DILI, 19 May 2025 (TATOLI) – On the occasion of the 23rd Anniversary of Timor-Leste’s Restoration of Independence, President and Nobel Peace Laureate, Jose Ramos Horta bestowed the prestigious national honor, the Order of Timor-Leste, to national and international recipients in recognition of their dedicated service and exceptional contributions to the nation. The official ceremony was held at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace.
In a series of presidential decrees, President Ramos Horta bestowed:
The Order of Timor-Leste to 21 distinguished recipients for their exceptional contributions to the nation’s justice sector, with 17 recipients receiving the Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste and 4 receiving the Medal of the Order of Timor-Leste.
The Order of Timor-Leste to 78 distinguished recipients across various sectors of national development, with 20 receiving the Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste, 41 awarded the Medal of the Order of Timor-Leste, 16 receiving the Insignia of the Order of Timor-Leste, and one receiving the Medal of Merit of the Order of Timor-Leste.
The Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste to former United States Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Grover Joseph Rees, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to strengthening diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The Nicolau Lobato Order posthumously to Reverend Father Domingos da Silva Soares “Maubere” in recognition of his significant contributions to Timor-Leste’s struggle for national independence.
“As we celebrate our nation’s independence, we honor those individuals whose dedication has been instrumental in our journey,” stated President Ramos-Horta. “From the justice sector to diplomatic service, from civilian combatants in our liberation struggle to the tireless efforts of countless others working for our development—these exceptional individuals represent the best of Timor-Leste. Their unwavering commitment across various sectors has strengthened our young democracy, promoted peace between peoples, and contributed significantly to our national stability. Their collective achievements demonstrate not just personal excellence, but the resilience and determination of the Timorese spirit as we continue building our nation.”
The awards recognize the honorees’ tireless efforts across various areas including academia, healthcare, government service, resistance efforts, diplomatic relations, and the justice sector. Their contributions have directly benefited Timorese citizens while strengthening the foundations of the nation’s democratic institutions.
Recipients of the Order of Timor-Leste
Posthumous Decoration with the Order of Nicolau Lobato to the Most Reverend Father Domingos da Silva Soares “Maubere”
Decoration of His Excellency the Former Ambassador of the United States of America (USA), Grover Joseph Rees, with the Collar Grade of the Order of Timor-Leste.
Decoration with the Order of Timor-Leste including the Collar, Medal, and certificate of recognition to the Authors of Justice who performed duties for the benefit of the Timorese people during the national development process.
TATOLI
