“We support Timor-Leste’s becoming a full ASEAN member as soon as possible—if possible, this year,” he said at the plenary session of the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on Monday.
“Also, we would like to propose the participation of a close neighbor of ours, that is, Papua New Guinea. They have expressed their desire also to join ASEAN,” he added.
According to the President, amid the current geopolitical uncertainty, ASEAN’s collective strength is expected to improve the region’s bargaining position with the world’s major powers.
“The stronger ASEAN is, the more we will be heard in the discourse of the great powers. We know now that only those with strength will be respected,” Prabowo emphasized.
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In terms of population, he added, ASEAN is on par with the European Union. In addition, ASEAN’s economic growth is also said to be the fastest in the world.
“This century is projected as the Asian century. Let us not always underestimate our strength and our power,” he said.
“Therefore, with the increasing membership of Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea, I think this will also enhance ASEAN’s role in the world,” Prabowo added.
Currently, ASEAN has 10 member countries: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Meanwhile, Timor Leste, which currently holds observer status, is scheduled to officially become the 11th member of ASEAN in October 2025.
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Translator: Fathur Rochman, Yashinta Difa
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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