Inauguration ceremony of American Samoa's newly elected leaders, Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula and Lieutenant Governor Pulu Ae Ae Jr. Photo: Supplied
American Samoa - newly elected leaders
American Samoa has welcomed its newly elected leaders, Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula and Lieutenant Governor Pulu Ae Ae Jr, during an inauguration ceremony at Malaeoletalu, Fagatogo.
Attendees included Samoa's Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa and members of the Opposition party, including Tuilaepa Sa'ilele Malielegaoi.
The Samoa Observer reports Governor Pulaalii and Lieutenant Governor Pulu Ae Ae Jr say their vision for American Samoa is unity, transparent governance, and effective service delivery.
Fiji - Corrections warning
Fiji's Corrections Service is warning people not to throw illegal substances over the fence into jails around the country.
The Fiji Times reports that projectiles have included marijuana, methamphetamine, mobile phones and tobacco.
Corrections officers have foiled two attempts at the Suva Remand Centre so far this month and made an arrest.
The service says introducing contraband is illegal and they are encouraging visitors to support prisoners' rehabilitation.
Fiji - police
Fiji police are questioning a man over a video of two infants being intimidated and slapped because they cannot count.
Fiji Village reports the children are aged between 18 months and three years, prompting the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Protection to become involved.
Minister Sashi Kiran says sadly this type of parenting is very common in Fiji.
She says recent statistics show that 72 per cent of children have experienced some form of violence in their lives.
Tonga - health expert
A health expert is urging Tongans to be more proactive about their health.
Assistant Professor Pakieli Kaufusi of the University of Hawai'i says Tongans should have regular health checks rather than only visiting a doctor when they feel sick.
Research published in the Lancet last March revealed that American Samoa was the most obese nation in the world, followed by Tonga, which has the highest number of obese women.
Kaniva Tonga reports Dr Kaufusi made the comment during an online series tailored for individuals dealing with diabetes.
CNMI - fishing
The Saipan Fishermen's Association will be hosting three international game fishing competitions this year.
The Marianas Variety reports the association will host the 21st Mahi-Mahi Derby in April, the 41st Saipan International Fishing Tournament in July and the 3rd Annual Classic Billfish Tournament in September.
Association President Tony Scragg says they have opened expressions of interest early to secure more regional and international sport fishermen.
In 2024, over 90 boats and 200 fishermen competed at the 40th Saipan International Fishing Tournament.
Fiji - darts
Suva Darts president, Edward Roxburgh, says they are expecting tough competition at the upcoming South Pacific Darts Championship in the Fijian capital from January 20th.
FBC News reports Fiji Darts will be holding trials next week to select the players who will compete against seven other Pacific teams at the event.
Trials will be held later this week, with 22 players competing for the men's and women's teams spots.