Timor-Leste PM’s Visit To Weststar Signals Stronger Bilateral Ties In Aviation, Energy

KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 (Bernama) -- The official visit by Timor-Leste Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao to Weststar Group’s headquarters reflects the shared commitment of both Weststar Group and the Timor-Leste government to strengthening bilateral cooperation in aviation, energy support services, and economic development.

Group managing director Tan Sri Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim said Weststar’s relationship with Timor-Leste dates back to 2014, beginning with the supply of 10 units of 4x4 general service cargo vehicles to the Timor-Leste Defence Force.

“This year, we have proudly expanded our operations to include rotary-wing aviation support with the deployment of two AW189 helicopters based in Dili, operating under a contract with Santos in the Bayu Undan field,” he said in a statement, in conjunction with Gusmao’s visit to its corporate headquarters here today.

As part of Weststar’s long-term commitment to the region, the company is working in partnership with Timor-Leste's national oil and gas company, Timor GAP, to further strengthen its presence in the country through the introduction of the AW139 helicopter fleet.

The statement said that this next phase of operations will include support for utility, VIP, and emergency medical services (EMS).

“Weststar has already conducted two EMS missions in Timor-Leste, one of which included the honour of facilitating the air transport of the late Padre Domingos Maubere, a deeply respected spiritual leader in the country. This reflects not only the capabilities of our operations, but also the humanity that drives our mission,” said Syed Azman.

He also said that the visit served as a platform to recognise Timor-Leste’s impending full accession to ASEAN, a milestone Weststar fully supports.

“We look forward to seeing Timor-Leste take its rightful place within the ASEAN community. Weststar stands ready to support this transition by contributing to the region’s infrastructure and human capital development,” he said.

According to the statement, the group’s subsidiary, Weststar Aviation Services’ growing footprint in Timor-Leste is part of a broader strategic vision to strengthen the company’s presence in Southeast Asia, focusing on safety, service excellence, and sustainable growth in the energy and government aviation sectors.

-- BERNAMA