KAEBAUK'S STORY

Our Journey of Growth and Impact

From Humble Beginnings to National Transformation

Since 2001, Kaebauk has been empowering individuals and communities through responsible and inclusive financial services. What began as a small microcredit initiative has evolved into one of Timor-Leste’s largest financial institutions — trusted by thousands and committed to driving sustainable development.

2001

2002

2006–2007

2009–2012

2013–2015

2016–2018

2019–Present

A Vision for Change

Kaebauk’s story began in 2001 as a micro-credit program under Save the Children, a U.S.-based non-governmental organization.

The goal was simple yet powerful: to improve the livelihoods of women and low-income families through access to financial services.

The program initially offered small group loans — ranging from $50 to $100 — designed to foster entrepreneurship and financial independence.

Becoming Tuba Rai Metin (TRM)

In 2002, the program was transferred to Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and officially registered as a Microfinance Institution (MFI) under the name Tuba Rai Metin (TRM) — meaning “stand firmly on the ground.”

This milestone marked the start of an expansion beyond Dili, reaching Baucau and other districts.

Resilience Through Crisis

Civil unrest during this period disrupted operations nationwide. While many MFIs closed, TRM continued to operate independently — thanks to the unwavering dedication of its team.

Staff worked without pay, safeguarded funds during instability, and helped keep TRM’s mission alive when others couldn’t.

This spirit of perseverance became the foundation of Kaebauk’s culture today.

Growth and Partnerships

Post-crisis, TRM began rebuilding and expanding its reach.

Key partnerships with organizations such as UNCDF, BASIX, and Hivos Triodos helped strengthen its loan programs and technical capacity.

By 2012, TRM had grown to cover all 13 districts, serving over 7,000 clients and offering diverse loan products — from agriculture and small business loans to education and housing support.

Transformation to Kaebauk

With new associations formed with IFC, European Union, Incofin, and BOPA, TRM evolved into a stronger and more structured institution.

In 2015, TRM was granted a preliminary ODTI (Other Deposit Taking Institution) license by BCTL — a landmark moment in Timor-Leste’s financial history.

To mark this transformation, TRM became Kaebauk Investimentu no Finansas, S.A. (Kaebauk) — a name that represents stability, growth, and community.

Strengthening Foundations

After acquiring its full ODTI license, Kaebauk focused on governance, technology, and staff development.

Partnerships with Infrasoft Technologies (Singapore) and the European Union supported the implementation of a Core Banking System to enhance efficiency and client experience.

By 2018, Kaebauk was recognized for its transparency, professionalism, and reach — serving thousands of customers nationwide.

Expanding Financial Inclusion

Kaebauk continues to focus on financial inclusion — reaching rural entrepreneurs, women, and underserved communities.

With a staff of over 300 employees, the organization is one of the largest private sector employers in Timor-Leste.
Its services now include mobile and agent banking, ensuring financial access for all, regardless of location.

Kaebauk also remains deeply committed to staff development and leadership training, nurturing future leaders to carry forward its mission.

OUR LEGACY

Building the Future, Together

For over two decades, Kaebauk’s story has been one of resilience, integrity, and social impact.

From humble beginnings as a small micro-credit initiative to becoming Timor-Leste’s leading ODTI, our path has been defined by perseverance, trust, and a deep commitment to community growth.

Through challenges and transformation, we’ve remained steadfast in our mission — to provide accessible, responsible financial services that empower families, uplift women, and strengthen the nation’s economic foundation.

Today, Kaebauk stands not only as a financial institution, but as a symbol of hope and progress for thousands of Timorese households. Now, Kaebauk aims to pursue its next milestone in becoming a commercial bank.

Kaebauk 's evolution from an ODTI to a commercial bank aligns with its vision to broaden its financial services, enhance operations, and address the needs of Timor-Leste’s underserved communities and implement our digital initiatives across Timor-Leste.

This transition will enable Kaebauk to offer a wider range of products, strengthen governance, and introduce innovative financial solutions. As Kaebauk transitions into a formal bank, it remains steadfast in its commitment to microfinance. This strategic evolution will enable Kaebauk to continue providing essential financial services to its existing clientele while expanding its reach to underserved communities.

Hence, the Executive Management in 2024 formalized the Business Transformation Committee which consisted of three members from the Senior Management team such as Mr. Kamran Saeed (The spokesperson and head of the committee), Mrs. Gracia Albino (Member) and Mr. Antonio H. Soares (Member). From this committee with the support from the full board and Executive Management, the team successfully submitted the Banking Application to the Central Bank of Timor-Leste (BCTL) in 2025. The final decision of BCTL is expected in early 2026.