DILI, 04 June 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic José Ramos Horta, on Tuesday, launched the Outdoor Art Gallery: “Ha’u-nia Tasi, Ha’u-nia Timor” (My Sea, My Timor), and the stunning Ocean Murals painted by local Timorese artists.
The President of the National Parliament, the President of the Court of Appeals, the Prime Minister, Members of Government, Diplomatic Corps and other guests also attended this special event.
Installed in front of the Government Palace as part of Ocean Week celebrations, the initiative precedes World Ocean Day and underscores Timor-Leste’s commitment to sustainability and the principles of the Blue Economy.
As part of Ocean Week celebrations, the installation of the Open-Air Art Gallery in front of the Government Palace serves as a prelude to World Ocean Day and reinforces Timor-Leste’s commitment to sustainability and the Blue Economy.
The Outdoor Art Gallery, on display for one month on the waterfront of the Government Palace in Dili, features an installation of 8 illuminated acrylic cubes showcasing 32 stunning images of Timor-Leste’s vibrant marine life. The ocean murals painted by Timorese artists show Timor-Leste’s marine biodiversity, coastal activities and conservation efforts.
The images and murals highlight the unique biodiversity in Timorese waters and the ancestral traditions that connect the Timorese people to nature and the sea. ocean.
The Outdoor Art Gallery and ocean murals aim to engage visitors, both Timorese and international, by raising awareness about the importance of the ocean that unites us all as One Humanity. Through vibrant displays of marine life and ocean-related activities, it seeks to foster appreciation, promote conservation and encourage community involvement in sustainable management practices of the ocean.
The ocean plays a vital role in the Timorese way of life, with many relying on it for their livelihood and sustenance.
Developing Timor-Leste’s Blue Economy and other ocean-based sectors under the direct leadership of Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão is one of the priorities of the IX Government to diversify the nation’s economy and enhance the livelihood of the Timorese people.
President Horta made an appeal against plastic pollution and improper waste disposal, warning about the impact of river debris that eventually reaches the sea.
He also recalled a previous initiative, launched while serving as Foreign Minister, which awarded the cleanest sucos and aldeias, proposing its reintroduction as a way to encourage environmental responsibility in communities.
Horta emphasized that lasting changes require continuous education and a profound transformation of mindset, advocating for practices that avoid littering, protect natural resources, and combat the hunting of protected species. He also cited the poetry collection “Meu Mar” (My Sea) by Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão as a sensitive reflection on the connection between humanity and the ocean, and the devastating effects of pollution on marine ecosystems.
The Head of State called for greater international cooperation to face global environmental challenges, highlighting Timor-Leste’s unique position as a country without highly polluting industries. According to him, this profile gives the country an opportunity to become a regional example in sustainable Blue Economy development.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
