Kuala lumpur: The cooperation between Malaysia and Timor-Leste supports the broader regional vision of a more connected, united, and progressive Southeast Asia, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He highlighted that both nations have deepened their partnership through two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing telecommunications and media collaboration.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the partnership will see Malaysia and Timor-Leste share knowledge, exchange expertise, and explore opportunities to further improve their telecommunications sectors for the benefit of their citizens. At the signing ceremony of the MoUs, Minister Fahmi emphasized the importance of reliable communication systems as the backbone of modern life, connecting communities, supporting education, creating economic opportunities, and bringing people closer together.
The first MoU, signed between Fahmi and Timor-Leste's Transport and Communications Minister Miguel Gon§alves Manetelu, focuses on telecommunications cooperation. The second MoU, on information and media development, was signed between Fahmi and Timor-Leste's Secretary of State for Social Communication Expedito Loro Dias Ximenes. The ceremony also saw the presence of Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa and Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) CEO Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.
Fahmi pointed out that the first MoU underscores the mutual commitment of both countries to strengthen communication infrastructure and collaboration in this vital sector. He announced that major Malaysian mobile network operators, namely CelcomDG, Maxis, TM, and U Mobile, have successfully enabled 4G data roaming services in Timor-Leste, effective October 17. This achievement was facilitated through collaboration between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Timor-Leste's National Communications Authority (ANC), as well as local operators Telkomsel, Telemor, and Timor Telekom.
Regarding the second MoU, Fahmi stated that Malaysia and Timor-Leste would exchange experiences and expertise in news sharing, capacity building, and professional training for media practitioners. He emphasized the crucial role of a strong and responsible media in informing the public, promoting transparency, and fostering understanding between nations. The cooperation aims to encourage the sharing of stories that highlight the cultures, achievements, and shared aspirations of both peoples.
Miguel Manetelu, in his speech, mentioned that the signing of the MoU with Malaysia would assist Timor-Leste in strengthening its telecommunications infrastructure and bridging the digital divide. He expressed confidence that Malaysia's experience in advancing digital connectivity would inspire Timor-Leste's efforts to build a resilient, technology-driven economy. The MoU paves the way for a comprehensive partnership to expand knowledge, technical expertise, and institutional capacity.
Similarly, Expedito Ximenes remarked that the MoU in social communication reflects both countries' commitment to strengthening collaboration in journalism, media exchange, and public communication. He noted that the partnership would open more avenues for training, knowledge sharing, and cultural understanding between media institutions. He acknowledged Malaysia's role as a reliable and supportive partner since Timor-Leste's independence restoration in 2002, sharing a vision for a more resilient, informed, and connected region.