A joint statement in conjunction with the official visit of Timor-Leste prime minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao to Malaysia said the partnership aims to unlock “immense potential, fostering shared growth and strengthening economic collaboration between our nations”.

“To further boost and diversify economic cooperation, the leaders encouraged trade and investment promotion agencies in Malaysia and Timor-Leste to explore trade and investment opportunities in both countries,” it said.

Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to further enhance the countries’ bilateral relations.

They welcomed the establishment of a bilateral consultation mechanism (BCM), to be led at the senior officials’ level, and said they looked forward to its inaugural meeting.

In a joint press conference today, Xanana Gusmao said the country celebrated significant milestones such as the set-up of the BCM mechanism and agreements on education, connectivity, and trade, which promise to bring the countries closer together.

“At the bilateral meeting today, we engaged in meaningful discussions and solidified the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

“We reaffirmed our shared commitment to further enhancing our relations, underscored by mutual trust and a vision for shared prosperity,” he said.

The joint statement said both leaders welcomed the inaugural flight from Kuala Lumpur to Dili in the first quarter of 2025, to be operated by Malindo Airways Sdn Bhd, which they said would pave the way for further collaboration in sectors such as tourism, trade, education, and technology.

The prime ministers acknowledged the importance of connectivity between Malaysia and Timor-Leste, describing it as a catalyst to promote tourism and solidify people-to-people ties.

“We welcome the support to approve direct flights early next year to Dili, and AirAsia will follow up soon afterwards,” Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said in the press conference.

The leaders also witnessed the exchange of notes on the visa exemption arrangements between both countries.

This milestone is expected to fulfil one of the requirements under the roadmap for Timor-Leste’s full Asean membership, promote the tourism sector, and enhance people-to-people exchanges between Malaysia and Timor-Leste.

The exemption applies to holders of diplomatic, official or service, and ordinary passports from both countries.

Xanana Gusmao arrived in Malaysia yesterday to begin a three-day official visit, his first to the country after assuming the prime ministership on July 1, 2023.