Jakarta, 21 July 2025 – The President of the Timor-Leste Red Cross (Cruz Vermelha de Timor-Leste/CVTL), Ms. Madalena Soares Hanjam, together with CVTL Health Department Coordinator Mr. Joao Pinto and Minister of Health Her Excellency Ms. Elia A. A. dos Reis Amaral, paid an official visit to the National Headquarters of the Indonesian Red Cross (Palang Merah Indonesia/PMI) in Jakarta. The visit aimed to foster stronger collaboration in the fields of public health and humanitarian services.
During their visit, the delegation observed PMI’s advanced and well-organized blood donation system. They expressed appreciation for PMI’s practices in donor recruitment, blood processing, and distribution logistics. The Timorese officials acknowledged the potential of applying similar systems in Timor-Leste to enhance the national blood program.
In a series of discussions, both parties emphasized the need for ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing. The Timorese delegation expressed interest in deepening their understanding of community engagement strategies, blood safety standards, and volunteer mobilization areas where PMI has demonstrated strong expertise.
The visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations between CVTL, the Timor-Leste Ministry of Health, and PMI. It highlighted a shared commitment to improving health outcomes and saving lives through the development of sustainable blood donation infrastructure across Southeast Asia.
Additionally, the CVTL delegation met with Mr. Vijay Kumar Ummidi, Program Coordinator of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), at the IFRC Jakarta office. This meeting focused on CVTL’s ongoing efforts to improve the well-being of vulnerable communities in Timor-Leste through strategic partnerships and program development.
