Malaysia, Timor-Leste Explore ASEAN Roaming Ahead Of KL Summit

From V. Sankara

DILI (TIMOR-LESTE), Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will work with Timor-Leste to implement ASEAN roaming facilities to strengthen digital connectivity ahead of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur next month, said Communications Minister  Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.

He said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been advised to hold immediate discussions with telecommunications companies to coordinate the implementation of the initiative.

“Many telcos have their own roaming plans, but we want to establish a more comprehensive ASEAN roaming. With this, Malaysian tourists visiting Dili can enjoy easier and more affordable internet access,” he told Bernama and RTM after attending a joint press conference with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim here yesterday.

Fahmi said Malaysia’s experience in implementing 5G networks quickly, with wide coverage and affordable pricing, could be shared with Timor-Leste, particularly in strengthening telecommunications infrastructure.

He said that only about 15 per cent of Timor-Leste’s 1.4 million population own mobile phones, which indicates strong potential for wider cooperation in the digital sector.

In addition, he suggested that Bernama, RTM and MCMC establish collaborations with their counterparts in Timor-Leste, including inviting the country’s journalists to attend courses at the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute (IPPTAR).

“This step will help improve journalistic professionalism, strengthen media capacity and provide exposure to new technologies,” he said.

Fahmi said Anwar’s two-day official visit to Timor-Leste, which ended yesterday, was highly significant as it marked the first visit by a Malaysian Prime Minister in 22 years, and took place just weeks before the country is accepted as ASEAN’s 11th member.

“This historic moment will witness Timor-Leste’s official entry into ASEAN as Malaysia hosts the 47th Summit, something very meaningful for bilateral relations and the region,” he said.

Earlier, a Bernama delegation visited Tatoli, Timor-Leste’s national news agency, to explore cooperation in news content exchange.

-- BERNAMA