Interview with Kalafi Moala at PIFLM52 on regional Pacific issues

This week saw the start of the  52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting 2023, an important regional summit to guide the direction of the Pacific, so I spoke to 34-year veteran journalist Kalafi Moala from Tonga about his perspective on the Pacific Island Forum and the key issues the media should focus on.

Kristiana Uluwai: Can you please start by introducing yourself and sharing a bit about your background in the media industry?

Kalafi Moala: Absolutely. My name is Kalafi Moala, and I’m originally from Tonga. I’ve spent over three decades in the media industry, starting with the establishment of Tonga’s first independent newspaper. Over the years, I’ve worked in various media formats, including radio and television, and more recently, I’ve transitioned to online journalism.

Kristiana Uluwai: Given your extensive experience, you’ve likely attended various Pacific Island Forum meetings. Could you tell us what sets this one apart from previous gatherings, especially from your perspective as a seasoned journalist?

Kalafi Moala: This Pacific Island Forum is particularly significant because it’s a crucial time for journalists from the Pacific to unite and tell our stories. Over the years, we’ve seen our stories being distorted, and it’s essential that we, the people who live in the Pacific and experience the effects of issues like climate change and corruption, take the lead in conveying our narratives.

Kristiana Uluwai: You mentioned corruption as a pressing issue in the Pacific. Can you elaborate on what makes it such a priority, and how can journalists contribute to addressing it?

Kalafi Moala: Corruption is a pervasive problem that affects all Pacific nations. It hinders development, and addressing it is crucial. At the Forum, we have specialist journalists who provide training and insights on how to detect and combat corruption in our region. Our unique perspective allows us to shed light on this issue better than anyone else.

Kristiana Uluwai: The Prime Minister, Mr. Mike Brown, also touched upon the presence of celebrity politicians at the Forum. Do you think their involvement is constructive, or does it divert attention from the real issues Pacific Island people face?

Kalafi Moala: We must maintain a focus on our issues, and celebrity politics or journalism has no place in our region. Our leaders emphasized the importance of telling our stories and addressing the issues that affect us. External parties who want to assist should do so by addressing our concerns rather than promoting their own interests.

Kristiana Uluwai: In your opinion, what are the top five issues that Pacific media should prioritize in their coverage, given the challenges faced in the region?

Kalafi Moala: The top five issues would be:

1.     Anti-Corruption: We need to combat corruption, which hinders development and the benefits of aid.

2.     Climate Change: As the Pacific is severely impacted by climate change, we must address this global issue.

3.     Poverty and Health: These issues often go hand in hand, and addressing health concerns, particularly non-communicable diseases, is crucial.

4.     Obesity: Obesity is a major health issue in the Pacific, and addressing it is essential for our well-being.

5.     Unity in Diversity: We need to embrace our diversity and unite as Pacific nations, leveraging our differences as strengths to drive positive change.

Kristiana Uluwai: Thank you for sharing your valuable insights, Kalafi Moala. It’s been a privilege to have you with us and gain your perspective on Pacific journalism and the issues that matter most to the region.

Kalafi Moala: It’s been a pleasure. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important topics. We must continue working together to address the challenges and opportunities in the Pacific.

To keep up to date with the Forum, check out the Pacific Cooperation Foundation and Pasifika TV websites.