Ambassador affirms US commitment, investment in Malaysia to continue whether Trump or Harris occupies White House Posted on November 6, 2024 By KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 6 — The United States is committed to continue investing in Malaysia and the broader Indo-Pacific region regardless of whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris wins the presidential race today, its Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan said. Praising Malaysia as an “extraordinary” example of democratic success, Kagan reaffirmed that his country’s strong bilateral relationship built over 65 years of diplomatic ties, will remain robust. “The US has a deep and bipartisan commitment to the Indo-Pacific,” Kagan was quoted by local daily The Star as telling attendees at a US Election Watch event at a Kuala Lumpur hotel this morning. “We recognise the importance of this region, and we recognise that we need strong ties with key partners in this region.” He emphasised that the US’ foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific will remain unchanged, regardless of the US presidential leadership. “If you look at the amount of trade, it’s clear that regardless of who is in the White House, there will be a deep commitment to the Indo-Pacific, and some of the key drivers of our policies are not going to change.” Kagan also expressed confidence in the future growth of US-Malaysia relations, pointing to the positive economic impact of American investments in the country. “I think the fact that US investments have not only created jobs but also opportunities for Malaysians… That’s what’s going to matter as we go forward,” he was quoted as saying. The US is one of Malaysia’s largest foreign investors – behind China and Singapore – with direct investments totalling US$21.53 billion last year. The ongoing US presidential election is expected to conclude this afternoon, with results closely watched globally. The Star also reported that Kagan declined to comment on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent remarks that he had rejected a call by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to distance Malaysia from Russia. “Obviously, there are reasons why the press is asked to leave the room during meetings, so we can have candid discussions. “So, I don’t want to discuss those aspects,” he was quoted as saying. Kagan reiterated that the US respects Malaysia’s sovereignty and its right to determine its own foreign policy. “The US recognises Malaysia as a sovereign state with its rights to conduct its diplomatic relations as it sees fit. “So does the US, and we will take all appropriate and necessary measures to ensure that all US interests are protected. I’m confident that within these constraints, we can find ways to work together,” he was quoted as saying. Anwar was previously reported saying during a meeting with students at the National Defence University of Malaysia that he rejected Blinken’s request to reconsider Malaysia’s friendly ties with Russia during the Asean Summit in Vientiane, Laos last month. Separately, national news agency Bernama reported Kagan holding Malaysia as a successful example of democracy. “I am proud of the fact that if I tell people, if you have questions about democracy, look at Malaysia, because I think Malaysia is an extraordinary success. “Navigating some very big political changes peacefully in a way that respects institutions is a real testament to the power of democracy to ensure both peaceful change of leadership and that the voice of the people is heard, with leadership reflecting the wishes and will of the people,” he was quoted as saying. SERV
SERV Malaysian activist ‘Aunty Bersih’ Anne Ooi dies at 78 Posted on March 26, 2024 KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 — Malaysian activist Anne Ooi, who was more familiarly known as “Aunty Bersih”, died today. The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih) announced the passing of the 78-year-old retired teacher. “We are saddened to share that Anne Ooi, dearly known by many Malaysians as Aunty… Read More
SERV Search for Masjid India sinkhole victim moves towards Pantai Dalam sewage plant, FT minister says will remap KL next Posted on August 24, 2024 KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 24 — The search and rescue operation (SAR) to locate the Indian tourist who fell into a sinkhole along Jalan Masjid India yesterday will now focus on the last two manholes on the sewer line leading to the Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Pantai Dalam treatment plant. Minister… Read More
SERV Ipsos study shows seven in 10 Malaysians upbeat about country’s future and economy, but still worrying about corruption and crime Posted on November 6, 2024 KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 6 — Seven out of 10 Malaysians are confident about their country’s future, with many expressing increased confidence in the economy and the government’s handling of inflation, according to the latest survey released today by global pollster and market research firm Ipsos. In its report titled “What… Read More