Maulau-Maubisse, August 7, 2026 – The Centro Nacional Chega! I.P., in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Solidarity (MSSI), representatives of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of the Interior, the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ), representatives from the Municipal Authority of Ainaro, and the Timorese Reconciliation Process Working Group (GT-PRT), along with state and government entities and community members, officially laid the first stone of the Memorial of Reconciliation of the Massacres of August 7 and 9, 1975, in Maulau, Maubisse, Ainaro Municipality. This event symbolizes national unity. The launching was held during the 51st commemoration of the Maulau Massacre on August 7 and 9, 1975.
The ceremony to lay the first stone of the Memorial of Reconciliation of the Maulau Massacre began with a ritual led by the traditional elders. This ceremony aimed to seek permission from the ancestors and Matak-Malirin, symbolizing “the green and the cool”, and silver and gold coins were placed in each of the four corners, serving as a sign of approval for the successful construction of the memorial.
“The Memorial serves as a National Unity Symbol, written with the names of those who lost their lives in the massacre on August 7 and 9, 1975,” stated the Director.
He emphasized that the launch of this Memorial was attended by several dignitaries, including Céu Brites, the Vice Minister of Solidarity for Social Inclusion (MSSI), Virgilio da Silva Guterres ‘Lamukan’, the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ), a representative from the Ministry of Education, a representative from the Ministry of Interior, a representative from the Secretary of State for Social Communications (SEKOMS), and a representative from the Ainaro Municipal Authority. Their presence demonstrates the government’s and the state’s commitment to supporting this activity and aligns with the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste (RDTL).
Virgilio da Silva Guterres ‘Lamukan’, the Ombudsman for Human Rights and Justice (PDHJ), expressed appreciation for the work done by Centro Chega! and GT-PRT in carrying out various activities. These included the Reconciliation Process Dialogue, a Mass, a Commemoration, Scattered Flowers, and the Launching of the First Stone for the Reconciliation Memorial of the Massacre.
“On behalf of the PDHJ, I want to acknowledge the efforts of Centro Chega! and GT-PRT, along with the community members of Maulau. The activities began with dialogue and a Mass at the Maulau Chapel, participating in and witnessing the Launching of the First Stone for the Memorial of Reconciliation,” said Virgilio.
He emphasized that, 51 years ago, community members carried emotional wounds and sorrow related to the massacre for a long time. Today, the first stone of the Memorial of Reconciliation of the Massacre of July 7 and 9, 1975, has been laid, and the cultural ceremony called Matak-Malirin has also been carried out. This event symbolizes traditional laws, placed higher, and serves to send messages to those who lost their lives in the massacre.
“This Memorial Monument represents Matak-Malirin for the new generations of Maulau village and embodies the laws and prohibitions aimed at preventing such violence from happening again. Additionally, it reflects the broader history of East Timor, even though it is just a small piece of the national narrative. Nevertheless, the sacrifices made by those people due to political conflicts are part of the long history of the struggle for independence,” acknowledged the Provedor.
The activity carried out by Cetro Chega! and GT-PRT was greatly appreciated by the Provedor, who valued his participation in this process. It serves as a reference for conflict resolution aimed at ending hatred and revenge. This effort serves as an example for other community members in Timor-Leste.
He recognized that this activity is a positive model for reconciliation, initiated by the community members themselves, especially those who were victims from both UDT and FRETILIN supporters. During his remarks at the national flag-raising ceremony, he expressed his deep appreciation to the leaders of FRETILIN and UDT for their participation in this reconciliation process.
This serves as a valuable reference, as it is initiated by the community members themselves to conduct the reconciliation, rather than being directed by the higher level. It demonstrates the courage of the community members who gather together on a large woven mat to address past issues. As a result, they foster forgiveness and embrace the lessons learned, ensuring that these teachings are passed on to future generations.
“I believe it is time. 51 years ago, wounds left scars. These scars must be addressed with courage, and we must reconcile with one another. We cannot go through life carrying these wounds. Let the wounds and scars be taken by Matebian ‘the spirit of those who died during the massacre’—and leave Matak Malirin for us.” Provedor appreciated.
The Provedor expressed appreciation for Centro Chega! after receiving a request from community members, particularly those who were victims of the internal conflict. They requested assistance in facilitating a survey and arranging an itinerary to address their issues through the Nahe Biti-Boot, or “Spread the Large Woven Mat.” Though this process may seem small, it carries national significance.
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