BY LYNNISSHA RUNA
HONIARA Public was filled with excitement as they welcomed and witnessed the newly South Pacific’s Largest Domestic Seaport Passenger Millennium Terminal at the lighting ceremony that coincided with live entertainment and music concerts at the Solomon Ports, Point Cruz in Honiara.
After the actual unveiling of the new building last week, which was attended by officials, guests, and dignitaries, it clinches with a lighting ceremony that allows the public to celebrate together on such a historic achievement.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of Solomon Ports, Eranda Kotelawala, he was delighted to have the public be part of the celebrations as it gives an amazing spark for everyone.
He said, “I loved seeing everyone coming out; it is a free event, and I am thrilled it gives a sense of composed pride. Having the presence of thousands of people here tonight is a clear indication of appreciation for our nation.
Mr. Kotelawala then further described the Millennium Terminal as a significant achievement and a great milestone for the Solomon Islands, he stated.
“We are proud to have the first Seaport Terminal built in the country. This achievement and celebration are not only for the Solomon Ports Authority, but they are for all of us; they are for our people, for the industry, and for our country, the Solomon Islands, he adds.
“This Millennium Terminal is built to Australian and New Zealand standards, and this building is a three-floor terminal designed, built, and fully funded by Solomon Ports itself.
And costs more than a hundred million and features a range of amenities, including cafes, a ticketing office, passenger waiting, shops, and paid toilet facilities to maintain the standard.
“This terminal is a self-sustainability building; the revenue generated from its commercial space would be reinvested into maintaining and upkeeping the terminal.
He then conveyed his profound gratitude for the teamwork’s excessive contributions to the success of this new domestic terminal.
“I want to acknowledge all the local contractors and my ports team for their great support and commitment in making this milestone a reality, he said.
“As a strong believer in teamwork, teamwork can make big dreams come true. That is the reality of Solomon ports; that is what we have done as a team for the last seven to eight years, and the same for nearly two years until the commissioning of this newly largest domestic terminal, which is seen as a Christmas gift to the people of the Solomon Islands,” he said.
He then informed the public they could have access to the terminal free of charge to wait for convenience.
