Diplomats gathered in Singapore to commemorate Timor-Leste’s entry into ASEAN with a ceremonial planting of its national tree.
A tree planting ceremony was held in Singapore on 13 November 2025 to commemorate Timor-Leste’s formal admission into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The event was hosted by the High Commission of Malaysia in Singapore and brought together ambassadors and representatives from ASEAN Member States, along with several ASEAN Dialogue Partners.
Singapore joined fellow ASEAN missions in marking this significant milestone for the region, which reflects ASEAN’s continued commitment to inclusivity and regional integration. The ceremony also highlighted the close collaboration among member states during Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, under which Timor-Leste officially joined the ASEAN family.
Image by: Royal Thai Embassy, Singapore
At the heart of the event was the planting of a sandalwood tree, gifted by the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. The symbolic gesture underscored the country’s cultural heritage and its aspirations as a new ASEAN Member State. Sandalwood, the national tree of Timor-Leste, was historically central to its trade and remains a powerful emblem of resilience, renewal and national identity.
Diplomatic representatives acknowledged Timor-Leste’s accession as a historic development that strengthens ASEAN’s long-term vision for a more interconnected and cohesive region. Discussions during the event touched on expanded cooperation in areas such as community-building, economic development, and capacity-enhancement initiatives to support Timor-Leste’s integration into ASEAN mechanisms.
Singapore welcomed Timor-Leste’s membership and reaffirmed its readiness to work closely with the newest member state. The ceremony served as a reminder of ASEAN’s shared values, and the commitment of regional partners to supporting Timor-Leste as it takes its place within the organisation.
Source: Royal Thai Embassy, Singapore
