Dili, 02 June 2026 (Media Democracia) – Related to World No Tobacco Day, which falls every year on May 31, the World Health Organization in Timor-Leste says nearly 20% of vendors sell tobacco near school areas in Timor-Leste.
World Health Organization Representative Arvind Mathur said that in Timor-Leste, one in five students has already used tobacco, and nearly 20% of schools have tobacco vendors around the school area.
“These data come from a national survey in schools. The data shows that tobacco products are very close to children and youth, and that is why the theme of World No Tobacco Day 2026, ‘Reveal the True Influence,’ speaks directly to our nation.” said World Health Organization Representative Arvind Mathur (1/06/26).
He said World No Tobacco Day is celebrated every year on May 31. The day teaches that tobacco and nicotine products are often made to look attractive.
“This day teaches us that tobacco and nicotine products are often made to look attractive, modern, and not dangerous, especially to young people. In Timor-Leste, this problem is very urgent, especially in school areas.” he said.
He explained recent findings from the Say No to 5S endline study, which looked at changes that have happened since the program began. The program went back to schools across Timor to see what has changed since the project started.
“Students who use tobacco or smoke have decreased, but only slightly. At the same time, teachers who found students smoking at school increased from 2.5% to nearly 22%. When students themselves admit they use tobacco, and when teachers frequently find them smoking in school areas, we can say that what we see now is only a small part of a much bigger problem.” he explained.
These results show an important reality. Tobacco use is still common and considered normal in Timor-Leste. This situation also affects young people. The latest national survey shows that 60% of adults in Timor-Leste use tobacco.
“The rate is higher for men (77.5%) than for women (45%). Tobacco is very harmful to our health. It can kill up to half of the people who use tobacco and who don’t quit. In Timor-Leste, the biggest concern is the sale of single cigarettes. A child or youth may not have money to buy a whole pack of cigarettes, but can buy just one stick. This makes tobacco easier to access and can cause nicotine dependence at a young age. That is why selling single cigarettes/sticks near schools is a major concern.” he added.
Timor-Leste already has strong laws to control tobacco. Since becoming a member of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in 2004, Timor has implemented pictorial health warnings on tobacco packs, restrictions on smoking in public places, and a ban on selling single cigarettes. These measures give the country a strong foundation to protect its people, especially children.
Reporting: Trainee Juliana
Photo: Trainee Leozalia