Consider the following countries:
1. Brunei Darussalam
2. East Timor
3. Laos
Which of the above is/are member/members of ASEAN?
A
1 only
B
2 and 3 only
C
1 and 3 only
D
1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: Option C
Explanation
1. ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
2. Membership of ASEAN consists of 10 Southeast Asian countries.
3. Brunei Darussalam joined ASEAN in 1984. It is a member.
4. East Timor (Timor-Leste) is geographically in Southeast Asia but is currently an observer, not a full member of ASEAN (as of early 2025, though accession process is ongoing).
5. Laos joined ASEAN in 1997. It is a member.
6. Therefore, Brunei Darussalam and Laos are members of ASEAN.