Dili, February 2 (AseanAll)  — On February 2, 2026, President of the Republic of Timor-Leste , J. Ramos-Horta received Kenneth Choo, founder of Singapore’s Kenneth & Co, and Dr. Marito Magno of the Incanto Group at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace to discuss a strategic partnership aimed at national human capital development. 

The meeting focused on a new collaboration designed to bridge the development gap between the two nations by providing young Timorese graduates with high-level professional training and career opportunities in Singapore’s advanced economy.

The initiative aims to recruit 300 Timorese university graduates annually to serve in Singapore’s premier hospitality and tourism sectors. Under this Business-to-Business (B2B) model, qualified candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree and demonstrating English proficiency will have access to professional roles with attractive monthly salaries starting at $3,000 SGD. The program emphasizes rigorous capacity building, including specialized internships and English placement standards, to ensure Timorese youth can compete effectively in the international market.

Ramos-Horta expressed his strong endorsement of the partnership, highlighting the importance of private sector involvement in preparing the nation’s workforce for global integration. Dr. Marito Magno noted that this collaboration is part of a broader vision for the Incanto Group, which includes future expansions into aged care services in Australia and enhancing agricultural exports. This strategic alliance marks a significant step forward in strengthening the economic and professional ties between Timor-Leste and Singapore.