Chairman Benny Wenda was invited to give a remark at the Malaita Second Appointed Day in South Malaita. Second Appointed Days are special occasions that mark the official establishment of a province’s local government. This particular event took place on August 15, 2025, in Masupa, East Are‘Are (South Malaita). Masupa holds historical importance as the birthplace of the Masina Ruru Movement—an indigenous grassroots Malaitan movement that helped catalyze the independence of the Solomon Islands.
Benny Wenda’s statement was read by Andrew Taraha, a resident of Masupa village. The event was attended by chiefs, elders, community members, representatives from nearby communities, and officials from Malaita Province.
Hikua
One of the most significant cultural values for the people of ‘Are‘Are is “Hikua” (pronounced He-Ku-Ah). This term was mentioned by Benny in his statement. In English, it translates to “relationship,” but in the context of ‘Are‘Are culture, it refers to the way respect and wealth are measured—both across tribes and between individuals. Hikua is the foundation of cultural integrity and unity among the ‘Are‘Are people. Forming a Hikua is taken seriously, representing a commitment to nurture and uphold relationships in both good and challenging times.
President Benny Wenda’s Speech
Wa wa wa wa wa. I am honored to have been asked to address the leaders of Malaita Province on their Second Appointed Day.
On behalf of the people of West Papua, I greet you in the spirit of Melanesian solidarity and brotherhood.
West Papuans draw courage and strength from our brothers and sisters across Melanesia. The Solomon Islands, once suffering under colonial rule, achieved liberation through the efforts of your ancestors. The legacy of the Masina Ruru movement, and what it has done for ‘Are‘Are and your nation, gives us strength in our own struggle.
I affirm that the cause for which the Masina Ruru fought is the same cause that West Papuans are still fighting for today. Across my homeland, people suffer under the occupation of Indonesian police and military forces. Every day brings new killings, arrests, and atrocities.
More than 100,000 civilians—men, women, children, and elders—are displaced due to ongoing military operations, living as refugees in their own land. Over 30,000 are in refugee camps in Papua New Guinea. More than 500,000 have been killed under Indonesian rule.
Our people live in fear, discomfort, and deep pain. Despite this, we continue our struggle because of our faith in God, believing that one day we will be free—just like you.
The Solomon Islands now have a powerful opportunity to stand with West Papua at the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Honiara in the coming weeks. Your nation played a major role in the 2019 Pacific Islands Forum’s historic call for a UN Human Rights Visit to West Papua. I humbly ask that you urge your leaders not to abandon us to our oppressors, but to continue advocating for this vital call.
This is not a demand, but a sincere Melanesian hand reaching out—an invitation to form a Hikua between our peoples. As Melanesians, we share a common destiny, one that cannot truly be fulfilled until all of Melanesia is free.
Tagio tumas (thank you very much) for allowing me to share this message with you. I look forward to welcoming the ‘Are‘Are people to a Free West Papua in the near future.
On behalf of my people, I wish all the people of Malaita a joyful Second Appointed Day.
Wa wa wa wa.