The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperation, was represented by the Secretary of State for Industry and Cooperatives, Filipus Pereira, at the closing ceremony of a course about the coconut husk Industry, which lasted twelve days (4-15 June) in the Mehara suco, at Lospalos.

The Secretariat of State for Industry and Cooperatives (SSIC), provided grinding and pasteurizing equipment to the Timoli company, to produce coconut oil and to use the husk of the coconut, for the population in the whole territory, namely the population of Lospalos.

At the closing ceremony, Filipus Pereira asked the population to continue  developing this type of creative initiatives, of which this small industry is an example, and contribute to the development of the country’s economy, as it depends on the Timorese population’s spirit of creativity, initiative and innovation.

“The Government will continue providing support and follow-up until this activity produces quality results. The Government’s intention is to obtain quality production in this industry, thereby freeing themselves from the dependence on oil revenues”, Filipus Pereira stated.

The Timoli company’s director, Joanico Jerônimo, stated that coconut oil (virgin coconut oil) can be used as raw material in the production of detergents, which are sold in the international markets.

During the closing ceremony the students staged a technical demonstration on the treatment of the coconut husk, and showed their appreciation for the support they received from the Timoli Director’s involvement, in acquiring their knowledge and experiences.