DILI, 09 June 2026 (TATOLI) — President José Ramos-Horta on Monday called for stronger protection of marine ecosystems through a combination of traditional practices and modern conservation measures, emphasizing the role of Tara Bandu in safeguarding Timor-Leste’s waters for future generations.
In a message marking World Ocean Day 2026, Ramos-Horta highlighted this year’s global theme, “Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet,” and stressed the urgency of expanding and effectively managing marine conservation areas.
“Science has spoken. Without robust, well-managed, and equitably governed marine protected areas, we cannot restore fish stocks, defend coastal communities from climate collapse, or preserve the extraordinary biodiversity of our Coral Triangle—the Amazon of the Seas, lying right at our doorstep,” the president said.
Reflecting on the country’s deep connection with the sea, Ramos-Horta said the waters surrounding Timor-Leste have long sustained its people and linked the nation to the wider world.
“Today, on World Ocean Day 2026, we look out upon the same blue water that has connected us to the world, sustained our ancestors, and nourished our dreams of independence,” he said.
The president noted that effective conservation efforts must be rooted in local communities and cultural traditions.
He highlighted Timor-Leste’s national theme for World Ocean Day 2026, “Protect the Ocean through Tara Bandu for a Sustainable Future.
According to Ramos-Horta, Tara Bandu represents more than a customary prohibition, serving as a social and cultural commitment to environmental stewardship.
“Tara Bandu is not merely a prohibition. It is a sacred social contract—a promise between the living, our ancestors, and the generations not yet born,” he said. “It is customary law that says: ‘Here, we do not take more than we need. Here, we do not destroy what gives us life.'”
The president called on communities across the country to strengthen and expand traditional conservation zones, particularly in coral reef and mangrove ecosystems.
“Let us renew our Tara Bandu for our ocean. Let us declare that our traditional Tara Bandu zones on reefs and mangroves will be respected and expanded,” he said.
Ramos-Horta also highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen sustainable ocean governance through its Blue Economy Policy and Action Plan. He said the strategy promotes environmental protection, sustainable economic diversification, community empowerment, innovation, regional cooperation, and international partnerships.
“The Government of Timor-Leste has been strengthening its strategic vision through the Blue Economy Policy and Action Plan, which promotes sustainable, inclusive, and intergenerational ocean governance,” he said.
The president rejected the notion that small nations have limited influence in global conservation efforts, arguing that Timor-Leste can lead through example and traditional wisdom. “Some say a small nation cannot protect a great ocean. I say: a small nation with a great heart and an ancient sense of harmony can lead by example,” he said.
Concluding his message, Ramos-Horta urged all Timorese to deepen their connection with the ocean and recognize its importance to the country’s future.
“With Tara Bandu, let us protect our ocean. Let us protect our blue planet and secure a sustainable future for all,” he said.
TATOLI
