DILI, 10 June 2026 (TATOLI) — President José Ramos-Horta on Tuesday called on young people to take a leading role in protecting the environment and strengthening climate resilience, stressing that the future of Timor-Leste depends on the active participation of younger generations in building a cleaner and more sustainable nation.
Speaking at the opening of the Marabia PermaYouth Camp 2026 in Dili, Ramos-Horta highlighted the importance of youth engagement in addressing environmental challenges and reducing the risks posed by climate change.
Held under the theme, “Local Action for Water and Soil Conservation and the Reduction of Natural Disaster Risks,” the camp provided a platform for the president to advocate stronger environmental protection measures, improved waste management practices, and greater public responsibility in safeguarding natural resources.
Ramos-Horta expressed concern over the persistent problem of littering and illegal waste disposal in public spaces, including roadsides, beaches, and urban areas. He said young people and students, who have broader access to information and digital technology, are well positioned to lead efforts to change public attitudes and promote environmental awareness.
The Head of State advocated stronger action by the relevant authorities to combat pollution and protect public spaces. In this regard, he suggested the installation of video surveillance systems in critical areas and the strict enforcement of penalties against individuals and businesses that dispose of waste illegally, stressing that effective accountability is essential to fostering a culture of environmental respect.
In line with the objectives of the PermaYouth Camp, the President also warned of the need for the Government to strengthen the country’s preparedness for the impacts of climate change. He emphasized the importance of developing robust contingency plans to mitigate the effects of prolonged droughts associated with the El Niño and La Niña phenomena, which continue to pose serious challenges to agriculture, water availability, and national food security.
In the area of infrastructure, Ramos-Horta called on the Ministry of Public Works to accelerate the rehabilitation of roads that are in an advanced state of deterioration, highlighting the risks they pose to public safety and community economic development. Referring to the difficulties faced by road users, he described one of the roads as a “road to purgatory” because of its poor condition.
At the conclusion of his remarks, the Head of State asked participants to pray for Father João Felgueiras on the occasion of his 105th birthday. President Ramos-Horta highlighted the priest’s important contribution to Timor-Leste through decades of service and dedication to the Timorese people, marking the occasion with gratitude and deep respect.
The Marabia PermaYouth Camp 2026 brings together young people from different regions of the country with the aim of promoting environmental education, sustainability, and civic engagement among younger generations in addressing the climate and social challenges facing Timor-Leste.
TATOLI
