Timor-Leste’s ASEAN Membership Marks Major Milestone Under Malaysia’s Chairmanship

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 26:  The official declaration of Timor-Leste’s admission as the 11th member of ASEAN, to be signed during the opening session of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, stands as one of the most significant achievements of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.

Senior Press Secretary to the Prime Minister Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Daily Briefing, said the declaration to be endorsed by ASEAN leaders today officially recognizes Timor-Leste’s full membership, marking the completion of ASEAN as a united regional bloc.

“Timor-Leste’s participation will bring a new dynamic to ASEAN’s three community pillars  Political-Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural — and contribute to our long-term vision of a truly inclusive Southeast Asia,” he said.

Tunku Nashrul added that the inclusion of Timor-Leste, coupled with the presence of global leaders and regional peace diplomacy, underscores ASEAN’s growing stature as a mature, united, and respected regional organization.

Yesterday, Timor-Leste officially submitted its Instrument of Accession to the ASEAN Charter and the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone (SEANWFZ), cementing its status as ASEAN’s newest member.

Kuala Lumpur today becomes the focal point of international attention as Malaysia officially opens the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, marking the culmination of a year of Malaysian leadership under the theme “Inclusion and Sustainability.”

According to Tunku Nashrul, the theme reflects Malaysia’s commitment to steering ASEAN with a vision rooted in unity, equity, and a sustainable future.

“Today’s summit gathers ASEAN leaders and Guests of the Chair, making Kuala Lumpur the center of global diplomacy, where the region’s political, economic, and humanitarian direction will be charted together,” he said.

This morning, Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim welcomed heads of state and government from ASEAN and Timor-Leste, followed by guests of the Chair, Brazil, South Africa, Canada, and the European Union at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).

The official opening ceremony featured Anwar’s keynote address, outlining Malaysia’s aspirations for a more inclusive and resilient ASEAN community.

Anwar is chairing the 47th ASEAN Summit, which consists of two main sessions: the Plenary Session and the Retreat Session.

During the Plenary Session, leaders will review progress in building the ASEAN Community and discuss efforts to strengthen regional integration, economic growth, and connectivity.
They will also address external relations, focusing on ASEAN’s unity, centrality, and commitment to a rules-based international order.

The Retreat Session will center on the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus on the Myanmar situation, as well as the exchange of views on regional and global issues of mutual concern.

Throughout the day, Prime Minister Anwar will hold several bilateral meetings with the European Union, Japan, the United States, and the United Nations (UN), reaffirming Malaysia’s active diplomatic engagement.

He will also chair multiple high-level summits, including

• The 28th ASEAN-Japan Summit

• The 22nd ASEAN-India Summit (held virtually)

• The 3rd Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Leaders’ Meeting

• The 13th ASEAN-United States Summit

Tunku Nashrul emphasized that under Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership, Malaysia remains steadfast in championing a principled, people-centered, and future-oriented ASEAN, ensuring that the bloc continues to be a pillar of regional stability and a driver of Southeast Asia’s collective prosperity.

“Under Malaysia’s chairmanship, ASEAN stands as a united voice for peace, resilience, and sustainable progress — ready to shape the future of Southeast Asia together,” he said.

— Voice of Malaysia News