Dili, April 25, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Telkomcel has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MJDAC) of Timor-Leste in a strategic move to support the transformation of national resources. Telkomcel aims to serve as a telecommunications service provider for Timor-Leste.
In an interview, Telkomcel CEO Benedictus Ardiyanto Priyo stated that the signing ceremony was held at Palm Springs Hotel Dili and attended by relevant ministry representatives, including Mr. Benedictus Ardiyanto Priyo himself and the Minister of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MJDAC), Mr. Nelyo Isaac Sarmento.
“This joint initiative marks an important step for Telkomcel in strengthening sectoral collaboration to drive local innovation, unlock youth potential, and promote Timor-Leste’s culture globally in partnership with the government, represented by MJDAC,” said Benedictus Ardiyanto Priyo.
He further explained that after twelve years of operation in Timor-Leste, Telkomcel has grown alongside talented locals. Over 95% of its more than 200 employees are Timorese, and 75% of management roles are held by capable young Timorese professionals. Telkomcel recognizes that these youth are the future of the nation in a globalized era. This is why Telkomcel believes that working with MJDAC is a crucial first step toward achieving digital transformation driven by youth in Timor-Leste.
“This collaboration represents Telkomcel’s commitment to innovation and building a better future for young men and women in Timor-Leste one that embraces digitalization while preserving culture as a national identity. Through this partnership, we aim to create broad-based solutions aligned with our shared objectives,” added Benedictus.
He highlighted Telkomcel’s creation of DigiStar, the first local startup competition in Timor-Leste, as a milestone in promoting innovation and creativity among young people. The winners of DigiStar have become national innovators on a mission to drive meaningful change in the country.
“Capacity-building is a key point for Telkomcel to drive digital transformation through programs that go beyond offering just internal and external platforms. We also provide access to broad industrial networks to foster trust, creativity, and leadership qualities essential for Timor-Leste to compete globally. This partnership also positions Telkomcel as the official telecommunications partner for the upcoming CPLP Sports Games, to be held July 17–25, 2025, with participation from all Portuguese-speaking countries,” he said.
Telkomcel will provide dedicated internet access for media coverage during the event, and collaborate on video content production and publication via multiple platforms, including SMS broadcasts to Telkomcel clients to increase event viewership. They will also offer digital advertising services, an integrated website platform for the CPLP event, 600 SIM cards with 25GB internet packages for athletes, delegation members, and event staff, as well as 700 merchandise packs.
“Through this collaboration, we believe Telkomcel is committed to supporting national transformation through the adoption of technology and the strengthening of the creative and cultural sectors. We are proud to be the official telecommunications partner of the CPLP Sports Games. We hope this sporting event will further spark innovation and growth in Timor-Leste’s creative, sports, and tourism industries,” declared Benedictus Ardiyanto Priyo.
Meanwhile, MJDAC Minister Nelyo Isaac Sarmento expressed his gratitude to Telkomcel for its strong vision in providing internet innovation and supporting event promotion through media, websites, and its role as an official partner.
“The youth of Timor-Leste are full of potential to bring positive change to our nation with their cultural values, identity, confidence, and readiness to face the future. For this reason, Telkomcel’s contribution in providing official merchandise for the CPLP Sports Games event is very meaningful,” said Minister Nelyo Isaac Sarmento.
He added that the MoU signed with Telkomcel enables collaborative programs and strategic initiatives to promote Timorese culture through digital platforms with a sense of nationalism. Telkomcel also offers opportunities for individuals to develop and turn their ideas into innovation, building an inclusive innovation ecosystem.
Report : Domingas
Photo : Estefania