S’pore wants to help Timor-Leste contribute to ASEAN, not just benefit from it: PM Wong

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong concluded his two-day visit to Timor-Leste on July 3, 2026, emphasizing Singapore’s commitment to supporting the newly admitted ASEAN member state not only as a beneficiary but as an active contributor to the regional bloc. His remarks underscored a strategic shift in Singapore’s approach to bilateral relations with Timor-Leste, highlighting the importance of mutual growth and shared responsibilities within ASEAN. During a joint press conference with Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, PM Wong stated that Singapore aims to assist Timor-Leste in contributing meaningfully to ASEAN, particularly as the country prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2029. This vision aligns with Singapore’s long-standing diplomatic engagement with Timor-Leste, dating back to the late 1990s when Singapore played a pivotal role in peacekeeping missions following Timor-Leste’s independence in 2002.

Timor-Leste officially became a member of ASEAN on October 26, 2025, after applying for membership in 2011 and gaining observer status in 2022. The country’s integration into ASEAN marks a significant milestone in its post-independence development, and Singapore sees itself as a partner in facilitating this process. During his visit, PM Wong outlined a multi-faceted strategy to enhance cooperation between the two nations. This includes organizing specialized workshops for Timorese officials on the responsibilities of ASEAN chairmanship, welcoming Timorese officials to join Singapore’s chairmanship team in 2027, and establishing a formalized bilateral consultation mechanism between the two foreign ministries. These initiatives aim to deepen collaboration in critical areas such as human resource development, education, and healthcare, reflecting a broader effort to strengthen the foundations of Timor-Leste’s participation in ASEAN activities.

Beyond political and institutional support, Singapore is also opening its doors to Timorese workers in specific sectors. Effective from mid-2027, Singapore will allow companies to hire Timorese workers under work permits in construction, marine shipyards, and related industries. This decision follows a broader trend of expanding Singapore’s labor mobility agreements with other nations, including Bhutan, Cambodia, and Laos, which were added to the list of non-traditional source countries in 2025. The move is intended to create new employment opportunities for Timorese citizens while addressing Singapore’s manpower needs in key sectors. Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao praised the initiative, noting that it represents a significant step forward in bilateral relations and offers Timorese workers valuable exposure to international standards and practices.

During his visit, PM Wong was honored with Timor-Leste’s highest civilian award—the Order of Timor-Leste (Grand Collar)—by President Jose Ramos-Horta. This recognition acknowledged Singapore’s historical contributions to Timor-Leste’s nation-building efforts, particularly through its involvement in peacekeeping missions since 1999. PM Wong emphasized that the award was not personal but represented the collective efforts of Singaporeans who have supported Timor-Leste’s development over the years. He highlighted the enduring friendship between the two nations, rooted in decades of collaboration and mutual respect. The gesture symbolizes the deepening of diplomatic ties and reinforces Singapore’s role as a reliable partner in Timor-Leste’s developmental journey.

Looking ahead, both governments expressed optimism about the prospects for further cooperation. Singapore’s support for Timor-Leste extends beyond immediate economic and political gains; it is framed as a long-term investment in the stability and prosperity of the entire ASEAN region. As Timor-Leste continues to diversify its economy and explore new opportunities in sectors such as hospitality, infrastructure, and the blue economy, Singapore anticipates increased collaboration with local businesses. The government has encouraged Singapore-based business associations to conduct missions to Timor-Leste to explore these opportunities firsthand. Such efforts are expected to foster greater economic interdependence and cultural exchange, reinforcing the shared vision of a resilient and cooperative Southeast Asia.