EDUCATION REMAINS CORNERSTONE OF TIMOR-LESTE–MALAYSIA TIES -- TIMORESE AMBASSADOR

By Zarul Effendi Razali

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- Timor-Leste’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Lisualdo Gaspar, believes that education will continue to serve as a cornerstone in strengthening cooperation and fostering closer understanding between both nations.

“Education is a very good sector for collaboration. Malaysia’s education system is of high quality and has excellent industry links, which provide great opportunities for us. That is something we hope to further strengthen in the near future,” he said.

Talking to Bernama after “The Nation: Diplomatic Dispatch” programme produced by Bernama TV on Tuesday, Gaspar said education cooperation continues to be a priority for Timor-Leste, as reflected by the growing number of Timorese students pursuing studies in Malaysia.

“Last year, we sent 32 Timor-Leste students on government scholarships. This year, we are going to send 60 more students, making Malaysia the country with the highest number of scholarships we are awarding this year,” he said.

“Perhaps those pursuing communication studies can come to Bernama for intensive training to gain  experience. That is what we want to explore with Malaysia—not only through education, but also by building their capacity so they are ready to contribute when they return to Timor-Leste,” he said.

Gaspar said Timor-Leste also seeks to collaborate with Malaysia in other vital sectors, including healthcare.

“Of course, in other sectors as well, such as the healthcare sector. We want to explore how Malaysians can assist us in establishing at least decent health services in the country,” he added.

Describing Malaysia as a true and genuine friend that has consistently supported Timor-Leste, Gaspar said he also hopes to see people-to-people connection between the two nations further strengthened going forward.

Timor-Leste officially joined ASEAN on Oct 26, 2025, becoming its 11th member state.

-- BERNAMA