Question 1

What is Moris Rasik?

Accepted Answer

Moris Rasik, officially known as Servisu Finanseiru Moris Rasik, SA (SFMR, S.A), is a licensed microfinance institution operating in Timor-Leste. The name "Moris Rasik" translates to "Independent Life" in Tetun, the local language. The institution is regulated as an Other Deposit-Taking Institution (ODTI) by the Banco Central de Timor-Leste (BCTL).

Moris Rasik specializes in providing financial services to poor and widowed women in rural areas, focusing on poverty reduction and community economic development. With 24 branches and 6 regional offices across the country, the institution serves over 24,000 active clients.

Question 2

When was Moris Rasik founded?

Accepted Answer

Moris Rasik was founded in November 2000 during the post-conflict environment following Timor-Leste's independence in 1999. The institution was established by Helen Todd, a New Zealander, with technical assistance from CASHPOR Malaysia.

Initially operating as an NGO and later transforming into a non-profit foundation to expand its activities, Moris Rasik received its definitive license as an ODTI from the Banco Central de Timor-Leste on November 23, 2018, based on Public Instruction No. 06/2010.

Question 3

Where is Moris Rasik headquartered?

Accepted Answer

Moris Rasik is headquartered in Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste. The institution's main office is located at Av. Presidente Nicolau Lobato Units 334/335, 3rd Floor, Timor Plaza.

Question 4

Where does Moris Rasik operate?

Accepted Answer

Moris Rasik operates throughout Timor-Leste, with a network of 24 branches and 6 regional offices providing almost national coverage. The institution serves clients across all 12 municipalities of Timor-Leste and the special administrative region of Oé-Cusse Ambeno.

The institution's strategic positioning of branches across rural and remote areas enables it to reach underserved communities that traditionally lack access to formal financial services.

Question 5

What services does Moris Rasik offer?

Accepted Answer

Moris Rasik provides microfinance services including loan products and savings products specifically designed for poor and widowed women in rural areas. The average loan disbursed is approximately USD 663.

The institution offers financial literacy programs to empower clients and improve their financial management capabilities. These services are designed to respond to client needs and enable women to realize their potential, leading to positive changes within their families and communities.

Question 6

What makes Moris Rasik unique?

Accepted Answer

Moris Rasik distinguishes itself through its profound social impact and targeted focus on vulnerable populations. With a portfolio comprised of 98% women's groups and 92% rural clients, the institution demonstrates exceptional commitment to serving marginalized communities.

The institution has maintained operations for over 24 years in one of Southeast Asia's youngest nations, adapting from an NGO model to a regulated financial institution. This longevity and evolution demonstrate resilience and commitment to sustainable financial inclusion.

Moris Rasik employs 264 local staff members plus 1 foreign Microfinance Adviser, contributing not only to client economic development but also to the broader economy, impacting an estimated 148,554 people when accounting for household family members.

Question 7

What type of financial institution is Moris Rasik?

Accepted Answer

Moris Rasik is classified as an Other Deposit-Taking Institution (ODTI) under Timor-Leste's regulatory framework. This classification is specific to Timor-Leste's financial system and represents institutions authorized to accept deposits and provide lending services, but operating under a different regulatory regime than full commercial banks.

Prior to receiving its ODTI license in 2018, Moris Rasik operated as a microfinance foundation. The transition to ODTI status reflects the institution's growth and formalization within Timor-Leste's developing financial sector.

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