Balibo, October 17, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The Timor-Leste Journalists Association (AJTL) held a press conference to commemorate and reflect on the killing of five foreign journalists by the Indonesian Armed Forces (ABRI) in Balibo in 1975. The event took place on Thursday in Balibo.
AJTL spokesperson Acacio Pinto stated that the 50th-anniversary commemoration of the massacre was not only a remembrance but also a tribute to the courage and commitment of the five journalists, who sought to uncover the truth through their reporting on Indonesia’s planned military invasion of Timor-Leste in 1975.
“The five foreign journalists, later known as the Balibo Five, are forever engraved in the heart of the Timorese state and people for their contribution to our nation’s struggle for independence. Their courage and journalistic work in Balibo as a small town near the Timor-Leste–Indonesia border that will always be remembered by every Timorese who values truth and freedom,” said spokesperson Acacio Pinto.
He continued by emphasizing that the Balibo Five symbolize the importance of journalism in defending human rights and humanity beyond borders.
“The Balibo Five teach the people of Timor, journalists, activists, security forces, and political leaders about the importance of truth-telling and defending human rights and humanity. Their deaths left a lasting mark and pain, as justice has still not been served even after 50 years. No one has ever been held accountable, especially the Indonesian military officers involved in their killings,” he added.
Acacio Pinto further stated that the 50th anniversary commemoration serves as an opportunity for AJTL to call on the governments of Australia and Timor-Leste to use diplomatic channels to engage the Government of Indonesia in pursuing justice for the Balibo Five journalists.
“Timor-Leste’s independence remains incomplete as long as justice is denied to the families who lost their loved ones,” he said.
Rest in Power to the Balibo Five journalists, Greg Shackleton, Tony Stewart, Gary Cunningham, Brian Peters, and Malcolm Rennie. Their journalistic work and contribution will always be remembered in Timor-Leste, the nation they sought to defend through truth.
The press conference also served as a moment of reflection and inspiration for Timorese journalists, reminding them to continue following in the footsteps of these five brave reporters, whose sacrifice demonstrated that journalism is the lifeblood of democracy.
Report: Nelfiano
Photo: Nelfiano