Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a historic moment that greets us today.
I am delighted to announce that Timor-Leste, has officially deposited its Instruments of Accession to the ASEAN Charter, and the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone.
This effectively marks Timor-Leste’s full admission as the eleventh member of ASEAN, and the expansion of ASEAN’s scope to include each and every sovereign state in this home we share.
On behalf of all of Malaysia and our fellow Member States, I extend our warmest congratulations to the Government and the people of Timor-Leste. As the Chair of ASEAN, I am honoured to share this moment with all of you.
Today, we celebrate you, a nation built on courage, perseverance, and unyielding hope, as you join a family that has long awaited your full inclusion. Welcome to the ASEAN Family, and to our venerated Charter.
The ASEAN Charter is more than just a foundational document. It is the heartbeat of our shared vision, a covenant of trust, respect, and solidarity that has bound our diverse nations together, in pursuit of peace and prosperity.
By acceding to the Charter, Timor-Leste has pledged to walk hand-in-hand with us, weaving the aspirations of its people, into the fabric of our ever-evolving ASEAN community.
Through the SEANWFZ Treaty, Timor-Leste also joins us in a solemn commitment, to ensure that Southeast Asia remains a sanctuary of peace, free from the shadow of nuclear weapons.
It is a testament to our enduring resolve, to preserve our region as one of peace, stability, and shared security.
These accessions reflect more than just institutional formality. They represent Timor-Leste’s strong faith in ASEAN’s ideals, and a profound belief in our collective future. A future that is built on harmony, cooperation and mutual respect.
The journey to this has been long. From the struggles of its birth, to the years of state-building, and the patient pursuit of ASEAN membership. The story of Timor- Leste is one of remarkable tenacity.
As we look ahead, we do so with optimism. Timor- Leste brings new energy, fresh perspectives, and a youthful population ready to contribute.
Your presence will enrich ASEAN’s collective identity. Not only in demography, but politically, culturally, and economically.
ASEAN’s strength has always been found in its diversity, and its ability to transform that diversity into shared purpose. And I firmly believe that Timor-Leste’s full participation, will further deepen this regional cohesion.
So today, we are not just welcoming a new member. We are reaffirming our belief in an ASEAN that is inclusive, resilient, and future-ready. One community, united in peace, committed to progress, and grounded in the unbreakable bonds of kinship.
May we continue to collaborate and prosper together, and may we face the future as one region, ever stronger.
Thank you.