KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysians can now enjoy seamless data roaming services in Timor-Leste at affordable rates, following the successful activation of the service by the country’s major mobile network operators, this month.

The Communications Ministry, in a statement today, said that beginning Oct 17, CelcomDigi, Maxis, TM and U Mobile had successfully activated data roaming services in Timor-Leste, while YTL Communications commenced its service on Oct 24.

“This initiative aims to ensure that Malaysians in Timor-Leste can enjoy smooth and affordable data roaming services, similar to those available in other Asean member states,” it said.

The ministry said the introduction of 4G roaming services in Timor-Leste marks a significant milestone, compared with the previous 2G and 3G network infrastructure.

This achievement was made possible through close cooperation between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Timor-Leste’s Autoridade Nacional de Comunicações (ANC), as well as through strategic roaming partnerships between Malaysian mobile network operators and Timor-Leste’s major telecommunications providers — Telkomsel, Telemor and Timor Telecom.

According to the ministry, the achievement aligns with the priorities of Malaysia’s Asean Chairmanship 2025, which emphasise inclusivity, sustainability and digital connectivity. It also reflects Asean’s shared commitment to building a people-centric community, where technology enhances mobility, opportunities and unity across the region.

“Malaysia welcomes Timor-Leste’s participation as the 11th member of Asean, marking a historic milestone in strengthening regional unity, and advancing a shared vision for a more inclusive and digitally connected region,” it said.

The ministry also reaffirmed that, as the Asean Chair in 2025, Malaysia remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen regional integration and promote cross-border connectivity, in line with the theme of shaping a shared digital future for all Asean citizens.