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PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Palace in Dili today, as he began a historic two-day official visit to Timor-Leste — the first by a Malaysian Prime Minister in nearly two decades.
The welcome ceremony, led by President Dr José Ramos-Horta at 4.10pm local time, featured both nations’ anthems and a 19-cannon salute.
Bernama reported on Tuesday that Anwar inspected the guard of honour and signed the palace’s Visitor’s Book before proceeding to a closed-door meeting with the President. Both leaders are expected to hold a joint press conference following their discussions.
Anwar’s visit underscores Malaysia’s intention to reinvigorate bilateral ties with Southeast Asia’s youngest nation, particularly as Timor-Leste prepares for eventual accession to ASEAN.
“This visit marks a new chapter in Malaysia–Timor-Leste relations,” said a senior Malaysian official ahead of the Prime Minister’s arrival. “We are laying the groundwork for deeper cooperation across trade, defence, and people-to-people links.”
Joining Anwar in Dili are key members of his Cabinet, including Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, and Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin.
Later this evening, Anwar is scheduled to chair a Pre-Council Meeting and host a *Madani Engagement* with members of the Malaysian diaspora, including alumni of the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) and the Malaysian Defence Cooperation Programme (MDCP).
The day’s engagements will conclude with an official state dinner jointly hosted by President Ramos-Horta and Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão. - September 23, 2025
