DILI, 15 August 2025 (TATOLI) – The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), in partnership with Korea Overseas Development Consulting (KODAC) and the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL), has organised a campaign to teach children about road safety rules.
The programme aims to reduce traffic accidents involving minors by promoting safe behaviour on the roads. In Timor-Leste, many children under 16 ride motorcycles without helmets and have little knowledge of traffic regulations.
“We have seen that many children ride without understanding the road rules or wearing helmets. This campaign, in cooperation with PNTL, is to raise awareness and prevent accidents,” said KODAC’s Representative in Timor-Leste, Hyojeong Kim, at the Becora Sport Centre on Friday.
PNTL’s representative, Luis da Costa, said the initiative includes public awareness activities, community education, and enforcement of traffic laws to improve road safety.
During the sessions, police stressed the importance of obeying the traffic rules and signs which is crucial for road safety.
“I call on children to obey traffic rules and signs, follow speed limits, wear helmets, and avoid using mobile phones while driving. You must also protect pedestrians, especially children and the elderly,” Costa appealed.
Since its launch, the programme has reached more than 600 children in Dili and provided each with a free helmet for use when riding with their parents.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
