On 26 September 2025, the United Kingdom, in collaboration with a consortium led by FHI 360 UK, proudly introduced the ASEAN-UK Health Security Partnership (HSP) in Timor-Leste through an Introduction Session and Technical Assistance (TA) Clinic held at Timor Plaza Hotel in Dili.

The HSP is a five-year initiative funded by the UK Government, designed to strengthen regional health security by supporting ASEAN Member States in preventing, detecting, and responding to public health threats. The programme contributes directly to the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action (2022) and supports the strategic priorities of the ASEAN Health Cluster.

This introductory event marks the second in-country activity under the HSP and served to:

• Introduce the programme to key stakeholders in Timor-Leste,
• Raise awareness about current and upcoming funding opportunities, and
• Encourage engagement from national health institutions, civil society organisations, local NGOs, and government agencies.

A key feature of the event was the TA Clinic, which provided hands-on guidance to CSOs and local government bodies in Timor-Leste on how to engage with the HSP, covering application processes and how to align proposals with programme goals.

Participants gained valuable insights into:

• Current and upcoming funding windows,
• Technical assistance offerings, and
• Steps to strengthen collaboration in the field of health security.

This Introduction Session sets the foundation for continued engagement between Timor-Leste’s public health community and UK partners, as part of a broader effort to build a safer and more resilient region.