In Samoa, Tonga and Fiji, woven mats are the embodiment of the islands' system of hierarchy. The finest Tongan, and some Samoan mats, are individually named and have their own history that is evoked during important events, such as the conferring of chiefly titles. It is believed that these mats were initially brought to Tonga from Samoa for marriages and funerals. The term for fine mats is ie toga, which reflects this inter-archipelago link. In the past, highly prized rare red feathers from Fiji were woven into the fringes of mats, however, nowadays, commercial feathers or wool are more widely used. Valued for the finesse of its weaving and the whiteness of its fibre, each mat's significance is enhanced by its age, the status of the weaver and its association to particular events.

Kieti Fusimalohi comes from the Ha'apai group of islands in Tonga, an archipelago of 50 small islands renowned for its weaving practice. Fusimalohi's kie Tonga mat was presented as part of the delegation of the Princess of Tonga, Salote Pilolevu Tuita, at the 7th Women's conference of the South Pacific Commission in Noumea in 1997. Such a prestigious occasion is honoured through the superb weaving and intricate use of pattern displayed in this mat. Kie Tonga are used as ceremonial currency for different important events and can be worn around the waist by high ranking individuals during ceremonies.