Former Fiji Airways Flying Fijians No.8 and captain, Enele Malele was described as a man of good conduct, discipline, and a highly respected public figure.

Speaking on behalf of the Fiji Police Force, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Biu Matavou said Malele was dedicated to his work and to the Force and would be missed by many.

Malele died at the age of 78 after a short illness.

The Tovu, Totoya, Lau native captained the Police rugby team during the Suva Rugby Union’s Escott Shield and the Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge in the late 1970s.

In 1973, Malele was amongst three officers that were named in the Flying Fijians team that played Tonga.

He captained the national team as they romped to a 24-12 win at the National Stadium in Suva.  He had made his Test debut against the All Blacks in 1968.

In 2018, the Fiji Rugby Union honored him and Joape Kuinikoro with their Test Caps, to acknowledge their contribution to the sport.

His grandson and namesake Enele Malele Tikotani made his Test debut for the Flying Fijians in November, last year.

Malele was a former Superintendent of Police and had served in the Force for more than 35 years before retiring in 1996. Before retiring,he was awarded the Fiji Police Medal, Awarded to officers for bravery, valuable services, or leadership.

Former Police 7s halfback  Sakiusa Tikotani said after his mother passed away, it was Malele who stepped in and adopted him into his family.

“All I can say is thank you dad, for the love and support you have given your children and grandchildren over the years,” Tikotani added.

“He has been a role model in terms of living a life of discipline and punctuality.”

Malele was laid to rest at the Lovonilase Cemetery in Suva yesterday.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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