The statement said human-made noise pollution caused by loud music, revving engines, and shouting in public areas and residential streets late at night is causing widespread harm to people’s physical and psychological health by “depriving people of adequate sleep and increasing stress”.

“Although Timor-Leste suffers from many social problems, noise pollution is a serious concern,” Fundasaun Mahein said.

“This is especially harmful for mothers, children and babies, who need sufficient sleep to feed and develop properly. Children whose sleep is interrupted by loud noise at night will also suffer negative effects in their education.”

“Noise pollution within communities also contributes to family and community conflicts by increasing stress, arguments and fights.”

FM also warns of economic impacts from constant excessive noise, noting it contributes to an overall environment of “general disorder” that “makes Dili unattractive to visitors and investors. “

“Private investors can also see the lack of interest from either communities or public authorities to improve the environment as a barrier to business development. This is especially true in the tourism, catering, entertainment, hospitality and other service industries which require orderly, clean and peaceful environments to attract customers,” the organisation said.

Fandasaun Mahein urges a new law to regulate noise in urban areas and police to enforce existing laws banning illegal noise-enhancing modifications on vehicles by issuing fines to businesses who make them.

It also recommends setting up a hotline to facilitate members of the public to report illegal vehicle modification and excessive revving, and civic education sessions within all Dili aldeias to teach residents of the importance of controlling noise for community wellbeing, general health, economic improvement, and quality of life.