Liku brings back Fijian identity, says Komo artisan

The Veiqia Project opened Leba Sulia’s eyes to the deeper meaning behind the traditional Fijian liku, a skirt that was once proudly worn by women across Fiji.

Ms Sulia, who came from Komo, Kabara in Lau, said she was proud to have taken part in the learning sessions and was especially inspired by the stories shared by Dr Karen Jacobs. 

Professor Karen Jacobs is from the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom assisting artists in the Veiqia Project.

“I used to sell liku at the handicraft centre, but after learning the history behind it, I was surprised,” she said.

“Liku is our traditional Fijian wear. It belongs to us, but many of us have forgotten its true value. Now, it is known more by people overseas than by our own.”

Ms Sulia said the workshop helped her understand how powerful cultural knowledge could be. She planned to make her liku pieces with special stories behind each one, stories that shared the spirit, pride, and identity of Fijian women.

“When I sell a liku, I will write the meaning behind it,” she said. “People will buy it not only for its beauty, but for its story.”

She said many of the traditional wears from the 1800s were slowly disappearing as more Fijians turned to Masi outfits or Western style clothing.

Ms Sulia also believed that the art of making liku helped local women earn a living.

She attended the event with her elder sister, Laisani Waqanisau, and both were proud to have represented the women of Komo. Through the Veiqia Project, women like Ms Sulia helped breathe new life into traditional art, reviving the beauty of identity, heritage, and the spirit of being Fijian.

Laisani Waqanisau at the Fiji Museum on November 13,2025.

Photo: Asenaca Ratu