DILI, 09 April 2026 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos-Horta, conducted a direct visit on Wednesday to Mount Lesululi, Cailaco Administrative Post, Bobonaro Municipality, to view a marine reptile fossil identified as an Ichthyosaurus, which is estimated to be over 208 million years old.
According to scientific information, this fossil is considered an important geological heritage site for Timor-Leste. The visit reflects the State’s interest in promoting scientific research and the conservation of natural heritage for our nation, Timor-Leste.
During the visit, the President emphasized that this discovery could become a strategic point for the development of scientific and educational tourism, particularly in the Bobonaro Municipality. He also requested that relevant entities continue to conduct in-depth studies to ensure its conservation and sustainable utilization for the future.
Local authorities and the community in the area welcomed the President’s presence with enthusiasm, hoping that the Government’s attention will bring real benefits to local development.
On this occasion, the Deputy Director of the Institute of Geosciences (IGE), Victor Aleluia de Sousa Vicente, stated that they are currently working with the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) from the United Kingdom to film a documentary about the fossil, planned for publication in 2028, to promote Cailaco and Timor-Leste internationally.
He also mentioned that the next initiative is to submit the fossil site for recognition as a UNESCO “Global Geopark,” despite the complexity of the process. However, if recognized, it could attract tourists and investment, boosting the local economy in sectors such as lodging, restaurants, and hospitality.
Meanwhile, geologist Isaias dos Santos Barros, who discovered the fossil site, will continue to work with experts to prepare a high-quality scientific article for publication in an international journal, highlighting the scientific importance of this fossil discovery.
The communities in Cailaco received the President’s visit with enthusiasm, considering the fossil a heritage and a wealth that must be protected by everyone. Simultaneously, the Team of the Presidency of the Republic, through the Civil Society and Social Affairs Unit (SSAS), distributed basic necessities such as food, clothing, and sports equipment to communities from eight villages in the Cailaco Post.
TATOLI
