Adinda Jasmine, Jakarta – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his support for Timor Leste to become a full member of ASEAN. He believes Timor Leste's inclusion will strengthen the regional organization by complementing its geographic presence.
"We hope Timor Leste's accession will move forward. When Timor Leste becomes the eleventh member, ASEAN will be complete, representing the entire geographical Southeast Asia," Anwar said in a video statement commemorating the 58th ASEAN Day on Friday, August 8, 2025.
ASEAN 2045 vision
Anwar stated that ASEAN's strength lies in its openness and its members' willingness to support each other. He reminded that ASEAN was established 58 years ago to maintain peace, build trust, and foster cooperation among countries in the region.
Regarding the ASEAN 2045 Vision, Anwar mentioned that the target region will be resilient, innovative, and community-centered. He said ASEAN's success depends on the actions we take now, from developing regional connectivity to strengthening food and energy security.
Expectations for ASEAN cooperation
During the 58th ASEAN Day commemoration, Anwar hoped that this would be an important moment for all ASEAN citizens. Anwar detailed that ASEAN is now home to more than 670 million people with a combined GDP of almost 4 trillion U.S. dollars, placing it as the world's fifth-largest economy.
By 2030, ASEAN is expected to rise to the fourth position. However, Anwar emphasized that growth must be inclusive and sustainable. "That is the focus of Malaysia's leadership," he said. Anwar also reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to the central role of ASEAN, including in addressing difficult issues such as the situation in Myanmar, and strengthening food and energy security.
Anwar hopes the unity remains strong. He added ASEAN may continue to stand as a shining example of peace, progress, and partnership in our region and beyond.
ASEAN secretary-general emphasizes the value of unity
On the same occasion, ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn reminded members not to overlook the values that have been the glue of the organization for almost six decades.
He believed that ASEAN's greatest strength lies in its collective commitment to peace, cooperation, unity, and diversity.
Amidst uncertainty, he affirmed that ASEAN must remain a strong force by providing space for dialogue, practical cooperation, and principled neutrality.
ASEAN, established on August 8, 1967, in Bangkok, Thailand, by Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Thailand, now consists of 10 member states with a population of 675 million and a combined GDP of nearly US$4 trillion.
Timor Leste is set to become the 11th member, with its admission scheduled for the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on October 26, 2025.