Plans by MAF to establish an operational base in Timor Leste (formerly East Timor) remain a priority despite current civil unrest in and around the capital, Dili.

Proposals for an MAF family to relocate to Dili for several months to further the work of establishing a base have been delayed by political and security concerns.

Bill Harding, Regional Director/Vice President of MAF International in the Asia Pacific region, said plans to commence an aviation service in Timor Leste had not changed. He said delays resulting from localised unrest in the urban areas had merely postponed the launch date for operations and would provide more time to continue raising funds for the provision of equipment and personnel.

"We are just as committed now to providing an aviation service for the people of Timor Leste in remote areas as we were last year when we carried out the most recent surveys," said Mr Harding.

"If anything, the disruption to the general populous and the demonstrated need of the people for food, medical supplies and building materials (brought about by the latest unrest) has made us even more determined to provide assistance as soon as it is possible to do so.

"MAF has a proven track record of being able to help meet the needs of people in places where there has been civil disturbance or devastation caused by a natural disaster.

"Our ongoing role in the Indonesian province of Aceh in partnership with various aid agencies working to assist victims of the 2004 tsunami is evidence of the difference that MAF can make."