Published 11 September, 2020
MISSA unveils new office in Ebeye, Kwajalein
August 28, 2020 was a festive day on the vicinity of Dondon and Moreen Ishoda’s residence in Ebeye, Kwajalein as MISSA’s new branch office was officially unveiled to the public. The opening started with a traditional but brief program. Harden Lelet, a former MISSA Branch Manager in Ebeye, was designated as master of ceremonies. The program began with an opening prayer by Rev. Kaoru P. Kaious and was followed by inspiring remarks from KALGov Councilor Morrison James Jr., MISSA Chairman, Minister Bruce Bilimon and KALGov Mayor Hirata Kabua.
The main guest of honor was Leroij Anta Kabua John who, together with Education Minister Kitlang Kabua (who is a MISSA Board member), were given the honor to cut the ribbon that officially unveiled the new office.
After the program, the guests were treated to an early banquet catered by MIR Ebeye Hotel and entertained with live music by Eddie Enos. Everyone was further delighted after a dance group named Monkubok Jepta performed a traditional dance called “Ekkal” and sang by Stallon Clanry.
The event also coincided with the first ever MISSA Board meeting in Ebeye conducted the day before. Ebeye, Kwajalein is being represented by Anjabro Kabua in the MISSA Board.
The Ebeye Government Building has been home to MISSA since it opened its branch in Ebeye in the early 1980’s. Due to wear and tear, the building has deteriorated and all occupants including MISSA, KALGov, MIDB, Offices of the Chief Secretary, Min. of Finance and Customs were asked to temporarily relocate its offices as a new building will soon be constructed.
Before returning to Majuro, Saane K. Aho, MISSA Administrator, together with Bryan Edejer, MISSA’s Chief Tax Officer, facilitated a townhall meeting with retirees and businesses to discuss the current MISSA laws and social security issues. Some of the questions asked include the age eligibility requirements, clarification on disability and survivor benefits, and how benefitswill be distributed in case of a community lockdown caused by COVID-19.
It is important to note that currently, the age requirement is 62 years before a worker becomes eligible to old age retirement benefits. By January 1, 2021, it will be raised to 63 years; then to 64 years starting January 1, 2023. Effective January 1, 2025 and onward, the retirement age will move up to 65 years. The Administrator assured the retirees that their benefits will continue to be paid on time even if there are COVID cases in the country.
MISSA wants to say a big KOMOL TATA to the following individuals and businesses who supported us during the construction of the new office and made the event a big success:
- The leadership of Kwajalein Atoll including the Iroij and Alap;
- The Mayor & local government of Kwajalein for giving the Administration ample time to relocate to a new location;
- Mr. Boen Bobo and carpenters for the construction of the office;
- Dondon & Moreen Ishoda for opening up the space for MISSA;
- Mr. Joseph Pedro & KAJUR for ensuring that there was power during the event;
- The national police department for allowing MISSA to use the main road;
- Mr. Patrick Chen and Hermai Makroro of BOMI for hosting the food buffet;
- MIR Hotel Ebeye for catering the event;
- Mr. Anjabro Kabua, MISSA board member and H2 Imports for supporting the MISSA office and its needs during the relocation;
- A & D Company for supplying cement blocks and aggregates;
- DIY for allowing MISSA to buy materials and fuel on credit;
- PSI for ensuring fuel supply when needed;
- Eddie Enos & Mon Lamike band for the entertainment;
- Monkubok Jepta dancers for the local entertainment; and
- Mr. Harden Lelet for doing a great job as Master of Ceremonies