The high enthusiasm to introduce weaving encouraged Bernadus and nine female weavers to come all the way from Lembata to Labuan Bajo. The distance is around 723 kilometers.

ASEAN's decision to accept Timor Leste as the 11th member will strengthen both sides. Southeast Asia has the potential to become stronger amid the current global and regional dynamics.

ASEAN is currently refining its defense initiatives to complement its perspective on the Indo-Pacific region. This document is a strategic joint guideline for maintaining peace, stability and prosperity in Southeast Asia

President Joko Widodo highlighted the importance of ASEAN collaboration to ensure that the region continued to grow despite various challenges.

As the United States and China battle for influence, ASEAN is often left to act as a proxy. However, what this region needs is collaboration.