A leading Tongan public health expert has been elected as a Fellow of the Pacific Academy of Sciences (PAS), marking a major achievement for Pacific-led research and innovation.
Professor Sunia Foliaki, a public health physician from Ha‘afeva and Kanokupolu, co-leads Pacific health research at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University’s Centre for Public Health Research (CPHR).
His expertise spans cancer epidemiology, asthma, palliative care, and other non-communicable diseases.
Recognition for Impactful Research
CPHR Director Professor Jeroen Douwes said the Fellowship recognises Professor Foliaki’s outstanding research and its positive impact on Pacific communities.
“I am delighted that Professor Foliaki has been made a Fellow of the Pacific Academy of Sciences. The Fellowship is a tribute to his work and the difference it makes for Pacific people both in New Zealand and across the region,” Professor Douwes said.
He highlighted Professor Foliaki’s recent success in securing a $3.6 million grant from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade to improve access to timely health services in Tonga, and a $363,000 Ministry of Health grant to strengthen palliative care in Polynesia.
“These achievements demonstrate the real-world impact of his research. We are very proud to work alongside him,” Douwes added.
About the Pacific Academy of Sciences
Established in 2024, PAS brings together leading Pacific researchers, innovators, and knowledge holders to strengthen regional research and ensure Pacific science informs global discussions.
Professor Foliaki said his election was a great honour.
“As Pacific peoples, we must continue to build science beyond the reef – strengthening research, innovation, and collaboration across our small island nations.
By aligning our scientific endeavours with global standards while remaining grounded in Pacific values and wisdom, we can ensure our communities’ aspirations are represented in shaping the world’s scientific future,” he said.
Massey Pacific Leadership
Professor Foliaki joins fellow Massey academics Professor Palatasa (Tasa) Havea, Dean of Pacific, and Professor Jodie Hunter from the Institute of Education, who serve as Founding Fellows and members of the PAS Governing Board.
Professor Havea said the recognition reflects Foliaki’s commitment to improving Pacific health and advancing research that matters for communities.
“Massey Pacific is proud to have high-calibre staff like Sunia leading the way,” Havea said.
The Academy will formally induct its new Fellows at its inaugural Congress in Apia, Samoa, in February 2026.
