DILI, 24 September 2025 — The Malaysian Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, concluded a two-day official visit to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste at the invitation of Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão.
During a bilateral meeting in Dili on 24 September, both leaders held productive discussions on strengthening bilateral relations, expanding cooperation, and exchanged views on regional and multilateral issues of mutual concern. The talks were conducted in a spirit of friendship and mutual respect, reflecting the warm ties the two countries have shared since establishing diplomatic relations in 2002.
Prime Ministers Anwar Ibrahim and Xanana Gusmão expressed satisfaction with ongoing efforts to deepen bilateral relations, noting the growing cooperation and the increasing number of high-level visits between Malaysia and Timor-Leste.
Prime Minister Ibrahim reaffirmed Malaysia’s readiness to continue supporting the Timor-Leste Defence Forces under the Malaysian Defence Cooperation Programme (MDCP). The initiative is part of Malaysia’s Defence White Paper, which underscores Credible Partnerships as a key pillar for advancing regional security.
Both leaders voiced hope for the early signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation, which is expected to pave the way for enhanced collaboration.
On defence industry cooperation, Malaysia and Timor-Leste agreed to strengthen engagement through the Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference (DSA) and the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA). These platforms, they noted, reflect the Defence White Paper’s emphasis on building strategic industrial partnerships to enhance mutual capacity and resilience.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
