DILI, 03 january 2026 (TATOLI) – The President of Timor-Leste, José Ramos-Horta, met with Kenneth Choo, founder of Singapore-based Kenneth & Co, along with Joanico Jeronimo and Manuel Vong from Incanto Group, at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace on monday to discuss a strategic partnership aimed at developing national human capital.
The meeting focused on a new collaboration designed to bridge the development gap between Timor-Leste and Singapore by providing young Timorese graduates with high-level professional training and career opportunities in Singapore’s advanced economy.
Under the initiative, 300 Timorese university graduates will be recruited annually to serve in Singapore’s premier hospitality and tourism sectors.
As part of this Business-to-Business (B2B) model, qualified candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree and demonstrating English proficiency will have access to professional roles with attractive monthly salaries starting at S$3,000.
The program emphasizes rigorous capacity building, including specialized internships and English placement standards, to ensure Timorese youth can compete effectively in the international market.
President Ramos-Horta expressed his strong endorsement of the partnership, highlighting the importance of private sector involvement in preparing the nation’s workforce for global integration.
This collaboration is part of a broader vision for the Incanto Group, which includes future expansions into aged care services in Australia and enhancing agricultural exports. This strategic alliance marks a significant step forward in strengthening the economic and professional ties between Timor-Leste and Singapore.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
