The seventh ASEAN Media Forum in 2023 hosted a panel discussion that make clear East Timor’s journey towards membership within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The panel, which incorporates eminent personalities including former ASEAN Deputy Secretary-General Sayakane Sisouvong, East Timor Public Utilities Director Joao da Cruz Cardoso, and Research Professor on the Center for Policy Research – National Agency for Research and Innovation, Professor Dr. Dewi Fortuna Anwar presented beneficial insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Timor-Leste because it seeks to diversify its economy away from oil-dominated revenue streams.
East Timor, a small but resilient country in Southeast Asia, has made significant progress towards ASEAN membership. Panelists discussed key issues and methods essential for East Timor’s successful integration into the regional organization.
Diversification of the East Timorese economy
One of the most important topics of dialogue was the necessity to diversify East Timor’s economy, which up to now relied heavily on oil revenues. Joao da Cruz Cardoso stressed the importance of reducing this dependence on oil revenues because it creates economic instability in the long term. Furthermore, Joao emphasized that the Government of Timor-Leste recognizes that diversification is crucial not only to make sure economic stability, but in addition to support sustainable development within the country.
Challenges in infrastructure and human resources
Ambassador Sayakane emphasized the importance of infrastructure development for the effective organization of ASEAN events. Joao da Cruz Cardoso further emphasized that significant improvements to facilities equivalent to hotels and conference rooms are essential to satisfy ASEAN standards. Meanwhile, Dewi Fortuna Anwar stressed the critical importance of human resource development and education to make sure the country has the expertise required to actively engage in ASEAN activities.
History, Laws and International Relations
The panel discussion briefly touched on the history of East Timor and its struggle for independence. It emphasized that the nation’s commitment to human rights and positive diplomacy played a key role in gaining support for its accession to ASEAN.
The road lies ahead
Ambassador Sayakane was asked in regards to the timetable for East Timor’s official membership in ASEAN. He indicated that this might grow to be a reality in two years or coincide with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. The consensus gave the impression to be that the nation was on the right track and making commendable progress towards ASEAN membership.
