East Timor, officially known as the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, is a Southeast Asian nation located in the eastern part of the island of Timor. It is bordered by the Indonesian provinces of West Timor and East Nusa Tenggara to the west, while the remaining borders are bounded by the Timor Sea. The country covers an area of approximately 14,919 square kilometers and has a diverse landscape consisting of rugged mountains, fertile plains, and stunning beaches.
East Timor gained its independence from Portuguese colonial rule in 1975 but faced a challenging period as it was subsequently occupied by Indonesia until 2002. Following a referendum in 1999, the Timorese people voted for independence, resulting in a gradual transition toward a sovereign nation. Today, East Timor is a democratic republic with a semi-presidential system, and its capital, Dili, serves as the administrative and economic center.
The population of East Timor is estimated to be around 1.3 million people, comprising diverse ethnic groups such as the Tetum, Mambai, Makasae, and others. The official languages are Tetum and Portuguese, while Indonesian and English are recognized as working languages. The country's economy heavily relies on agriculture, fishing, and oil and gas resources. It also boasts a rich cultural heritage with influences from the region's indigenous groups, including traditions, music, art, and cuisine.
East Timor, as a young nation with ongoing developmental challenges, has made remarkable progress in recent years. Despite the complexities faced throughout its history, East Timor's people have demonstrated resilience, a deep sense of national identity, and a shared determination to build a prosperous and peaceful future.
