Fearing a communist state within the Indonesian archipelago, the Indonesian military launched an invasion of East Timor in December 1975. ... The UN Security Council opposed the invasion and the territory’s nominal status in the UN remained as “non-self-governing territory under Portuguese administration”.
Why did Indonesia take over East Timor?
John Taylor writes that Indonesia invaded for three main reasons: (1) to avoid the “negative example” of an independent province, (2) to have access to the high initial estimates of oil and natural gas under the Timor Sea (initial estimates which turned out to be largely mistaken), and (3) following the fall of South ...
Why is Timor divided?
Around 600 of the 1,400-strong Timorese army rebelled after being dismissed when they protested against discrimination against easterners . The police split along similar lines and also clashed with the army until the government ordered them all out of the capital and called in an Australian-led force to restore order.
Why East Timor is not a member of Asean?
In November 2013, U Aung Htoo, ASEAN Affairs Department deputy director, said that Timor Leste would not be ready to join in 2014 since they do not have an embassy in all 10 current ASEAN member states , a necessity for membership.
Did Australia fight in East Timor?
Australia led the INTERFET operation in 1999, and provided substantial forces to the subsequent United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor and its successor operations. Australia also landed combat troops in the country in 2006 to quell ethnic fighting that involved East Timorese police and soldiers.
Does Timor belong to Indonesia?
Timor is an island at the southern end of Maritime Southeast Asia, in the north of the Timor Sea. The island is divided between the sovereign states of East Timor on the eastern part and Indonesia on the western part . The Indonesian part, also known as West Timor, constitutes part of the province of East Nusa Tenggara.
What is the religion of Timor Leste?
According to the 2015 census, 97.6 percent of the population is Catholic , 1.96 percent Protestant, and less than 1 percent Muslim. Protestant denominations include the Assemblies of God, Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, Seventh-day Adventists, Pentecostals, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and the Christian Vision Church.
Is West Timor safe?
Safety – Possible risks
We felt that West Timor was a very safe place to be . Almost everybody was friendly and helpful despite the language barriers. We strongly recommend hiring a guide when visiting the traditional villages of West Timor, particularly Boti.
What was East Timor called before?
East Timor was colonised by Portugal in the 16th century and was known as Portuguese Timor until 28 November 1975, when the Revolutionary Front for an Independent East Timor (Fretilin) declared the territory’s independence.
Is Timor-Leste a poor country?
East Timor continues to be one of the world’s poorest countries , with GDP per capita standing at $3,949 (2011). As of 2015, Timor-Leste had a population of 1.17 million and an annual growth rate at 1.8%. ... Based on the total population, 40.2% aged 15 years and above were employed.
Which country is not a member of ASEAN?
Notes: Mauritius is not a member ASEAN.
Can ASEAN join PNG?
Currently, Indonesia is the only ASEAN member supporting Papua New Guinea’s membership. ... Laos and Myanmar have no official position in regards to the country’s ASEAN application. Papua New Guinea has enjoyed observer status in ASEAN since 1976.
How long were Australian troops in East Timor?
The latest rotation of Australian soldiers to the ISF’s ANZAC Infantry Company arrived in East Timor in February 2012 for an eight-month deployment.
Can Indonesia invade Australia?
Indonesia’s military is generally not considered to have the capability to invade Australia.
What is the language of East Timor?
Timor-Leste (East Timor): Languages. This guide provides resources on the country’s history, languages, and government. Timor-Leste’s two official languages are Portuguese and Tetum , and its two working languages are English and Indonesian.
Is Timor Leste safe for tourists?
Crime continues to be a problem in Timor-Leste, including gang-related violence, robbery (in some cases armed), and assault. Be vigilant at all times and avoid displaying expensive items of jewellery or carrying large sums of money. There have been reports of harassment and violence against women.
