DILI, 03 february 2026 (TATOLI) – The newly appointed President of Timor-Leste’s public broadcasting council, Rosário Maia, has pledged to make institutional strengthening the core focus of his four-year term.
Maia outlines vision for modernising Timor-Leste’s public broadcaster following handover ceremony held at RTTL’s headquarters in Caicoli, Dili.
The event was attended by Secretary of State for Social Communication, Expedito Dias Ximenes.
Maia acknowledged the “significant progress” made by RTTL in recent years and committed to continuing the work of the previous administration.
He stressed that institutional strengthening would centre on harmonising the legal framework governing the public broadcaster.
“My priority is institutional strengthening, particularly through the harmonisation of legal foundations,” Maia said. “This will enable RTTL to fulfil its vision and mission, safeguard workers’ rights and duties, and promote a professional and ethical working environment.”
He also emphasised the need to modernise and expand RTTL’s programming, citing Timor-Leste’s recent accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the challenges of the digital era.
Maia said the broadcaster must become more modern and competitive while playing a central role in disseminating national development news.
Secretary of State Ximenes explained that the handover process allows the incoming president to review previous work and identify areas requiring continuity or improvement before formally taking office.
“I am pleased the new President has clearly outlined his mission, vision, and commitment to lead the institution in accordance with Decree-Law No. 42/2008, which regulates RTTL’s transformation into a public company,” Ximenes said.
Ximenes thanked the outgoing president for his contribution and expressed confidence in the new leadership, adding that he hopes RTTL will “continue to evolve positively and strengthen cooperation with national and international partners.”
Maia previously worked at RTTL between 2001 and 2013, serving as Director of Radio, among other roles. Prior to her appointment, she was employed by the United States Agency for International Development in Timor-Leste.
TATOLI
