KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured Timor-Leste of ASEAN’s full support as it becomes the bloc’s newest member.
He pledged that Timor-Leste would be a genuine, functional, and effective partner within the regional organisation.
Anwar expressed Malaysia’s and ASEAN’s appreciation for Timor-Leste’s willingness to fulfil all accession requirements.
“Difficult as it may be initially, you did well,” he said at the reception celebrating Timor-Leste’s admission to ASEAN.
“We, the ASEAN fraternity, rejoice at the ascension of Timor-Leste as the 11th member of our great ASEAN Community.”
Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao attended the ceremony alongside Anwar.
Gusmao described the signing of the admission declaration as a day forever remembered in Timor-Leste’s history.
He expressed profound gratitude to Malaysia and all ASEAN member states for welcoming his country into the regional family.
“In Timor-Leste, we believe that true friendship is best shared through culture,” Gusmao added.
Guests enjoyed traditional performances and a video presentation showcasing Timor-Leste’s rich culture during the luncheon.
Timor-Leste gained independence in 2002 and was officially admitted as ASEAN’s 11th member during the 47th ASEAN Summit.
The country remains predominantly dependent on oil and gas revenues despite growing contributions from agriculture and services.
Timor-Leste recorded a gross domestic product of 1.99 billion US dollars in 2024 with 3.4% growth.
Economic growth is forecast to reach 3.9% in 2025 amid moderating inflation and sustained fiscal stability. – Bernama
