By Vijian Paramasivam
PHNOM PENH, May 5 (Bernama) -- The first-ever Malaysia Expo Dili (MYExpo) in Timor-Leste will highlight the best of Malaysia across various sectors to expand trade and investment between the two nations.
The event is taking place alongside Malaysia's Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. It also marks the launch of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign in Timor-Leste.
Speaking to Bernama from the Timor-Leste capital of Dili, Malaysian Ambassador to Timor-Leste Datuk Amarjit Singh said MYExpo provides a valuable platform to showcase Malaysia’s strengths in multiple sectors and offer Malaysian companies direct access to the emerging market of the young island nation.
“The event is a catalyst for exploring joint ventures, knowledge-sharing, and trade opportunities that can drive economic growth for both nations. By connecting stakeholders face-to-face, it lays the groundwork for long-term partnerships and practical business outcomes,” said Amarjit.
The expo, which will also host the ASEAN Bazaar, will be held at the Dili Convention Centre in the nation’s capital from May 9 to 10.
About 30 Malaysian exhibitors from universities, skill training centres, healthcare, construction, oil and gas, manufacturing, and tourism will participate at MYExpo.
He said MYExpo 2025 sends a strong signal that Timor-Leste is open for business and eager to integrate into the regional economic landscape.
“As the country prepares for ASEAN membership, the expo highlights the country’s readiness to engage with regional partners, especially Timor-Leste could be a bridge to other Portuguese-speaking country members (Community of Portuguese Language Countries or Comunidade dos Países de Língua Portuguesa - CPLP).
“It showcases a proactive, forward-looking approach to diplomacy and development,” said Amarjit.
The event is initiated and supported by the Embassy of Malaysia in Dili and organised by Myevents International.
Timor-Leste, which currently enjoys observer status in ASEAN, aims to become a full member of the 10-member regional trade bloc.
The tiny nation, home to 1.4 million people, is rich in oil. Its other major export is coffee.
Malaysia was the first country to set up a liaison office in Dili on April 13, 2001. A year later, Timor Leste gained independence from Indonesia.
Malaysia and Timor-Leste signed an air services agreement (ASA) in Kuala Lumpur last June to enhance air connectivity between the two capitals.
Batik Air is scheduled to commence direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Dili on June 6, 2025, following the agreement.
“This ASA is part of Timor-Leste's broader strategy to expand its international air connectivity, with similar agreements being pursued with other countries to enhance economic development and integration into regional frameworks,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
