Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim calls Timor-Leste’s ASEAN membership deeply meaningful after their long struggle for regional integration.
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has described Timor-Leste’s admission as ASEAN’s 11th member as a historic and deeply meaningful milestone.
He said the development carries great sentimental and emotional significance for Timor-Leste given its complex regional history.
“An especially interesting development is the inclusion of Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th member — a move that is deeply sentimental and emotional for them because the country was once part of Indonesia,” Anwar told a press conference after the 47th ASEAN Summit closing ceremony.
He detailed Timor-Leste’s journey from Portuguese colonial rule to Indonesian integration before achieving independence through a 1999 referendum.
The nation gained full sovereignty in 2002 after choosing separation from Indonesia.
Anwar noted that Timor-Leste has struggled for years to become part of ASEAN despite its developing nation status.
“From the very beginning, Timor-Leste has always been part of this region,” he said.
“But after gaining independence, it had to go through the process all over again.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that ASEAN’s spirit of friendship transcends wealth or economic considerations.
“We build friendships not because a nation is wealthy, but because we respect the country and the dignity of its people,” Anwar stated.
He compared international relations to personal friendships that aren’t based on financial status.
Anwar expressed appreciation to the Foreign Ministry for their tireless efforts in securing Timor-Leste’s membership.
“Our colleagues at the Foreign Ministry have worked hard all year to find the best way for Timor-Leste to secure full ASEAN membership, and alhamdulillah, history has been made with their admission,” he said.
Timor-Leste officially joined ASEAN as its 11th member on October 26.
This marks the grouping’s first expansion in 26 years, formalised through a declaration signed during the 47th ASEAN Summit opening.
The nation’s membership journey began with its 2011 application, guided by principles of mutual respect and unity in diversity.
Malaysia hosted the summit as this year’s ASEAN Chair under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”
The gathering attracted global leaders including US President Donald Trump and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. – Bernama
