Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta has lauded bilateral relations between his nation and Malaysia as exceptionally strong, while commending Malaysia's international standing in security, freedom and democracy. Speaking at Taylor's University in Petaling Jaya on Monday, the Nobel laureate highlighted Malaysia's consistent backing of Timor-Leste, starting from the 1999 peacekeeping operations through to the country's independence in 2002.

Ramos-Horta noted Malaysia's sustained development over four decades, with particular emphasis on the economic and international stature the nation has gained under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He observed that the premier's diplomatic approach has strengthened Malaysia's position on the global stage and bolstered its economic prospects.

During his five-day special visit through Wednesday, Ramos-Horta addressed students on the theme "A Changing World, Enduring Values". In remarks directed at Malaysian journalists ahead of National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2026 celebrations in Penang, he emphasised the critical role media plays in fostering an informed society and promoting national unity during times of change.

Ramos-Horta expressed confidence in Timor-Leste's ability to host ASEAN in 2029, stating that the nation is progressing steadily with infrastructure development to meet the deadline. He voiced gratitude for Malaysia's pivotal assistance in facilitating his country's full ASEAN membership, which was formally achieved on October 26, 2025, marking the regional bloc's first expansion in 26 years.