Major Malaysian mobile network operators have activated 4G roaming services in Timor-Leste effective Oct 17, as a welcome to the country into ASEAN as the 11th member.
Communications Minister Datuk said this aligns with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship theme “Shaping a Shared Digital Future.”
This milestone is achieved through close cooperation between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), Timor-Leste’s National Communications Authority (ANC), and local operators (Telkomcel, Telemor, and Timor Telecom).
This enables Malaysians to access affordable and seamless connectivity in Timor-Leste, similar to other ASEAN countries.
“It represents a tangible step forward in advancing regional digital integration and cooperation.
“Together, we can strengthen our communication networks, promote understanding, and build a future anchored in partnership and friendship,” he said in his opening remarks during a Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signing ceremony between Malaysia and the Timor-Leste in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
The MOUs were signed by Fahmi and Timor-Leste’s Minister of Transport and Communications Miguel Marques Gonçalves Manetelu and Timor-Leste State Secretary for Social Communication Expedito Loro Dias Ximenes.
The MOUs were regarding telecommunications cooperation which focuses on improving infrastructure, digital connectivity, and technical knowledge exchange, as well as for information and media development, aimed at promoting collaboration through news sharing, information exchange, and training for media professionals.
The agreements highlight the long-standing friendly ties between the countries, with Malaysia having been one of the first to recognise Timor-Leste’s independence in 2002.
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to stronger bilateral ties and regional collaboration.
“Malaysia continues to fully support Timor-Leste’s journey towards full ASEAN’s membership.
“We believe your inclusion will further strengthen ASEAN’s unity, diversity, and capacity to respond to new challenges and opportunities,” Fahmi said.
Meanwhile, Manetelu believed that the telecommunications MOU marks a landmark step in Malaysia–Timor-Leste relations as it strengthens cooperation in the digital sector and recognising modern, secure infrastructure as essential for national development, economic growth, and integration.
“For Timor-Leste, this cooperation is a strategic opportunity which aligns perfectly with our national development goals to bridge the digital divide, enhance connectivity for our citizens, and empower our economy through digital transformation.
“The potential for mutual benefit is immense, from enhancing cross-border connectivity to facilitating partnership between our telecommunications regulators, operators, and industry players,” he said.
Source: https://themalaysianreserve.com/2025/10/26/malaysia-enables-4g-roaming-in-timor-leste/
