Tibar, Liquiça – 16 January 2026

The Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Minister of Tourism and Environment, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, together with the Director of the National Institute for Workforce Development (INDMO), Isabel Fernandes de Lima, and representatives of relevant institutions, officially launched the construction of the new INDMO building in Tibar, Liquiça, on Friday, 16 January 2026.
In his remarks, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the launch of the new INDMO building is a highly significant milestone, as INDMO has operated for 17 years without its own dedicated building. This long journey, he noted, reflects the strength, patience, and perseverance of the institution and of the State of Timor-Leste, despite many challenges.

“The construction of this new building is a Government priority. It demonstrates our commitment to modernizing public institutions, improving administration, and strengthening the development of our national workforce,” said the Deputy Prime Minister during the ceremony.

He explained that the new facility will enable INDMO to operate more effectively, with improved workspace, better coordination among services, and appropriate conditions to fully carry out its mandate. The Deputy Prime Minister also expressed his sincere appreciation to all institutions involved in the project, including CAFI, MOP, ADN, CNA, ANLA, and the Directorate of Land and Property, as well as national and international partners, the private sector, training institutions, and INDMO staff who have remained dedicated throughout the years.
According to the Deputy Prime Minister, the new building will support the Government’s efforts to develop a more qualified workforce, expand employment opportunities, and strengthen the national economy, in line with the Government’s Strategic Plan and the National Development Plan. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to closely monitor the project to ensure it is completed on time, with high quality, and in accordance with defined objectives.

Speaking at the same event, INDMO Director Isabel Fernandes de Lima stated that the ceremony marks not only the start of physical construction, but also a strategic step and a firm commitment by the State of Timor-Leste to strengthen the national system for quality assurance, training, and professional certification.
As the institution responsible for regulating the national TVET system, INDMO plays a key role in setting competency standards, accrediting training centers, and ensuring training quality in line with international standards.
“This new building will serve as a national center for quality assurance and as a bridge between Government, industry, and training institutions, forming a foundation for regional and global recognition of Timor-Leste’s qualifications,” the Director explained.
She also highlighted the growing number of training centers and the increasing demand for accreditation, particularly as Timor-Leste advances in regional integration, including ASEAN. In this context, modern, transparent, and efficient regulatory services are essential to prepare Timorese workers for labor mobility and competitiveness.

The Director expressed special appreciation to the Deputy Prime Minister for his strong leadership, dedication, and strategic vision in supporting the project from its early stages. She further noted that the project places strong emphasis on local content, with the contractor Banir Lema Unipessoal, Lda. and supervision consultant CECB Sri Lanka committed to engaging Timorese engineers, technicians, and workers.
The launch of the INDMO building construction stands as a symbol of perseverance, political commitment, and hope for the future of human resource development in Timor-Leste, reinforcing national pride and the country’s readiness to engage confidently at the regional and global levels.