ASEAN Welcomes Timor-Leste as 11th Member at Landmark Summit

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — The 47th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, held from October 26 to 28, 2025, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, marked a historic milestone with the formal admission of Timor-Leste as the bloc's 11th member. This expansion, the first since Cambodia's inclusion in 1999, underscores ASEAN's commitment to regional integration and inclusivity.

The summit, chaired by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, convened leaders from the ten existing member states to deliberate on pressing regional issues under the theme "Inclusivity and Sustainability." A significant highlight was the signing of the Declaration on the Admission of Timor-Leste into ASEAN, a culmination of the nation's 14-year pursuit of membership since its initial application in 2011.

Timor-Leste's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão participated in the signing ceremony, symbolizing the nation's integration into the regional bloc. The inclusion of Timor-Leste, Asia's youngest nation, is anticipated to enhance regional cooperation and economic development.

Beyond the expansion of membership, the summit addressed critical regional security challenges. Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan highlighted concerns over ASEAN's neutrality, stating, "Rising global power rivalry is eroding the bloc's neutrality, with tensions around trade, technology, and regional security." Discussions also focused on the ongoing situation in Myanmar, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation over coercion and confrontation amid global conflicts.

A notable development was the signing of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord between Cambodia and Thailand, aiming to expand a ceasefire agreement and promote lasting peace along their borders. This accord follows deadly border clashes in July 2025, with U.S. President Donald Trump playing a role in brokering the ceasefire.

Economic resilience was another focal point, with leaders addressing trade tensions and the impact of U.S. tariffs on ASEAN economies. The summit underscored the importance of deeper economic integration and market diversification to mitigate these challenges.

The event concluded with Malaysia handing over the ASEAN Chairmanship to the Philippines, which will assume the role beginning January 1, 2026.

The 47th ASEAN Summit not only celebrated the bloc's expansion but also reinforced its dedication to addressing regional security and economic challenges, reflecting ASEAN's ongoing commitment to unity and stability in Southeast Asia.