PM ANWAR: TIMOR-LESTE WILL BE A GENUINE AND FUNCTIONAL PARTNER IN ASEAN

By Linda Khoo

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured Timor-Leste of ASEAN's full support as it embarks on its journey as the bloc's newest member, pledging that the 11th member will be a genuine, functional, and effective partner.

He expressed Malaysia’s and ASEAN's appreciation to Timor-Leste for its willingness to fulfil all the requirements set forth in the accession process.

"Difficult as it may be initially, you did well. So, let me say, on behalf of Malaysia and on behalf of all our colleagues, a great thank you.

“We, the ASEAN fraternity, rejoice at the ascension of Timor-Leste as the 11th member of our great ASEAN Community. We understand your tribulations, your hopes, and aspirations. Let us join hands and build ASEAN together,” he said at the reception on the occasion of Timor-Leste's admission to ASEAN on Monday.

Also present were Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao.

Meanwhile, in his speech, Gusmao said the signing of the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste into ASEAN marked a day that will forever be remembered in the history of Timor-Leste.

"On behalf of the government and people of Timor-Leste, I once again express profound gratitude to the government and people of Malaysia and to all ASEAN Member States for welcoming us into this great family and to all the distinguished guests for joining us on this very special celebration," he said.

"In Timor-Leste, we believe that true friendship is best shared through culture - through music, dance, and the stories of our land and people," he added.

During the luncheon, guests were treated to a glimpse of Timor-Leste’s beauty and spirit through a traditional performance, accompanied by a video presentation highlighting the country’s rich culture and charm.

Timor-Leste, which gained independence in 2002, was officially admitted as the 11th member of ASEAN after regional leaders signed the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste into ASEAN during the opening ceremony of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits earlier yesterday.

The country remains predominantly dependent on oil and gas revenues, although the agriculture and services sectors are gradually increasing their contribution to national income.

It recorded a gross domestic product of USD1.99 billion in 2024, reflecting a 3.4 per cent expansion, with growth forecast to reach 3.9 per cent in 2025 amid moderating inflation and sustained fiscal stability.

-- BERNAMA