Dili, August 28, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Fundasaun Mahein (FM) has called on the governments of Timor-Leste and Indonesia to work together to establish peace and stability in border areas in order to avoid misunderstandings. This was conveyed during a conference held at FM’s office in Bidau, Bairro dos Grilos.
Director of Fundasaun Mahein, Nelson Belo, stated that recent observations show a slight tension along the Indonesia–Timor-Leste international border following the death of an Indonesian citizen in Timor-Leste’s border area.
“To reduce tension and promote peace and stability in border areas, we need to create a mechanism for both countries at each border point. Therefore, FM urges both governments, in Dili and Jakarta, to establish a peace and stability mechanism along the border,” said FM Director, Nelson Belo.
The Director further explained that one of the mechanisms recommended by the foundation is to open a joint investigation between Indonesia and Timor-Leste to gather evidence and present a transparent report on the incident involving the death of the Indonesian citizen at the border.
“Building peace and stability means preventing any negative implications for bilateral relations between the governments of Timor-Leste and Indonesia. Both countries need to carry out cultural activities as a strategy for observation and conflict resolution at the border, as cultural solutions are key,” said the FM Director.
He emphasized that the border areas between the two nations remain disputed, and therefore, creating peace and stability requires clear explanations from joint teams from Jakarta and Dili, with clarity achieved through cultural encounters.
Meanwhile, Police Superintendent and Spokesperson João Belo dos Reis stated that the Indonesian citizen who died was suspected of being shot with a firearm, and the case is still under investigation. The body has been buried by the family, but security authorities of both PNTL (Timor-Leste National Police) and Indonesian authorities continue to work together in the ongoing investigation.
“At present, PNTL has coordinated directly with Indonesian police authorities, showing commitment to work together in the investigation to ensure transparency, share information, and strengthen security cooperation in border areas,” said Police Superintendent and Spokesperson João Belo dos Reis.
He further stressed that as a security institution, PNTL’s main priority is to ensure community safety while strengthening relations between the two countries.
Regarding the death of the Indonesian citizen in the Timor-Leste border area, he reiterated the importance of cooperation with Indonesian security authorities to promote peace and stability in relation to public order along the border between Timor-Leste and Indonesia.
Reporter : Nelfiano
Photo : Nelfiano