On 30 June 2025, H.E. Mr. Atipat Rojanapaibulya, Ambassador of Thailand to Timor-Leste, together with Mr. Jackson Lay, Director of JYL International, handed over monetary support in the amount of 2,800 USD from the Royal Thai Government and 2,000 packs of instant noodles bought from proceeds of Thai Gastronomy Week event, co-organized by the Royal Thai Embassy and Palm Springs Hotel Dili, to the Alola Foundation to support its capacity building and economic empowerment programs for Timorese women.

 

The Ambassador 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 continuously provided support, both financial and in kind, to the Alola Foundation since 2012.

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. These aim for the groups to generate income to support their family needs.

 

Founded in 2001 by Ms. Kirsty Sword Gusmão, this non-profit NGO has implemented several programs in education, health, Advocacy and economic development to improve the lives of women and children in Timor-Leste.

 

The handover of support also marked the auspicious occasion of the Birthday Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana on 3 June 2025. Her Majesty 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.