Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim used his historic address to Timor-Leste’s National Parliament in Dili to reaffirm Malaysia’s firm commitment to the nation’s full membership in ASEAN. He credited former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad for laying the foundation of Malaysia’s consistent support, recalling that Malaysia had stood by Timor-Leste since the earliest days of its independence struggle.
Anwar emphasised that Timor-Leste’s path to democracy was not only significant for its own people but also served as a source of inspiration for the wider region. He described the parliament as the heartbeat of democracy and commended the country’s resilience in navigating years of hardship and discrimination to establish itself as a proud, independent nation. According to him, Malaysia would ensure that ASEAN’s accession process for Timor-Leste remains on track without unnecessary delay.
As the current ASEAN Chair, Anwar pledged to use all diplomatic channels and resources to persuade regional leaders that Timor-Leste’s rightful place was within the ASEAN community. He insisted that Malaysia’s commitment was firm and that full membership should no longer be postponed.
Beyond diplomacy, Anwar highlighted the importance of responsible economic cooperation. He assured lawmakers that Malaysian companies seeking opportunities in Timor-Leste would operate as genuine partners rather than exploitative multinationals. Investments, he said, must generate profit but also respect local needs, ensuring that progress is shared rather than imposed.
The prime minister also shared a personal reflection on the solidarity he received from Timorese leaders during his own years of political persecution. Figures such as President Dr Jose Ramos-Horta had raised their voices in international forums in defence of freedom and justice, actions that left a lasting impression on him. This, Anwar explained, made Malaysia’s support for Timor-Leste not only a matter of foreign policy but also one of enduring friendship and shared struggle.
He concluded his visit with a message of unity, framing Malaysia’s role as more than a government ally. He positioned the relationship as one of comradeship, built on common aspirations and the desire to build progress together. The speech was received as a clear signal that Malaysia intends to remain at the forefront of efforts to secure Timor-Leste’s place in ASEAN and to deepen bilateral ties rooted in mutual respect and shared history.
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