DILI, 29 June 2025 (TATOLI) — In a historic milestone for cultural preservation and regional cooperation, representatives of Portuguese-descended communities across Asia formally established the Asian Portuguese Community Association (APCA) with the signing of the Dili Declaration at the conclusion of the 4th Conference of Asian Portuguese Communities, held in Dili from June 27 to 29, 2025.
The initiative stems from a shared commitment to strengthen cultural identity, promote mutual cooperation, and safeguard the centuries-old heritage of Luso-Asian communities.
“On the basis of our shared culture, grounded in dialogue and mutual respect, and united by the richness of a legacy inherited over centuries, which we wish to pass on to future generations, we express our commitment to seek solutions that bring tangible benefits to each community, while recognizing and valuing their unique characteristics,” said in a statement.
The newly formed association, to be headquartered in Dili, will serve as a platform for dialogue, connection, and coordinated action.
The association will also act as a gathering point to connect with partner institutions, researchers and academics, cultural movements and associations, as well as friendship and solidarity networks, among others, in a joint effort to safeguard the human and cultural heritage they represent.
The association’s mission is to foster the continuity of these centuries-old communities as cultural and ethnic realities, and to safeguard the intangible heritage represented by these communities and preserving their culture in its various expressions.
With Dili now serving as the institutional center for this effort, the declaration represents more than a symbolic act—it sets the foundation for collective action, cultural diplomacy, and intergenerational legacy-building.
Luso-Asian Communities’ heritage is not just history; it is a living presence. Through the establishment of this association, these communities reaffirm their commitment to making their voices heard, preserving their stories, and celebrating their unique identities.
The Asian Portuguese Community Association is expected to begin operations later this year, with its first priorities focused on launching a digital repository, engaging youth and scholars, and preparing for the next edition of the international conference.
The Dili Declaration on the Establishment of the Asian Portuguese Community Association was officially signed by representatives of Luso-Asian communities from across the region. The signatories included:
- Joseph de Sta. Maria – Malacca Portuguese Settlement (Bairro Português de Malaca), Malaysia
- Aloysio Thurein – Bayingyi Community, Myanmar
- Guido Quiko – Tugu Settlement of Jakarta (Bairro Tugu de Jacarta), Indonesia
- Earl Bathelot – Portuguese Burgher Community, Sri Lanka
- Sarayut Supsook – Kudichin Community of Bangkok (Comunidade Kudichin de Banguecoque), Thailand
- Honorarius Quintus Ebang – Sicca Community of Flores (Comunidade de Sica, Flores), Indonesia
- Carolina Fernandes e Pó – Goa Community, India
- Miguel de Senna Fernandes – Macanese Community, Macau (China)
- António da Costa – Topass Community of Oecusse (Comunidade Topasse de Oecusse), Timor-Leste
The signing of the Dili Declaration was witnessed by Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, Prime Minister of Timor-Leste.
TATOLI
