DILI, 23 September 2025 (TATOLI) – A warm and spirited atmosphere filled the streets of Dili as Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim arrived in Timor-Leste. A unique moment unfolded alongside President José Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão –two leaders currently steering the course of the “Land of the Rising Sun.”
After leaving the VIP lounge at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport (AIPNL), PM Anwar was invited by President Ramos-Horta to ride in his personal vehicle, a “Mini Moke” –a lightweight recreational car based on a classic Jeep design, bearing the license plate JRH 2612.
A gentle breeze from Ataúro Island greeted them. Without hesitation, Anwar laughed and hopped into the vehicle, while Xanana Gusmão took the second seat, joining the brief but memorable ride.
President Ramos-Horta drove the vehicle out of the VIP building, greeted by cheers from students who had been waiting since 2:00 p.m. under the friendly sun and clear blue skies of Timor-Leste. The students waved flags of Timor-Leste: red, yellow, black, and a star –and Malaysia: red, white, blue, and yellow on the crescent and star –enthusiastically welcoming the car carrying the three world leaders.
The four-wheeled vehicle cruised leisurely along the wide streets of Dili. Along the way, locals and students from various schools warmly welcomed the convoy, symbolizing the close friendship and strong ties between the two nations and their people.
Upon arriving at the hotel at 3:30 p.m., PM Anwar was scheduled to rest briefly before heading to the Presidential Palace at 3:55 p.m. According to the official itinerary, his two-day visit to Timor-Leste –the only country in Asia with Portuguese as an official language alongside Tetum –includes several state events, meetings with the Malaysian community in Timor-Leste, and alumni of the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), among other.
President José Ramos-Horta’s Mini Moke has become a symbol of his closeness to the Timorese people and his humble leadership style. The blue classic car is often used for both official and personal visits around Dili and nearby areas.
Notable figures who have ridden in the Mini Moke with President Horta include Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Senate and former Prime Minister, who was personally driven by Horta during his official visit to Timor-Leste in May 2025.
Australian journalist Indira Naidoo also toured Dili in the Mini Moke during a segment for the television program Compass in August 2024.
In a particularly memorable moment, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the King of Brunei Darussalam, previously rode in the Mini Moke (plate number 22-778) and later received the vehicle as a gift from President Horta.
The Mini Moke is also frequently used in public events, such as government-sponsored bicycle races, reflecting President Horta’s down-to-earth leadership and connection with the people.
Originally designed in 1963 by the British Motor Corporation (BMC) as a lightweight military vehicle, the Mini Moke’s name combines “Mini” from the classic Mini components and “moke,” an old term for donkey. Known for its simple design, lack of doors, and adaptability, the Moke has a unique charm.
The first prototype, called The Buckboard, was presented to the British Army but failed to meet off-road military requirements. BMC then marketed the Moke as a civilian vehicle. Despite regulatory challenges, it gained popularity as a recreational car, especially in beach and tropical island settings.
Mini Moke production spanned several countries: the UK produced 14,518 units between 1964–1968; Australia manufactured around 26,000 units between 1966–1981, including the California variant for export; and Portugal and Italy produced about 10,000 units between 1980–1993. In total, approximately 50,000 units of the Moke and its variants were made.
In recent years, the Mini Moke has seen a revival, including electric versions produced in the UK and the United States, offering a range of 112 km and a top speed of 72 km/h. The vehicle is easy to maintain thanks to its use of standard Mini components.
The Mini Moke has also become a cultural icon, appearing in over 70 films –including James Bond –and associated with celebrities like Brigitte Bardot, Paul McCartney, and the Beach Boys.
With its open design, vibrant colors, and rich history, the Mini Moke continues to symbolize simplicity, creativity, and the closeness of leaders to their people –just as President Ramos-Horta demonstrated, warmly embraced by the people of Timor-Leste.
Reporter: Cidalia Fátima
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
