KUALA LUMPUR — Timor-Leste, the youngest nation in Southeast Asia, is edging closer to realizing its enduring aspiration to become a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). On Sunday, Malaysia's foreign minister, Mohamad Hasan, announced that the country might achieve this milestone as early as October during the upcoming ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur.

Timor-Leste, which gained independence from Indonesia in 2002 after enduring 24 years of occupation, has made notable strides in preparing to meet the membership criteria set forth by ASEAN. Mohamad Hasan noted that the nation has “made meaningful progress in implementing a roadmap” for its entry into the regional bloc.

Despite its hopeful trajectory, concerns linger regarding Timor-Leste’s capacity to engage meaningfully in ASEAN’s development agenda. The country, also referred to as East Timor, is classified as one of the poorest in the world, grappling with significant challenges including high levels of inequality, malnourishment among its population, and rampant unemployment. Additionally, its economy relies heavily on oil revenues, with limited diversification into other sectors, which complicates its economic participation within ASEAN.

During the news conference, Mohamad Hasan emphasized that ASEAN foreign ministers have expressed robust support for Timor-Leste's full membership, particularly commending the nation for its ongoing efforts to satisfy the remaining criteria necessary for accession. However, the Malaysian diplomat refrained from detailing the specific issues that remain unresolved, leaving stakeholders with a sense of cautious optimism.

As ASEAN member states prepare to initiate their respective domestic legal processes, the aim is to finalize Timor-Leste's accession by the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, scheduled for October. Mohamad Hasan expressed hope that this timeline would be met, marking a significant moment for both Timor-Leste and ASEAN.

The journey towards full membership has been a long one for Timor-Leste. President Jose Ramos-Horta has been an ardent advocate for the country's entry into ASEAN, with an application initially submitted in 2011. Although Dili was granted observer status in 2022, the path to full membership has faced various hurdles, further complicating the situation.

Timor-Leste’s development challenges extend beyond economic concerns. The nation is also struggling with vital infrastructure development and enhancing its human resource capacity, both of which are critical for effective participation in ASEAN’s economic community. As the country stands on the brink of this potential membership, the hope is that joining ASEAN will spur much-needed growth and development, enabling it to overcome the numerous hurdles it currently faces.