RETURN TO PARADISE SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT – RADISSON MEMBERSHIP [11 December 2025]

SAMOA, December 11 - ADDRESS by the Minister of Finance Hon. Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molioo

Susuga ile taitai o le sauniga, Reverend Ieti

Le mamalu o le Pulega o le Return to Paradise

Distinguished guests, Ladies and gentlemen

Talofa lava and warm greetings to you all.

Today is more than a celebration for Return to Paradise Resort—it is a celebration for Samoa, for our people, and for the spirit of unity that defines us.

This resort is a shining example of what happens when vision meets community. It stands proudly on customary land, supported by the Lefaga district and built through the courage and commitment of respected Samoan families. It began with one daughter of the village, Sua Lemalu Afamasaga Ramona Su’a Pale, who returned home after many years abroad—not for herself, but for her village, her district, and her country. That is the heart of Samoa: giving back so that others may rise.

Return to Paradise is more than a resort; it is a family. It is fully Samoan-owned and operated, and its success speaks volumes. From winning the Supreme Award of Excellence—the highest honor in our tourism industry—to the Robert Louis Stevenson Best Tours, Best String Band, Champion Cultural Group, National Champion Fire knife dancers, the Prime Minister’s Culinary Cup, and annual winner of the Trip Advisor Travelers Choice – placing Return to Paradise among the top ten percent of resorts worldwide. It is evidence of this resort’s commitment to embracing the Samoan hospitality. Guests don’t just visit—they become part of a family, embraced by daughters, sons, cousins, nephews, and nieces who share the warmth of our culture.

But the impact goes far beyond tourism. Every tala earned here stays in Samoa—supporting jobs, local businesses, farmers, taxi operators, and community initiatives. It funds scholarships for our youth, aids those with spinal injuries, and sponsors our beloved sports teams, including Samoa Rugby and Toa Samoa. It even leads in environmental stewardship, restoring coral reefs to protect our ocean for future generations. This is what people-centered development looks like—where success uplifts everyone.

Today, we welcome Radisson Individuals to our development journey. Your global reach will intensify what is already extraordinary, without changing the essence of who we are. You have committed to respecting Samoan ownership and operation, and for that, we thank you. Together, we will open new doors—training our people to gain internationally recognized qualifications, expanding opportunities, and sharing the beauty of Samoa with the world.

On behalf of the Prime Minister, and the people of Samoa, we say fa’afetai tele lava and welcome. This partnership is not just about business—it is about people, culture, and a shared vision for a brighter future.

May this be the beginning of a journey that honors our heritage while embracing the possibilities ahead.

Soifua ma ia manuia.