Meth and marijuana are a problem in the community in Smaoa, Salvation Army Addiction Services says. Photo: 123RF
Samoa - addiction
The Salvation Army Addiction Services has called on the government to review the nation's drug laws in Samoa.
A representative of the organisation Sailivao Aukusitino Senio told the Samoa Observer that he believes communities, families, and churches should not be the only ones stepping up to assist with the impact of drugs on young people.
He said most of the people brought to the centre need help with alcohol addiction, but drugs like meth and marijuana are also a problem in the community.
Sailivao said the increase in meth-related cases is alarming and believes the government should revisit legislation.
Tonga - skulls
Two skulls that were donated to an Australian Museum from Tonga have been returned to the Kingdom.
Both unidentified, were collected by scientists from Tonga's southernmost Island of 'Ata in 1875 and 1969.
One of the skulls belonged to a child who had died at the age of 10 from unknown causes.
The skulls, put into coffins, were given a burial near the village of Kolomaile on 'Eua where many descendants of 'Ata Island live.
'Ata island is currently inhabited with the last inhabitants re-locating to 'Eua during the 1870s.
Cook Islands - arts
Cook Islands artists are asking the government for better support for the creative industry.
Motone Productions' Glenda Tuaine believes this is a viable avenue to diversify the countries economy which relies primarily on the tourism sector.
She pointed out that more and more young ones today are interested in careers in the creative industry, however opportunities are limited in country.
"So we've got to be able to support the development of contemporary arts, performing arts and it's never been more important than it is now. Governments please support the arts that's what we need."
Northern Marianas - tourism
Tourism is picking up in the Northern Marianas as a record number of visitors arrive.
Nearly 4,000 Japanese tourists visited Saipan for a day when the Swiss cruise ship, MSC Bellissima, called into Saipan.
Its visit is expected to be the first of many cruise ships making ports calls on Saipan this year .
The CNMI can expect an influx of visitors next month, with the number of flights from Korea increasing and more cruise ships passing by Saipan for a port call.
Marianas Visitors Authority said additional cruise ships have already confirmed visiting Saipan next month and possibly in March.
In addition, Jeju Airlines is expected to increase its number of flights from Korea to Saipan with 10 additional flights between 7 to 16 February.
American Samoa - vaccinations
The American Samoa Department of Health is organising transport for people to get flu or Covid-19 vaccinations.
Those who do not have a ride can dial the information centre.
Transportation is available for pick-up and drop-offs to and from the Tafuna, Leone, Amouli and Faga'alu clinics during operating hours.
Federated States of Micronesia - deaths
The president's office in the Federated States of Micronesia has announced the deaths of two senators.
Senator Florencio Harper of Chuuk State died on 8 January.
It came days after the death of a fellow member of Congress, Senator Paliknoa Welly of Kosrae State.
In a statement, the president's office said both dedicated their lives to public service.
Tonga - service
Tonga's prime minister Hu'akavameiliku Siaosi Sovaleni has thanked Dr Saia Piukala for his service and dedication.
Dr Piukala is leaving Tonga to take up his new role as the World Health Organisation's Regional Director for the Western Pacific Region Office.
He has been in the public service in Tonga for 20 years and nearly 10 years of those as Tonga's Minister of Health.
Hu'akavameiliku said the departure of Dr Piukala is a huge loss for his government and the Cabinet.
Matangi Tonga reports that during his farewell, Dr Piukala thanked the King and the Prime Minister for trusting him in the Health Minister's role.
