Atauro is one of the wonderful islands located where the Banda and Savu Seas meet in Timor-Leste. Three CTC board members, George Tahija, Hendrik Sasmito and new board member Rahmat Soemadipradja, along with CTC Executive Director, Rili Djohani, and Marine Conservation Advisor, Marthen Welly, visited the island on a board trip to Timor-Leste from August 14-16.

They were welcomed by the community, and saw firsthand the community participating in the Atauro MPA establishment. The team met with the Roman Luan Foundation, the local NGO that is supporting the establishment and management of Atauro MPA. They also visited the site of the Liquica MPA, as well as meeting key stakeholders in coastal and marine resource management.

During the visit, the board members and CTC staff also enjoyed the underwater life of Timor-Leste, as well as the local culture. The local communities welcomed the team with traditional dances of Timor-Leste, and shared their stories and customs.