The Government of the Solomon Islands, through the Ministry of Health and Medical Services and the National Referral Hospital (NRH), formally recognises the successful conclusion of a landmark medical mission led by Kolombangara Forest Products Limited (KFPL) in partnership with the Singapore-based volunteer organisation, Karuna Medical International.
KFPL is a plantation forestry company operating on Kolombangara Island and is one of the Solomon Islands’ largest private sector employers. The company is majority owned by New Forests, a global investment manager of nature-based real assets and natural capital strategies.
This initiative marks the first time a visiting medical team from Singapore has performed complex surgical procedures at the National Referral Hospital, signalling a significant milestone in international medical cooperation for the nation.
Throughout May 2026, the collaborative mission delivered vital healthcare services to both rural and urban populations. For 3.5 days, a specialised team of Singaporean doctors, nurses, and support staff worked alongside local healthcare professionals on Kolombangara Island, providing screenings, consultations, and minor procedures to 691 patients.
Following the outreach on Kolombangara, the team travelled to Honiara to provide critical surgical support at the National Referral Hospital. Their expertise provided much-needed relief to local surgical teams by successfully operating 4 complex surgical cases, further underscoring the value of international clinical collaboration.
Beyond direct patient care, the initiative focused on the sustainability of local healthcare. KFPL has invested significantly in local infrastructure, completing major renovations to both company-owned and government-operated clinics on Kolombangara Island. Furthermore, the exchange facilitated an essential transfer of knowledge, with the visiting medical experts working closely with NRH staff to share clinical best practices and strengthen long-term healthcare outcomes.
Dr. George Malefoasi, Chief Executive Officer of the National Referral Hospital, emphasised the strategic importance of this engagement: “While the NRH has historically focused on regional partnerships, the demand for high-level specialist services continues to grow. We recognise Singapore as a global centre of medical excellence. This mission has opened a vital door for the Solomon Islands to access specialised expertise in oncology, cardiology, and other advanced disciplines. We are eager to explore how we can formalise the partnership between the two countries and expand these relationships to meet the evolving needs of our people”.
This mission reflects KFPL’s commitment to community well-being-combining direct outreach with longer-term improvements like clinic renovations,” said Edwin Schramm, General Manager of Kolombangara Forest Products Limited.
Francis Tan, Regional Director of Asset Management at New Forests, added, “At New Forests, we look beyond financial performance to the real-world impact our assets can deliver. KFPL’s collaboration shows how active stewardship and strong partnerships can expand healthcare access for the communities in which we operate.”
Dr. Fong Poh Him, Lead of the Karuna Medical International Society of Singapore, expressed the team’s dedication to the cause: “We are pleased to partner with KFPL and the local team of doctors and nurses. Together, we made a meaningful difference in the lives of many, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration across the Solomon Islands.”
The Solomon Islands Government extends its deep appreciation to KFPL, New Forests, and the volunteers of Karuna Medical International for their humanitarian contribution to the health and prosperity of the nation.
