DILI, 22 august 2022 (TATOLI) – The Government of Brunei Darussalam had pledged to take young Timorese people to work in the area of hospitality in Brunei.
“Today, a delegation from Brunei Darussalam and I had a meeting with Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak. During the meeting, we informed Ruak about the wiliness of the Government of Brunei to cooperate with the Government of Timor-Leste to take Timorese people to work in Brunei,” the Ambassador of Timor-Leste to Brunei Darussalam, Abel Guterres told reporters after having a meeting with Prime Minister Ruak, in Farol Dili, today.
He said it’s the first time in Timor-Leste history that one of the ASEAN member States is willing to hire Timorese people: “Brunei Darussalam is one of ASEAN member states. Brunei is a tiny nation on the island of Borneo with nice people and a nice government. The work on the recruitment of these Timorese people is underway.”
Guterres said before sending Timorese workers to Brunei, both parties must sign a labor contract agreement.
“As you can see, the head of the Timorese Manpower Agency (TMA) is here to meet Prime Minister Ruak. Therefore, TMA will look after our workers right from their arrival in Brunei until the end of their contract,” he said.
According to Ambassador Guterres, Timorese people will be hired to work in Brunei under a two-year contract.
“The official language of Brunei Darussalam is Malay, but English is widely spoken as well. So, Timorese workers will feel at home when working there,” Guterres added.
Prime Minister Taur Matan Ruak was delighted with the initiative which will provide opportunities to young Timorese both men and women to work while learning new skills and experiences.
“Prime Minister was happy with the initiative. Because this is a good opportunity for our young Timorese people to explore and learn new experiences from other countries. We hope the such initiative will give our young people a brighter future,” he added.
Guterres emphasized that the Government of Brunei Darussalam also expressed its interest to invest in Timor-Leste, including factories, hotels, etc.
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
