SEPANG: Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil expressed heartfelt pride and gratitude for Malaysia’s successful hosting of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur.
Fahmi revealed that several senior Timor-Leste officials had praised the professionalism and courtesy of Malaysian personnel throughout the event.
“They told me the Malaysian LOs were exceptionally polite, fluent and well-informed, ensuring guests felt comfortable and well-attended to.”
The minister emphasised that this hosting success resulted from the collective effort of the entire government machinery rather than any single ministry.
Fahmi personally bid farewell to Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and his delegation who departed for Dili after attending the summit.
He described the 47th ASEAN Summit as a historic milestone with Timor-Leste’s official admission as the bloc’s 11th member state.
“I’m deeply honoured to have had the opportunity to welcome and send off the Timor-Leste delegation.”
Fahmi expressed particular pride in witnessing the close collaboration among all government agencies that ensured the summit’s smooth operation.
He highlighted the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on media and telecommunications cooperation between Malaysia and Timor-Leste.
Timor-Leste has shown keen interest in expanding media collaboration and professional training initiatives with Bernama through its official news agency TATOLI.
Fahmi described Prime Minister Gusmão as one of the most outstanding leaders he has encountered, noting his humility and charisma.
“Among all the leaders I’ve encountered, the Timor-Leste Prime Minister stands out for his character and humility.”
The minister affirmed Malaysia’s continued support for Timor-Leste as the newest ASEAN member nation.
Timor-Leste has expressed interest in hosting an ASEAN Summit within the next four years despite needing infrastructure development.
Fahmi shared that approximately 2,900 journalists covered this year’s summit, which surprised Timor-Leste officials.
He expressed confidence that Malaysia would continue assisting Timor-Leste in media professionalism and administrative aspects. – Bernama
