes to the overall well-being of Fiji’s diverse population. By embracing inclusive healthcare practices that celebrate the rich array of languages, Fiji serves as a beacon of hope for unity and understanding among its people.