Timor-Leste Set to Join ASEAN in October 2025

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – In a significant development for regional cooperation, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Timor-Leste is set to become a full member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in October 2025. This follows years of effort by Timor-Leste to meet the necessary conditions for membership. The announcement was made during a press conference in Kuala Lumpur. "Timor-Leste has worked very hard," stated Prime Minister Ibrahim, acknowledging the steps taken by the nation to align with ASEAN's political, economic, and legal standards. He expressed satisfaction with Timor-Leste's progress, indicating a strong likelihood of full membership by the October session. The inclusion of Timor-Leste marks a considerable expansion of ASEAN's influence, strengthening regional unity and cooperation. This positive development signifies a new era of collaboration and growth for Southeast Asia.