MALAYSIAN-OWNED technology firm Zchwantech Titan Lda has successfully conducted a high-level technology showcase for the Timor Leste government by presenting its flagship National Digital Identity platform as part of the country’s broader vision to modernise public services and accelerate digital governance.
The strategic engagement took place during a recent official working visit by senior Timor Leste government representatives to Malaysia.
This was when the regional digital identity systems specialist demonstrated its secure biometric-powered digital identity solution which is designed to integrate key public and private sectors spanning banking, healthcare, telecommunications, education and civil registries to the Timor Leste delegation.
Zchwantech’s presentation was well received with Timor Leste’s government officials expressing strong interest and satisfaction in the platform’s potential to support the country’s E-Governance Roadmap and its Vision 2025 for an inclusive and connected society.
In a nutshell, the system is designed to provide unique digital identifiers linked to biometric and demographic data, thus enabling secure, seamless access to services for over one million citizens.
“This is more than just a digital ID – it’s about empowering people, creating transparent institutions and laying the foundation for inclusive digital growth,” commented Zchwantech’s chairman Datuk Seow Gim Shen.
“We commend the Timor Leste government’s leadership in prioritising national digital transformation and are ready to support Timor Leste every step of the way.”
Reaffirming the delivery of its commitment, Zchwantech,’s executive director Alex Chan Chau Loong described the project as an undertaking where “vision meets execution”.
“We’re turning Timor Leste’s Digital Revolution goals into reality. Our Digital ID platform is built to be both agile and rigorously secure, thus ensuring fast deployment while safeguarding citizen trust,” he envisages.
“Critically, it is future-ready for connectivity to ASEAN systems therefore Timor Leste grows hand-in-hand with the region.”
Pilot showcase zone
As part of the proposed phased deployment model, Zchwantech has earmarked Oecusse – Timor-Leste’s Special Administrative Region – as the ideal pilot location to launch the Digital ID platform.
The showcase envisions Oecusse as a controlled, scalable testbed that can demonstrate tangible benefits ahead of a full nationwide roll-out.
This pilot concept aligns with Timor Leste’s strategy to build confidence in new technologies through live demonstrations, stakeholder engagement and phased adoption across government ministries and institutions.
If adopted, Timor Leste stands to become one of the first ASEAN nations to implement a nationwide digital identity framework powered by biometrics and secure data infrastructure – one which positions the country as a regional trailblazer in digital public service innovation.
The proposed platform supports the country’s aspirations toward ASEAN accession while reinforcing national goals for financial inclusion, transparent governance and cross-border digital interoperability.
Backed by a potential investment of up to US$13.8 mil (RM58.2 mil), the platform is ready for full implementation pending government approval and alignment with national procurement protocols. – July 5, 2025
