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The President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, officiated at a special Civil Service Medal Investiture Ceremony held in Abu Dhabi today. (Monday 3.11.25)
In attendance were the First Lady Emily Lalabalavu along with close families and staff of the Embassy.
The Civil Service Medal is awarded to recognise outstanding merit and excellence by members of the Fiji Civil Service who have demonstrated devotion to duty, exceptional performance, and have served as an example to their peers.
The award honours officers who have rendered distinguished service to Fiji through their leadership, professionalism, and dedication in their respective fields.
In his remarks, President Lalabalavu acknowledged the dedication and exemplary service of the award recipients, noting that their commitment and professionalism have brought pride to the Fijian Civil Service and the nation as a whole. He commended both officers for their years of loyal service and for upholding the values of integrity, excellence, and patriotism in representing Fiji abroad. The President further encouraged all Fijian civil servants to emulate their example by serving with humility, diligence, and devotion to duty.
The first recipient of the Civil Service Medal was Mr. Sanaila Laqai, currently serving as First Secretary at Fiji’s Embassy at Abu Dhabi who has dedicated over 15 years to the Civil Service. Mr. Laqai joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from the Ministry of Finance and has since served in Beijing and now in Abu Dhabi. He was commended for his contribution to strengthening Fiji’s diplomatic engagement with the People’s Republic of China, the United Arab Emirates, and the wider Gulf, Middle East, and North Africa regions. He has also been recognised for his support to the Fijian diaspora through the provision of consular and community services.
The second awardee, Mr. Jaljeet Kumar is currently serving as Second Secretary at Fiji’s Embassy in Abu Dhabi. He has served 19 years in the Civil Service, with postings in Seoul (Republic of Korea), Washington D.C. (United States of America), and now Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates). Mr. Kumar is widely respected for his professionalism, deep institutional knowledge, and commitment to Fiji’s representation in complex diplomatic environments.
He was commended for his contribution to advancing Fiji’s diplomatic relations with the Republic of Korea, the United States, Canada, the UAE, and across the Gulf, Middle East, and North Africa regions, as well as for his dedicated service to the Fijian diaspora.
