Indonesia, Timor Leste extend hours at four border checkpoints

[hartono]

Photo file – Border crossers enter the Mota Ain checkpoint in Belu District, East Nusa Tenggara. /ANTARA/Kornelis Kaha

Kupang, E Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) - Indonesia and Timor Leste have agreed to extend operating hours at four land border checkpoints to facilitate cross-border trade, travel and community interaction, an Atambua immigration officer said.

The agreement, in effect since August 12, extends crossing service hours by one hour until 5 p.m. local time on the Indonesian side and 6 p.m. on the Timor Leste side, Putu Agus Eka Putra said on Tuesday.

The affected checkpoints include Batugade–Mota Ain in Belu District, Salele–Motamasin in Malaka, Sakato-Wini in Timor Tengah Utara (TTU), and Oesilo–Napan in Kupang District, he told ANTARA.

"This is not just an extension of working hours. It is a reflection of the state's presence in border areas, providing convenience, opportunity, and a sense of security," Putra, who heads the Atambua Immigration Office, said.

He added that immigration officers are committed to maintaining service quality while upholding strict border supervision.

Meanwhile, Head of the East Nusa Tenggara Immigration Office Arivin Gumilang said the extended hours allow for more trade, tourism, and social interaction, particularly on the Indonesian side.

"Security and law enforcement remain our top priorities," Gumilang said while emphasizing that borders are not barriers, but bridges for friendship and opportunity.

The policy aligns with the Indonesian government's goal of delivering modern, tech-driven public services while maintaining national sovereignty, he added.

Indonesia, Timor Leste extend hours at four border checkpoints

Indonesia and Timor Leste have agreed to extend operating hours at four land border checkpoints to facilitate cross-border trade, travel and community ...

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