PUTRAJAYA: As Malaysia prepares for its Asean chairmanship next year, the country is exploring ways to assist Timor-Leste in meeting the criteria-based roadmap for full membership in the bloc.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said that while Malaysia, as chair, could not unilaterally decide on new member inclusion, it could support efforts to expedite the process.
He said that a considerable amount of documentation, treaties, meetings, and economic cooperation was involved.
"We are looking to streamline the list of requirements. What we can propose is some flexibility, allowing Timor-Leste a timeframe of five to 10 years to fulfil all the necessary criteria," he said at a press conference following the launch of the Asean Chairmanship 2025 logo and theme at Wisma Putra today.
Mohamad said that this approach was justified since some Asean countries had yet to fully meet the requirements for membership.
He confirmed that discussions on this matter were already underway at the senior officials' meeting (SOM) level.
When asked if Timor-Leste's bid would be included in the agenda under Malaysia's chairmanship, Mohamad said the matter had yet to be decided.
"Timor-Leste (as Asean 11th member) will strengthen the bloc further.
"We will take the necessary measures, but any decision must be made through consensus."
Timor-Leste's path in gaining full membership has seen significant progress in recent years with Asean leaders having in principle agreed to admit Timor-Leste as the 11th member, during the 40th and 41st Asean Summits and Related Summits in November, 2022.
However, this depends on its capability to fulfil the criteria for Asean membership.
It was granted observer status to allow the participation of the country in all Asean meetings including at the summit plenaries.
The theme "Inclusivity and Sustainability" was chosen for the chairmanship, with the hibiscus selected as the logo, symbolising Malaysia's national flower and its presence in all Asean member states.
The logo incorporates four colours — blue, red, yellow, and white — representing the main colours of the flags of all Asean countries.