To take care of the ocean and ensure the conservation of the marine environment, all Timorese must first understand it. In Timor-Leste, the sea (Tasi) provides communities with food, jobs, and supports livelihoods. When the Timorese learn about the ocean and how it works, they can in turn protect it and use it in a sustainable way, contributing to the maintenance of marine ecosystem services and their long-term preservation.

A strong Blue Economy means finding a balance, using the sea to grow the national economy, while making sure it stays healthy. Science and knowledge about the sea is very important. It will help leaders, communities, and individuals make better decisions about how to best use its resources sustainably.

Education is also key to building a better future and relationship with the sea for all Timorese. Children and young people need to learn about the sea, respect it, and understand why it is very important. By teaching these ideas in schools and supporting teachers, a “blue generation” of Timorese that cares for the sea will be created.

When all Timorese understand and can talk about the sea, through strengthening communication and ocean literacy, they stay connected to it. This helps create jobs, protect marine life, and use marine resources wisely and sustainably. By working together, the Timorese can protect the ocean today and keep it safe for future generations.

Marine Scientific Research

The ocean is vital to the future of Timor-Leste. Strengthening national scientific and technological capacity and encouraging the development of new areas of activity that promote knowledge of the ocean is essential to protecting the marine environment.

The Government will invest in generating knowledge about its marine territory by supporting scientific research projects grounded in robust science, led by multidisciplinary teams and supported by appropriate technology. These efforts will guide decision-making on the sustainable use of marine resources—including fisheries—and improve understanding and conservation of the country’s unique biodiversity.

Marine scientific research will also support risk assessments related to climate change and help identify strategies to mitigate this pressing threat.

In June 2025, the Government approved the Legal Framework for International Marine Scientific Research, applicable to marine scientific research activities in national maritime waters, when carried out at the request of foreign states or international organisations.

Decree-Law No. 26/2025, of 13 August 👉🏼 Link here! (unofficial translation)

Survey and Study of Timor-Leste’s Marine Biodiversity

Timor-Leste plays a key role in the conservation of marine biodiversity in the Coral Triangle, particularly with regard to Timor-Leste’s national maritime space.

Therefore, in order for Timor-Leste to properly protect, manage and restore the marine biodiversity within its maritime zone, it is necessary to survey and study marine biodiversity, so as to ensure that decision-making and legislative processes are based on sound scientific information, without which good ocean governance is not possible.

Education, Training, and Communication

Education (from primary to higher education), vocational training and skills development, and strategic communication will help, especially young Timorese, to understand why the sea is important and how collectively all Timorese can take care of it, as well as to engage in economic activities that generate income in a sustainable manner. With the right knowledge and skills, the Timorese can find new opportunities, create jobs, and improve their lives while protecting nature for future generations.

The Government will support learning at all levels. It will support schools and develop training programs, so young Timorese can gain skills in areas like marine science, fishing, tourism, and renewable energy. Special programs, like ocean education in schools and youth ambassador initiatives, will help build a ‘blue generation’ that cares about the ocean and leads positive change.

Timor-Leste will also create places like Marine Research and Education Centres, including in Ataúro, where people can learn more about marine life and conservation. At the same time, national programmes such as the “National Maritime Literacy Programme” and the campaign “My Sea, My Timor” will raise awareness and encourage everyone to protect the ocean. By sharing knowledge and working together, Timorese people can build a sustainable future and keep the sea healthy for generations to come.