Raivoce Reflects on FHL Tower as a Symbol of Fijian Pride and Progress

Colonel (Ret’d) Sakiusa Raivoce, Deputy Chair of Fijian Holdings Limited (FHL) and Chairman of FHL Properties, says the newly opened FHL Tower is far more than a corporate structure — it is a symbol of dignity, perseverance, and indigenous progress.

Speaking at a cocktail reception on the 18th floor of the new high-rise, Raivoce shared heartfelt reflections on Fiji’s journey towards economic empowerment and the enduring vision behind FHL’s creation.

“This building represents more than steel and glass,” he said. “It represents the spirit of a people who wanted to have a place in their own capital, a visible stake in their country’s economic life.”

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officially opened the FHL Tower, describing it as “a milestone of national pride and a beacon for future generations of indigenous entrepreneurs.”

Raivoce captivated guests with an unexpected story: the tale of Sairusi Nabogibogi, a once-controversial but visionary figure from Fiji’s past. Nabogibogi, he recalled, was known as both a rebel and a dreamer, but he had one remark that still echoes powerfully today.

“In 1972,” Raivoce said, “he told The Fiji Times that he felt ashamed walking through Suva because he did not see any buildings owned by iTaukei. He said, ‘I walk in the streets here and I bend my head down. I am ashamed that I have nothing in this town.’”

Raivoce paused, then smiled. “I wonder what Sairusi would say now.”

He listed the many iTaukei-owned landmarks that now shape the capital — Ra Marama House, Vanua House, Ratu Sukuna House, Suvavou House, Ro Lalabalavu House, Kadavu House, Namosi House, and now, crowning them all, the gleaming FHL Tower.

“If Sairusi could walk down Victoria Parade today, he would hold his head high,” Raivoce said. “There would be no more shame, only pride.”

Raivoce recalled his own deep involvement from the project’s first days, noting that it was not always a smooth journey.

“We faced delays because of COVID-19, then some unexpected technical issues,” he said. “But with determination and faith, we kept going, and today, every floor is occupied, every space alive with activity.”

He also revealed a memorable moment from the early bidding process that decided who would build the tower. Two companies had reached the final stage of consideration. The first, he said, arrived “in dark suits and ties” and made a polished presentation, but demanded $20 million upfront.

“The second group, from China Railway No. 1, came in white shirts and simple ties,” Raivoce recalled. “When we asked about the upfront payment, they said, ‘Not necessary.’ They won the contract, and they delivered.”

Raising a glass before a packed room of guests, Raivoce invited everyone to join him in celebrating not just the completion of a building, but the continuation of a dream.

“May it flourish as a centre of commerce and professional endeavour,” he said.

“May it help to shape Fiji’s future and stand as a symbol of our aspirations as a people. May God’s blessings be on this building and on all who work and visit within these walls.”

The evening ended in high spirits, with guests admiring the panoramic view of Suva from the tower’s top floor, a fitting vantage point for a company that has helped lift countless Fijians into new economic horizons.

<Pictured: Colonel Raivoce Showing Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka the ADB office at the FHL Tower after the official opening ceremony.>