Steps from Dili to Kupang: Collaboration for Children and Youth in Plan Indonesia’s 56th Year
08 September 2025
August 2025 marked a month of energy and purpose for Plan International Timor Leste and Plan Indonesia. Building on the official partnership signed earlier this year, the two offices took a concrete step forward: a cross-border market survey to strengthen program support in Timor Leste.
This collaboration is not new. Over the past two years, both offices have been learning and growing together. In April 2024, Plan International Timor Leste facilitators joined the HEAD Training in Bogor. Two months later, the partnership continued with a Mentoring and Coaching Training hosted by Plan Indonesia’s People and Culture Department in Kupang. By June 2025, more than ten staff members from Plan International Timor Leste visited the Program Implementation Area (PIA) in Soe to learn firsthand about agricultural and livestock programs.
A Market Survey Rooted in Professionalism and Regional Spirit
Led by the Supply Chain team of Plan International Timor Leste, the August journey brought together a cross-functional team—spanning Sponsorship, ICT, Finance, and Disaster Risk Management (DRM)—to Plan Indonesia’s Program Support Office (PSO) in Kupang. From August 19–22, they joined their Kupang counterparts to explore potential local vendors.
The process began with compiling a vendor list based on the practical needs of programs in Timor Leste. From printing services to suppliers for the Thank You Project, every option was reviewed on-site. The team observed production floors, packaging processes, and quality control measures. Some vendors even shared their past experience delivering goods to Timor Leste or running businesses there.
The survey also included discussions with logistics companies that have successfully managed cross-border shipments. Their proven track records built confidence and trust among the visiting team.
Beyond a Survey: Building Bridges of Solidarity
Amid the technical work, small moments became lasting memories—laughter during field visits, admiration for local innovations, and the sense of unity that transcended language and culture.
Gregoriano Fatima, known as Maun Greg, Supply Chain Manager of Plan International Timor Leste, shared his impressions of Kupang:
“Over these past few days, we observed that in the city, young people are not just idling on the streets. That is something very positive,” he remarked.
He also expressed deep gratitude:
“We are thankful to all our friends at Plan Indonesia, especially those at the PSO Kupang office, for their support during our stay. This activity was not only about finding the best vendors—it was about building bridges between two countries, strengthening regional solidarity, and ensuring that every child and community supported by Plan International receives the best services.”
The Timor Leste team returned to Dili carrying more than just survey results. They brought back the spirit of collaboration and a renewed belief that their programs will grow stronger. This practice of cross-border partnership, they hope, will serve as an inspiration for other Plan International offices, especially those in neighboring countries.
Written by: Astrid Supadi │ Edited by: Agus Haru │ Photos: Plan Indonesia/Yan Awang
