Timor-Leste’s Accession to ASEAN: Dili Strengthens Local Voices to Shape the Regional Agenda
The Secretariat of the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF) held a virtual meeting with the Dili Municipal Authority, marking a significant step in Timor-Leste’s integration into regional local government platforms following its recent accession as ASEAN’s 11th member state. Attended by Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi and Mr. Francisco dos Santos, Mayor of the Dili Municipal Authority, the virtual meeting marked Dili’s formal kickoff in the AGMF network following Timor Leste’s accession to ASEAN and paved the way for more meaningful and consistent engagement in the Forum. At the same time, the meeting also served as an entry point for Dili to connect with the broader Asia-Pacific network. .
During the discussion, Mayor Francisco highlighted Dili’s strong interest in learning from and collaborating with other cities in ASEAN and beyond. He pointed to successful initiatives implemented across the region—including waste-to-energy systems, integrated transport solutions, climate resilience efforts, and the localisation of Sustainable Development Goals—as examples that could be adapted to Dili’s context. He expressed optimism that such knowledge exchange would support the city’s development trajectory.
At the same time, the Mayor outlined several pressing urban challenges facing the capital. These include increasing traffic congestion, exacerbated by limited municipal authority over planning and infrastructure; frequent flooding that disrupts daily life and disproportionately affects vulnerable communities; and the urgent need to upgrade Markado Market to better serve residents. Waste management also remains a critical issue, with the city still relying on open dumping practices.
Responding to these concerns, Dr Bernadia underscored the importance of active participation in regional cooperation platforms. She encouraged Dili to engage more deeply with ASEAN city networks, noting that such involvement can amplify local perspectives in shaping regional agendas. Through UCLG ASPAC, she added, Dili would gain access to technical expertise, peer learning opportunities, and innovative solutions that could help accelerate its urban transformation.
As Timor-Leste steps into its new role within ASEAN, the meeting sets the foundation for sustained collaboration. Stakeholders expressed optimism that closer engagement with Dili Municipality will contribute to building a more sustainable, resilient, and people-centred city, while strengthening its participation in ASEAN’s local government initiatives in the years ahead.
