TWO important Bills related to the development of culture are expected to be presented to Parliament this coming session before the end of the year.
Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, John Wasi revealed this when he officially opened a cultural and tourism workshop in Honiara this week.
Called traditional knowledge and expression of cultures, Mr Wasi said, the two Bills are expected to be tabled in Parliament at its meeting before the end of the year.
He said, the intention of the culture bill is to protect preservation of traditional culture through cultural expressions in the form of rituals, songs and dances.
Mr Wasi said the Ministry is currently drafting another bill called ‘Solomon Islands Arts and Cultural Council Bill, which is expected to be tabled in Parliament next year.
“The aim of the new legislation is to regulate coordination of cultural affairs in the country.”
Mr Wasi said, in view of the on-going developments the Culture Department is working closely with the Arts Alliance of Solomon Islands (AASI) to preserve, promote and develop the cultural heritage of Solomon Islands.
He said it will also ensure that culture is amalgamated with the tourism sector in order to provide economic benefits to the people of Solomon Islands.
Mr Wasi explained that the Ministry is committed to ensure the cultural sector is developed into a lucrative economic sector, whilst at the same time preserving and protecting the cultural identities of Solomon Islands.
The training program will end on Friday.
