Timor-Leste's complex stance on Indonesia's new leader

Timor-Leste finds itself in a tricky spot as Indonesia prepares to swear in its new president Prabowo Subianto - a man with a dark past tied to the countrys occupation. This situation brings up old hurts but also shows how Timor-Leste is trying to move forward.

About four decades ago‚ Antonio Soares barely escaped death when Indonesian soldiers attacked his village. He remembers the horror of that day: “They burned everything‚ then rounded us up. I only lived because I fell under other bodies and played dead“ Its a memory that still haunts him.

But heres the twist: Timor-Lestes leaders are actually being nice to Prabowo‚ whos set to become Indonesias president in a few months. Theyʼre putting aside the past and focusing on good relations with their big neighbor. Why? Well its all about being practical.

Timor-Leste is tiny compared to Indonesia (its population is like‚ 200 times smaller). They share a border and do lots of trade. So‚ Timor-Lesteʼs leaders think its smart to be friendly‚ even if it means ignoring some painful history.

Some Timorese are hoping Prabowo might actually help their country. Hugo Fernandes‚ who runs a center that keeps memories of the occupation alive‚ said: “Maybe itll be good because he knows Timor-Leste. We might get more attention“

But not everyones happy about this. Manuela Pereira‚ who works with women hurt during the occupation‚ isnt thrilled: “We were sad when our president invited Prabowo to visit. Many victims‚ especially women‚ still dont get enough support“

For survivors like Soares‚ justice seems far away. When asked about it‚ he and others mostly just want help to improve their lives. Theyve kind of given up on seeing anyone punished.

Timor-Leste is walking a tightrope - trying to heal old wounds while building a better future. Its not easy‚ but theyʼre doing their best to balance everything. As one priest put it: “If you can forgive‚ youll see new horizons. If not‚ youll always be stuck in the past“