4-4-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) The United States (US) has expressed its full confidence in Malaysia’s ability to assume the role of an effective Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) chairman once again in 2025. Reflecting on Malaysia’s successful chairmanship in 2006 and 2015, the newly-appointed US Ambassador to Malaysia, Edgard D Kagan, commended the country for its adept leadership and diplomatic finesse.
During an appearance on Bernama TV’s programme ‘The Nation’ on Monday (April 1), Ambassador Kagan praised Malaysia’s historical track record as an effective Asean chair, acknowledging the nation’s skill in navigating complex regional dynamics. He stated, “We have tremendous respect for the skill and professionalism demonstrated by Malaysia in reformulating and navigating complex regional dynamics.”
Highlighting the US commitment to collaborate closely with Malaysia, Ambassador Kagan expressed anticipation for a successful tenure, emphasizing the importance of fostering strong partnerships within the Asean region and beyond. He emphasized Malaysia’s ability to work closely with Asean members and dialogue partners, including the US, as a crucial factor in achieving a fruitful chairmanship. “Malaysia needs to continue its long-standing tradition of working closely with partners, ultimately depending a great deal on its ability to collaborate with other Asean member countries and its dialogue partners,” he added.
Ambassador Kagan also discussed the bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and the US in addressing evolving geopolitical landscapes. He highlighted the significance of collaborative efforts, particularly in counterterrorism and maritime security, emphasizing that tackling multifaceted security threats requires joint endeavors. “The realization by both Malaysian and US governments that tackling the multifaceted nature of security threats, including terrorism, cannot be a solo endeavor,” he stated.
Regarding the US commitment to strengthening partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, Ambassador Kagan emphasized Malaysia’s pivotal role as an ally and expressed enthusiasm for enhanced collaboration. He lauded the effectiveness of previous joint efforts between the US and Malaysia, as well as other regional powers, in addressing shared challenges. Ambassador Kagan also highlighted US engagements with countries like Japan, Korea, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore through initiatives like the Quad, showcasing the US’s dedication to fostering stronger regional ties.
Recognizing the current global uncertainties, Ambassador Kagan expressed confidence in the potential for close cooperation between the US and Malaysia in addressing emerging threats. He concluded, “The world is much more unsettled now than it was a decade ago, and to deal with those threats, I believe we can work closely together with Malaysia.”
