𝐑𝐅𝐌𝐅 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐮 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲

In a significant step to enhance Fiji’s maritime security capabilities, the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Major General Jone Kalouniwai, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) today with Fiji Pine Chief Executive Officer Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure. The agreement grants the RFMF Naval Division access to Malau Port in Labasa as a Forward Operating Base (FOB).

This strategic move aligns with Fiji’s proposed National Security Strategy (NSS) 2025–2030 and the RFMF Capability Development Plan, which prioritize strengthening maritime surveillance and response capabilities. The establishment of the FOB at Malau Port will enable the RFMF to better monitor Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), combat illegal fishing, and respond to transnational threats such as smuggling and human trafficking.

The Malau Port FOB is a key component of Fiji’s broader maritime security strategy, as outlined in the Maritime Capability Master Plan. The base will serve as a logistical hub for naval operations in the Northern Division, improving the RFMF’s ability to deploy patrol vessels and conduct sustained surveillance in Fiji’s vast maritime territory.

Major General Kalouniwai emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “This agreement marks a pivotal step in our efforts to secure Fiji’s waters and protect our national interests. The Northern Division is critical to our maritime security framework, and Malau Port will enhance our operational reach.”

The MOA reflects Fiji’s commitment to regional security cooperation, as highlighted in the NSS, which calls for enhanced collaboration with Pacific partners to address shared challenges like climate change, illegal fishing, and transnational crime. The RFMF’s expanded presence in Labasa will also bolster disaster response capabilities, ensuring quicker humanitarian assistance during cyclones or other emergencies.

Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure emphasized the partnership’s mutual benefits, noting, “Fiji Pine is proud to support the RFMF’s mission. This collaboration not only strengthens national security but also fosters economic resilience by safeguarding our maritime resources.”

The RFMF will now focus on upgrading infrastructure at Malau Port, including wharves and jetties, to support naval operations. This initiative is part of a larger push to modernize Fiji’s maritime defenses, as detailed in the RFMF 5-10 Year Capabilities Plan, which includes acquiring advanced patrol vessels and improving interagency coordination.