By Thanesh Veeramutu
DILI, 24 September 2025: Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim arrived in Dili today for a two-day official visit, marking the first time in 22 years that a Malaysian Prime Minister has visited Timor-Leste. The visit, which began on September 23, 2025, is a significant step towards reinforcing bilateral relations and showcasing Malaysia’s unwavering support for Timor-Leste’s goal of becoming the 11th member of ASEAN.
Upon his arrival at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, Prime Minister Anwar was greeted with a warm reception by President Dr. José Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão. In a rare and symbolic gesture of friendship, President Ramos-Horta personally drove Prime Minister Anwar and Prime Minister Gusmão in a vintage Mini Moke, highlighting the special nature of the visit.
Malaysia has been a consistent supporter of Timor-Leste’s regional integration efforts. The country was the first ASEAN member to establish an embassy in Dili in May 2002. This historic visit is expected to deepen practical cooperation and build upon the already growing economic and people-to-people ties.
Over 1,000 Timorese have benefited from the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), and currently, 55 students are pursuing their studies in Malaysia. Recent developments, such as the introduction of direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Dili by Batik Air and the 30-day visa-free travel for Malaysians, have further strengthened these connections.
The visit comes at a time of growing economic engagement, with more than 200 Malaysian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in Timor-Leste. In 2024, bilateral trade between the two countries reached RM101.4 million, and a promising start to 2025 saw trade figures hit RM95.7 million in the first seven months alone. This visit solidifies Malaysia’s role as a key partner in Timor-Leste’s development and regional aspirations.
