'Support local businesses and stay safe this Diwali'

Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Shalen Kumar has urged Fijians to keep fireworks, diyas and candles away from children and flammable materials during Diwali celebrations.

He is also encouraging the public to support local small businesses as the festival is celebrated this weekend.

Diwali falls on Sunday, with the public holiday observed on Monday, November 9.

In his Diwali message, Mr Kumar said the festival was one of the biggest sales periods of the year for small shops, market vendors, tailors, sweet makers, decorators and transport providers.

"Let us support local businesses responsibly, celebrate generously, and ensure that the prosperity of the season reaches families and communities across the country," he said.

He also urged families to take extra care during the celebrations.

He advised the public to take care when using electrical decorations, cooking and attending crowded events.

He also urged people to supervise children at all times and be considerate of neighbours, the elderly and animals.

Mr Kumar said Diwali had grown beyond one faith or community.

He traced the festival's history in Fiji to the Girmit era, when indentured labourers who arrived from 1879 kept their traditions alive despite hardship.

"Diwali is no longer confined to one faith, community, or household," he said.

"Our diversity is not a division – it is our greatest national strength."

He encouraged communities, schools, villages and workplaces to take part in rangoli, best-dressed, sweet-tray and decoration competitions, saying these activities helped keep traditions alive and brought generations together.

Mr Kumar said Diwali's message of light over darkness should encourage Fijians to work towards unity.

"Choose understanding over suspicion, dialogue over division, and service over selfishness," he said.