PETALING JAYA – Malaysia and Timor-Leste have agreed to grant visa exemptions to the citizens of both countries, as announced during the Exchange of Notes Ceremony for Visa Exemption Arrangements, which took place today during the official visit of Timor-Leste Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao, to Malaysia.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim shared the news in a Facebook post, stating that his meeting with Gusmao also saw the signing of a Land Concession Agreement for the provision of a plot of land by the Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste for the development of the Malaysian Embassy’s Canseri Complex in Dili.
“During the joint press conference, I expressed my commitment to Gusmao to strengthen bilateral relations and my desire to see Timor-Leste succeed in politics, the economy, and in fostering people-to-people ties with Malaysia, as well as among ASEAN nations,” he said.
Anwar also announced the agreement on enhancing connectivity between the two countries through direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Dili, operated by Batik Air starting early next year, followed by AirAsia.
He added that both nations are currently focused on boosting trade and investment, alongside strengthening cooperation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and higher education.
“I also reiterated our commitment to expedite and facilitate Timor-Leste’s full membership in ASEAN, especially during Malaysia’s chairmanship next year,” Anwar emphasized.
“I was deeply moved by Gusmao’s statements on the conflicts in Gaza, Myanmar, Ukraine, and others. His concerns for peace clearly come from his conscience and his long struggle for Timor-Leste’s independence.”
Anwar concluded that the meeting between him and Gusmao successfully strengthened the relationship between the two nations and deepened their personal friendship. He expressed his hopes for a bright future for both Malaysia and Timor-Leste. “Insha-Allah,” he said.