On 11 August 2026, H.E. Mr. Atipat Rojanapaibulya, Ambassador of Thailand to Timor-Leste, handed over a monetary contribution of 3,100 USD from the Government of Thailand to the Alola Foundation to support its capacity-building and economic empowerment programmes for Timorese women.

On this occasion, the Ambassador underscored Thailand’s commitment to strengthening human security and promoting the empowerment of women and children in Timor-Leste through cooperation in the areas of public health, education, and economic development. Since 2012, the Government of Thailand, through the Royal Thai Embassy in Dili, has continuously provided financial and in-kind support to the Alola Foundation.

Ms. Maria Imaculada Guterres, CEO of the Alola Foundation, expressed her appreciation for the continued support from the Royal Thai Embassy. She stated that the contribution will be used to build the capacity of artisan groups by improving product quality and diversifying products, as well as enhancing their access to market opportunities through participation in the Foundation’s mid-year and Christmas fairs. These efforts aim to increase income opportunities for the artisans and their families.

The Alola Foundation is a non-profit organisation founded in 2001 by Ms. Kirsty Sword Gusmão. The Foundation focuses on education, health, and economic development programmes to improve the quality of life of women and children in Timor-Leste.

The handover of support also marked the auspicious occasion of the Birthday Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother and National Mother’s Day on 12 August 2026, highlighting Her Majesty’s lifelong commitment and steadfast advocacy for the empowerment of women and the improvement of the quality of life of women and children.