On 31 May 2024, H.E. Mr. Atipat Rojanapaibulyal, Ambassador of Thailand to Timor-Leste, handed over monetary support of 2,700 USD from the Government of Thailand to the Alola Foundation to support its capacity building and economic empowerment programs for Timorese women.

H.E. Ambassador of Thailand took this opportunity to underscore Thailand’s commitment to strengthening human security and the empowerment of women and children in Timor-Leste, focusing on improving their health, education, and economic opportunities. The Government of Thailand, through the Royal Thai Embassy in Dili, has provided support to the Alola Foundation every year since 2012. In addition, maternal and child healthcare is highlighted as a key theme of this year’s cooperation between Thailand and Timor-Leste, with several initiatives covering both the hardware and software aspects. These include the upgrade of two Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care Centres (BEMONC) in Quelicai and Baguia, cooperation to strengthen midwifery education in three midwifery schools in Timor-Leste as well as joint research on stillbirth by Mahidol University of Thailand and UNFPA Timor-Leste. The small yet very active Thai community in Dili has also been participating in various volunteer activities aimed at empowering women and other vulnerable communities in Timor-Leste.

The handover of monetary support also marked the auspicious occasion of the Birthday Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana on 3 June 2024. Her Majesty the Queen has been a steadfast advocate for women’s empowerment and child protection. This collaboration exemplifies Her Majesty’s commitment to improving the lives of women and children.

Ms. Maria Imaculada Guterres, CEO of the Alola Foundation, expressed her appreciation for the continued support from the Royal Thai Embassy, saying that the fund will be used to provide capacity building for artisan groups on product quality improvements and product diversification as well as to enabling the groups to access to market opportunities through Alola Christmas and mid-year fair. This aims for the groups to generate income to support their family needs. Founded in 2001 by Ms. Kirsty Sword Gusmăo, this non-profit, non-governmental organization has implemented several programs in education, health, Advocacy and economic development to improve the lives of women and children in Timor-Leste.

* * * * *