Dear Editor – The following observation is made in respect to the above as per Star Issue No 6076, dated 12/01/16.
Whilst these gestures are much appreciated, it should be free from politicization.
The way to do it is to have a permanent structure and process for awarding such rewards.
This gives the sense that the achievement is made on behalf of the entire nation/country.
The service is therefore rendered on behalf of and to the nation/country and not necessarily to an individual/PM.
This is also critical to nation building towards a sense of nationalism very essential given our diversity and geographical sparseness.
In the context of our time, the Prime Minister may not be easily identified with the national symbols which we want to impart to our young national heroes.
In fact, associating with a Prime Minister, if not well prepared and done properly, may switch off such young people from assuming the ideals intended.
Gabriel Taloikwai
Honiara
