Marshall Islands

Marshall Islands' tribute to workers is Rijerbal Day, on the first Friday of September, when an international fishing tournament is held: teams from Asia, Africa and the Pacific fight to catch the biggest bite; 2025 Aussie winners caught a 143,7 kg marlin

Nitijela, the parliament building, was burnt down by an overnight fire this week: chamber, library and archives have been destroyed but full impact will be known in a few days; President Heine said Cabinet endorsed fast-tracking building of new complex

President Hilda Heine in her keynote speech opening National Ocean Symposium underlined the importance of individual participation and of taking personal and community-level actions to keep the ocean environment healthy

Of 12 medals won by the Marshall Islands during the Pacific Mini-Games in Palau earlier this months, wrestlers played the lion part gaining 4 golds, 1 silver and 1 bronze

Two air carrier cooperation agreements were signed during the Micronesian Islands Forum in Majuro this week, with one specifically between Air Marshall Islands and Nauru Airlines

The Micronesian Islands Forum will be hosted this week in Majuro, with leaders from Kiribati, Nauru, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Palau; airline connectivity issues will be a focus

ABC Radio Australia went On Air in Majuro at 7pm on 13 June, going live for the first time in over a decade with its 24/7 programs on 106.7FM; to mark the milestone development, Australian Ambassador Paul Wilson hosted a gathering with a countdown

Murals featuring children and nutrition themes are popping up at schools in Majuro and on stores around the island upon a UNICEF-supported initiative to promote awareness of children's needs, painted by art teacher Aravapo Leo and a team of students

A national referendum on seven constitutional amendments and a special election for Namdrik Mayor were held simultaneously and both have been characterized by a low turnout of voters; polling stations around Majuro registered an average 34%

A deep sea mapping project will focus on the Marshall Islands as one of areas in the region to have their ocean floors mapped this year: the Ocean Exploration Trust is partnering with MI Marine Resources Authority on the upcoming visit of vessel Nautilus

The annual Secondary School Practicum Program has been launched: the practice provides hands-on experience to 357 students across ministries, agencies and private sector companies in Majuro, Wotje, Jaluit, Ebeye, and Enniburr, Kwajalein

The RMI passport facility, now tiny, will soon get a more convenient site near the Majuro Water and Sewer Company to turn it into an office for the passport program; renovations have been approved at Presidential level