Timor-Leste Achieves Historic Malaria-Free Certification by WHO

On July 24, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially certified Timor-Leste as malaria-free, marking a significant public health milestone for the nation. This accomplishment is particularly notable as it comes just over two decades after the country gained independence in 2002 and initiated a robust national response to combat malaria. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, expressed his congratulations, stating, "Timor-Leste’s success proves that malaria can be stopped in its tracks when strong political will, smart interventions, sustained domestic and external investment, and dedicated health workers unite." With this certification, Timor-Leste joins an elite group of 47 countries and one territory recognized by WHO for eliminating malaria.

The journey to malaria elimination in Timor-Leste has been a gradual yet determined effort, with the nation experiencing a peak of over 223,000 clinically diagnosed cases in 2006. Following the establishment of the National Malaria Programme in 2003, the government employed a variety of strategies to reduce transmission rates. These included the introduction of rapid diagnostic tests and artemisinin-based combination therapy as part of the National Malaria Treatment Guidelines. Additionally, the country received significant support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, which helped scale up vector control measures, such as distributing long-lasting insecticide-treated nets and implementing indoor residual spraying.

Dr. Élia António de Araújo dos Reis Amaral, Minister of Health for Timor-Leste, emphasized the importance of community resilience and health worker dedication in this achievement, stating, "We did it. Malaria has been one of our most relentless enemies—silent, persistent, and deadly. We lost too many lives to a disease that should be preventable. But our health workers never gave up, our communities held strong, and our partners, like WHO, walked beside us. From 223,000 cases to zero—this elimination honors every life lost and every life now saved."

The certification process by WHO requires proof that the indigenous transmission of malaria has been interrupted for at least three consecutive years. Timor-Leste's official declaration of zero indigenous cases since 2021 exemplifies the effectiveness of its health strategies. The country’s health system, characterized by a three-tier structure comprising national hospitals, community health centers, and health posts, has ensured that medical care is accessible to most citizens. The government’s commitment to providing free health services has played a crucial role in enabling widespread access to malaria prevention and treatment.

Dr. Arvind Mathur, WHO Representative to Timor-Leste, remarked, "Timor-Leste’s malaria-free certification is a defining national triumph—driven by bold leadership, tireless efforts of health workers, and the resolve of its people. This victory protects generations, present and future, and shows what a determined country can achieve."

As the nation celebrates this historic victory, it also recognizes the need for ongoing vigilance in maintaining its malaria-free status. Continuous community engagement and monitoring systems are essential to prevent any resurgence of the disease. The WHO's malaria-free certification is not only a testament to the efforts of Timor-Leste but also serves as an inspiring example for other nations battling malaria. The collaborative approach involving local communities, the government, international organizations, and health professionals showcases a successful model of public health intervention that could inform future global malaria elimination strategies.