By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau — Retirees across Palau are banding together to form the Retirees Association of Palau (RAP), a newly chartered non-governmental organization aimed at strengthening their collective voice, promoting cultural knowledge, and helping address challenges facing the nation’s aging population.
Interim President Joel Toribiong said the idea began after a retirees’ gathering where former Peleliu Gov. Temmy Shmull urged the group to “start thinking about ourselves.”
“That kind of planted the idea in my head,” Toribiong said. “This association emphasizes a klechibelau rkid — helping each other. Retirees are doctors, teachers, lawmakers, you name it. The group of retirees in a society is a group of wise minds. Together we have a stronger voice, and that is very important.”
With legal support from Sen. Seigfried Nakamura’s law firm, RAP drafted its charter and bylaws, which were later signed into effect by the president of the republic, formally recognizing the association as an NGO.
Priorities and Goals
The association has identified four priorities: caring for the community, enriching lives, uniting for resilience, and securing the future.
To advance those goals, RAP plans to launch outreach programs connecting retirees with schools and youth. Planned activities include teaching traditional skills such as fishing, weaving, farming, storytelling, and dancing — an effort leaders say will preserve cultural heritage while promoting intergenerational learning.
Interim Vice President Julita Tellei said she supports the association because it ensures retirees themselves guide the organization.
“We want to look for different ways we can help the retirees in Palau, run by retirees,” Tellei said. “Our goals are the same — supporting the idea of helping others who don’t have a chance.”
At a recent town hall, a retired teacher said the initiative is long overdue. “It really is time we look out for each other as a group, and I love the ideas and goals being brought up,” the teacher said.
Current Issues for Retirees
RAP’s formation comes at a time when retirees in Palau have raised concerns about the high cost of living, healthcare access, and government pension sustainability. Retirees have been particularly affected by recent policy debates, including power subsidies, new taxes, and health financing reforms.
By organizing, leaders say, retirees can play a more active role in shaping public policy while also building a network of mutual support.
Building Membership
Membership is open to all for $1 per month, though direct beneficiaries are retirees. Family members may also join on behalf of retirees, and youth are encouraged to participate.
Since its launch, RAP has held meetings in Ngarchelong, Ngaraard, Ngardmau, Ngeremlengui, Ngchesar, Ngiwal, and Peleliu, with Koror recently added. Leaders say the early engagement shows there is strong interest across the islands in building a community of support.
Still in its early stages, the association is positioning itself as a platform for retirees to remain engaged, share their expertise, and advocate for policies that secure the well-being of future generations.