Yes and there's no way to say this except, those who speak for the many? Should first earn the informed consent to do so!

And given tradition simply divides and divides the land until the only way for it to be economic is to sell it?

Then they should perhaps create proper titles to land to back traditional claims, (the eldest son of the eldest son of the eldest son?) so that then can be used to raise capital for economic development?

And long term leases avoid the conundrum of ever actually losing the land to essential development of say, foreign owned family friendly resorts?

Which by the way, can be built on land unsuitable for virtually anything else!

Even so, lenders need something of tangible value, before they fund essential development!

There is only one constant in the entire universe, and that is constant change! And we/they need to adapt to change or be steam rolled by it!

In any event, they can decide which traditions identify them, and which no longer serve a useful purpose in a "welcoming" modern multicultural society?

The Zulus, i.e., still perform traditional dances that include lots of foot stomping, tiny modesty coverings, shields and spears; and bare breasted women shaking it for an audience!

And you'd be hard put to find anything more beautiful, than a tall well made Zulu woman in minimal traditional dress!

As they say in the classics, that just knocks your socks off!

Yet go home to a fully westernized lifestyle, replete with bras, lap tops and business suits!

We need more of that, and traditional Hunges, Hakkas, Hulas; and less of the fat lady sings!

Albeit, large tubs of lard/the bulldozer with eyes playing running rugby, has its more interesting moments, and a good place to focus and get rid of any pent up anger!?
Rhrosty.

Paradise and growth are mutually exclusive.

One is in paradise when they are content with what they already have.

Wise words - as always Yuyutsu.
Globalisation has improved the bank balances of the one percent, and impoverished every other indigenous community on the planet. The Samoan eco systems are as fragile as any other, and once land is leased and nature removed, that's the end. Anyone who chooses to live in a modern apartment instead of a comfortable fale with a garden and walking track to the lagoon full of fish, is insane...but Samoans are human and will believe the propaganda, the hype, the promises... and take the bait and in fifty years will be living in another HongKong, wondering why life isn't fun or healthy or satisfying any more