KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 6 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s strong support for Timor-Leste to be a full member of ASEAN is crucial and its potential accession during Malaysia’s chairmanship next year would represent a historic moment for the region, said Assoc Prof Dr Khoo Ying Hooi of Universiti Malaya’s Department of International and Strategic Studies.
Speaking via the Zoom platform on Bernama World programme on Friday, Khoo said Timor-Leste’s full ASEAN membership will open up a lot of opportunities in trade, investment and diplomatic engagement in the region.
She said Timor-Leste’s full membership will enable the country to take part in regional decision-making that can shape several issues like regional security, economic development, sustainable development, climate change and many others.
“Timor-Leste’s contributions to ASEAN will be unique, especially in the areas of peace-building and the country’s strong voice in Myanmar issues is an additional point to the region.”
She said Timor-Leste’s location in the global trade route makes it a key player in regional security issues. Other issues that the country can contribute include climate change, trafficking, geopolitical tension and the South China Sea.
Khoo, who is also an adviser to the Timor-Leste government’s International Advisory Council, said a new ASEAN full member Timor-Leste can work together to promote peace and stability based on its past political turmoil and struggles.
On Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão’s official visit to Malaysia earlier this week, she said Malaysia was the first country to set up a liaison office in Dili in 2001 even before Timor-Leste’s independence.
Today, both countries share a long history of cooperation. The visit will deepen economic ties, particularly in trade and investment, she added.
According to Khoo, Malaysia and Timor-Leste have similarities in agriculture and Malaysia’s expertise in agribusiness will open up opportunities for both sides.
-- BERNAMA
