DILI, 17 may 2022 (TATOLI)– USAID “Tourism for All” together with the Association of Religious Tourism in Timor-Leste (ATRTL) held a public speaking competition for Timorese youth to become ambassadors to promote religious tourism.
the theme for this year is “Union in diversity to promote Religious Tourism in My country”
ATRTL President, Rev. Angelo Salsinha said young people must become new ambassadors for engaging humans with nature.
“Youths are the main pillar in promoting religious tourism throughout the country. They must improve their ability to work with all communities in advancing tourism sites,” he added.
ATRTL is expected that the new ambassadors will have the skills to respond to several important pillars consisting of priorities, protection, and connectivity to ensure the prosperity and welfare of the people.
“ATRTL is supported by USAID to make this public competition possible to qualify students from universities for new ambassadors,” ATRTL President Imam Angelo Salsinha told reporters at Timor Plaza, Tuesday.
Chairman of the USIAD P”Tourism For All”, Peter Semone said, USAID Tourism For All Project is committed to supporting ATRTL to advance the Religious Tourism program to achieve sustainable goals.
Timor-Leste promotes solidarity between different religions. This requires the participation of all groups, especially young people.
According to Mr. Semone, Religious Tourism will contribute to state revenue and reduce the country’s dependence on petroleum revenues.
“USAID is committed to supporting the government of Timor Leste through MTCI and the private sectors as well as the local community to continue working together to promote tourism in TL,”
10 students competed in public speaking to become new ambassadors for the 2022-2023 period. The students came from UNTL, UNITAL, IOB, and ISFT.
So far the activity was funded by ATRTL for more than 2,000 USD.
The results of the competition will be announced on May 26, 2022.
Journalist: José Belarmino De Sá
Editor: Nelia Borges
