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Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala Photo: WHOWPRO
Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala is in Manila to begin the role of W-H-O Regional Director for the Western Pacific.
It's a big deal considering, Dr Piukala becomes the first Pacific islander to hold this position.
Dr Piukala's road map for his first 100 days in office includes plans to visit many of the 37 countries and areas in the Western Pacific Region, engage with governments and other stakeholders, listen and discuss critical issues that impact health, and explore areas for increased collaboration.
RNZ Pacific's Eleisha Foon spoke with Pacific health leader, Sir Collin Tukuitonga who is supporting Dr Piukala.