Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta praises Malaysia’s exceptional diplomatic ties, security ranking, and support since pre-independence.
PETALING JAYA: Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta described the diplomatic ties with Malaysia as exceptionally good and praised the country’s ranking globally in security, freedom and democracy.
The Nobel Prize Laureate and former journalist said Malaysia has been supporting Timor-Leste since before its independence in 2002 through the peacekeeping force in 1999.
“From my observation, Malaysia has been doing very well for a long time, since 40 years ago. In the last few years, (Prime Minister Datuk Seri) Anwar Ibrahim’s statesmanship has made Malaysia’s economy and role grow internationally,” he told reporters after a dialogue session with students at Taylor’s University here on Monday.
Ramos-Horta is on a five-day special visit to Malaysia until Wednesday.
Asked for his message to Malaysian journalists in conjunction with the National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebration in Penang this Saturday, the Honorary Adjunct Professor at Taylor’s University wished all Malaysian journalists continued success in informing the public.
“Only a well-informed society will be able to stay together, promote unity and face challenges in the country. Congratulations to Malaysia and (its) journalists,” he said.
During his earlier dialogue, titled “A Changing World, Enduring Values”, Ramos-Horta said Timor-Leste looks forward to hosting ASEAN in 2029.
The president said he is optimistic that all the facilities will be ready by then, stating that the country is working to expedite infrastructure development.
“We (Timor-Leste) can do it,” Ramos-Horta said, adding that he is grateful for Malaysia’s efforts in helping the country obtain full ASEAN membership during its chairmanship last year.
Timor-Leste officially became the 11th member of ASEAN on Oct 26, 2025, marking the bloc’s first expansion in 26 years.
