Kuala lumpur: Malaysia and Timor-Leste today strengthened their close and friendly relations with the signing of two significant memorandums of understanding (MoUs), marking a renewed commitment to enhancing cooperation in telecommunications and media. The MoUs were signed by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Timor-Leste's Transport and Communications Minister Miguel Marques Gon§alves Manetelu, and State Secretary for Social Communication Expedito Loro Dias Ximenes.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, a joint statement from the Communications Ministry, Timor-Leste's Transport and Communications Ministry, and State Secretary for Social Communication said that the signing of the MoUs represents a milestone that reflects the long-standing friendship and mutual trust between both nations. Malaysia was among the first countries to recognize Timor-Leste's independence in 2002. The statement emphasized both countries' reaffirmation of their shared commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation and promoting closer people-to-people ties. It also expressed their anticipation of working together towards a more connected, resilient, and forward-looking Southeast Asian region.
The first MoU on telecommunications cooperation, as outlined in the statement, was signed between the Communications Ministry and Timor-Leste's Transport and Communications Ministry. This agreement underscores the shared commitment to enhancing telecommunications infrastructure, improving digital connectivity, and promoting the exchange of technical knowledge for the benefit of both nations.
The second MoU on information and media development, signed between the Communications Ministry and Timor-Leste's State Secretariat for Social Communication, aims to foster professional collaboration through information exchange, news sharing, and capacity-building initiatives for media professionals.
Earlier today, the Communications Ministry announced in a statement that Malaysians in Timor-Leste can now enjoy seamless data roaming services at affordable rates. This follows the successful activation of the service by the country's major mobile network operators this month. According to the statement, beginning October 17, CelcomDigi, Maxis, TM, and U Mobile had successfully activated data roaming services in Timor-Leste, while YTL Communications commenced its service on October 24.