Medal recipient motivated to do more for copra industry
Receiving the Fiji 50-year anniversary medal last year has motivated Ashok Kumar to do more for the copra industry. Recognised for his commitment in the industry, the Mill and Supply Chain Manager at Coconut Millers Pte Ltd said more needed to be done for Fiji’s copra industry.
The 58 -year -old started as an ordinary clerk at Coconut Millers Pte Ltd in the 1900s.
With dedication for the role, he climbed up the ladder to management level.
“In 2001 I was the manager for mill and since then, I have held the role to date. I enjoy being in this role because I get to talk to stakeholders and people on the ground on ways to improve the industry,” he said.
Mr Kumar worked hard to get where he is today so when the news of his nomination for the Fiji 50 anniversary medal was announced, he was happy.
“I do not know who nominated me but I was just so happy because it recognized all my hard work that I have showed over the years. I have always made sure that I do my best in everything I do because people will remember the good things that you do.
“My family has been a great supporter in my career especially my wife and children. Everything good I do is because of my family,” he said.
Carrying out various community works has also created a platform for Mr Kumar to share ideas on improving the copra industry.
He said Fiji’s copra industry has yet to realize its full potential.
“We need to diversify into various coconut products that can be exported to the overseas market. There are various usage of coconuts but we are yet to tap into these areas and grow it. We are just limited to coconut oil, cream, coconut shells which is great but we need to go beyond this.
A mini-Fiji day celebration is planned for Coconut Millers Pte Ltd, to reflect on Fiji’s independence.
“Fiji day is a proud moment for us Fijians because we remember the day Fiji gained its independence. Fiji has achieved a lot over the years and we are proud for Fiji,” he said.