Bringing Marine Conservation Stories Closer to the Public in Timor-Leste

Good science is at the heart of marine conservation, but so are stories that help people understand why it matters – from the health of coral reefs to the communities whose livelihoods depend on the ocean. In Timor-Leste, Coral Triangle Center (CTC) is helping journalists bridge that gap by strengthening their understanding of marine conservation and their ability to bring ocean issues closer to the public.

On 28 September 2026, CTC brought together 44 media participants in Dili to explore reef health findings from Atauro Island, proposed Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Metinaro and Manufahi, and the communities whose lives are connected to these marine ecosystems. The workshop then turned from conservation science to storytelling, exploring how journalists can make technical information accurate, accessible and relevant to their audiences.

“Achievements in supporting Timor-Leste’s 30×30 target through MPA establishment and management should be actively promoted. Survey and monitoring results should be shared to inform MPA design and improve management effectiveness, with media and journalists playing a key role in communicating accurate information.” said Marthen Welly, CTC Senior Marine Conservation Adviser.

During the session, journalists learned how to turn technical conservation information into accurate, relevant, and newsworthy stories. Participants discussed current marine conservation reporting in Timor-Leste and explored ways to identify stronger story angles, simplify technical information, use data effectively, and connect environmental issues with human-interest perspectives.

Following the workshop, participating media also interviewed the National Director of Marine Spatial Planning at the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry (MALFF), Januário Marçal, and CTC Senior Marine Conservation Adviser to gain further insights into marine conservation efforts in Timor-Leste.

By strengthening connections between conservation practitioners and local media, CTC hopes to encourage more accurate and engaging marine conservation reporting, bringing important ocean issues closer to the public and supporting greater awareness of Timor-Leste’s marine resources.

Writers: Adam Putra, Asia Salsabilla, Marthen Welly
Photos: Asia Salsabilla/CTC