Kuala Lampur, Sept. 2 -- When Timor-Leste formally joins the Association of South-east Asian Nations (Asean) at the October 2025 Summit, Asean will reach a symbolic milestone: 11 members stitched together under one regional roof.

For Malaysia, holding the Group Chair of Asean and Related Summits in this pivotal year, the inclusion of Asean's youngest democracy is more than a ceremonial gesture. It coincides with a deliberate widening of Asean's external outreach. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has not only overseen Asean's internal consolidation but also extended Asean's gaze outward - to Brics, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

This outward push is not accidental. It reflects both Asean'...