The Acceleration Program for the third edition of Futuru Líder Ba ASEAN (FLBA) began on April 21st, 2026 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation in Dili, bringing together 120 participants for a three-day intensive training session focused on human development within the ASEAN context and on strengthening understanding of Timor-Leste’s priorities as a full member state of the regional organisation. 
On the first day, participants attended plenary sessions and thematic workshops designed to strengthen leadership skills and deepen understanding of ASEAN’s institutional architecture and development agenda. The sessions were led by Professor Oliver Crocco, an international expert in leadership and human resource development affiliated with Louisiana State University and Chulalongkorn University.
Over the next two days, the programme addressed sustainability and responsible economic growth in the ASEAN context. The sessions featured Anjulie A. Razak, an expert in sustainability and climate governance; David Freedman, the World Bank Group’s representative in Timor-Leste; and Maria Esperanza F. Alconcel, an expert in international trade policy with experience in ASEAN economic integration.
The Acceleration Program is part of the third edition of FLBA, a 12-month training initiative organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, led by Minister Bendito dos Santos Freitas and coordinated by Vice Minister for ASEAN Affairs Milena Rangel. The initiative aims to prepare young Timorese professionals to participate actively in ASEAN structures and processes and to strengthen national capacities in the context of regional integration.
Since its launch in 2024, the FLBA programme has trained young leaders from various sectors and municipalities, aligning with the Government’s commitment to develop qualified human resources to support Timor-Leste’s integration into ASEAN and its preparations for the organisation’s presidency in 2029.
The Acceleration Program ran through April 23rd at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation.