DILI, 23 September 2025 (TATOLI) – President José Ramos-Horta has hailed Malaysia’s decisive support for Timor-Leste’s independence, stability, and ASEAN membership bid.
During a state banquet for Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Ramos-Horta said Malaysia’s solidarity had been crucial at defining moments of Timor-Leste’s recent history.
“Timor-Leste will never forget Malaysia’s support during the most decisive moments of our recent history—1999, the Popular Consultation, and the years of transition under the United Nations,” Ramos-Horta said in his speech at the State Banquet held in Dili in Honour of Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, on Tuesday.
He recalled the presence of Malaysian peacekeepers, rapid deployment police, medical personnel, and civil servants, saying their “professionalism and empathy helped us build the foundations of peace and stability.”
The President stressed that Malaysia has remained a trusted partner in nation-building, contributing to education, health, commerce, security, and diplomacy.
He added that Timor-Leste seeks more opportunities for youth education and vocational training in Malaysia, as well as stronger collaboration in defense, security, and cybersecurity. Air connectivity is also on the agenda, with Batik Air’s new Kuala Lumpur–Dili route described as a milestone.
Ramos-Horta linked Malaysia’s ongoing support directly to Timor-Leste’s ASEAN aspirations. “This desire, long cherished by our people, is being realised thanks to the collective goodwill of all ASEAN members, aided by your charismatic leadership,” he told Anwar.
He noted that Malaysia had financed Timor-Leste’s Mission in Jakarta, provided training to officials, and opened doors for young secondees to learn from Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship experience. “These are not small gestures; they are investments in our future to be a responsible ASEAN member,” he said.
The President also praised Anwar personally, calling him “a great Asian statesman – a moral voice in a world that so often lacks moral and political courage.” He added: “In times of turbulence, when democracy and justice face threats, you never waver in your defence of human rights, freedom, and fraternity among peoples.”
Ramos-Horta said Timor-Leste looks forward to joining ASEAN formally at the October summit in Kuala Lumpur. He confirmed that on Wednesday he will confer on Anwar Ibrahim the Grande Colar da Ordem de Timor-Leste, the nation’s highest honor.
“Timor-Leste will forever remember what you, and Malaysia, have done for us,” the President said.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
