The small Southeast Asian state of Timor-Leste has confirmed the expansion of its gambling sector with the award of the first offshore gaming license in the country.
Working in partnership with Golden River Universe (GRU), plans have been outlined to transform Timor-Leste into “Asia’s Malta”, creating an attractive, desirable location for offshore gaming, compliance, and innovation.
The update comes after eight months of collaboration between GRU and authorities in Timor-Leste, with the license signed and officially granted by Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, the Vice President and Minister Coordinator for Economic Affairs.
GRU’s parent company is Grand Dragon Lotaria (GDL), the existing online lottery provider in Timor-Leste.
It also holds operating licenses in Cambodia and Nigeria, with claims of reaching a user base across more than 10 nations.
Ready to transform this vision
“This is not only an important license, but a strategic tool for national transformation,” said Datuk Harry Ng, GRU CEO.
“We are deeply honored by the trust placed in us and are ready to transform this vision into real progress for Timor-Leste.
As part of its commitment to the deal, GDL will relocate its R&D, customer service, and global support departments from Cambodia and the Philippines to the island state.
Timor-Leste is a former Portuguese colony in the Malay Archipelago that shares a land border with Indonesia on the island of Timor. Its capital and largest city is Dili, located on the north coast.
Following a period of Indonesian rule, the fledgling sovereign state declared its independence in 2002 and now enjoys cordial and productive relations with its powerhouse neighbor.
The government has also developed plans to establish the first land-based casino in the country.
Back in February, lawmakers signed an agreement with Asia-Pacific Strategic Investments Ltd (APS) to develop a $60 million casino resort, including a five-star hotel.
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