DILI, 05 December 2025 (TATOLI) – The Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment, Rogério Mendonça, announced that the Government will resume maritime training in January for Timorese fisheries-sector workers recruited to work in South Korea.
The decision follows the recent rise in workplace accidents and fatalities among Timorese crew members in South Korea.
Rogério Mendonça recalled that between 2023 and 2025 no maritime training was provided before workers departed for South Korea, despite such training having been offered in previous years through a partnership between the Secretariat of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE) and a South Korean agency.
He explained that the training programme had been suspended due to concerns over potential public criticism. However, the increase in incidents at sea — including cases where workers fell overboard and could not be rescued — prompted the Government to reverse its decision.
The training will now be delivered in cooperation with the Maritime Police and the Naval Component of the Timor-Leste Defence Forces to equip selected workers with essential knowledge on maritime safety.
“The Navy will provide specialised training to all selected candidates to ensure they understand basic safety procedures at sea,” he said.
Mendonça emphasized that bringing back the programme is a strategic measure to minimize risks and enhance the safety of Timorese fisheries workers in South Korea.
Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Filomeno Martins
