Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today extended birthday wishes to Timor-Leste President Dr Jose Ramos-Horta, who turned 76. In a social media post, Anwar expressed hope that the year ahead would bring good health, success, and wisdom in leadership to Ramos-Horta.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar conveyed his birthday message by saying, "Happy birthday to my dear friend, President Dr Jose Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste. Malaysia values the close friendship and strategic cooperation with Timor-Leste, especially in strengthening ties within ASEAN." The Prime Minister also expressed his aspiration for the continued growth of relations between Malaysia and Timor-Leste, contributing to the well-being of both nations and regional prosperity.

Dr Jose Ramos-Horta, born on December 26, 1949, in Dili, is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate recognized for his critical role in Timor-Leste's fight for independence and nation-building. Timor-Leste was officially admitted as an ASEAN member during the 47th ASEAN Summit, which took place under Malaysia's Chairmanship in October.