DILI, 20 March 2025 (TATOLI) – The Government of Timor-Leste, through the Ministry of Transport and Communications, is organizing the International Conference between March 20 and 21, 2025, with the theme “Harnessing Digital Transformation to Strengthen Public Services: Advancing Transparency, Efficiency, and Effectiveness.”
The event, taking place at the Dili Convention Center (CCD), brought together experts from ASEAN member states (Cambodia, Indonesia, and Vietnam), and Australia, dialogue partners, and representatives from Timor-Leste’s telecommunications and digital sectors to strengthen regional cooperation in digital transformation in the public sector, aligning with ASEAN integration efforts.
In his opening remarks, Vice Prime Minister Lay reaffirmed Timor-Leste’s dedication to leveraging technology as a powerful tool to modernize governance, enhance public service delivery, and drive economic growth: “The digital age presents us with both opportunities and challenges, and it is through collaboration, innovation, and strategic action that we will successfully navigate this evolving landscape.”
He said that the IX Constitutional Government under Prime Minister Gusmão’s leadership is fully committed to modernizing public administration through the adoption of digital technologies: “The implementation of e-Government initiatives is a critical pillar of our digital agenda. By streamlining administrative processes, digitizing public records, and introducing online services, we aim to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.”
Lay stated that digital transformation in Timor-Leste is not just about infrastructure, but involves creating an efficient and inclusive digital ecosystem, which is essential for sustainable development.
“The liberalization of the telecommunications market in 2012 resulted in a significant increase in mobile network coverage, reaching 96% of the population, and the introduction of 4G services in urban areas. However, digital transformation goes beyond connectivity and requires the implementation of an integrated approach that includes cybersecurity, digital literacy, electronic government services, and a robust regulatory framework,” he stressed.
Lay said that the deployment of the Timor-Leste South Submarine Cable (TLSSC) system will be a transformative step in strengthening Timor-Leste’s global digital connectivity: “Reliable, high-speed internet is essential for driving entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and enabling the growth of a dynamic digital economy.”
Vice Prime Minister Lay extended his gratitude to the Government of Australia, the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and private sector representatives—including TELIN International of Indonesia, D’FINITY, and Timor-Leste’s local startup enterprise, SIMILIE—for their willingness to share their expertise and best practices during the two-day conference.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
