Last week, a contingent of members of the Order of Malta — including the Grand Hospitaller, Dr. Josef D. Blotz, and Australian Association President, John Murphy — undertook an official visit to Timor-Leste. This marked the first time a representative of the Grand Magistry has travelled to the region. Over an intensive three-day program, they met with government officials, diplomats, clergy and members of the media.

 

A Firsthand Look at Life-Changing Work

During our visit, they toured the Order of Malta Medical Clinic in Comoro, Dili, and accompanied doctors, nurses and staff during their mobile outreach to remote communities outside the capital.

“It was deeply encouraging to witness first-hand the world-class facilities and the exceptional standard of Catholic healthcare being provided. These services are funded entire by Order of Malta donors and are making a real and visible difference to the lives of thousands of Timorese people.”

John Murphy, President of the Australian Association of the Order of Malta

The clinic offers free medical care to those most in need, with a particular focus on supporting women and children, improving nutrition, and reducing infant mortality rates.

 

Strengthening Our Commitment to the Asia-Pacific

Following discussions at the Asia Pacific Conference in Singapore days earlier, Dr. Blotz reaffirmed the strategic importance of the region, naming it one of his top priorities. He also emphasised the need to increase funding to support the Order’s vital humanitarian works across the Asia-Pacific.

 

Engagement with National Leaders

A key highlight of the visit was our meeting with Her Excellency Élia António de Araújo dos Reis Amaral, Minister of Health of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. She shared her strategic vision for strengthening the nation’s healthcare system and discussed the important role the Order of Malta’s clinic can play in advancing these goals.

They also met with His Excellency Mariano Assanami Sabino, Vice Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister of Social Affairs, and Minister of Rural Development and Community Housing. Together, we explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in prevention, education and community health — building upon the longstanding diplomatic relations established in 2006.

 

Urgent Needs: Expanding the Clinic’s Capacity

While the visit highlighted many achievements, it also underscored the pressing need for additional investment in medical equipment and infrastructure. These improvements are essential to sustain the clinic current services and expand the range of care offered to the thousands of patients who rely on the clinic and its outreach programs each year.

We are pleased to announce that the Grand Magistry has provided a substantial donation to purchase a new 4WD ambulance, a critical asset for reaching the 11 remote villages served by our outreach teams.

Our next priorities include securing funds for an X-ray machine, including staff training and a new laboratory.

These additions will significantly enhance diagnostic capabilities and improve healthcare access for years to come.

The cost of the X-ray machine and associated training is approximately US$81,500.

The Order of Malta Medical Clinic in Timor-Leste is entirely funded by donations.

Please support our work.

Gifts $2 and more are tax deuctible for Australian taxpayers.