Writer: Duke Paopathon Pardede (2461001) | Editor: Ambarwulan, S.T.
Dili, Timor-Leste — November 25, 2025.
Universitas Internasional Batam (UIB) strengthened its regional cooperation efforts through an official visit to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. The UIB delegation was received directly by H.E. Dr. Nino Filipus Pereira, Minister of Commerce and Industry, during a formal meeting held at the Minister’s Office in Fomento Mandarin, Dili.
The delegation from UIB consisted of Dr. Hepy Hefri Ariyanto, Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation; Tony Wibowo, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science; Dr. Hari Sutra Disemadi, S.H., M.H., Head of the Law Study Program; and dr. Aries Maulana, Sp.PA, Head of the Medical Study Program. The visit formed part of UIB’s 2025 international partnership mission aimed at expanding educational networks, exploring collaborative opportunities, and promoting UIB’s academic initiatives in Timor-Leste.
During the meeting, both parties discussed strategic possibilities for cooperation, particularly in the development of Free Trade Zones (FTZs). Minister H.E. Dr. Nino Filipus Pereira shared insights into Timor-Leste’s ongoing plans to advance its commercial zones and industrial development agenda. In response, the UIB delegation introduced Batam’s long-standing experience as a Free Trade Zone, emphasizing how the city has successfully progressed through trade, industry, and tourism, strengthening its economy beyond the petroleum sector. Batam’s geographical position bordering Singapore and Johor, Malaysia, was highlighted as a key advantage that contributes to its economic growth and tourism potential.
Dr. Hepy explained UIB’s commitment to fostering meaningful collaborations and expressed readiness to support knowledge exchange initiatives between the two regions. He extended an invitation for the Minister and his team to visit Batam for a deeper understanding of how Batam’s economic ecosystem operates and how its development strategies could serve as a reference in Timor-Leste’s efforts to strengthen its economic diversification. The invitation was warmly welcomed by the Minister, who expressed openness to continue the dialogue and explore areas of mutual benefit.
The meeting concluded with a shared understanding to advance discussions on potential educational and developmental collaborations, including joint activities, academic exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives. This engagement also reinforced UIB’s dedication to contributing to regional development through academic expertise, research facilitation, and international cooperation.
This visit marked one of the key agendas of UIB’s mission trip to Timor-Leste, where the delegation also engaged with several ministries, institutions, and potential partner organizations. Through these activities, UIB continues to expand its international reach and strengthen its role as a higher education institution committed to global collaboration and cross-border academic engagement.
International Relation Office
Universitas Internasional Batam
