Malaysia Strongly Advocates Timor-Leste's ASEAN Membership - Tengku Zafrul

KOTA TINGGI, Feb 27 (Bernama) -- Malaysia, as ASEAN chair in 2025, is strongly advocating for the accession of Timor-Leste into the bloc, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

He emphasised that Malaysia has played a crucial role in including several other ASEAN member states into this regional bloc.

“This year, once again, we are prepared to take on a leading role in facilitating Timor-Leste’s application as the 11th member of ASEAN,” Tengku Zafrul said in his opening remarks at the welcoming dinner for the 31st ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) Retreat delegates in Desaru today.

Timor-Leste is awaiting a consensus decision from ASEAN member states on its acceptance as a full member of the regional organisation.

The country was recognised as an ASEAN observer and joined the ASEAN Regional Forum in 2005 before officially applying for membership on March 4, 2011.

Tengku Zafrul will chair the 31st AEM Retreat in Desaru tomorrow, which is expected to be attended by over 200 delegates from the 10 ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste.

The ministers are expected to discuss 18 Priority Economic Deliverables, aimed at strengthening regional economic integration, enhancing inclusivity, promoting sustainability, and driving digital trade within ASEAN.

-- BERNAMA