Billboard commemorates Girmitiyas’ arrival and quarantine on Nukulau

The island of Nukulau is historic as it marks the beginning of the history of Indian indentured labourers in Fiji.

The Fijian Government unveiled a billboard on the island of Nukulau as part of the inaugural Girmit Day Celebrations.

The historic billboard was revealed by Minister for Health Dr Atonio Lalabalavu and Director for Education at Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji, Kamlesh Arya.

The billboard explains the significance of Nukulau to Indentured labourers history as a quarantine facility. It details the 87 voyages that brought more than 60,000 Girmitiyas to Fiji.

Dr Lalabalavu said it was important to learn from history to commemorate those who served quarantine on Nukulau Island. “I believe all of us about two and a half years ago got to know what quarantine was all about. Speaking from personal experience, it’s not a good feeling and I can only imagine what the descendants of Girmitiyas felt when they were here. It’s a good time to learn from history and in learning, see how we can improve our future,” Dr Lalabalavu said.

“I am thankful that our government has recognised this day and we will learn from it and improve our relationship together with the descendants of the Girmitiyas and the iTaukei, and everyone that has called Fiji home.”

The island of Nukulau is historic as it marks the beginning of the history of Indian indentured labourers in Fiji. The island served as a two-week quarantine station for Girmitiyas when they arrived from India.

Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Sashi Kiran said the unveiling of the billboard was representative of learning about the quarantine processes that took place on the island. “I’m so grateful that we’ve had this opportunity to pause, look at the different elements of our history and I hope this will encourage us to dig more, learn more and really get rooted in our identity”. Ms Kiran took guests and dignitaries around the island to showcase the remaining structures from the quarantine facility. These included a large steam disinfector, presumed to be used when the Girmitiyas were quarantined.

Director for Education at Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji, Kamlesh Arya was emotional on the island reflecting on how both his grandparents survived the indenture. “Today’s visit is a legacy for me because we have learnt a lot and seen a lot. I was amazed with the quarantine facility... if people were put through there for disease control, it’s amazing what they went through before they went to the mainland.”

He said although the billboard he helped to unveil was significant, a more permanent monument should be erected in the future.