Article
Learning English - key to progress in Timor
With Timor-Leste now a member of ASEAN, the country is entering a new phase of international engagement. The opportunity to host the ASEAN Summit in 2029 places Timor-Leste firmly on the global stage—but also highlights the urgent need to elevate its hospitality sector to international standards.
Across ASEAN, English functions as a common working language—particularly in tourism, hospitality, aviation, retail, and public services. With Timor-Leste preparing to host the ASEAN Summit in 2029, the ability of its workforce to communicate confidently with international visitors will be central to its success.
At present, English proficiency levels vary across the population. While there is strong potential among young people, there is a need for structured, accessible, and industry-relevant language training that extends to the existing workforce.
The emphasis must move beyond theoretical learning to functional communication skills, including:
- Conversational English for real-life service interactions
- Industry-specific vocabulary for tourism and customer service
- Listening skills and accent familiarity
- Confidence-building through role plays and simulations
Training must be practical, flexible, and widely accessible—reaching not only students, but also frontline workers in hotels, transport, retail, and government services.
Improving English proficiency is not simply an educational goal; it is a strategic economic priority. A visitor’s experience is shaped by small but meaningful interactions—asking for directions, checking into a hotel, or seeking assistance.
By strengthening communication skills across its workforce, Timor-Leste can enhance service quality, build international confidence, and present itself as a welcoming, capable, and globally connected nation within ASEAN.
