Shangri-La Yanuca Island has reaffirmed its commitment to honoring Asian heritage by partnering with the Confucius Institute at the University of the South Pacific. This collaboration was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by CEO Francis Lee and Li Chunxue, the Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute. Together, they aim to establish a long-term program of cultural activities and exchanges in Fiji.
To kick off this initiative, the resort recently held a demonstration of Baduanjin, an ancient Chinese exercise form, which drew around 100 attendees, including children from the local Nadroumai and Cuvu District. Events of this nature are pivotal to the Shangri-La group’s global Arts & Culture initiative launched last year, as they reinforce connections between the resort and the surrounding community.
Francis Lee emphasized that this partnership aligns with the resort’s goal of enriching cultural experiences for both visitors and locals, stating the value of fostering relationships through education and the arts. Li Chunxue echoed Lee’s sentiments, noting that sharing Asian traditions can enhance both educational and social bonds within the community.
The initiative will feature a range of educational programs, interactive workshops, and performances to promote Asian culture, offering meaningful experiences for both tourists and local residents. Shangri-La Yanuca Island’s dedication to fostering cultural exchange reflects its overarching aim of boosting community engagement and supporting cultural diversity.
This exciting development not only highlights the richness of Asian heritage but also illustrates the potential for collaborative cultural initiatives to enhance Fiji’s tourism sector while providing valuable learning opportunities for residents. This partnership exemplifies the positive impact of engaging with local communities and embracing diverse cultural practices, paving the way for a more interconnected future.