The Government of Timor-Leste has officially allocated financial assistance to support victims of the recent floods in Bali. According to an announcement from Dili, the approved donation amounts to USD 2.5 million, equivalent to approximately Rp 41 billion.
“The Government of Timor Leste, through the Council of Ministers meeting, has approved the draft government resolution submitted by Prime Minister Maun Bot (big brother) Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao to provide support to flood victims in Bali, Indonesia,” said the Timor-Leste Consul in Kupang, Espedito Da Conceicao Ribeiro, in his office, Thursday (18/9/2025).
The proposal was put forward by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao and subsequently endorsed by the Council of Ministers of Timor-Leste. Spokesperson Espedito confirmed that the council unanimously agreed to the resolution, reflecting the government’s position on extending solidarity to Indonesia, particularly to Bali, in response to the disaster.
“The Minister also approved the government resolution that provided a donation of USD 2.5 million to the Province of Bali with the aim of humanitarian assistance efforts and the recovery of affected communities,” he explained.
Expression of Solidarity
Espedito explained that the donation is intended as a gesture of sympathy and support from Timor-Leste toward Indonesia.
“After the handover of the assistance, Xanana also planned a working visit to the UK through Bali as well and had a chance to visit flood-affected locations in Bali,” he continued.
He further emphasized that the aid will be provided in the form of cash denominated in US dollars. This form of support, according to Espedito, was considered the most direct way to assist the Indonesian authorities in their ongoing relief and recovery operations.
Prime Minister’s Visit to Bali
In addition to initiating the donation, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao personally visited Bali on 15 September to observe the flood conditions. His visit was described as part of the government’s commitment to directly understanding the scale of the disaster and ensuring that assistance would be timely and relevant.
The floods, which have impacted multiple areas of the island, prompted several international and regional responses. Timor-Leste’s decision to extend financial support underscores the close bilateral ties between the two nations.
No Timor Leste Nationals Reported as Victims
Espedito also confirmed that no citizens of Timor-Leste were among the casualties or directly affected by the flooding in Bali. He clarified that the government had closely monitored the situation, given the significant number of Timor-Leste nationals residing on the island.
Currently, more than 450 students from Timor-Leste are enrolled in universities and educational institutions across Bali. Authorities have verified their safety following the disaster.
