In August 2025, Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste, is experiencing historic days. This young nation stands on the brink of joining ASEAN, fueled by aspirations of integration and development.
Amidst this atmosphere, Telemor, Viettel’s brand in Timor-Leste, marks a significant milestone: its 13th anniversary and the distinction of being the first company to officially launch 5G services in Timor-Leste. This is not merely a technological event but a testament to the role of a Vietnamese enterprise in shaping the future of Timor-Leste.
Mr. Vu Duc Nguyen, CEO of Viettel Timor, shares insights into what makes Telemor unique and its ambitious vision for Timor-Leste’s digital future.
Viettel Timor rose to the top in market share just one year after launching in Timor-Leste and has maintained this position for 12 years. What factors have enabled Telemor to achieve this?
Over the past 13 years, we have remained steadfast in our promise: “Wherever there are Timorese people, there is connectivity.” From the launch of our network to the present, we have consistently focused on expanding our infrastructure, becoming the largest telecommunications provider with coverage reaching 96% of the population. We are the only operator with a nationwide fiber-optic network.
Viettel Timor has always embraced a pioneering role in technology, from 3G to 4G, eSIM, and now, as the first to officially launch 5G after nearly two years of trials.
Moreover, Viettel Timor has earned the support of the people by integrating social responsibility into our business. We are among the top three contributors to the national budget, provide stable employment to over 2,000 workers, and actively engage in sponsorship, volunteerism, and environmental initiatives for sustainable development.
As you mentioned, Viettel Timor has consistently led in technology, from 3G to 4G and now 5G. What drives Telemor’s leadership in innovation?
Telemor’s leadership is not just a business decision but a reflection of Viettel’s vision: “Technology for Humanity.” We believe technology should serve people and address their real needs.
This is a core principle of Viettel Group and Viettel Global, applied across all international markets. We receive maximum support in resources, expertise, and experience from leading and deploying new technologies in Vietnam and other markets.
Additionally, we are inspired by the Timorese people’s eagerness for technology, especially among the youth. With over 30% of the population under 30, they aspire to access new technologies and connect globally. This drive motivates us to bring cutting-edge technology and foster belief in a digital future.
Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão emphasized at Telemor’s 13th-anniversary celebration: “Telemor’s innovations have made life more convenient and connected for Timorese people. With 5G, Telemor is opening a new future for Timor-Leste.”
Why did Viettel Timor choose to launch 5G now?
Three key reasons drove our decision to launch 5G at this time.
First, according to the Global Mobile Suppliers Association (GSA), 65% of countries have deployed commercial 5G. As a WTO member, Timor-Leste must keep pace with global technological advancements. Telemor aims to lead in digital transformation, ensuring Timor-Leste competes globally.
Second, Timor-Leste is on the cusp of joining ASEAN, and the government is accelerating the national submarine cable project. Our 5G launch will create a synchronized infrastructure boost, preparing Timor-Leste for international integration. This demonstrates Viettel Timor’s commitment to the nation’s development.
Third, we believe in the power of digital infrastructure as a long-term foundation for education, healthcare, and economic growth. 5G will serve as a data superhighway, connecting everything seamlessly and driving positive change for Timorese people, supporting the government’s digital initiatives.
How will 5G differ from 4G, and how will Viettel Timor ensure it is accessible to all?
Technically, 5G is 5–6 times faster than 4G. But 5G is more than speed—it’s an opportunity.
Imagine a young entrepreneur in Baucau live-streaming handicrafts in crisp 4K without lag. Or a doctor in Dili consulting on a remote case using high-quality medical imaging transmitted instantly.
Youth will access world-class education, opening limitless opportunities for Timor-Leste’s future generations. This exponential impact will drive sustainable prosperity.
Viettel is making 5G as accessible in Timor-Leste as it did with 3G and 4G.
To ensure 5G is not a luxury, we will follow our approach with 3G and 4G: universal access. We will rapidly expand 5G to district centers and key economic zones, offer diverse and affordable plans, and provide free trials. Our goal is to ensure “as technology advances, no one is left behind.”
5G must be a driver of national development, not a privilege for a few.
Beyond telecommunications, Viettel Timor is evolving into a technology company. What new directions are you pursuing?
Viettel Timor is no longer just a telecom company. With the success of Mosan e-wallet, Kakoak super app, and eSIM services, we lead in mobile, e-wallets, and super apps in Timor-Leste.
Viettel Timor launched 5G with Prime Minister Rala Xanana Gusmão and government leaders in attendance.
Our vision is to become a leading digital services company, supporting Timor-Leste’s development. We will expand 5G nationwide and focus on advanced solutions like IoT, Smart Cities, Digital Finance, and GovTech.
Our commitment is clear: to develop a diverse ecosystem of services, ensuring Timorese people fully benefit from technology. We will bring the best innovations here, driving sustainable progress for the nation, its people, and Viettel Timor’s future.
Timor-Leste is one of Viettel’s 10 international markets. Across all markets, Viettel Global prioritizes speed, scale, and quality infrastructure. On average, we build the largest, widest-reaching, and highest-quality networks within 1–1.5 years, compared to 3–5 years for other global operators.
Recently, Viettel Global has invested in modern technologies (4G, 5G, GPON) and digital services (Super Apps, Fintech, digital TV, FTTH) to maintain technological leadership and expand growth opportunities. This strategy has helped seven Viettel Global subsidiaries achieve top market positions, with average annual growth of 20%, five times the global telecom industry average.
Thank you, Mr. Nguyen!
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